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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Business News

Business news, market updates, and economic developments

Rental platform unnecessarily collected the data of millions of Australians, privacy commissioner finds

Rental platform unnecessarily collected the data of millions of Australians, privacy commissioner finds

April 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Australia’s privacy commissioner found that the rental platform 2Apply collected too much personal data from users, which put renters at risk amid the housing crisis. The commissioner ordered 2Apply to stop collecting unnecessary information and expects other rental platforms to follow suit.

Key Facts

  • 2Apply processed over 8.5 million rental applications in Australia by March 2025.
  • The privacy commissioner identified that 2Apply collected unnecessary details like gender, student and bankruptcy status, and visa expiry dates.
  • The platform also used language that pressured users to share more data by suggesting it would improve their rental chances.
  • 2Apply agreed to change its data collection practices without admitting wrongdoing.
  • There is a power imbalance in the rental market favoring landlords and agents, making renters vulnerable.
  • The over-collection of data creates privacy and security risks for renters.
  • The commissioner expects other rental technology platforms to reduce excessive data collection as a result of this ruling.
  • Over 57 rental platforms operate in Australia, highlighting a widespread issue in the rental market.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
World's biggest condom maker to raise prices due to Iran war

World's biggest condom maker to raise prices due to Iran war

April 22, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Karex, the world's largest condom maker, plans to raise prices by up to 30% due to higher costs linked to the ongoing Iran war. The conflict has disrupted global oil supplies, which increases the price of materials needed to make condoms.

Key Facts

  • Karex produces over five billion condoms yearly and supplies brands like Durex and Trojan.
  • Raw materials such as ammonia (used to preserve latex) and silicone-based lubricants are affected by oil supply disruptions.
  • Iran’s threats in the Strait of Hormuz have caused major interruptions in global oil and gas shipments.
  • The price increase could be even higher if the conflict continues.
  • Condom demand has grown about 30% this year, partly due to economic uncertainty.
  • Higher shipping costs and delays are making supply shortages worse.
  • President Donald Trump has extended a ceasefire with Iran to allow time for peace talks.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Vinyl record sales continue resurgence

Vinyl record sales continue resurgence

April 22, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Vinyl record sales are growing again, showing a renewed interest in this older music format. Social media and special album releases from popular artists like Taylor Swift are helping boost sales.

Key Facts

  • Vinyl record sales are increasing.
  • More people are interested in vinyl again.
  • Social media plays a role in spreading this trend.
  • Special album releases from artists like Taylor Swift attract buyers.
  • The resurgence is part of a wider return to physical music formats.
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CBS News
Justin Bieber's SKYLRK Nets $15 Million During Historic Coachella Run

Justin Bieber's SKYLRK Nets $15 Million During Historic Coachella Run

April 22, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Justin Bieber's brand SKYLRK made $15 million in sales during the two weekends he performed at Coachella, breaking previous festival records. Bieber also delivered historic music performances, including the most-viewed Coachella set ever.

Key Facts

  • Bieber headlined Coachella for the first time with a 90-minute show on April 11.
  • He performed songs from his Grammy-nominated albums "SWAG" and "SWAG II."
  • Bieber’s Coachella shows had the highest ticket demand and prices in the festival's history.
  • SKYLRK sold $5.04 million during the first weekend and $15 million total across both weekends.
  • SKYLRK featured a 10,000-square-foot "Oasis" space with visuals, misting stations, sounds, and furniture.
  • The Coachella pop-up was only the second chance for fans to buy SKYLRK products in person.
  • Bieber wore multiple SKYLRK clothing items during his performances.
  • Seven of Bieber’s albums appeared on the Billboard 200 chart at the same time for the first time.
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Newsweek
Scoop: Trump mulls Jones Act waiver extension to lessen Iran War oil shock

Scoop: Trump mulls Jones Act waiver extension to lessen Iran War oil shock

April 22, 2026 • Axios

Summary

President Trump issued a temporary waiver of the Jones Act, a law that requires goods shipped between U.S. ports to be carried on American ships, to help lower oil shipping costs amid rising fuel prices due to the Iran war. The waiver has allowed more foreign ships to transport oil within the U.S., increasing supply and lowering costs, and the administration is considering extending this waiver.

Key Facts

  • The Jones Act is a law from 1920 that requires shipping between U.S. ports to use American-flagged vessels.
  • President Trump issued a 60-day waiver on March 18 to ease shipping oil within the U.S. because fuel prices rose due to the Iran war.
  • The waiver allowed 40 foreign-flagged oil tankers to operate between U.S. ports, increasing the effective fleet by 70%.
  • So far, about 9 million barrels of American oil have been shipped using foreign vessels under the waiver.
  • In Alaska, the jet fuel delivered under the waiver equals about half the state’s average monthly use.
  • Some groups oppose the waiver, saying it could hurt American shipping jobs and industries.
  • Other groups say the Jones Act increases shipping costs and harms most consumers.
  • President Trump is reportedly willing to keep the waiver if the Iran threat and fuel price increases continue.
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Axios
Oil prices fluctuate as status of US-Iran peace talks remains unclear

Oil prices fluctuate as status of US-Iran peace talks remains unclear

April 22, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Oil prices changed during early trading in Asia as talks between the US and Iran about peace remain uncertain. President Donald Trump said he will extend a ceasefire with Iran but will keep blocking Iran’s ports until Iran offers a clear plan.

Key Facts

  • Global oil prices went up then slightly fell on Wednesday morning in Asia.
  • Brent crude oil dropped 0.2% to $98.32 per barrel.
  • West Texas Intermediate oil fell 0.3% to $89.41 per barrel.
  • President Donald Trump extended a ceasefire with Iran without setting a new end date.
  • The US continues to block Iranian ports until Iran gives a unified proposal.
  • The initial ceasefire was supposed to end Tuesday evening Washington time.
  • Vice President JD Vance, leading US talks, will not visit Pakistan as planned.
  • Iran has not decided if it will send representatives to talks in Pakistan.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Takeaway coffee sales plunge as fuel and living costs dent Australian spending. Is the economy next?

Takeaway coffee sales plunge as fuel and living costs dent Australian spending. Is the economy next?

April 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Many Australians are buying less takeaway coffee because high petrol prices and living costs are making households tighten their budgets. This change worries cafe owners and economists because coffee habits often show how people feel about the economy, which might be slowing down.

Key Facts

  • Over half of Australian consumers are cutting back on treats like coffee and snacks.
  • The drop in takeaway coffee sales sped up after petrol prices rose sharply in March due to the Iran conflict.
  • Cafe owners report fewer customers buying coffee, and some worry people might switch to cheaper home or petrol station coffee.
  • Consumer confidence in Australia fell sharply recently, the biggest drop since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Rising mortgage costs, petrol prices, and global economic issues have made many households feel less optimistic.
  • Economists warn that ongoing disruptions in oil supply could hurt the economy and increase recession risks.
  • Some consumers reduce coffee spending as a way to manage their budgets during uncertain times, rather than a sign of a major collapse.
  • Changed work habits and advice to conserve fuel also contribute to less coffee buying outside the home.
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Guardian World
Condom prices could rise 30% due to Iran war, says world’s top producer Karex

Condom prices could rise 30% due to Iran war, says world’s top producer Karex

April 21, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Malaysia’s Karex, the world’s largest condom maker, plans to raise condom prices by 20% to 30% due to supply problems caused by the war in Iran. The company is facing higher costs for raw materials and shipping delays, while demand for condoms has increased worldwide.

Key Facts

  • Karex produces over 5 billion condoms each year and supplies major brands like Durex and Trojan.
  • The war in Iran has disrupted supplies of raw materials needed for condoms, such as synthetic rubber and nitrile.
  • Shipping times to places like Europe and the U.S. have doubled from about 1 month to 2 months.
  • Freight cost rises and delays have reduced condom stocks globally, especially in developing countries.
  • Demand for condoms has grown by about 30% this year.
  • Karex says it has enough supplies for a few months but is working to increase production.
  • Price increases are necessary to cover higher costs for materials, packaging, and shipping.
  • Cuts in foreign aid last year also lowered condom stockpiles worldwide, adding pressure to supply.
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Guardian World
I was left with an £8,000 vet bill when my insurer cancelled my pet policy

I was left with an £8,000 vet bill when my insurer cancelled my pet policy

April 21, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Kim Watts faced an £8,000 vet bill after her pet insurance policy was cancelled without clear warning, leaving her to pay for her dog’s treatment herself. After appealing to the Financial Ombudsman Service, she recovered the costs, highlighting issues many pet owners have with rising insurance premiums and claim disputes in the UK.

Key Facts

  • Kim Watts’s pet insurance with Purely Pets was cancelled without proper notice, leaving her with an £8,000 vet bill.
  • The dog, Darcey, needed treatment for a crushed disc after being attacked by other dogs.
  • The insurance company initially confirmed coverage but later cancelled the policy without informing Watts in detail.
  • Watts appealed to the Financial Ombudsman Service and won, getting reimbursed but still paying £900 for legal advice.
  • Pet insurance premiums in the UK rose by 15% from 2022/23 to 2024/25, then dropped slightly.
  • Many UK pet owners face issues with rising premiums, claim rejections, and limited coverage.
  • Some pet owners choose to save money monthly instead of paying for insurance.
  • Complaints to the Financial Ombudsman have increased as more people contest insurance claims.
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BBC Top Stories BBC Business
Hotpot, bubble tea and sportswear: China's new exports take on the world

Hotpot, bubble tea and sportswear: China's new exports take on the world

April 21, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Chinese brands that sell hotpot, bubble tea, sportswear, and other products are expanding globally. They started by succeeding in China’s large market and are now opening stores worldwide, shifting from just making cheap products to building well-known brands.

Key Facts

  • Chinese companies like Mixue, Chagee, and Molly Tea are popular in Asia and cities like Sydney, London, and Los Angeles.
  • These brands have moved from making low-cost products to becoming global consumer brands.
  • Miniso, a Chinese retailer selling toys and merchandise, has stores in over 100 countries.
  • BYD, a Chinese company, is now the world’s largest electric vehicle maker, surpassing Tesla.
  • Chinese EV growth was helped by government support, though some Western countries think this causes unfair competition.
  • Anta is the third-largest sportswear brand globally and owns stakes in other well-known brands like Puma.
  • Many Chinese companies use South East Asia as a test market before entering Western countries.
  • Haidilao, a hotpot restaurant chain, began overseas expansion in Singapore and now has 1,300 restaurants in 14 countries.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories BBC World
New York Drivers Can Now Get Up to $2,000 Toward a New Electric Car

New York Drivers Can Now Get Up to $2,000 Toward a New Electric Car

April 21, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

New York State has added $30 million to its Drive Clean Rebate program, allowing drivers to get up to $2,000 off new electric cars at participating dealerships. This state rebate helps lower the upfront cost of electric vehicles after the federal government ended its EV tax credits early.

Key Facts

  • New York drivers can get up to $2,000 off when buying or leasing an electric vehicle through the Drive Clean Rebate program.
  • The rebate is applied instantly at the dealership, without extra paperwork for buyers.
  • Funding for the program was increased by $30 million by Governor Kathy Hochul.
  • Rebates range from $500 to $2,000 depending on the car’s electric range and price.
  • Vehicles with over 200 miles of electric range qualify for the full $2,000 rebate.
  • The program covers more than 60 electric vehicle models across all 62 counties in New York.
  • The rebate program aims to help consumers save money and reduce harmful emissions.
  • Rising gas prices linked to the conflict in Iran have increased interest in electric vehicles for cost savings.
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Newsweek
CFPB ends some lending industry antidiscrimination requirements

CFPB ends some lending industry antidiscrimination requirements

April 21, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has removed certain rules that required lenders to avoid discrimination when giving out credit, loans, and home ownership opportunities. As a result, lenders are no longer obligated to follow parts of the 1974 Equal Credit Opportunity Act that protected people from unfair treatment based on demographics.

Key Facts

  • The CFPB made the change on a Tuesday (exact date not provided).
  • The change ended some antidiscrimination rules for lenders.
  • These rules helped protect people from unfair credit and loan decisions.
  • The 1974 Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) was part of these protections.
  • The ECOA prevented something called "disparate impact discrimination."
  • Disparate impact discrimination means policies that unintentionally hurt certain groups.
  • The new CFPB rule no longer requires lenders to follow these parts of the ECOA.
  • This change affects access to credit, loans, and home ownership for different groups of people.
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The Hill
Trader Joe's customers to get payouts under $7.4 million settlement

Trader Joe's customers to get payouts under $7.4 million settlement

April 21, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Trader Joe's agreed to pay up to $7.4 million to settle a lawsuit over receipts that showed too many credit card digits, which might risk identity theft. Customers who shopped at Trader Joe's from March to July 2019 and submit a claim form by June 9 can receive a payment.

Key Facts

  • The lawsuit began in 2019 after a customer found receipts printed with the first six and last four digits of credit cards.
  • A 2003 federal law says receipts must not show more than the last five digits of credit or debit cards.
  • Trader Joe’s did not admit wrongdoing but settled to avoid more court cases.
  • The $7.4 million settlement includes payments to affected shoppers and lawyers’ fees.
  • Eligible shoppers are those who visited Trader Joe’s stores between March 5, 2019, and July 19, 2019.
  • The estimated payout per valid claim is about $102.45.
  • Customers can file claims online, by mail, or by phone without needing the original receipts.
  • The deadline to file a claim is June 9, with a final court decision expected on August 10.
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CBS News
France freezes some spending to offset €6 billion fallout from Iran war

France freezes some spending to offset €6 billion fallout from Iran war

April 21, 2026 • France24

Summary

France has faced at least 6 billion euros in economic costs due to the war involving Iran. To handle these costs and keep its budget deficit under control, the French government is freezing some spending while also supporting businesses, households, and defense.

Key Facts

  • The Iran war has caused at least a 6 billion euro economic impact on France.
  • France has increased support for companies and households because of the war's effects.
  • Defence spending in France has been raised in response to the situation.
  • Borrowing costs for France have increased amid the crisis.
  • To maintain its budget goals, France is freezing some government spending.
  • The government wants to keep its budget deficit within targets despite the extra expenses.
  • The war’s economic effects include energy and trade disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.
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France24
UPS, FedEx and DHL file for tariff refunds. What it means for consumers.

UPS, FedEx and DHL file for tariff refunds. What it means for consumers.

April 21, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Major shipping companies UPS, FedEx, and DHL have applied for refunds on tariffs that were imposed during President Trump's administration and were recently ruled illegal by the Supreme Court. These companies plan to refund customers who paid these extra fees once they receive the money from the government.

Key Facts

  • UPS, FedEx, and DHL filed claims for tariff refunds with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
  • The tariffs were imposed under President Trump's International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
  • In February, the Supreme Court ruled these IEEPA tariffs were illegally imposed.
  • Only the importer of record (IOR), such as these shipping companies, can request refunds through a CBP portal.
  • The companies have pledged to pass any refunded money back to customers who originally paid these tariffs.
  • CBP expects to deliver refunds within 60 to 90 days after approving claims.
  • President Trump said he might favor companies that choose not to seek refunds.
  • Individual consumers cannot file refund claims directly and must wait for shipping companies to return the money.
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CBS News
Who Is Michael Boes? Steak 'n Shake Hires Chief MAHA Officer

Who Is Michael Boes? Steak 'n Shake Hires Chief MAHA Officer

April 21, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Steak 'n Shake has hired Michael Boes as its first chief MAHA officer to improve the healthiness and transparency of its food. The new role supports the restaurant’s connection to the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement, which promotes better nutrition and whole foods.

Key Facts

  • Michael Boes was hired by Steak 'n Shake as the chief MAHA officer, a new executive position.
  • His job is to improve nutrition, ingredient honesty, and food quality across the chain.
  • Steak 'n Shake is aligning with the MAHA movement, which aims to promote healthier food and reduce chronic disease.
  • Boes previously worked for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
  • MAHA encourages food that is simple, real, and healthy, focusing on whole foods and better ingredient choices.
  • Steak 'n Shake recently removed seed oils from its fries, switched to beef tallow, and stopped using microwaves in restaurants.
  • The company uses quality ingredients like Grade A Wisconsin butter, A2 milk, and cane-sugar Coca-Cola.
  • Boes’ role includes influencing menu choices, ingredient sourcing, and how food is prepared and marketed.
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Newsweek
Will gas dip below $3 a gallon this year? Here's what experts think.

Will gas dip below $3 a gallon this year? Here's what experts think.

April 21, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Experts say that gasoline prices in the U.S. are unlikely to drop below $3 a gallon this year due to the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran, which has disrupted oil supplies. While prices have recently eased from a peak above $4, fuel costs are expected to remain high for months because of damage to oil infrastructure and risks around a key shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz.

Key Facts

  • Gas prices rose above $4 a gallon after U.S. and Israel struck Iran on February 28.
  • Before the conflict, the average gas price was about $2.98 per gallon.
  • Oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route, have been disrupted by the war.
  • Experts expect gas prices to settle near $3.50 by the end of the year without a major economic shock.
  • The "rockets and feathers" effect means gas prices rise quickly but fall slowly.
  • It is unclear when the Strait of Hormuz will reopen fully, keeping supply tight.
  • President Trump said gas prices will drop once the Iran conflict ends, but Energy Secretary Chris Wright gave a less certain timeline.
  • Higher gas prices hit low-income families hardest, as they spend a larger share of income on fuel.
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CBS News
Steak ‘n Shake hires first ‘Chief MAHA Officer’

Steak ‘n Shake hires first ‘Chief MAHA Officer’

April 21, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Steak ’n Shake has hired its first Chief Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Officer. This new role is meant to help the company improve its food choices and support a national effort to reduce chronic diseases, aligning with a movement linked to President Donald Trump’s administration.

Key Facts

  • Steak ’n Shake named Michael Boes as its first Chief MAHA Officer.
  • Michael Boes was previously a senior adviser at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
  • The Chief MAHA Officer position aims to promote better nutrition at Steak ’n Shake.
  • The role supports a national movement focused on reducing long-term diseases.
  • The initiative is connected to the Trump administration’s health goals.
  • The company wants to improve the quality and healthiness of its menu.
  • This is a new position created to guide the company’s nutritional efforts.
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The Hill
Chart shows what you're paying for when you buy a gallon of gas

Chart shows what you're paying for when you buy a gallon of gas

April 21, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Gasoline prices in the U.S. have increased by about 60 cents per gallon since the Iran war began, mainly due to rising crude oil costs. The price of crude oil makes up over half of what consumers pay at the pump, with refining, distribution, and taxes also affecting the final price.

Key Facts

  • Gasoline prices rose approximately 60 cents per gallon since February 28, when the Iran war started.
  • Crude oil accounts for about 51% of the cost of a gallon of gas in the U.S.
  • The U.S. produces mostly light crude oil but imports heavier crude oil for its refineries.
  • Refining crude oil into gasoline and other products makes up around 20% of the gas price.
  • Marketing, distribution, and retail costs add about 11% to the price at the pump.
  • Federal gas tax is 18.4 cents per gallon; state taxes vary widely, from 9 cents in Alaska up to 70.9 cents in California.
  • Gas stations usually earn 30 to 35 cents per gallon but have lower margins when oil prices rise quickly.
  • Seasonal changes, such as switching to summer-blend gasoline, add about 15 cents per gallon during warmer months.
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CBS News
Considering a money market account now? Here are the types of savers who can benefit.

Considering a money market account now? Here are the types of savers who can benefit.

April 21, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Money market accounts offer higher interest rates and more flexibility than traditional savings accounts. They can be a good option for savers who want to earn more interest without locking up their money, expect interest rates to stay high or rise, or want to manage their banking with one account that also allows check writing.

Key Facts

  • Traditional savings accounts pay very low interest rates, about 0.38% on average.
  • Money market accounts currently offer interest rates similar to certificates of deposit (around 4%) but allow easier access to funds.
  • Unlike CDs, money market account rates can change with the market, going up or down.
  • The Federal Reserve has not cut interest rates since December 2025 and is not expected to do so soon.
  • Money market accounts allow deposits, withdrawals, and check writing, offering more flexibility than CDs or high-yield savings accounts.
  • These accounts are helpful for savers who want both competitive interest and easier account access.
  • Savers expecting rates to stay high or rise may benefit more from the variable rates of money market accounts.
  • Money market accounts can help simplify banking by combining saving and spending abilities in one account.
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CBS News