Whataburger is adding new menu items for April, including the return of its Bacon Steakhouse Double burger and a new Strawberry Hibiscus Whatafresher drink. The fast-food chain is also running a fundraiser to support military families and plans to open more than 70 new locations by 2026.
Key Facts
Whataburger is offering new and returning menu items this April.
The Bacon Steakhouse Double burger and Banana Pudding Shake are available for a limited time.
A new drink called Strawberry Hibiscus Whatafresher is now on the menu.
The company is fundraising for military families with a promotion that runs through April.
Plans include opening over 70 new locations by 2026 while recently closing some others.
Whataburger aims to attract customers by introducing new menu options amid rising inflation.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Sam's Club is raising its membership fees starting May 1, 2026. The basic membership will increase from $50 to $60, and the Plus membership will rise from $110 to $120. Analysts suggest this change might lead other warehouse clubs, like Costco, to raise their prices too.
Key Facts
Sam's Club will raise membership fees in May 2026.
The basic membership fee will go up from $50 to $60.
The Plus membership fee will increase from $110 to $120.
This change narrows the price difference between Sam's Club and Costco.
Analysts believe the demand for warehouse clubs is strong due to higher gas prices and economic pressures.
Sam’s Club stated the fee increase would fund more perks and services.
Some shoppers debate whether the fee hike affects Sam’s Club's value compared to competitors.
MarketWatch noted the possibility of similar fee hikes by competitors like Costco and BJ’s Wholesale Club.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A tentative four-year agreement has been reached between the screenwriters' union and Hollywood studios after about three weeks of talks. This deal, awaiting approval by the Writers Guild of America West, aims to improve writers' benefits and protections. The agreement follows past disputes that led to industry strikes and closely follows ongoing negotiations with other entertainment unions.
Key Facts
The screenwriters' union and Hollywood studios made a tentative deal after three weeks of negotiation.
The agreement is for four years, which is one year longer than usual.
The Writers Guild of America West's negotiating committee approved the deal unanimously.
The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, representing studios, confirmed the agreement.
The deal aims to improve health care plans and provide protections against artificial intelligence.
Hollywood faced a significant strike three years ago, highlighting the contentious nature of past negotiations.
Other union leaders for actors and directors are also negotiating their contracts set to expire soon.
The Writers Guild is dealing with its own staff union strike, which started in February over unfair labor practice allegations.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A Federal Reserve official mentioned that an increase in interest rates might be necessary if inflation stays above the target of 2%. Gas prices are rising, which could impact the economy and cause the Fed to adjust interest rates. The Fed is also considering what to do if the economic situation changes due to the current international conflict affecting gas prices.
Key Facts
The Federal Reserve is concerned about inflation remaining above its 2% target.
Higher gas prices could slow the economy or increase unemployment.
Adjusting interest rates is being considered to manage inflation and economic growth.
If inflation is persistently high, the Fed may increase interest rates.
Past discussions among Fed officials included the possibility of raising rates.
Any rate increase could increase borrowing costs, affecting mortgages and loans.
President Donald Trump has criticized the Fed for not lowering rates further.
Inflation reports this week will provide more information on economic conditions.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, stated that private credit does not pose a significant risk to the financial system. Despite worries about private credit funds, he pointed out the market's smaller size compared to other financial assets. Goldman Sachs also reported that their private credit business is stable.
Key Facts
Jamie Dimon is the CEO of JPMorgan Chase.
Dimon said private credit is not a major risk to the overall financial markets.
Private credit is less than other major financial market sectors like bonds or mortgages.
Chriselle Lim of PHLUR and Morgan Zanotti of Waay discussed their experiences as female business founders during a forum in Los Angeles. They highlighted the challenges and sacrifices involved in starting a business, emphasizing the need for a strong commitment and a high tolerance for risk.
Key Facts
Chriselle Lim and Morgan Zanotti are business founders who spoke at the Women’s Global Impact Forum 2026.
The event took place on March 25 at the London West Hollywood in Los Angeles.
Lim is the founder and creative director of PHLUR.
Zanotti is the founder and CEO of Waay.
They talked about entrepreneurship being idealized on social media as an alternative to regular jobs.
Successful entrepreneurship requires a high risk tolerance and a passion for the work.
Lim discussed personal sacrifices made for business, like less time with family.
The forum was part of a series that discusses women’s impact in business and society.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A top Federal Reserve official stated that raising interest rates might be needed if inflation stays high, as global energy markets continue to be affected by the conflict in Iran. This potential rate increase could contrast with President Trump’s push to lower interest rates. Rising gas prices due to the closure of a crucial oil waterway by Iran are contributing to economic concerns.
Key Facts
A Federal Reserve official suggested a rate hike may be necessary if inflation remains above 2%.
The Iranian conflict has affected global energy markets, causing gas prices to rise.
President Trump wants to lower interest rates to 1%, opposing potential rate hikes.
Inflation could reach 3.5% this month, the highest since 2024, according to Cleveland Fed.
Gas prices in some parts of the U.S. have reached as high as $10 a gallon.
Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a major oil route, is affecting global oil supply.
Some countries proposed a 45-day ceasefire to reopen the Strait, but Iran rejected this proposal.
Energy analysts indicate that prices might not decrease until the Strait of Hormuz is fully operational again.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Elections for utility boards, which govern electricity providers, are getting more attention in Arizona and Alabama due to rising electricity prices. National organizations like Turning Point Action are involved, influencing local races in favor of different energy policies. This increased focus is expected in upcoming utility regulator elections in several states.
Key Facts
Elections for utility boards in Arizona and Alabama are gaining attention as electricity prices rise.
Turning Point Action, known for supporting President Trump, is actively involved in these elections.
The Salt River Project in Arizona is a major focus because it is the largest public utility in the U.S.
Two opposing groups are competing for control over the Salt River Project board.
Rising tensions are driven by debates over using renewable energy versus traditional energy sources like natural gas and coal.
Utility elections, traditionally low-profile, are now attracting significant political and public attention.
The debate also involves how to manage energy demand due to new data centers and factories in the Phoenix area.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Hailey Bieber's beauty brand, Rhode, announced a new product line called "Rhode x The Biebers," featuring pimple stickers designed with her husband, Justin Bieber. The new product includes stickers in various fun shapes and a lip treatment, which will be available starting April 13. Justin Bieber is preparing for his first Coachella headline performance in 2026.
Key Facts
Rhode is Hailey Bieber's beauty brand.
The new product line is called "Rhode x The Biebers."
Justin Bieber helped design hydrocolloid pimple stickers in fun shapes.
The pimple stickers will be available on April 13.
Justin Bieber will headline Coachella for the first time in 2026.
Hailey Bieber teased the new product during a Netflix show appearance.
Justin Bieber performed at two exclusive shows to prepare for Coachella.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Associated Press (AP) is offering buyouts to some of its U.S.-based journalists. This move is part of AP's shift away from newspaper journalism towards visual journalism and new revenue sources.
Key Facts
The Associated Press is offering buyouts to some journalists in the U.S.
AP is moving away from focusing on newspaper journalism.
The company is concentrating more on visual journalism.
AP is looking for new sources of income, including investments in artificial intelligence.
Newspaper companies used to be the main income source for AP but now make up only 10% of its revenue.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, warned that geopolitical tensions, including the war in Iran, could negatively impact the U.S. economy. He highlighted potential oil price spikes, inflation, and higher interest rates as key concerns. Dimon also mentioned challenges like rising government debt and trade tensions.
Key Facts
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon issued a warning about the impact of geopolitical tensions on the U.S. economy.
He mentioned the war in Iran as a significant factor affecting oil prices and global supply chains.
Dimon stated that the American economy is resilient but faces threats that could affect trade and energy markets.
He expressed concerns about rising government debt and its long-term effects on the economy.
Dimon noted trade tensions and deterioration in U.S.-China relations as additional risks.
He emphasized the importance of the U.S. maintaining its economic and military strength globally.
Dimon highlighted the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs and economic dynamics.
He stressed the uncertainty of war and its broad impact on global economies, even those not directly involved.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Burger King is starting a big hiring push to bring in up to 60,000 workers across the United States. This move follows improvements in their restaurants and increased customer visits. The jobs are for various roles from entry-level to management.
Key Facts
Burger King plans to hire up to 60,000 employees in the U.S.
The hiring effort covers about 6,500 restaurants nationwide.
Job openings range from hourly crew roles to management positions.
The hiring push is part of Burger King’s "Reclaim the Flame" turnaround plan.
Recent changes have increased sales and customer visits.
Most hiring will occur at franchise-operated restaurants, which are the majority in the U.S.
The hiring initiative is a collective effort involving franchise operators.
The move comes at a time when many restaurants face challenges from inflation and cautious consumer spending.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The article discusses the situation where older employees might be asked to train younger workers who could potentially replace them. It highlights the legal aspects of age discrimination and suggests ways for employees to address potential discrimination issues with their employers.
Key Facts
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects people 40 and older from being unfairly treated due to age.
It is not automatically illegal for companies to replace older employees with younger ones.
Warning signs of age discrimination include being excluded from meetings, reduced responsibilities, and consistent unfavorable treatment compared to younger employees.
Employees should ask about company intentions and changes to their role when asked to train a potential replacement.
Legal experts suggest requesting written documentation about any role changes or training plans.
Being well-informed and documenting conversations can help clarify the company's intent and protect the employee's rights.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Many American households are struggling to pay bills due to economic issues like inflation and layoffs. The New York Fed reports an increase in people who are late on loan payments. Experts advise taking proactive steps, such as contacting lenders and working to rebuild credit, to manage financial difficulties.
Key Facts
Economic challenges like inflation and layoffs are impacting American households.
The New York Fed reports a rise in "serious delinquency," meaning more people are over 90 days late on loan payments.
Mortgage delinquencies rose from 1.09% to 1.38% between 2024 and 2025.
Home equity line delinquencies increased from 0.56% to 1.24%.
Student loan delinquencies jumped to 16.19% after COVID-related forbearance ended.
Experts suggest contacting lenders to discuss better terms or hardship programs.
Rebuilding credit is crucial and can be aided by using secured credit cards.
Accessing retirement funds is an option for immediate financial relief but may impact future savings.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Bankruptcies in the U.S. have increased significantly in 2026 due to economic challenges such as high inflation and consumer debt. Data shows a 14% rise in bankruptcy filings in the first quarter, affecting both businesses and individuals.
Key Facts
Bankruptcy filings in the U.S. rose 14% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to 2025.
There were 150,009 filings in 2026's first quarter, up from 132,094 in the same period the previous year.
Consumer filings reached 131,573, while commercial filings totaled 8,436.
Chapter 7 consumer bankruptcies increased 17% to 89,259 cases.
Chapter 13 filings, allowing debt reorganization, rose 8% to 51,962 cases.
Subchapter V filings, for small businesses, increased 67% to 833 cases.
Factors such as inflation, high interest rates, and tariffs have contributed to the rise in personal bankruptcies.
ABI supports congressional efforts to make bankruptcy options more accessible, including raising the threshold for small business reorganization.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Walmart has issued recalls for several products sold on its online marketplace due to safety concerns. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has warned about risks linked to male-to-male extension cords, baby swim floats, and sauté pans, urging consumers to stop using these items immediately.
Key Facts
The recalls involve products sold on Walmart.com by third-party sellers.
Products recalled include male-to-male extension cords, "Relaxing Baby" swim floats, and Granitestone sauté pans.
The male-to-male extension cords pose risks of electrocution and carbon monoxide poisoning.
The "Relaxing Baby" swim floats are linked to a child's drowning.
Granitestone sauté pans have a defect that can cause the handle cap to eject, leading to burn hazards.
The CPSC has issued direct consumer warnings due to non-cooperation from certain manufacturers.
Consumers are advised to stop using the recalled items and follow disposal or refund instructions provided by the CPSC.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A report by SoFi analyzed top U.S. cities for starting a business, evaluating factors like business applications, office costs, and unemployment rates. The research highlights certain Southern and Midwest cities as favorable for new businesses. Florida and Texas cities rank high due to increasing business activity and young and diverse populations.
Key Facts
In 2023, 5.5 million new business applications were filed in the U.S.
Small businesses employ 46% of the U.S. workforce.
SoFi evaluated 50 U.S. cities based on eight criteria, including living costs and business applications.
Three Florida cities rank in the top 10 for new businesses.
Miami tops the list with the most new business applications and self-employed people.
Cities like Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Madison score well among cold-weather locations.
Texas cities like Plano and Irving are also in the top 10, benefiting from a young workforce.
Miami offers high population growth, contributing to its business-friendly environment.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Gina Maria's Pizza, a well-known Minnesota pizza chain, has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and closed all its locations in the Twin Cities area. The company cited approximately $2.9 million in liabilities and about $64,000 in assets, resulting in the decision to liquidate its assets rather than attempt to reorganize.
Key Facts
Gina Maria's Pizza was established in 1975 in Minnetonka, Minnesota.
The company filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy on March 26, 2025.
All restaurant locations in the Twin Cities area closed in October 2025.
The company left approximately $2.9 million in liabilities and only $64,000 in assets.
Under Chapter 7, a trustee will sell the company's assets to repay creditors.
A separate California restaurant, also named Gina Maria’s, is not affected by this bankruptcy.
The U.S. pizza industry faces challenges, with 61% of regional and mid-sized chains reporting declining sales.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Felix Project, a UK charity, is struggling with higher energy and fuel prices due to a conflict in the Middle East affecting oil supply. The increased costs are impacting their ability to distribute food, and they, along with other businesses, are seeking government help. The UK government has responded by announcing support measures to address the situation.
Key Facts
The Felix Project is a food redistribution charity operating in London.
The charity is facing higher energy and fuel costs due to a conflict in the Middle East.
The conflict has caused oil prices to rise, with the Strait of Hormuz being a major oil trade route affected.
Average petrol prices in the UK have risen to about £1.52 per litre.
Diesel prices have increased to just over £1.82 per litre.
The Felix Project uses 60 vans for food delivery, making them concerned about fuel costs.
The UK government has announced measures to help with energy costs for businesses and families.
The conflict in the Middle East continues to affect global and local economies.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The ongoing war involving Iran has created uncertainty for Jersey's tourism sector, causing concern over price increases and the cost of living. Despite disruptions, tourism leaders see potential benefits, as more travelers may opt for shorter, safer trips to places like Jersey rather than long-distance travel. Rising fuel costs have led to increased delivery charges, affecting hospitality businesses on the island.
Key Facts
The war began on February 28, impacting oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
Jersey tourism started the year well but now faces uncertainty due to rising prices.
Cost-of-living pressures come from fuel surcharges on deliveries.
British holidaymakers are seeking safer travel options and may choose Jersey over the Middle East.
Tourism leaders see an opportunity to attract travelers looking for short, safe breaks.
Seymour Hotels noted expected cost increases due to supplier warnings about rising delivery charges.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
