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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Business News

Business news, market updates, and economic developments

Labubu movie in the works as viral toys attempt film crossover

Labubu movie in the works as viral toys attempt film crossover

March 19, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Pop Mart and Sony Pictures are working together to create a Labubu movie, featuring the popular toys. The film will mix live action and computer-generated animation and is currently in the early stages of development.

Key Facts

  • Labubu dolls, made by Pop Mart, will be featured in a new movie by Sony Pictures.
  • The movie is in "early development" and will use both live action and computer-generated animation.
  • Paul King, known for directing "Wonka" and "Paddington," will direct the movie.
  • Labubu dolls helped Pop Mart become a large toy company, valued at nearly $40 billion.
  • The toys are popular worldwide and are part of a series created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung.
  • The Labubu movie was announced during a global exhibition tour celebrating the toys' 10th anniversary.
  • Labubu toys are often sold in "blind boxes," where buyers do not know which one they will receive.
  • The film aims to help Pop Mart grow from a toy company into an entertainment brand.
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BBC Business BBC World BBC Top Stories
Millennials Pressured To Make One Big Change To Resumes in Tough Market

Millennials Pressured To Make One Big Change To Resumes in Tough Market

March 19, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Millennials are advised to make changes to their resumes due to a competitive job market, such as shortening their work history to appear younger. This strategy is intended to avoid age discrimination in hiring and is supported by some career advisors and organizations.

Key Facts

  • Millennials are cutting down their work history on resumes to appear younger.
  • Advice from social media and career coaches suggests limiting resumes to 10 years of experience.
  • Fortune reports that millennials are removing older job roles and graduation dates.
  • AARP recommends focusing on recent experience and omitting older details.
  • A 2024 survey found that 90% of workers over 40 experience age discrimination.
  • Layoffs have increased competition for mid-level corporate roles.
  • Some career experts suggest that reframing experience may be more effective than minimizing it.
  • Ageism in hiring is reportedly worsened by automated screening systems.
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Newsweek
Iran war has U.S. farmers worried about the cost and availability of fertilizer

Iran war has U.S. farmers worried about the cost and availability of fertilizer

March 18, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

U.S. farmers are worried about rising fertilizer costs because of the conflict in Iran. Many, like Tennessee farmer Todd Littleton, face higher expenses as prices increase by 40%.

Key Facts

  • U.S. farmers are experiencing a rise in fertilizer costs due to the conflict in Iran.
  • Farmer Todd Littleton expects to pay $100,000 more for fertilizer this season.
  • This price increase is about 40% higher than what he paid last year.
  • Littleton is a third-generation farmer from Gibson County, Tennessee.
  • Some farmers have faced financial difficulties in recent years due to record losses.
  • The increase in fertilizer prices adds financial pressure on farmers already struggling.
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PBS NewsHour
U.S. stocks sink on worries about inflation as gold falls below $5,000 per ounce

U.S. stocks sink on worries about inflation as gold falls below $5,000 per ounce

March 18, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

U.S. stocks fell due to concerns about rising inflation, as reported inflation figures were set to worsen. The S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq all showed losses.

Key Facts

  • U.S. stocks declined on Wednesday.
  • Concerns are rising about inflation getting worse.
  • The S&P 500 dropped by 1.1%.
  • The Dow Jones Industrial Average decreased by 668 points, or 1.4%.
  • The Nasdaq composite fell by 1.1%.
  • An inflation report suggests worsening conditions.
  • The economic situation is affected by the war with Iran.
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PBS NewsHour
Jet fuel prices and airfares are rising. U.S. airlines say travelers are still booking flights

Jet fuel prices and airfares are rising. U.S. airlines say travelers are still booking flights

March 18, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Major U.S. airlines report that despite rising jet fuel costs due to conflict in the Middle East, they still expect good profits. Strong ticket sales are helping offset these increased expenses.

Key Facts

  • U.S. airlines face rising jet fuel costs because of a conflict in the Middle East.
  • Airlines expect to maintain their profit margins despite these higher costs.
  • Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines reported record bookings this year.
  • Airline executives shared these updates with investors.
  • Increased ticket sales are helping to balance the extra fuel expenses.
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PBS NewsHour
Fed keeps rates on hold, Powell says he will remain in place until successor confirmed

Fed keeps rates on hold, Powell says he will remain in place until successor confirmed

March 18, 2026 • Axios

Summary

The Federal Reserve decided not to change interest rates, and Jerome Powell, the chair, will stay in his position until a successor is confirmed. President Trump has nominated Kevin Warsh to replace Powell, but the confirmation is stalled by Senator Thom Tillis due to an ongoing investigation. The Fed is facing uncertain economic impacts due to the situation in the Middle East.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve kept interest rates steady at 3.5% to 3.75%.
  • Jerome Powell will remain as chair until his successor is confirmed.
  • President Trump nominated Kevin Warsh to succeed Powell.
  • Senator Thom Tillis is blocking Warsh's confirmation due to an investigation.
  • Powell committed to staying until the investigation concludes.
  • Rising oil prices from Middle Eastern tensions add economic uncertainty.
  • Fed officials have differing views on future interest rate changes.
  • New projections show an increase in expected inflation rates.
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Axios
Fed Warns Iran War Could Push Inflation Higher, Still Signals 2026 Rate Cut

Fed Warns Iran War Could Push Inflation Higher, Still Signals 2026 Rate Cut

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The Federal Reserve noted that the conflict involving Iran might increase inflation this year, though it does not expect a big impact on economic growth. They maintained the current interest rate at 3.6% and plan to cut rates in 2026. The Fed predicts inflation will rise to 2.7% by the end of this year due to higher gasoline prices, with a long-term target of returning to 2% by 2028.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve expects the Iran conflict to raise inflation mainly through higher oil and gasoline prices.
  • The Fed kept the short-term interest rate at 3.6% during their latest meeting.
  • Policymakers anticipate decreasing interest rates in 2026.
  • Inflation is expected to hit 2.7% by the end of 2023.
  • Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, is also projected at 2.7% for the year.
  • The duration of the Iran conflict is a key factor in determining future inflation and rate decisions.
  • The Fed aims to reduce inflation to 2.2% by 2027 and reach their 2% target in 2028.
  • The Fed holds eight policy meetings yearly to discuss economic forecasts and rate moves.
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Newsweek
US holds interest rates as Iran war triggers oil shock

US holds interest rates as Iran war triggers oil shock

March 18, 2026 • BBC US

Summary

The U.S. central bank decided to keep interest rates steady in response to a rise in oil prices caused by the conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran. This decision was made despite President Donald Trump’s push to lower rates, as the Federal Reserve is concerned about rising prices and economic uncertainty.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve kept its key interest rate between 3.5% and 3.75%.
  • Oil prices have increased due to the conflict involving the U.S. and Iran, affecting economic stability.
  • President Trump has urged for lower borrowing costs, but the Fed remains cautious.
  • The rise in oil prices is pushing gas prices in the U.S. to the highest since 2024.
  • Policymakers expect inflation to reach 2.7% this year, up from a previous prediction of 2.4%.
  • Economic growth is forecasted at 2.4%, a slight increase from an earlier 2.3% estimate.
  • The unemployment rate is expected to remain steady at 4.4%.
  • Most members of the Fed's board anticipate at least one rate cut this year.
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BBC US BBC Business BBC World
Computer says no. Are AI interviews making it harder to get a job?

Computer says no. Are AI interviews making it harder to get a job?

March 18, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Many companies are increasingly using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to screen job applications, which some job seekers find challenging. AI can quickly sort through applications, but this means fewer applications might be seen by humans. The process can be frustrating for applicants, and some are using AI themselves to write their applications.

Key Facts

  • Many job seekers experience quick rejections due to AI screening in the job application process.
  • AI is often used in the initial stages of hiring, such as reviewing resumes and conducting video interviews.
  • Job vacancies in the UK have reduced significantly since the peak after the pandemic.
  • About 89% of UK recruiters plan to increase their use of AI in hiring this year.
  • AI helps employers manage large numbers of applications but can leave many candidates frustrated.
  • Some candidates use AI to help write their job applications, matching the technology used by employers.
  • Law firms and other companies are testing AI tools to efficiently handle large volumes of applications.
  • There is a concern that AI may introduce bias in the recruitment process, though some believe it could also make it fairer.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
New questions arise over TikTok sale

New questions arise over TikTok sale

March 18, 2026 • Axios

Summary

Senator Mark Warner is questioning a $10 billion fee related to TikTok's sale to U.S. buyers, reportedly paid to the U.S. Treasury Department. Warner is asking the Treasury Secretary how this fee was decided and plans to ensure it complies with federal rules. The deal involved Oracle and Silver Lake acquiring stakes in TikTok, with communication from key parties being notably absent.

Key Facts

  • Senator Mark Warner has concerns about a $10 billion fee linked to TikTok's sale.
  • The fee is reportedly paid to the U.S. Treasury Department.
  • Warner sent a letter to the Treasury Secretary asking about the fee's approval and compliance with the Anti-Deficiency Act.
  • The total price for TikTok's sale was $24 billion, not the initially reported $14 billion.
  • Oracle and Silver Lake each now own 15% stakes in TikTok U.S.
  • Neither the Treasury Department nor TikTok U.S. responded to requests for comment.
  • Details regarding the payment method for the fee remain unclear.
  • The situation reflects the government's involvement in approving the sale.
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Axios
Oil nears $110 a barrel after gas field strike

Oil nears $110 a barrel after gas field strike

March 18, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Oil prices neared $110 a barrel after reports of an airstrike on a major gas field in Iran. The Brent crude oil benchmark spiked over 5% following the news, while Iran and Qatar responded to the incident with warnings and operational changes.

Key Facts

  • Oil prices rose sharply to almost $110 per barrel after an airstrike report on Iran's South Pars gas field.
  • The Brent crude oil benchmark increased by over 5%, reaching $109.91 a barrel.
  • UK gas prices also increased by 6% but later fell slightly.
  • Iran's oil ministry reported a fire at the gas complex that was under control, but damage details were unclear.
  • Iran's military warned of a strong response to attacks on its energy infrastructure.
  • Iran stopped gas supplies to Iraq to ensure domestic availability.
  • Qatar, which shares the gas field, paused some production due to the conflict.
  • Qatar's foreign ministry highlighted the threat to global energy security from such strikes.
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BBC World BBC Business BBC Top Stories
UAE’s Image Change May Make It a More Credible Financial Hub

UAE’s Image Change May Make It a More Credible Financial Hub

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The UAE has long marketed itself as a stable financial hub separate from the conflicts in the Middle East. Recent regional tensions, including conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran, have challenged this image. Despite disturbances, the UAE has managed to maintain essential functions, demonstrating resilience that may strengthen its financial standing over time.

Key Facts

  • The UAE has promoted itself as a stable place for global business and investment.
  • Recent conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran have affected the UAE’s perception as a conflict-free zone.
  • These tensions led to temporary disruptions in flights and markets.
  • The UAE's stock exchanges were briefly suspended but then reopened.
  • Authorities in the UAE intercepted hundreds of missile and drone attacks with minimal infrastructure damage.
  • The UAE has shifted its focus from being seen as insulated from conflict to being resilient in the face of it.
  • Investors find resilience more valuable than the mere image of stability.
  • The UAE's ability to function under stress is becoming a key factor in its appeal to global investors.
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Newsweek
Higher energy prices might eat your tax refund, economists say

Higher energy prices might eat your tax refund, economists say

March 18, 2026 • Axios

Summary

Economists say that higher gasoline prices might offset the extra money Americans get from tax refunds this year. The increased costs are due to expected rises in oil prices linked to the Iran war, which could mean people spend more on gas than they save in taxes.

Key Facts

  • Economists predict higher gasoline prices due to the Iran war might balance out the benefits of larger tax refunds.
  • The Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research modeled a scenario where gas prices peak at $4.36 per gallon.
  • This price rise could cost the average household about $740 more this year in gas expenses.
  • The same household is expected to receive an average of $748 more in tax refunds due to new tax legislation.
  • Energy price forecasts are uncertain, and actual tax refund amounts can vary.
  • Some people, like non-drivers and electric vehicle owners, will not see increased gas costs.
  • Rising energy prices can increase costs for other goods and services, like airfare and shipping.
  • Higher energy prices might slow overall spending growth this year, despite increased tax refunds.
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Axios
Bentley workers 'shocked and angry' at job cuts

Bentley workers 'shocked and angry' at job cuts

March 18, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Bentley, a luxury car maker based in Crewe, Cheshire, announced plans to cut up to 275 jobs as part of efficiency measures due to a significant drop in operating profits. The job cuts will affect management, agency, and non-manufacturing staff, though the company will continue investing in its Crewe site.

Key Facts

  • Bentley plans to cut up to 275 jobs.
  • The company's operating profits fell to £187 million in 2025, a 42% decline from 2024.
  • The job cuts will impact management, agency, and non-manufacturing roles.
  • Despite the cuts, Bentley will continue investing in its Crewe factory.
  • The GMB union expressed workers' surprise and anger over the job losses.
  • President Trump's tariffs and challenges in the Chinese market have impacted Bentley's sales.
  • Bentley remains one of the largest employers in Crewe and continues to attract workers from various areas.
  • David Bailey, a motor industry expert, mentioned that Bentley has faced some protection due to demand from wealthy buyers, despite broader industry challenges.
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BBC Business
Map Shows States Where Home Insurance Has Risen Faster Than Inflation

Map Shows States Where Home Insurance Has Risen Faster Than Inflation

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Home insurance rates in the United States have increased faster than inflation in most states from 2020 to 2025. A report by LendingTree shows that insurance costs grew 45.8% nationally, while the inflation rate rose by 26.1%. Factors like natural disasters and increased building costs are contributing to this rise in insurance rates.

Key Facts

  • Home insurance rates have risen faster than inflation in 44 states and the District of Columbia.
  • Nationally, home insurance rates increased by 45.8% between 2020 and 2025.
  • Inflation, measured by the consumer price index, rose by 26.1% in the same period.
  • Only five states saw home insurance rates increase slower than inflation: West Virginia, Vermont, Maine, Alaska, and New York.
  • Colorado had the largest gap between insurance rate increases and inflation, with a difference of 74.4 percentage points.
  • Natural disasters and increased costs for building materials have driven up insurance rates.
  • Rising home insurance costs are affecting household budgets, impacting spending on essentials like groceries and utilities.
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Newsweek
Trump's tariffs are causing harm to American manufacturers instead of benefiting them

Trump's tariffs are causing harm to American manufacturers instead of benefiting them

March 18, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Tariffs introduced by President Trump are increasing costs for American manufacturers. Companies like Allen Engineering Corp. are struggling due to the higher expenses for materials. While the White House claims construction is up, much of it stems from programs initiated during Joe Biden's presidency.

Key Facts

  • President Trump's tariffs are raising the costs of imported materials for U.S. manufacturers.
  • Allen Engineering Corp. has increased prices by 8-10% and reduced its workforce from 205 to 140 employees due to tariffs.
  • Manufacturing jobs have decreased, with 98,000 positions lost during Trump's first year back in office.
  • U.S. companies are suing the Trump administration for over $130 billion in tariff refunds.
  • The federal deficit is expected to increase in the coming years.
  • The White House claims that new factory projects and increased labor productivity could eventually benefit American manufacturing.
  • Some construction gains are linked to Biden-era policies, like the CHIPS and Science Act, which supported computer chip manufacturing.
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PBS NewsHour
Social Security Update: COLA Payments Could Change Due to Iran War

Social Security Update: COLA Payments Could Change Due to Iran War

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Social Security payments might see a bigger cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2027 due to rising oil prices linked to a conflict with Iran. Higher oil prices are pushing up fuel costs, which could increase inflation and lead to larger future Social Security increases. This adjustment would help seniors cope with rising costs of goods and services.

Key Facts

  • Social Security's cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) could be larger in 2027 because of rising oil prices.
  • Oil prices have gone over $100 a barrel, causing fuel prices to rise by over 20% month-on-month.
  • The COLA is based on inflation data from the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W).
  • Energy costs make up about 6.2% of the CPI-W index.
  • If energy prices stay high, the 2027 COLA might rise to 3.5% or more.
  • More than 70 million Americans rely on Social Security payments.
  • Rising fuel prices can also lead to higher costs for groceries and other consumer goods.
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Newsweek
WATCH LIVE: Fed Chair Powell holds news briefing after latest interest rate decision

WATCH LIVE: Fed Chair Powell holds news briefing after latest interest rate decision

March 18, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The Federal Reserve, led by Chair Jerome Powell, held a two-day meeting and decided to keep short-term interest rates unchanged. The ongoing conflict with Iran has led to higher oil and gas prices, affecting inflation projections for the year.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve held a two-day meeting ending on a Wednesday.
  • Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to announce that rates stay at about 3.6%.
  • The Fed’s decision comes amidst rising oil and gas prices due to the Iran conflict.
  • There is uncertainty about whether the Fed will cut rates this year.
  • The conflict with Iran started on February 28 under the Trump administration.
  • The Fed might need to revise its inflation forecast higher due to recent events.
  • Previously, in December, inflation was projected to fall to 2.6% by year-end.
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PBS NewsHour
Chocolate Recall Update as FDA Issues Highest Serious Risk Level

Chocolate Recall Update as FDA Issues Highest Serious Risk Level

March 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The FDA updated the recall of Karns Prime and Fancy Foods' Mini Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cups to a Class I recall, the most serious level, because they might contain undeclared peanuts. This poses a high risk for people with peanut allergies, and the recall applies only to products distributed in Pennsylvania.

Key Facts

  • Karns Prime and Fancy Foods recalled their Mini Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cups due to undeclared peanuts.
  • The FDA classified this recall as Class I, which means there is a risk of serious health effects or death.
  • The recalled chocolate cups were sold in 8‑ounce clear plastic packets with the code 07851.
  • The affected products were distributed only in Pennsylvania.
  • No press release was issued; notices were sent by email to retailers and consumers.
  • Undeclared allergens, like peanuts, are a leading cause of food recalls in the U.S.
  • Individuals with peanut allergies should not consume these products and should seek medical help if they experience allergic reactions.
  • The FDA will keep monitoring the situation and provide updates on the recall.
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Newsweek
Average age of first time buyer climbs to 34

Average age of first time buyer climbs to 34

March 18, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

New research shows that the average age of a first-time homebuyer in England has increased to 34, compared to 29 in the mid-1990s. The study highlights growing challenges for young people trying to buy homes, such as needing two incomes, larger deposits, and longer mortgages.

Key Facts

  • The average age of first-time buyers in England is now 34.
  • In the mid-1990s, the average age was 29.
  • Only 6% of first-time buyers are under 25, compared to 25% in the 1990s.
  • More than half of first-time buyers need two incomes to purchase a home.
  • First-time buyers often require larger deposits, around a tenth more than an average salary.
  • Large portions of deposits come from family gifts and inheritance.
  • More than half of first-time buyers are committing to mortgages of 30 years or more.
  • The most and least affordable home areas in Great Britain vary significantly, with Scotland having many affordable spots and London having the least affordable.
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