Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Business News

Business news, market updates, and economic developments

McDonald’s Planning Value Menu, Internet Has One Major Concern

McDonald’s Planning Value Menu, Internet Has One Major Concern

Summary

McDonald's is reportedly planning to launch a new value menu with lower-priced items. This has sparked online discussions, with some people worried it could be a sign of an upcoming recession.

Key Facts

  • McDonald's is reportedly working on a new value menu with items priced at $3 or less.
  • The Wall Street Journal reported on the potential new deals, but McDonald's has not officially confirmed them.
  • Social media users are discussing the menu and speculating it might signal a recession.
  • The discussion around McDonald's menu ties into larger concerns about economic uncertainty.
  • JPMorgan estimates the current chance of a recession at 35%, down from 60% in the past year.
  • In response to financial pressures, many Americans have reduced dining out, prompting McDonald's to focus on value offerings.
  • Posts about the potential menu have received millions of views on social media platforms like X.
Read the Original

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

Goodwill Thrifter Sees Designer Shoe for $7.99, Then Comes the Real Win

Goodwill Thrifter Sees Designer Shoe for $7.99, Then Comes the Real Win

Summary

A person found four pairs of expensive Jimmy Choo shoes at a thrift store, priced at $7.99 each. This rare find highlights the appeal of thrifting, where people often find high-value items for low prices. Thrifting and buying second-hand items have become more popular in the U.S., with a significant market value.

Key Facts

  • A Reddit user bought four pairs of Jimmy Choo shoes, each priced at $7.99, at a thrift store.
  • Jimmy Choo pumps typically sell for $625 to $3,700.
  • The find was shared on Reddit, where it surprised many users.
  • Thrifting is becoming more popular in the U.S., with more people buying second-hand items.
  • A 2025 report says 93% of Americans shop online for second-hand items.
  • There are over 25,000 resale shops in the U.S.
  • People save about $2,071 per year by buying second-hand instead of new items.
  • The resale market in the U.S. was valued at $56 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach $61 billion in 2026.
Read the Original

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

Should drivers turn to EVs as the war spikes gas prices? Here's what to know

Should drivers turn to EVs as the war spikes gas prices? Here's what to know

Summary

This article discusses how the Iran war is causing gas prices to rise, prompting some people to consider electric vehicles (EVs) as an alternative. It highlights one person's experience with owning an EV and suggests that high gas prices could increase interest in buying EVs.

Key Facts

  • Gas prices are rising due to the Iran war.
  • Kevin Ketels owns an electric 2026 Chevrolet Blazer.
  • Ketels is happy not to deal with high gas prices thanks to his EV.
  • He bought the EV because he believed in their future potential.
  • Experts think that high gas prices might make more people interested in EVs.
  • Electricity prices for EVs are less likely to increase as quickly as gas prices.
Read the Original

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

Target Boycott Leader Insists Fight Will Continue: 'Shop Elsewhere'

Target Boycott Leader Insists Fight Will Continue: 'Shop Elsewhere'

Summary

A boycott against Target, led by Nekima Levy Armstrong from the Racial Justice Network, continues despite Rev. Jamal Bryant announcing the end of his involvement in the protest. The boycott responds to Target's reduction of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, a move influenced by President Donald Trump's policies.

Key Facts

  • Nekima Levy Armstrong continues to support a boycott of Target after it rolled back DEI initiatives.
  • The boycott is a response to Target's decision following President Trump's executive orders against DEI programs.
  • Rev. Jamal Bryant, who initially supported the boycott, has ended his involvement after discussions with Target leaders.
  • Armstrong asserts that Bryant does not represent the wider group's stance on the boycott.
  • The boycott focuses on urging Target to maintain its DEI commitments.
  • Target has stated its commitment to inclusivity despite the protest.
  • The duration and outcome of the boycott remain uncertain.
Read the Original

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

Tariff Refund Update as US Businesses Offered Buyouts

Tariff Refund Update as US Businesses Offered Buyouts

Summary

Businesses in the U.S. may receive refunds for tariffs they paid under a rule that was overturned by the Supreme Court. Many importers are considering selling their rights to these refunds to avoid long waits. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is trying to set up a system to handle these large-scale refunds.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court overturned President Trump's global tariffs.
  • Around $166 billion in tariffs is owed to about 330,000 importers.
  • Businesses can sell their refund rights to buyers who will handle the wait for a share of the refund.
  • Offers for these refund rights have risen, now paying around 60% of the refund's value.
  • The Court of International Trade ordered immediate refunds but paused the directive due to logistical challenges.
  • The U.S. Customs and Border Protection needs 4.4 million man-hours to process the refunds manually.
  • A 45-day delay was requested to set up an automatic refund system.
Read the Original

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

Map Shows Riskiest Housing Markets In US

Map Shows Riskiest Housing Markets In US

Summary

A report from property data provider ATTOM reveals that Florida has the most counties at risk for falling home prices in the U.S. due to high inventory and slowing demand. This trend is expected to continue until 2026, with specific counties showing high foreclosure rates and unemployment. Meanwhile, counties in the Northeast and Midwest are less at risk due to housing shortages.

Key Facts

  • Florida has 16 of the 50 most vulnerable counties for falling home prices.
  • California follows with 11 counties at risk and New Jersey has four.
  • High foreclosure rates and rising unemployment contribute to risk levels.
  • Florida's median home price in February was $415,200, a slight 0.4% increase from the previous year.
  • Counties like Charlotte in Florida and Charles in Maryland are among those most at risk.
  • Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee have some of the least risky counties.
  • ATTOM's report cites the slow correction of Florida's housing market after the pandemic boom.
  • Home prices in major Florida metro areas are expected to continue declining until 2026.
Read the Original

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

Diners Not Ready For What They See On Restaurant Receipt: 'No Way'

Diners Not Ready For What They See On Restaurant Receipt: 'No Way'

Summary

A diner in Atlanta noticed an extra 4% fee on their restaurant bill, intended to support employee health insurance, which was not clearly communicated beforehand. This led to discussions online about the responsibility of covering employee benefits and the transparency of fee disclosures in restaurants.

Key Facts

  • A diner in Atlanta saw a 4% fee added to their restaurant bill.
  • The fee is meant to help cover health insurance for employees.
  • The diner claimed the fee was not clearly mentioned on the menu they saw.
  • Reddit users debated the fairness and transparency of such fees.
  • Some users noted the fee is advertised on the restaurant's online dinner menu.
  • Unexpected fees like this have appeared in previous restaurant incidents reported online.
Read the Original

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

Estée Lauder sues Jo Malone over use of name in collaboration with Zara

Estée Lauder sues Jo Malone over use of name in collaboration with Zara

Summary

Estée Lauder is taking legal action against Jo Malone for using her name in a collaboration with fashion brand Zara. Estée Lauder claims this use violates a previous agreement and affects their brand identity. They are suing for trademark infringement and breach of contract.

Key Facts

  • Estée Lauder bought the Jo Malone brand and the rights to the name in 1999.
  • Jo Malone collaborated with Zara using the label "A creation by Jo Malone CBE, founder of Jo Loves."
  • Estée Lauder says this usage weakens the Jo Malone London brand.
  • Jo Malone previously agreed not to use her name for marketing after selling the rights.
  • Estée Lauder is suing Jo Malone, her new brand Jo Loves, and Zara's UK division.
  • The legal action includes charges of trademark infringement and breach of contract.
  • Jo Malone's original business became known for its unique fragrances and expanded into candles and bath products.
Read the Original

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

Woman Orders Grocery Delivery—Not Ready for What’s Caught on Camera

Woman Orders Grocery Delivery—Not Ready for What’s Caught on Camera

Summary

A woman's grocery delivery experience through Uber Eats went viral after the delivery driver left the items scattered on a porch. The incident sparked discussions about the reliability of app-based delivery services. Uber Eats advises customers to report any delivery issues to the company.

Key Facts

  • A TikTok video showed a delivery driver leaving groceries on a porch instead of handing them to the customer.
  • The delivery was made to the wrong house, according to the video's caption.
  • The video gained attention for illustrating potential problems with app-based delivery services.
  • Viewers expressed frustration with the service quality of delivery apps in the comments section.
  • Uber Eats states customers should report issues with damaged deliveries through their platform.
  • There is growing criticism about the working conditions and pay for delivery app workers.
  • The incident highlights a broader debate about the balance between convenience and quality in app-based services.
Read the Original

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

Grocery Store Worker Awarded $15,000 After Being Left Out of LinkedIn Post

Grocery Store Worker Awarded $15,000 After Being Left Out of LinkedIn Post

Summary

A grocery store manager in the UK won about $15,000 after he was excluded from a social media post by his boss on International Men's Day. The exclusion was ruled as harassment related to his disability by a tribunal.

Key Facts

  • Darren Cooper, a grocery store manager at Sainsbury's, was excluded from a social media post meant to celebrate male leaders.
  • Cooper was on sick leave for anxiety when the post was made.
  • The post included photos and names of all other regional store managers but left out Cooper.
  • Cooper claimed the exclusion worsened his health and led to questions about his job status.
  • Cooper filed legal action against Sainsbury's for disability discrimination, harassment, and unfair dismissal.
  • The tribunal dismissed discrimination and unfair dismissal claims but agreed on harassment and unfavorable treatment.
  • Cooper was awarded £11,852 ($15,872) in compensation.
  • The tribunal noted that Cooper's exclusion was due to his boss's conscious decision, not Cooper's status or wishes.
Read the Original

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

Cheese Recall Update as FDA Sets Most Serious Risk Level

Cheese Recall Update as FDA Sets Most Serious Risk Level

Summary

The FDA updated the recall of several flavors of cream cheese made by Made Fresh Salads Inc. with its highest risk level, Class I, due to possible Listeria contamination. The products were distributed in the New York City area, and consumers are advised not to consume them and return them for a refund.

Key Facts

  • The recall involves multiple cream cheese flavors made by Made Fresh Salads Inc.
  • The recall received a Class I risk classification, indicating a high risk for serious health issues.
  • The cream cheese may be contaminated with Listeria, a harmful bacteria.
  • Affected products were sold in 5-pound tubs with expiration dates through February 27, 2026.
  • Distribution occurred in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and the New York City area.
  • No illnesses have been reported as of the article's publication.
  • The issue was traced to a contaminated mixer part, which has been removed.
  • Consumers should return affected products to the place of purchase for a refund.
Read the Original

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

Trump’s Favorite Shoe Brand Florsheim Is Suing Him

Trump’s Favorite Shoe Brand Florsheim Is Suing Him

Summary

A company that owns the shoe brand Florsheim is suing President Trump's administration over tariffs applied during his second term. The company, Weyco Group Inc., claims these tariffs are illegal and wants the U.S. court to refund the duties collected.

Key Facts

  • Weyco Group Inc. owns Florsheim Shoe Company.
  • The lawsuit is against tariffs imposed by President Trump's administration.
  • Weyco Group argues these tariffs were enacted without proper authority.
  • The legal challenge focuses on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
  • Weyco Group seeks a refund of duties it believes were wrongfully collected.
  • The case is part of many challenges to tariffs by importers.
  • The lawsuit names several U.S. government departments and entities as defendants.
  • Court proceedings are on hold pending further legal guidance.
Read the Original

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

YouTube Just Hit Major Milestone That Has Hollywood Rattled

YouTube Just Hit Major Milestone That Has Hollywood Rattled

Summary

YouTube has generated $40.4 billion in advertising revenue in 2025, surpassing the combined ad income of major media companies like Disney, NBCUniversal, and others. The platform's total revenue for the year exceeded $60 billion, driven by both ads and its growing subscription services.

Key Facts

  • In 2025, YouTube's ad revenue reached $40.4 billion.
  • Combined ad revenue of Disney, NBCUniversal, Paramount, and Warner Bros. was $37.8 billion in the same year.
  • YouTube's total revenue in 2025 was over $60 billion, surpassing Disney's media business.
  • The platform's revenue includes $11.4 billion from ads in the fourth quarter alone.
  • YouTube TV has around 10 million subscribers.
  • YouTube has paid over $100 billion to creators, music companies, and media partners.
  • The growth positions YouTube as the world's largest media company, according to MoffettNathanson.
  • YouTube's expansion is driven by its mix of advertising and subscription services.
Read the Original

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

Qatari-backed fund offers $1.5bn for pizza giant Papa John’s: Report

Qatari-backed fund offers $1.5bn for pizza giant Papa John’s: Report

Summary

A Qatari-backed investment fund named Irth Capital has made a $47-per-share bid to buy the pizza company Papa John’s, valuing it at $1.5 billion. This offer follows a previous joint bid with Apollo Global Management, but now Irth is acting alone. The proposal is under review, and it is not certain if Papa John’s will accept it.

Key Facts

  • Irth Capital, backed by Qatar, offered $47 per share for Papa John’s.
  • The bid values Papa John’s at $1.5 billion.
  • Irth Capital already owns about 10% of Papa John’s, partly in derivatives.
  • There is no guarantee Papa John’s will accept the offer, as talks are private.
  • Papa John’s stock rose nearly 20% after the bid was reported.
  • Apollo Global Management previously made a higher offer of $64 per share but withdrew.
  • Irth Capital's proposal now includes support from Brookfield Asset Management.
  • Irth is led by Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulla Al Thani and Matthew Bradshaw, and was established in 2024.
Read the Original

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

Target Boycott Ends With No DEI Wins: What To Know

Target Boycott Ends With No DEI Wins: What To Know

Summary

A boycott against Target ended without changes to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. The boycott began after President Donald Trump ordered the removal of federal DEI programs, influencing companies like Target to reduce similar initiatives. Despite ending, some groups continue their protest as no new commitments were made by Target.

Key Facts

  • The boycott against Target lasted a year and focused on DEI policies.
  • President Trump’s executive orders in 2025 led Target and other retailers to reduce DEI programs.
  • Rev. Jamal Bryant and other leaders stopped the boycott after discussions with Target representatives.
  • Michael Fiddelke became CEO of Target in February, taking over from Brian Cornell.
  • Target's DEI program, "Belonging," remains, but no new initiatives were announced.
  • Some groups, like the Racial Justice Network, continue to boycott, saying no results were achieved.
  • Calls for ongoing boycotts come from various organizations, including The People's Union USA.
Read the Original

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

Welsh Water to pay £44.7m after 'unacceptable' sewage failures

Welsh Water to pay £44.7m after 'unacceptable' sewage failures

Summary

Welsh Water is set to pay £44.7 million after an industry regulator found issues with how it managed sewage and wastewater. The money will go towards reducing spills and improving river quality. Welsh Water has accepted the findings and started making changes.

Key Facts

  • Welsh Water will pay £44.7 million after a regulator found problems with its sewage and wastewater management.
  • The regulator, Ofwat, said Welsh Water did not properly operate, maintain, or upgrade its wastewater network.
  • The enforcement package includes £40.6 million to reduce environmental damage and £4.1 million to improve river quality.
  • Ofwat stated that the payment is more than a fine and Welsh Water has acknowledged the findings.
  • This case is part of a series of investigations into water companies in England and Wales.
  • Thames Water was fined nearly £123 million in similar investigations.
  • Welsh Water promises to improve its performance and has started a program to upgrade its services.
  • Ofwat said the improvements must be completed by 2030 and costs should not be passed to customers.
Read the Original

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

Map Shows Gas Price Rises as Average Goes Above $3 in Every State

Map Shows Gas Price Rises as Average Goes Above $3 in Every State

Summary

Gas prices in the United States have risen above $3 per gallon in every state due to ongoing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz linked to the Iran war. The national average hit $3.598 per gallon, the highest since May 2024. To counteract rising prices, President Trump announced the release of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

Key Facts

  • All U.S. states have gas prices above $3 per gallon.
  • The national average price for gas is $3.598 per gallon.
  • Gas prices rose after the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran.
  • California has the highest gas prices at $5.368 per gallon.
  • North Carolina has the lowest gas prices at $3.383 per gallon.
  • The Trump administration plans to release 172 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
  • President Trump stated he is not concerned about rising gas prices.
  • U.S. officials expect prices to drop after completing Operation Epic Fury in Iran.
Read the Original

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

Trump's limited gas-price options on Iran

Trump's limited gas-price options on Iran

Summary

President Trump is dealing with an energy crisis that is causing gas prices to rise. The United States and other countries plan to release 400 million barrels of oil from emergency reserves to help. However, these steps alone may not significantly reduce prices until tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz resumes.

Key Facts

  • 400 million barrels of oil will be released by International Energy Agency member countries to address the energy crisis.
  • The United States will contribute 172 million barrels from its Strategic Petroleum Reserve over the next 120 days.
  • Current U.S. gas prices average $3.58 per gallon, up 38 cents in a week.
  • An uninterrupted flow through the Strait of Hormuz is crucial for stabilizing oil prices.
  • The IEA-coordinated initiative is the largest oil release ever, exceeding the 2022 response to Russia's actions in Ukraine.
  • Japan plans to release 30.5 million barrels, followed by other contributions from countries like Canada and Germany.
  • Potential U.S. government measures include offering tanker insurance, sanction waivers, and urging more oil production.
  • According to experts, the planned releases will not provide enough supply alone to offset rising oil prices.
Read the Original

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

John Lewis to pay first staff bonus for four years

John Lewis to pay first staff bonus for four years

Summary

John Lewis will pay staff a bonus for the first time in four years after reporting increased profits. The company faced financial difficulties during the Covid pandemic but is now seeing improved performance under new leadership.

Key Facts

  • John Lewis is giving staff a 2% bonus, equal to an extra week's pay, after a four-year break.
  • The bonus was not given during Covid as the company made big changes, like closing some shops and cutting jobs.
  • John Lewis reported a 6% rise in underlying profits to £134 million.
  • The business recorded a pre-tax loss of £21 million because of £120 million in one-time costs mostly from old tech system write-downs.
  • Sales for the year grew by 5% to £13.4 billion.
  • Waitrose supermarket sales increased by 7%, higher than John Lewis department stores, which saw a 3% rise.
  • Jason Tarry became the new chair of John Lewis in 2024, replacing Dame Sharon White.
Read the Original

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

How a lost suitcase led to a two-year compensation battle with Ryanair

How a lost suitcase led to a two-year compensation battle with Ryanair

Summary

Rosie McGrane's suitcase was lost when she flew to Copenhagen with Ryanair. Despite a court ordering Ryanair to pay her compensation, she has not received the money, and the airline is appealing the decision. The case has involved lengthy processes and communication issues.

Key Facts

  • Rosie McGrane's suitcase was lost during her trip from Edinburgh to Copenhagen in September 2023.
  • The baggage contained personal items including running gear, a tablet, clothes, and a Scottish flag of sentimental value.
  • Ryanair has not yet paid the compensation ordered by Edinburgh Sheriff Court.
  • Rosie and her husband, Chris, faced delays and communication challenges with Ryanair.
  • Ryanair's appeal claims Rosie did not report the missing baggage upon arrival.
  • The compensation battle has lasted over two years.
  • Chris, Rosie's husband, used his legal knowledge to assist in the case.
Read the Original

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