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A growing number of financial influencers are shifting the conversation away from spreadsheets and toward psychology, arguing that mindset, not math, may be the biggest barrier to building wealth.

Financial influencer Taylor Price joined FOX Business’ Ashley Webster on "Varney & Co." to discuss how reframing financial habits can change long-term outcomes.

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Price said many Americans are held back not by a lack of knowledge, but by how they think about money in the first place.

"Money is more mental than it is mathematical," Price said.

Her framework uses a "money tree" concept to simplify how wealth is built over time. She explained that each part of the tree represents a different financial layer, from income to savings to investing, helping people better understand how their decisions compound.

"We start by planting the seed, the scarcity mindset versus the growth mindset," Price said. "It's the difference between I can't get ahead to I know my choices are gonna compound over time."

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She added that building stability starts with a strong foundation, especially during uncertain economic conditions.

"When it comes to bad weather in the economy, especially today, guess what? That tree holds us together within the roots, our savings accounts, our emergency funds," Price said.

Price also pointed to mindset as a key driver of behavior, arguing that belief systems can directly shape financial outcomes.

"Thinking that they can't when, yes, if you believe you can't, you won't. But if you believed you can, you will," she said.

Drawing on behavioral science, Price said people tend to notice more opportunities once they shift their thinking.

"You're gonna find opportunities because your brain is now trained to see how can I make more money," Price said.

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As the conflict in Iran intensifies with no immediate end in sight, the U.S. Department of Energy is tapping further into the nation’s emergency oil supply.

On Wednesday, officials announced a plan to loan an additional 10 million barrels of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) — part of a 172 million-barrel drawdown that critics say could leave the U.S. vulnerable as West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude prices climb past $111 per barrel.

The crude oil is set to be extracted from the Bryan Mound site in Texas, and the department is also accepting proposals from oil companies until Monday.

STATE-BY-STATE VIEW OF GAS PRICES AS IRAN WAR PUSHES OIL MARKETS HIGHER

The latest move is part of an agreement with 32 other countries to release a total of 400 million barrels of oil from reserves. The International Energy Agency (IEA) held an emergency meeting at its Paris headquarters last month with energy representatives from the G7 countries to "assess market conditions," which IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol says "have been significantly affected by the conflict in the Middle East."

"The oil market challenges we are facing are unprecedented in scale. Therefore, I am very glad that IEA member countries have responded with an emergency collective action of unprecedented size," Birol said after the announcement about the release of the emergency oil reserves.

The Department of Energy did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment, but in a press release, it said the replenishment of the SPR will come "at no cost to the American taxpayer."

Analysts at Goldman Sachs warned in recent weeks that the 400 million-barrel release, the largest in history, may be insufficient to cover supply disruptions caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, potentially leading to a shortfall of more than 10 million barrels per day.

As of early Friday afternoon, WTI — the U.S. standard for oil prices — topped $112 per barrel, up slightly from the previous day. The national average for a regular gallon of gas is over $4, up more than $1 since the war began, according to AAA.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York President John Williams warned that the effects of the Iran war on energy prices could spread across several sectors of the economy during an interview on "The Claman Countdown" Thursday.

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"There's a pass-through of energy prices into a lot of things that we buy, including airfares. … With higher fuel costs, airfares are going to go up," Williams said. "It will spread around. It typically takes us into other goods and services. That typically takes months or maybe a year to have that full effect."

In a presidential address to the nation Wednesday evening, President Donald Trump indicated that military operations in Iran will continue for weeks, likely adding more pressure to the oil market.

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Fox News’ Alec Schemmel and FOX Business’ Nora Moriarty contributed to this report.

Amazon will impose new fees later this month on third-party sellers as rising oil prices tied to the ongoing war with Iran ripple through the U.S. economy, a shift that could ultimately push costs onto consumers.

The company said it will begin charging a 3.5% "fuel and logistics-related surcharge" on sellers who use its fulfillment services starting April 17 in the U.S. and Canada, citing higher transportation and shipping expenses.

The move follows a sharp rise in oil prices, which are increasing costs across global supply chains. West Texas Intermediate crude topped $111 on Friday, while global benchmark Brent crude was around $109 per barrel, as investors assessed how long the conflict could disrupt shipments through the Strait of Hormuz – a critical global oil chokepoint.

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Amazon told FOX Business that the surcharge is designed to offset "elevated costs in fuel and logistics." The company noted it had absorbed those increases until now but is aligning with a broader industry shift toward passing through higher expenses.

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The change adds pressure on roughly 2 million third-party sellers that make up a significant portion of Amazon’s marketplace. Many rely on Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) – the company’s logistics network that handles storage, packing and shipping – meaning the new fee directly affects their operating costs.

On average, the surcharge will total about 17 cents per unit, though actual costs vary based on product size and weight, according to reports. While relatively modest per item, the added expense can scale quickly for high-volume sellers, who may pass those increases on to consumers.

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Amazon said the surcharge remains "meaningfully lower" than comparable fees charged by major carriers, but the move highlights how rising energy costs are cascading through the broader economy.

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Shipping providers including UPS, FedEx and the U.S. Postal Service have also implemented or announced fuel surcharges in recent weeks, signaling mounting strain across logistics networks as fuel prices climb.

Amazon shares are up 17.5% over the past year and are down 9.1% year to date.

Reuters contributed to this report. 

United Airlines is rolling out a new feature to its app that will provide users with estimated TSA security wait times as airport congestion intensifies during a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown that has strained screening operations.

The feature is launching in a pilot phase at several of the airline’s largest U.S. hub airports, including Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles and Newark, with broader expansion possible if successful.

A nearly seven-week partial shutdown of the DHS has disrupted airport operations, contributing to long security lines and unpredictable wait times. Staffing shortages at the Transportation Security Administration have driven absenteeism above 10% at times, worsening delays at checkpoints.

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Within the United app’s "Travel" section, users can view estimated wait times for TSA screening throughout the day, broken down by lane type, including standard screening and TSA PreCheck.

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The move reflects a broader push by airlines to provide real-time information as travel demand remains elevated, and airport systems face strain. Security wait times, which can fluctuate widely, have historically been difficult for passengers to predict.

Access to wait time estimates could influence when travelers arrive at the airport, which screening lane they choose and how they manage tight departure windows.

United has been expanding its mobile app capabilities as part of a wider effort to shift more of the travel experience onto digital platforms, including baggage tracking with Apple AirTag integration, automated rebooking during disruptions, connection guidance and real-time weather alerts.

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The rollout underscores how airlines are attempting to fill information gaps as operational challenges – including staffing disruptions tied to the DHS funding standoff – continue to affect airport performance.

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As travel demand remains high, tools that help passengers navigate delays and congestion more efficiently may become increasingly central to airline competition.

United shares are up more than 53% over the past year and down 17.5% year to date. 

This story about the March 2026 jobs report is developing and will be updated with more details.

The U.S. economy added jobs in March as the labor market rebounded after it unexpectedly shed jobs a month ago.

The Labor Department on Friday reported that employers added 178,000 jobs in March. That figure was well above the expectations of economists polled by LSEG, who predicted a gain of 60,000 jobs.

The unemployment rate declined slightly to 4.3%, which was slightly lower than the 4.4% projected by LSEG economists.

Revisions were made to the payroll numbers for the prior two months, with January's report revised up by 34,000 jobs from a gain of 126,000 to 160,000; while February's report was revised down by 41,000 jobs from a loss of 92,000 to 133,000.

Taken together, employment in January and February was 7,000 jobs lower than previously reported.

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Private payrolls grew by 186,000 jobs in March when economists predicted a gain of 70,000 jobs. February's loss of 86,000 private sector jobs was also revised down to a loss of 129,000.

Government payrolls contracted by 8,000 jobs in March. Job losses by the federal government (-18,000) and state governments (-4,000) were partially offset by local governments adding jobs (+14,000).

The manufacturing sector added 15,000 jobs in March, beating LSEG economists' expectations that the sector would shed 5,000 jobs for the month. The sector's loss of 12,000 jobs in February was revised up to a loss of 6,000 jobs.

Healthcare employment grew by 76,000 jobs in March. The sector was led by gains among ambulatory healthcare workers (+54,000), which reflected a gain caused by 35,000 workers in physicians' offices who returned from a strike. Employment also rose in hospitals (+15,000).

IRAN WAR COULD PUSH INFLATION HIGHER THIS YEAR, GOLDMAN SACHS SAYS

Construction added 26,000 jobs in March but had shown little net change over the prior 12 months.

Transportation and warehousing added 21,000 jobs, led by gains among couriers and messengers (+20,000). The sector's employment is down 139,000 from a February 2025 peak.

Social assistance added 14,000 jobs in March, led by a gain in individual and family services (+11,000).

The financial services sector shed 15,000 jobs in March, with the loss coming from finance and insurance (-16,000). The sector is down 77,000 jobs from a peak in May 2025.

The number of long-term unemployed, defined as those who have been jobless for 27 weeks or more, was little changed at 1.8 million in March but is up by 322,000 over the year. The long-term unemployed accounted for 25.4% of all unemployed people in March.

The number of people who were employed part-time for economic reasons was little changed at 4.5 million in March. These individuals would've preferred full-time employment but were working part-time because their hours were reduced, or they were unable to find full-time jobs.

"This year will most likely be a year of shifting labor dynamics as artificial intelligence upends the job market, especially for low-skilled roles. We continue to see healthy job opportunities for workers with experience," said Jeffrey Roach, chief economist for LPL Financial. 

"Average hourly earnings rose 3.5% from a year ago, giving consumers enough buying power to overcome nagging inflation. This update on the job market gives the Federal Reserve more time to wait for inflation to decelerate before taking action," Roach added.

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The latest jobs data did little to shift the market's expectation that the Federal Reserve is likely to leave interest rates unchanged for the foreseeable future.

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The CME FedWatch tool shows a 99.5% probability the Fed will leave the benchmark federal funds rate unchanged at its current range of 3.5% to 3.75% at its April meeting.

It also shows a 78.9% chance that rates will remain at their current level through the Fed's meeting in December, with a 13.6% probability of a 25 basis point cut by then as opposed to a 6.9% chance of an increase of that size.

From the moment you step through a private foyer and into the sun-washed living area, it’s clear that $44 million buys more than just a view; it buys a masterpiece.

At the legendary Four Seasons Surf Club in Surfside, Florida, the modern coastal aesthetic is defined by striking architecture and a warm glow all around, illuminating custom millwork and slatted wood feature walls. Outside, rows of crisp white umbrellas line tranquil pool decks that reflect resort-style luxury.

For titans like former Starbucks Chairman and CEO Howard Schultz, this is the new "Wall Street South" — a place where floor-to-ceiling glass erases the line between a high-stakes boardroom and the turquoise horizon of the Atlantic.

"It seems like the frequent thread that we discuss is, if they can facilitate business here, why would they do it in a place that is freezing cold? They may as well do it sitting next to the ocean," The Corcoran Group’s Mick Duchon told Fox News Digital during a showing of a $21.95 million unit in the same residential building Schultz just moved into.

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"What I find with a lot of the buyers that are looking in this space in the market, they never really retire," he continued. "So they're looking for the next step in their adventure, like [Schultz], and it’s an exciting place to take that step."

Last month, Schultz and his wife announced they had relocated to Florida for their "retirement phase," leaving Washington state after nearly half a century. Schultz shared the news in a post on LinkedIn, recounting how he, his wife Sheri, and their golden retriever, Jonas, made the move from New York City to Seattle 44 years ago.

"We were starting a new life," Schultz wrote, recalling how Sheri would be their primary income earner as he started a new job "at a place called Starbucks" in September 1982.

"The spirit of continuing forward has long underpinned our approach to life—in business, in philanthropy and most importantly, as a family," Schultz further wrote. "We will be forever grateful for the memories made in Seattle and the relationships built along the way… To the family, friends and partners who made Seattle our home for so many years, thank you."

He and his wife purchased a $44 million penthouse at the Four Seasons Surf Club Residences, The Wall Street Journal first reported, down from an initial listing price of $55 million. It features five bedrooms, a rooftop terrace, central courtyard, private garage and oceanfront cabana.

Schultz's announcement came as Washington state has been working to pass what has been dubbed the "millionaires tax," which would impose a 9.9% income tax on households earning more than $1 million annually. The Washington State House of Representatives passed the controversial bill in a 51-46 vote, and it was signed into law by Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson on Monday.

"The wealth tax as a threat in the states that potentially may implement… is a major catalyst for these high-net-worth people moving here, and where we are right now at the Four Seasons Surf Club is a perfect landing for them because of everything that it offers," Duchon said.

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Living at the Four Seasons Surfside means buying into a history where Winston Churchill used to paint and the Rat Pack hung out. In 2026, it has been updated for the modern business leader with dining by three-Michelin-starred Thomas Keller and a state-of-the-art hammam and spa.

"The 1930s history… creates this historical importance, and it just adds character to the property, which is meaningful. It has a story built into the property that these people really appreciate," Duchon noted. "It creates a place that these people are comfortable in."

"The lifestyle here is extraordinary, the climate's extraordinary, and the landscape is unbelievable and there's a few properties — the Surf Club being one of them — that really fits the criteria that they're looking for from a service perspective, an exclusivity perspective, security, architecture, design and location," he added.

The billionaire landing pad that Duchon has as a pending sale is a turnkey four-bedroom, multiple-bathroom sanctuary spanning just over 5,000 square feet. Upon entering, guests are greeted by fine art, remarkable light fixtures and calming, comfortable white and beige furniture. In the dining area, a bespoke travertine wine cellar towers to the ceiling. The primary lounging space feels vast and grand, all while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

When it comes to greater Miami, some might see a cooling market. However, insiders argue that in the ultra-luxury tier, the rules of traditional real estate don't apply.

"The market dictates the price, and sellers are entitled to ask whatever they want," he continued. "The price points are open oftentimes, there isn't a ceiling… They're oftentimes willing to spend more than any other transactions in order to achieve what they want."

"That market is separate from the rest of the market," he expanded, "and there's only specific properties that those high-net-worth people would consider, including Indian Creek, the Four Seasons… It's a specific demographic that we're focusing on, and it's only really a specific type of product that they're going to be interested in."

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As the sun sets over the emerald green lawns and white cabanas at the Surf Club, the message to the rest of the country is clear: Miami is the new destination for American capital and culture. The multimillion-dollar sales aren't just isolated events; they are the catalysts for a "trickle-down" economy that is "really growing culturally" at a record pace.

"The transactions that are occurring now in this price point, they create a lot of momentum for the rest of the market, and it does have a trickle-down effect," Duchon said. "It's across the other markets on the islands and single-family homes and other condos… It has created more demand and appreciation comes from that. But it is a market within itself. So there are other spaces within the Miami market that are pretty stable and steady and approachable."

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FOX Business' Stephen Sorace contributed to this report.

United Airlines is raising checked bag fees by $10 to $50 for travelers purchasing tickets starting Friday, the company confirmed to Fox Business on Thursday.

The increase, which the airline said marks its first bag fee hike in two years, comes after JetBlue announced similar measures in late March. 

Customers flying within the U.S., Mexico, Canada and Latin America can expect a $10 increase on first and second checked bags, while the fee for a third bag will jump by an additional $50.

The airline did not specify whether the price increase was tied to higher jet fuel costs stemming from the recent Iran war, which has drastically disrupted global oil markets. However, United CEO Scott Kirby warned in recent weeks that sustained higher jet fuel costs could strain company revenue. 

JETBLUE HIKES BAGGAGE FEES BY UP TO $9, CITING RISING FUEL PRICES AMID IRAN WAR

"United is raising first and second checked bag fees by $10 for customers traveling in the U.S., Mexico and Canada and Latin America beginning with tickets purchased Friday, April 3," the airline said.  

Currently, tickets sold through April 2 list prepaid bag fees at $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second, and $150 for the third. Starting Friday, those fees will increase to $45, $55, and $200, respectively.

Similarly, bags paid within 24 hours of travel currently cost $40 for the first bag, $50 for the second, and $150 for the third. Starting Friday, those fees will increase to $50, $60, and $200, respectively.

"Customers in most markets will still enjoy a $5 discount if they prepay for their bags online 24 hours before their flight," the airline said, referring to the first two bags. 

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The airline emphasized that eligible passengers — such as United Chase credit card holders, MileagePlus Premier members, active military members, and travelers in premium cabins — can still check a bag for free. 

Earlier in March, Kirby acknowledged the rising pressure from higher jet fuel prices, noting that over the course of a year, the increased costs could exceed twice the company’s most profitable year.

"The reality is, jet fuel prices have more than doubled in the last three weeks," the CEO wrote in a memo to employees. "If prices stayed at this level, it would mean an extra $11B in annual expense just for jet fuel. For perspective, in United’s best year ever, we made less than $5B. That may sound scary, but the first piece of good news is that, for now at least, demand remains the strongest we've ever seen. The 10 biggest booked revenue weeks in our history have been the last 10 weeks."

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Earlier this week, JetBlue Airways also raised its checked bag fees for economy passengers, citing disruptions in global oil supply from the ongoing Iran war. Under the new structure, the first checked bag now costs about $39 on non‑peak days and about $49 during peak travel periods, up roughly $4–$9 compared with previous rates.

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When an airline raises fees, competitors often follow. However, there have been no additional indications yet from American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, or Frontier Airlines that they plan to take similar measures.

Fuel costs have surged to multi-year highs after the U.S.–Israel conflict with Iran erupted on Feb. 28, disrupting roughly 20% of the global oil supply that normally flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

As of Thursday, jet fuel in major U.S. markets averaged $4.88 per gallon, up more than 95% from the day before the war began, according to Argus data published by Airlines for America.

FOX Business' Eric Mack contributed to this report. 

If you have dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets in your freezer, federal officials say you may want to check the packaging.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) on Wednesday issued a public health alert for certain frozen, ready-to-eat chicken nuggets that may contain "unsafe levels of lead."

Although the product is no longer available in stores, officials warn it could still be in freezers across the country.

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The alert applies to 29-ounce bags of "Great Value Fully Cooked Dino Shaped Chicken Breast Nuggets," sold at Walmart nationwide. 

Affected packages have a "Best If Used By" date of Feb. 10, 2027, along with lot code 0416DPO1215 and establishment number P44164 printed on the packaging.

The issue was discovered during routine testing, and an investigation is ongoing, according to FSIS.

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Health experts caution that lead exposure is especially dangerous for young children and pregnant women, as it can impact brain development and the nervous system.

"There is no safe amount of lead exposure," FSIS said, noting that levels found in the nuggets could be up to five times higher than the FDA’s interim reference level for children.

THOUSANDS OF BREAD, PIZZA ITEMS RECALLED IN 10 STATES OVER POSSIBLE METAL CONTAMINATION

Consumers who purchased the product are urged not to eat it and should instead discard it or return it to the place of purchase.

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A spokesperson for Dorada Foods did not immediately respond to FOX Business' request for comment.

A shift in the U.S. housing market may finally be opening the door for first-time homebuyers as improving affordability and rising inventory create new opportunities across several key regions.

Jacksonville, Florida, leads the list as the top market for first-time buyers this year, followed by Birmingham, Alabama; San Antonio, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia; and Houston, Texas. 

Each of these cities is benefiting from a more favorable balance of home prices, available inventory and buyer competition, according to a new Zillow analysis.

Zillow’s rankings are based on several key factors, including rent burden, the share of affordable listings, inventory relative to renters and the concentration of buyers in their prime homebuying years. 

The top 10 markets for first-time buyers in 2026 are:

Jacksonville ranks first, with rent consuming 23.1% of income. Nearly 47.8% of listings are considered affordable, supported by relatively strong inventory at 5.9 homes per 100 renters.

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Birmingham stands out for affordability, with more than 55.6% of homes within reach and 6.2 listings available per 100 renters.

With a lower rent burden of 20.2% and 47.4% of listings deemed affordable, San Antonio offers a balanced entry point for buyers.

About 45.2% of listings are affordable in Atlanta, where moderate competition is paired with steady inventory levels.

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Houston’s affordability rate sits around 40.2%, supported by a large population of buyers in their prime homebuying years.

Affordability is a key strength in St. Louis, where 67.7% of listings fall within reach for first-time buyers.

Nearly 64.8% of homes in Detroit are affordable, combined with relatively manageable competition.

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Raleigh benefits from a low rent burden of 18.4%, with about 48% of listings remaining affordable.

Approximately 61.8% of homes are affordable in Baltimore, though inventory is tighter at three listings per 100 renters.

Louisville rounds out the top ten, with 54.1% of listings considered affordable and a steady supply of homes.

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Mortgage rates are still elevated, and housing inventory sits about 20% below pre-pandemic levels. Still, conditions have improved from a year ago, with more homes available and modest gains in affordability, according to Zillow.

"First-time buyers are finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel," Orphe Divounguy, senior economist at Zillow, said in a statement. 

"Affordability is still a challenge, but rising incomes, stabilizing prices and improving inventory are creating real opportunities in parts of the country."

Federal Reserve Bank of New York President John Williams warned that the effects of the Iran war on energy prices could spread across multiple sectors of the economy.

FOX Business host Liz Claman noted during her interview with Williams Thursday on "The Claman Countdown" that gasoline is used in far more than transportation, including clothing manufacturing, asphalt and packaging.

"There's a pass-through of energy prices into a lot of things that we buy, including airfares. … With higher fuel costs, airfares are going to go up," William said.

"It will spread around. It typically takes us into other goods and services. That typically takes months or maybe a year to have that full effect."

OIL, GAS PRICES JUMP AS TRUMP FLIRTS WITH STRIKING IRANIAN OIL INFRASTRUCTURE

Williams' comments come as oil markets continue to roil amid the conflict in Iran and after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil choke point where about 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through annually.

The national average for a regular gallon of gas is over $4, up more than $1 since the war began, according to AAA.

The Fed president addressed the gas price spike, saying it puts a strain on household budgets already pressured by inflation.

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"Higher energy prices affect inflation. It affects also the disposable income that families have, too," he said. "So, it hits both inflation, but also it hits demand in the economy."

Williams added that the New York Federal Reserve is well-positioned for potential risks.

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"I think monetary policy, with the actions we took last year and where we are today, is actually well-positioned to keep those risks in balance, and that's what we need to do," he told FOX Business.

However, President Donald Trump’s war on Iran was not a risk the bank could have anticipated, highlighting the limits of monetary policy in responding to sudden geopolitical shocks.

"We can't control everything in terms of gas prices … changing, but what we can do is try to get monetary policy positioned so that those risks we achieve in our two goals are in balance," Williams said.

Williams went on to discuss his decision-making process for cutting or hiking interest rates, emphasizing the importance of an anticipatory approach.

"We have to be forward-looking," he stressed. "We have to be looking where the economy is likely to be in the next year or two, because monetary policy actions, they don't take the full effect on the economy for at least a year."

Nike Inc. delivered a disappointing outlook this week, sending its shares sharply lower and prompting CEO Elliott Hill to acknowledge growing internal frustration during a company-wide call.

Speaking at a Tuesday all-hands meeting, Hill told employees he is ready to move past talking about fixing the business and shift toward rebuilding momentum, Bloomberg first reported.

"For me, my leadership team, from each and every one of us in this room, we have got to respond. I’m so tired, and I know you are too, of talking about fixing this business," Hill said. "I want to move from fixing, and I know you do too. I want to move to building. I want to move to inspiring and driving growth and having fun."

COSTCO'S SURPRISE NIKE COLLABORATION SENDS SNEAKER RESALE MARKET INTO COMPLETE FRENZY

The remarks came after Nike reported its fiscal 2026 third-quarter results, with net income falling 35% year over year. 

The company also warned that revenue is expected to decline in the current quarter and continue falling through the rest of the year.

Shares dropped as much as 15% on Wednesday, hitting their lowest intraday level since 2014, Bloomberg reported.

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Chief Financial Officer Matthew Friend underscored the company’s cautious stance, urging employees to limit spending as Nike works to stabilize performance, according to Bloomberg.

"We’re going to be managing costs carefully as we have been doing," Friend said. "I realize that that creates a tension inside, but I just need you to know that the reason why that tension is there is because our business is not moving in the right direction."

Hill, who took over as CEO in October 2024 and has since reshaped parts of Nike’s strategy, also signaled the company needs to be more transparent with investors, Bloomberg reported.

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"You can’t just sit there and say everything’s great," Hill said. "Frankly, it needed to be different."

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A Nike spokesperson told FOX Business that the company regularly holds post-earnings meetings with employees to review key messages shared with investors and to coordinate next steps.

"As we do after every earnings release, we convened our teammates to provide context on the quarter, reinforce what was shared externally, and align on the work ahead," the spokesperson told FOX Business in an email. "It was a direct conversation about where we are seeing real progress, where we need to move faster, and what it will take to win. The discussion reflected the same reality we shared externally: urgency, transparency, focus and a determination to restore growth."

Editor's note: This story has been updated to clarify Nike CEO Elliott Hill's comments during the all-hands meeting with staff.

Nike Inc. delivered a disappointing outlook this week, sending its shares sharply lower and prompting CEO Elliott Hill to acknowledge growing internal frustration during a company-wide call.

Speaking at a Tuesday all-hands meeting, Hill told employees he is ready to move past efforts to "fix" the business and shift toward rebuilding momentum, according to Bloomberg.

"I’m so tired, and I know you are too, of talking about fixing this business," Hill said. "I want to move to inspiring and driving growth and having fun."

COSTCO'S SURPRISE NIKE COLLABORATION SENDS SNEAKER RESALE MARKET INTO COMPLETE FRENZY

The remarks came after Nike reported its fiscal 2026 third-quarter results, with net income falling 35% year over year. 

The company also warned that revenue is expected to decline in the current quarter and continue falling through the rest of the year.

Shares dropped as much as 15% on Wednesday, hitting their lowest intraday level since 2014, Bloomberg reported.

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Chief Financial Officer Matthew Friend underscored the company’s cautious stance, urging employees to limit spending as Nike works to stabilize performance, according to Bloomberg.

"We’re going to be managing costs carefully as we have been doing," Friend said. "I realize that that creates a tension inside, but I just need you to know that the reason why that tension is there is because our business is not moving in the right direction."

Hill, who took over as CEO in October 2024 and has since reshaped parts of Nike’s strategy, also signaled the company needs to be more transparent with investors, Bloomberg reported.

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"You can’t just sit there and say everything’s great," Hill said. "Frankly, it needed to be different."

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A Nike spokesperson told the outlet that the company regularly holds post-earnings meetings with employees to review key messages shared with investors and to coordinate next steps.

Nike did not immediately respond to FOX Business' request for comment.

The "magic number" that Americans believe they need to have saved for retirement jumped from a year ago as some express anxiety about their retirement savings.

Northwestern Mutual released a study on Wednesday which found that the amount of retirement savings Americans think they need to retire comfortably rose to $1.46 million.

That figure is an increase of $200,000 from last year's edition of the report and is in line with the estimated magic number from 2024, the firm noted.

"The new 'magic number' reflects a convergence of factors — from persistent inflation and longer life expectancies to uncertainty about the future of Social Security," said John Roberts, chief field officer at Northwestern Mutual. 

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For Americans with a relatively high net worth, defined as having $1 million or more in investable assets, the magic number is even higher at $2.67 million, on average.

"Retirement is increasingly complex, and Americans are responding by setting higher expectations for what they'll need. What matters now is pairing those expectations with a thoughtful, comprehensive financial plan that will enable them to reach their unique goals," Roberts said.

The report found that 46% of Americans say they don't expect they will be financially prepared for retirement, and 48% said it's somewhat or very likely they will outlive their savings. It also found that just 23% of Americans with retirement savings said they have only one year or less of their current income set aside.

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The report notes that while there isn't a universal retirement number for all Americans, Northwestern Mutual recommends that people plan to replace about 80% of their pre-retirement income.

It also detailed several other retirement rules of thumb for Americans to consider as they think about how much they should save for retirement.

The so-called "25x rule" suggests that a person should save about 25 times their expected annual savings. Using the $1.46 million "magic number" from the study, that would be sufficient to generate about $58,000 in annual retirement income, the report said.

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Another rule of thumb is the $1,000-a-month rule, which states that for every $1,000 of desired monthly retirement spending, there should be $300,000 in savings. For example, with $1.46 million in retirement savings, it would yield about $4,800 in retirement income per month.

"These rules of thumb can certainly give Americans a ballpark estimate for their own wealth management goals. But they don't factor in the big risks to retirement – like increasing healthcare costs or a long-term care event," Roberts said. 

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"They also don't consider any unique estate planning goals that Americans hope to provide to the next generation," he added, noting that developing a financial plan with an advisor can be beneficial. 

Red Lobster is reportedly weighing the return of its popular "Endless Shrimp" promotion as part of a broader push to revive sales following its 2024 bankruptcy.

The all-you-can-eat deal – which previously contributed to millions in losses – could come back as a limited-time offer, possibly as soon as this month, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with the plans.

A Red Lobster spokesperson told FOX Business the company doesn't have "anything to announce at this time," but emphasized that the promotion remains a longtime customer favorite and that the company is closely monitoring guest feedback.

"Endless Shrimp has long been a Red Lobster guest favorite and one of our most popular promotions for 20 years. We’re always paying attention to what our guests are asking for," the spokesperson said. "We’re grateful for the enthusiasm and encourage guests to keep sharing their feedback with us. We’re listening."

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Red Lobster filed for Chapter 11 in May 2024 after mounting losses, including fallout from the $20 "Endless Shrimp" deal that was expanded to a permanent menu item in 2023. 

The promotion was designed to drive traffic, but demand overwhelmed the offer and strained supply costs.

In one example, a diner claimed to have eaten 108 shrimp in a single four-hour sitting.

While it drove strong customer traffic, it also led to roughly $11 million in losses in a single quarter and strained supply costs. For roughly two decades prior, it succeeded as a limited-time offering, according to Bloomberg.

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The potential revival comes as Red Lobster works to rebuild momentum about 18 months after emerging from bankruptcy.

CEO Damola Adamolekun, the former P.F. Chang’s chief who took over in August 2024, is leading a turnaround strategy focused on increasing traffic and modernizing the brand.

Efforts include trimming the menu by about 20%, introducing new items like lobster bisque and seafood boils and rolling out a revamped in-restaurant experience, according to Bloomberg.

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The company is also reassessing its footprint after closing about 130 locations during bankruptcy, with additional closures still under consideration, Adamolekun told The Wall Street Journal in a February interview.

"There's a lot of positive signs, but we inherited a very damaged brand, so there's still work to do to repair all of that," Adamolekun told the Journal at the time.

FOX Business' Eric Revell and Daniella Genovese contributed to this report.

American retirees may be done with their working careers, but they may still face the scrutiny of an IRS audit if their tax return raises red flags.

Data from the IRS shows the tax collection and enforcement agency has conducted audits on fewer than 1% of individual tax returns in recent years. 

In the tax years from 2014 through 2022, the IRS reported that it examined 0.4% of all individual tax returns filed – though that figure rises to 7.9% of taxpayers who filed returns with income of $10 million or more.

Retirees generally have simpler tax returns that may not involve the kinds of tax credits that may warrant additional scrutiny, and while it's unclear from the agency's data how often the IRS audits retired Americans, there are some things that can attract the attention of auditors.

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High-income taxpayers are more likely to face IRS audits, so while retirees may not be earning income from work, they may face an audit if they have relatively high income from investments and capital gains or from retirement plan distributions.

The IRS in recent years has signaled that it won't raise audit rates on taxpayers earning under $400,000 while it aims to focus enforcement on higher-income taxpayers.

Retirees who neglect to report all of their taxable income may also face IRS scrutiny. It's important for taxpayers to submit copies of all tax documents they receive, including 1099s that may cover retirement income, interest income and Social Security benefits as well as a W-2 for any work they did as an employee.

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A report by Kiplinger notes that retirees who gamble must also report their winnings and losses, though the process is different for recreational and professional gamblers. Failing to disclose those, or only attempting to write off losses while not reporting winnings, can prompt additional scrutiny.

Taxpayers who are receiving income from retirement plans like traditional IRAs and 401(k) plans should be aware of the need to receive and report any required minimum distributions (RMDs) for those plans. 

Currently, retirees face RMDs when they turn 73 and failing to take those withdrawals can trigger a penalty in the form of a 25% excise tax on the amount that wasn't distributed as required.

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Retirees who are still working part-time or own a business need to ensure they're accurately reporting that income or any deductions they're claiming, as those could prompt the scrutiny of the IRS. Those who claim business loss deductions for a small business or side gig could have the IRS deem the activity a "hobby" and disallow those deductions.

Reporting large charitable contributions can also trigger a review by the IRS, particularly if the taxpayer's reported donations represent a large portion of their income or include relatively valuable non-cash gifts to a charitable organization.

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The IRS has also placed an emphasis on international tax compliance, so taxpayers who have foreign bank accounts or income from overseas should ensure they report those on their tax return to avoid a higher risk of an audit or penalties.

Mortgage rates rose this week as the conflict in Iran continues to weigh on markets, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday.

Freddie Mac's latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey, released Thursday, showed the average rate on the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage climbed to 6.46% from last week's reading of 6.38%. 

The average rate on a 30-year loan was 6.64% a year ago.

"With spring homebuying season in full swing, aspiring buyers should remember to shop around for the best mortgage rate, as they can potentially save thousands of dollars by getting multiple quotes," said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac's chief economist.

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The average rate on a 15-year fixed mortgage ticked higher to 5.77% from last week's reading of 5.75%.

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Mortgage rates are affected by several factors, including the Federal Reserve and geopolitics. Though mortgage rates are not directly affected by the Fed's interest rate decisions, they closely track the 10-year Treasury yield. The 10-year yield hovered around 4.3% as of Thursday afternoon.

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McDonald’s isn’t playing chicken with the competition anymore.

On Thursday, the fast-food giant announced the full lineup of its revamped McValue menu, signaling a strategic retreat from record-high prices that have alienated its core middle-class customer base.

Starting April 21, the world’s biggest burger chain is launching a standardized, nationwide McValue menu featuring 10 items under $3 and a new $4 breakfast bundle. The new strategy prioritizes "predictable everyday low prices" over complex, app-only digital coupons, aiming to win back commuters and shift workers who rely on the Golden Arches as part of their daily routines.

"For generations, McDonald’s has been committed to delivering great value our fans can count on," Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer for McDonald’s USA Alyssa Buetikofer said in a press release. "As our customers’ expectations evolve, we’re making it easier for them to get the value they’re looking for – on their terms. McValue offers more choice, more flexibility and more ways to build a meal that fits their day and budget."

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The under-$3 offerings will be available in stores every day, and throughout the year, McDonald’s will spotlight select entrée favorites at lower prices for a limited time nationwide. To start, the Sausage McMuffin will cost $1.50, and the McDouble will be priced at $2.50.

Customers who stop by for breakfast also have $4 meal deal options, which include a Sausage McMuffin or biscuit served with a hash brown and a small coffee.

McDonald’s will continue offering its $5 and $6 lunch and dinner meal deals, originally announced last year, which come with a four-piece Chicken McNuggets, small fry and small fountain drink.

"Value at McDonald’s isn’t a moment – it’s a journey we’ve been building together over time," store owner-operator and OPNAD Chair Scott Rodrick also said. "This next evolution of McValue builds on what fans already love, and as franchisees, we’re excited to offer fans more options that fit their lives, routines and budgets."

The fast-food industry is currently embroiled in a so-called "CEO war," with major players like Wendy’s, Taco Bell and Burger King aggressively cutting prices to capture a shrinking pool of discretionary spending as U.S. inflation remains above the Federal Reserve’s target rate.

Fox News previously reported that McDonald’s prices rose sharply post-pandemic, with millennials especially vocal on social media about how much menu costs have increased since their childhoods.

A social media user shared a viral graphic claiming a McDonald’s feast once cost about $12 total — with medium fries at 99 cents, a cheeseburger at 79 cents and a Big Mac at $1.85. The post also said a Filet-O-Fish sold for $1.29 in 1991 and a medium drink for 89 cents.

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The company has capitalized on its $5 meal deal, various holiday promotions and the revival of its Monopoly sweepstakes. The strategy appeared to work, as U.S. sales rose 6.8% in the fourth quarter — the biggest jump in about two years — as lower-priced offers and aggressive promotions drove traffic back into restaurants. Analysts had expected a 4.9% gain.

McDonald’s recently ranked No. 10 on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 annual list, which evaluates costs, fees, size, growth, support, brand strength and financial stability. The 2026 report marks McDonald’s first Top 10 appearance since 2020, when it placed No. 3. The chain ranked No. 22 in the 2025 rankings.

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One year ago, President Donald Trump launched sweeping global tariffs, ratcheting up trade tensions and fueling new concerns about the U.S. and global economy.

Dubbed "Liberation Day," the tariffs targeted imports broadly, with Trump arguing they would fix trade imbalances and curb reliance on foreign goods. 

A year later, many of those tariffs have been struck down by the Supreme Court. The federal government is now working on a plan to refund roughly $166 billion in improperly collected duties, with details expected by mid-April.

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On the heels of "Liberation Day," duties jumped from $9.6 billion in March to $23.9 billion in May following the rollout of the tariffs. 

For fiscal 2025, which ended Sept. 30, collections reached $215.2 billion, according to Treasury data, and the upward trend has continued into fiscal 2026, with receipts already outpacing last year. 

Revenue for the current fiscal year has reached $181.6 billion. Since Trump’s return to office, tariff collections have risen roughly more than 300%, delivering a major windfall to federal coffers. 

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Tariffs function as a tax on imports, and in many cases, U.S. importers absorb the upfront cost and then pass it along through higher prices for wholesalers, retailers and, ultimately, consumers. That means households and businesses may face increased costs for goods ranging from electronics to raw materials.

Whether tariffs ultimately help or hurt the economy depends on how much of that burden consumers absorb, how domestic producers respond and whether the intended economic or geopolitical advantages are worth the added costs to consumers.

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That dynamic makes the high court’s ruling especially consequential for households and businesses already navigating elevated costs.

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Meanwhile, the revenue surge underscores how central tariffs have become to Trump’s economic agenda, with the administration arguing that duty collections can help fund domestic priorities, reduce the nation’s debt and even deliver a proposed $2,000 dividend to Americans.

It’s unclear whether that plan is still on the table.

Some Americans are already locking in their summer travel plans, and this year’s top destination may come as a surprise.

New data from AirDNA, which tracks Airbnb and Vrbo listings, shows Jackson Hole, Wyoming, leading the nation in short-term rental bookings for summer 2026, with 45.5% of properties already reserved between June and August, Realtor.com reported.

Experts say this points to a broader shift in travel preferences.

"We’re seeing a fascinating shift in the short-term rental market for Summer 2026," Charlie Lankston, executive editor at Realtor.com, told FOX Business in an email. "While a beach house has always been the gold standard, data from AirDNA shows that some travelers are now choosing to trade the ocean for the mountains."

Jackson Hole’s appeal lies in its mix of outdoor experiences, from whitewater rafting and canoeing to wildlife viewing in Grand Teton National Park, according to Realtor.com.

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Here are the top 10 summer destinations based on booked occupancy rates for short-term rentals from June through August 2026, according to AirDNA:

Booked occupancy rate: 45.5%

Booked occupancy rate: 44%

Booked occupancy rate: 42.6%

Booked occupancy rate: 41.4%

Booked occupancy rate: 40.7%

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Booked occupancy rate: 40.4%

Booked occupancy rate: 40.3%

Booked occupancy rate: 40.2%

Booked occupancy rate: 39.4%

Booked occupancy rate: 38.7%

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At the same time, demand is rising sharply in cities set to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

"We’re also seeing a World Cup windfall with demand in host cities like Fort Worth and Kansas City increasing drastically," Lankston told FOX Business.

With hotels in those markets expected to fill quickly, short-term rentals are poised to benefit.

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"Between the $750 host incentives from Airbnb and the surging occupancy rates, the 2026 rental season is shaping up to be a lucrative side hustle for many American homeowners in these metros," Lankston added.

Albertsons is closing additional stores and cutting jobs nationwide as it works to stabilize operations following the collapse of its $24.6 billion merger with Kroger, intensifying pressure on the grocery chain.

The Boise, Idaho-based company — which operates banners including Safeway, Vons and Pavilions — has announced a new round of closures in recent weeks as it pivots to cost-cutting and operational changes.

The company has closed roughly 20 stores in 2025, underscoring mounting pressure as it competes with larger rivals such as Walmart and other low-cost operators.

In Southern California, Vons stores in Escondido and Redlands will close in April, eliminating 135 jobs. An Albertsons store near Riverside, California, shut down in March, cutting 75 workers, while a Safeway in Northern California closed earlier this year, affecting 76 employees.

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The cuts extend beyond the West Coast. Two Albertsons-owned stores in North Texas are set to close by late April, impacting 138 workers, and a Safeway in Washington, D.C., is slated to shut down in May, eliminating 87 positions.

Industry analysts say the closures reflect ongoing fallout from the blocked Kroger merger, which Albertsons had framed as key to achieving scale and competing more effectively on pricing.

In response, the company is leaning on cost reductions and technology investments, including automation and artificial intelligence, as digital sales grow — often requiring fewer in-store workers.

Albertsons is also facing investor skepticism, with its stock down over the past year.

Meanwhile, the legal fight that killed the merger is still playing out. California and a coalition of states are seeking more than $10 million to cover the cost of blocking the deal.

Regulators argued the merger would reduce competition and raise grocery prices. A federal judge agreed in 2024, halting what would have been the largest supermarket merger in U.S. history.

Kroger and Albertsons spent roughly $1.5 billion pursuing the deal, underscoring the scale of the failed tie-up.

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Now operating independently, Albertsons is navigating a more competitive grocery landscape while restructuring its footprint and workforce to adjust to shifting consumer demand and margin pressure.

Reuters contributed to this report.