In what has become a now-familiar refrain, President Donald Trump on Thursday pressed Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to cut interest rates immediately, rather than wait for the next policy meeting.

“Where is the Federal Reserve Chairman, Jerome “Too Late” Powell, today? He should be dropping Interest Rates, IMMEDIATELY, not waiting for the next meeting,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post using a mocking nickname for Powell. 

The comments come ahead of the Federal Open Market Committee’s March 17 meeting, when the Fed’s 12-member rate-setting panel will decide whether to change its key interest rate. That benchmark rate helps determine what consumers and businesses pay to borrow money — including for mortgages, car loans and credit cards.

The meeting also comes as the conflict involving Iran has fueled a run-up in energy prices, adding to inflation pressures the Fed is watching closely — and complicating Trump’s pledge to lower costs for Americans.

GAS PRICES SURGE, PINCHING AMERICANS AND HANDING THE GOP A NEW MIDTERM HEADACHE

Oil and gas prices have surged following the depressed flow of tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. (Lori Van Buren/Albany Times Union via Getty Images)

This week, oil prices surged past $100 a barrel for the first time since 2022 as fallout from the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran continued to roil global markets and investors priced in the risk of tighter supply. 

With oil higher, gasoline and diesel prices are rising fast.

Trump’s demand, however, runs up against how the Fed typically operates.

Rate changes are typically made at scheduled meetings. Still, the Fed has cut rates between meetings during crises, most recently in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trump, who nominated Powell to lead the Fed in 2017, has intensified his public campaign in recent months, calling for rates to fall as low as 1% as part of his push to stimulate growth.

For his part, Powell held off initially on rate cuts as the Fed assessed the economic impact of Trump’s evolving trade agenda. That wait-and-see posture kept the Fed’s benchmark rate at 4.25% to 4.5% for a period. The Fed has since lowered rates, and the target range now stands at 3.50% to 3.75%. But even after rate cuts, Trump has escalated his attacks on Powell and the central bank.

TRUMP VS THE FEDERAL RESERVE: HOW THE CLASH REACHED UNCHARTED TERRITORY

President Donald Trump walks behind Jerome Powell of the Federal Reserve during an announcement in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017. (Olivier Douliery/Bloomberg/Getty Images)

Trump’s renewed demands also sharpen the long-running tension between the White House and an institution designed to operate independently, with Fed officials insisting rate decisions will be driven by economic data, not political pressure.

That tension has now expanded beyond monetary policy. Federal prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation tied to Powell’s prior testimony to Congress about cost overruns on the Fed’s headquarters renovation project.

Powell, in a rare video statement, called the probe “unprecedented” and described it as another salvo in what he described as Trump’s pressure campaign on the central bank to cut rates. 

POWELL’S BEHIND-THE-SCENES MOVE AFTER TRUMP’S DOJ OPENED ITS CRIMINAL PROBE

The unusually public response followed days of private consultations with advisors and stood out for a Fed chair known for a measured approach.

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The political stakes are heightened by the timing: Powell’s term as chair ends May 15. 

Trump has nominated former Fed governor Kevin Warsh to succeed him, putting the Fed’s next moves and Powell’s final months under even brighter scrutiny.

A new hotspot has emerged for homebuyers looking to leave California, and it’s outdrawing a larger and more well-known metro area within its state in the process.

Reno is the second-largest metropolitan area in the state of Nevada and has surpassed Las Vegas, the Silver State’s largest city, as a more attractive destination for Californians looking to move, a report by Realtor.com found.

The analysis of housing data by Realtor.com found that in 2025, almost 43% of views of online listings in the Reno area came from users in California metropolitan areas, which the outlet said was the highest share in the history of the data series dating back to 2019.

By contrast, about 25% of views of Las Vegas area listings came from California metros, a decrease from a 2023 peak of 27%.

AMERICA’S 10 MOST EXPENSIVE ZIP CODES REVEALED

Reno has emerged as a popular locale for Californians looking to move, surpassing Las Vegas according to a Realtor.com analysis. (iStock)

“The data suggests that Reno has long been popular with California home shoppers, and its popularity is continuing to grow perhaps due to its relative affordability and lower cost of living,” said Realtor.com senior economic research analyst Hannah Jones.

Jones noted that in 2025, Reno brought in more prospective homebuyers from locations throughout the state of California than shoppers from within the local market, who accounted for just over 30% of listing views.

By contrast, homes listed in Las Vegas had 38% of their views came from within the metro area and surpassed those from shoppers in California by more than 12%.

AMERICAN HOMEBUYERS GAIN MOST PURCHASING POWER SINCE 2022

The Truckee River flows through downtown Reno, Nevada. (Andri Tambunan/AFP via Getty Images)

Reno is known as “the Biggest Little City in the World” and is located near Nevada’s border with California, close to Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains as well as metro areas in Northern California. Its climate is relatively mild in comparison to that of Las Vegas, which endures sizzling temperatures in the summer months.

Much like Sin City further south in Nevada, Reno is home to casinos and has a significant gambling industry. However, the region’s economy is diversified and major employers in the Reno metro area include Tesla and Panasonic as well as Caesars Entertainment. 

US HOME PRICES ARE RISING – BUT THESE FAST-GROWING MARKETS REMAIN AFFORDABLE

Reno’s housing market and metro area is significantly smaller than that of Las Vegas. (iStock)

The median home listing price in Reno was $636,800 in February, an increase of over 11% from a year ago, according to the Realtor.com report. Median prices in Las Vegas were lower at $464,950 and were down 1.1% from the prior year amid a 23% increase in inventory.

Experts told Realtor.com that the pricing disparity was largely due to market size, with Reno being much smaller and having a more limited supply of houses. That can translate to larger increases in prices when demand rises.

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Despite the disparity, Bay Area residents looking at Reno will find much cheaper houses than what they’re used to in places like San Francisco, which had a median price of $907,000, as well as San Jose with its $1.35 million median price.

Nevada also lacks a state income tax, which makes it an appealing destination for homebuyers looking to preserve more of their income. It also has become popular among high-earning Californians who could be affected by a proposed wealth tax.

Running a fleet means keeping your trucks on the road without constant mechanical failures. Reliable power defines how well a delivery or service company can scale and meet tight deadlines.

Diesel remains the backbone for moving massive loads across long distances. It provides the torque needed for heavy hauling that other fuel types just cannot match.

The Scale Of The Heavy Duty Market

Many companies are putting massive investments into new engine technology to stay ahead of logistics demands. A global report on the industry estimated that the market for powerful motors will hit $58.8 billion by the year 2026.

Businesses that rely on shipping need to understand market trends to plan for future costs. When the market grows, it usually means better parts availability and more technicians who know how to fix your gear.

Investment in diesel tech leads to better fuel systems and longer lifespans for newer models. You can expect machines to last longer than those built a decade ago. Stronger materials and better cooling designs are making modern diesel units more durable for everyday work.

Dominance Of Class 8 Engines

Large trucks carry most of the freight across the country, so they need the strongest possible heart. Data from market insights shows that Class 8 engines make up about 58% of the total heavy-duty engine market. Big rigs are the primary choice for businesses that need to move heavy equipment or bulk supplies.

The weight of a Class 8 vehicle requires an engine that can handle extreme stress for hours at a time. Drivers often prefer these setups because they offer the most control when descending steep grades or pulling through mud. Having much power on tap keeps your operations moving regardless of the terrain.

Service businesses often use slightly smaller units, but the technology from the big rigs usually trickles down. It means your medium-duty trucks benefit from the research done on the largest haulers. Reliability improves across the board when the most demanding segment of the industry is doing well.

Selecting The Right Power Unit

Choosing the right engine for your business requires looking at long-term maintenance costs and part availability. When looking into Cummins engine replacements, many owners find that swapping an old unit for a refurbished one saves thousands of dollars. Having a plan for engine failure keeps your transport operations running without massive downtime.

Buying a brand-new truck is not always the best move for a growing service company. Sometimes it makes more sense to keep a reliable chassis and just upgrade the engine when it gets tired.

Older trucks are often easier to work on because they have fewer complex electronics to fail. Many fleet managers prefer simple designs that their own mechanics can fix in the shop. Finding a balance between modern power and simple maintenance is the secret to a high profit margin.

Key Manufacturers Shaping The Industry

A small group of companies continues to lead the way in diesel innovation and production. Research indicates that a few big names like Caterpillar and Volvo hold around 70% of the market share today.

Choosing a brand with a large market share makes it easier to find a mechanic when you are far from home. Most truck stops and repair centers keep parts for common engines in stock at all times.

Competition between top players drives down the cost of new technology. They are constantly trying to outdo each other with better warranties and improved fuel mileage.

Maintenance Strategies For Fleet Longevity

Keeping machines running requires a strict schedule of oil changes and filter inspections. Neglecting a simple sensor can lead to a catastrophic failure that puts a truck out of commission for weeks. Regular care is the only way to avoid the high cost of a total engine teardown.

• Regular oil analysis to check for metal shavings.
• Cooling system flushes to prevent overheating under load.
• Turbocharger inspections to keep the air intake clean.

Monitoring points daily helps drivers catch small issues before they turn into major repairs. Long-term health is the only way to keep a service business profitable in a competitive world. Every hour a truck sits in the shop is an hour it is not making money.

Small service businesses can set up a basic checklist for every driver to follow at the start of their shift. Checking fluid levels and looking for leaks only takes 5 minutes, but it saves thousands in the long run. Teaching your team to respect the equipment is just as important as the oil you use.

Fuel Efficiency And Modern Standards

Newer models use high-pressure fuel injection to squeeze every bit of power out of each drop of diesel. Tech helps businesses lower their operating costs while still hauling the same weight. Older engines often lack computer-controlled systems that optimize fuel spray for better combustion.

Fuel is the biggest expense for most transport companies after the cost of the truck itself. Even a small 2% improvement in mileage can add up to thousands of dollars across a whole fleet. Modern diesel engines are designed to run at lower RPMs to save fuel without losing any pulling power.

Upgrading to a more efficient engine can pay for itself in just a few years of heavy use. You should look at the fuel maps of any engine you plan to buy for your service vehicles. Knowing where the engine is most efficient helps your drivers stay in the sweet spot on the highway.

Emissions Systems And Fleet Compliance

Regulations continue to change how diesel engines are designed and operated in urban areas. Most modern units come with complex scrubbers and filters that reduce the smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. Staying compliant with rules prevents heavy fines and allows trucks to enter more delivery zones.

Some cities have strict idling laws that require special auxiliary power units to keep the cab warm. Modern engines are getting better at handling requirements without clogging up their internal filters. It is a trade-off between keeping the air clean and keeping the engine running smoothly.

If you operate in areas with strict environmental rules, you must choose your engines carefully. Older diesel units might be banned from certain ports or downtown areas in the near future. Investing in cleaner tech now protects your business from future legal changes.

Torque Requirements For Service Businesses

Service trucks carry heavy tools that stress the drivetrain. Low-end torque helps pull away from stoplights without burning the clutch. Diesel engines provide more force than gas options.

Traits make diesel the best pick for bucket trucks or heavy vans. Gas engines struggle with a full load. You want a motor that stays smooth with a full trailer.

• High torque for easy towing.
• Strong braking on steep hills.
• Steady power for PTO work.

Low-end power reduces wear on other truck parts. Transmissions shift less when the engine holds a gear easily. It leads to a better drive and fewer repairs.

Keeping your business moving means trusting the equipment under the hood of every vehicle. Diesel power remains the most practical solution for anyone hauling heavy freight or running service routes.

Staying updated on market trends and maintenance helps you make better decisions for your fleet. Reliable engines are the foundation of a successful transport company.

As runners gear up for spring training and marathons in 2026, Nike continues to offer strong value in its entry-level and mid-tier lineup, with several reliable men’s road running shoes available under $100. While premium models like the Pegasus Premium and Vomero series command higher prices, budget-conscious athletes can still access durable, cushioned options from the Swoosh brand that deliver everyday mileage without breaking the bank.

Nike’s official site and major retailers highlight a dedicated category of men’s running shoes priced at $100 and under, featuring models optimized for road use, casual training, and beginners. These picks emphasize breathable uppers, responsive cushioning, and Nike’s signature traction, often incorporating recycled materials for sustainability.

Here are the top five best Nike running shoes for men in 2026 that stay under $100, based on current availability, expert reviews, lab tests, and runner feedback as of mid-March.

1. **Nike Free Run 5.0** — This minimalist-inspired road runner tops many lists for its natural feel and flexibility. Priced around $90-$100 (often on sale), the Free Run 5.0 features a lightweight design with a flexible sole that promotes foot strength and natural stride. The engineered mesh upper provides breathability, while the foam midsole offers just enough cushioning for short to medium runs. Runners praise its sock-like fit and versatility for gym work or casual jogging. Recycled materials in the construction align with Nike’s sustainability goals, making it a smart choice for eco-aware athletes seeking a low-profile shoe under $100.

2. **Nike Flex Experience Run 12** — A perennial favorite in Nike’s budget segment, the Flex Experience Run 12 delivers reliable performance for daily training at $80-$95. The shoe’s flexible forefoot grooves enhance ground feel, paired with soft foam cushioning for comfort on pavement. Available in extra-wide options, it suits a broader range of foot shapes. The durable rubber outsole grips well in wet conditions, and the breathable mesh keeps feet cool during longer sessions. Lab reviews highlight its value as an entry-level daily trainer, ideal for beginners building mileage or experienced runners seeking a lightweight secondary pair.

3. **Nike Downshifter 14** — Often found discounted to $70-$90, the Downshifter series remains a go-to for affordable reliability. The latest iteration features an updated mesh upper for better ventilation, a full-length foam midsole for plush underfoot protection, and a waffle-inspired outsole for multi-surface traction. It’s versatile enough for road running, walking, or casual wear, with a 10mm drop that suits most heel strikers. Runners appreciate its durability and no-fuss design, making it perfect for high-volume training on a budget or as a starter shoe for new enthusiasts in 2026.

4. **Nike Revolution 8** — Priced as low as $75, the Revolution 8 offers exceptional entry-level value with EVA foam cushioning inspired by higher-end models like the Vomero. The soft midsole provides step-in comfort, while the non-removable insole adds plushness without excess weight. The waffle rubber outsole ensures longevity and grip, and the engineered mesh upper breathes well for warmer runs. Experts note it’s ideal for easy runs, 10K distances, or casual fitness, delivering functional performance far beyond its price tag in Nike’s affordable lineup.

5. **Nike Winflo 11** (on sale/deals) — While MSRP hovers around $105-$110, frequent promotions drop the Winflo 11 under $100 at retailers like Amazon or Nike outlets, often to $70-$90. This standout budget trainer boasts plush cushioning with a full-length Air unit for bounce, making it feel more premium than its cost suggests. The engineered mesh upper fits snugly, and the durable outsole handles road abuse well. Reviews from 2025-2026 call it one of the best value daily trainers, with surprising responsiveness and comfort for long runs or beginners transitioning to higher mileage.

These selections reflect Nike’s strategy in 2026 to make quality running footwear accessible, even as flagship shoes push toward $150+. Models like the Free Run and Flex Experience emphasize flexibility and natural movement, appealing to runners who prioritize feel over maximal stack heights. The Downshifter and Revolution lines focus on straightforward durability, while discounted Winflo options bridge budget and performance.

Availability fluctuates with sales, so checking Nike.com’s “Men’s Shoes $100 & Under” section or sites like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Hibbett yields the best deals. Many incorporate recycled content, supporting sustainability trends in athletic gear.

For men shopping under $100, these Nike options provide solid cushioning, breathability, and traction without premium pricing. Whether logging easy miles, building fitness, or racing casually, they prove that high performance doesn’t require a high spend in 2026’s running market.

Runners should consider fit preferences—try in-store if possible—and pair with proper socks for optimal comfort. As the season progresses, expect more discounts on these models to clear inventory for upcoming releases.

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Walt Disney World Resort rolled out an ambitious slate of new attractions, refreshed experiences, entertainment and family-friendly promotions March 12, 2026, positioning the Florida destination for a vibrant summer season amid ongoing construction and leadership transitions.

The announcements center on “Cool KIDS’ SUMMER,” a limited-time event running May 26 through Sept. 8, 2026, featuring refreshed attractions, new stage shows, character interactions and special ticket and hotel offers designed to make visits more accessible for families.

Key highlights include the reopening of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom on April 8, following an extensive refurbishment that began in August 2025. The interactive “Toy Story”-inspired dark ride returns with enhanced blasters, more targets for scoring, improved interaction between weapons and on-ride elements, fresh sound effects and a new original robot character named Buddy, who assists guests with target practice at Star Command. The updates aim to boost replay value and immersion for riders battling Emperor Zurg.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, another Magic Kingdom staple, completes its year-long refurbishment and reopens in early May 2026. The “wildest ride in the wilderness” promises refreshed theming and smoother operations, maintaining its status as a high-energy roller coaster through the Frontierland landscape.

The summer push includes broader park enhancements across the four theme parks, with new limited-time entertainment, stage shows and family-focused experiences. While specific show details remain under wraps in initial releases, Disney emphasized kid-centric programming to align with the “Cool KIDS’ SUMMER” branding.

To encourage longer stays and bookings, Walt Disney World introduced aggressive promotions. A free Disney Dining Plan returns for qualifying packages, available with nondiscounted 4-night, 4-day stays including Park Hopper tickets at select Deluxe and Deluxe Villa resorts. Valid for arrivals most nights from June 28 to Oct. 3, Oct. 19-31, and Dec. 6-21, 2026, the offer covers quick-service and table-service meals plus snacks, providing significant value amid rising food costs.

Room discounts reach up to 30% off at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels for stays of five nights or more from July 30 to Oct. 3, 2026. A revived 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket deal, available to the general public without reservations required, offers discounted admission across late spring through early fall 2026, including access to Magic Kingdom during peak periods.

These incentives arrive as the resort navigates construction across properties. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, work progresses on retheming Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster to a Muppets theme featuring The Electric Mayhem, with the Aerosmith version closing permanently March 1, 2026. The transformation includes demolishing parts of the former Muppets Courtyard to create Monstropolis, tied to a new “Monsters, Inc.”-inspired land and potential “Door” coaster. Animation Courtyard evolves into Walt Disney Studios theming. Updates also confirm Mandalorian and Grogu integrations into Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run starting May 22, 2026, coinciding with the theatrical release of “The Mandalorian & Grogu.”

March 2026 brought quieter but impactful shifts, including extended park hours for spring crowds, the return of EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival with topiaries, outdoor kitchens and seasonal entertainment, and exclusive Annual Passholder perks nearing deadlines. Longer operating days accommodate growing attendance, while ride refurbishments and policy tweaks continue.

Disney Experiences leadership changes effective March 18, 2026, saw Thomas Mazloum named Chairman following prior roles at Walt Disney World, succeeding Josh D’Amaro in a broader restructuring to strengthen operational versatility.

Ticket pricing for 2026 reflects modest increases, with single-day base tickets ranging from $129 at EPCOT to $209 at Magic Kingdom on peak dates, breaking previous highs but maintaining value days in off-peak windows like late summer. Multi-day options and add-ons like Park Hopper see similar adjustments.

The resort’s 2026 calendar features returning festivals, including EPCOT’s seasonal celebrations, and anticipated activations tied to films like “Toy Story 5.” Construction on longer-term projects, such as potential Cars-themed land expansions in Magic Kingdom, continues, though no firm openings were confirmed beyond announced reopenings.

As families plan summer trips, the “Cool KIDS’ SUMMER” framework and bundled savings aim to counter economic pressures and competition from nearby attractions. Disney positions the promotions as ways to “visit in ways that make sense” for budgets, emphasizing multi-day stays for maximum value.

With Buzz Lightyear and Big Thunder back online, refreshed entertainment and deep discounts, Walt Disney World enters peak planning season with momentum. Officials highlight the blend of nostalgia, innovation and affordability to sustain the resort’s appeal as a premier family destination.

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