The initial public offering of SoftBank‘s PayPay is likely to price around the low end of its marketing range as war in the Middle East roil markets, said ‌two people ⁠familiar ⁠with the matter.

The IPO book was covered more than five ​times, one of the people said. It has now closed and ​pricing will be finalised after U.S. market hours on Wednesday, the person said.

The Japanese payment app operator was offering 55 million American depositary ⁠shares, priced $17 ‌to $20 apiece, a filing this month showed, targeting a valuation of up to $13.4 billion.

The ⁠people declined to be identified as the ​information is not public. PayPay declined to comment.

PayPay ​has played a central role in encouraging Japanese consumers to move away from a preference for cash by offering rebates on its payments app.

However, it has had a bumpy IPO path. Its ‌IPO roadshow was initially postponed after markets were jolted by conflict in the Middle East, ​Reuters reported ​last week.
It ⁠had already postponed the IPO last year during the U.S. government shutdown, which disrupted regulatory processes and delayed regulatory filing.

PayPay ​plans to list on the Nasdaq under the symbol “PAYP”. Reuters first reported its plans for a U.S. listing in 2023.

Ford is recalling more than 83,000 vehicles in two separate actions due to issues that could increase the risk of a crash, federal regulators said.

The first recall affects 35,772 model year 2025-2026 Explorer SUVs and the dynamic bending light feature, according to the notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The affected vehicles have an incorrect headlamp control module software calibration that results in the right headlight turning in the opposite direction of a vehicle turn.

FORD RECALLS 1.74 MILLION VEHICLES DUE TO REARVIEW CAMERA BLACKOUTS, ISSUES

“When turning the steering wheel on a left curve, the driver’s side (LHS) bending light correctly follows the turn, while the passenger side (RHS) light bends away from the curve,” the recall report said. “Conversely, when turning on a right curve, the left-hand light follows the steering wheel and bends to the right, while the right-hand light bends inward towards the left.”

The report said a headlight that turns incorrectly could result in increased glare to other drivers and increase the risk of a crash.

FORD IN DEEP WATER AFTER SWEEPING RECALLS HIT EVERY MODEL SINCE 2020 – WITH ONE EXCEPTION

Ford said it is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to the issue.

Updates to fix the headlight control module software will be available over the air or through dealerships at no charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 23.

In a separate action, Ford is recalling 47,804 vehicles due to issues with the engine gas recirculation (EGR) valve that could lead to a loss of motive power, most likely at low speeds, which Ford said increases the risk of a crash.

FORD BUILDS ONE-OF-A-KIND EXPLORER FOR POPE LEO XIV

The recall affects certain model year 2025 Ranger, Mustang, Maverick, Explorer, Escape, Bronco, Bronco Sport, Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair vehicles with 1.5-liter, 2.0-liter or 2.3-liter engines.

Ford said it is not aware of any accidents, injuries or fires related to the condition.

CLICK HERE TO GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO

The automaker said a fix is still under development. Owners will be notified by mail once a remedy is available and will need to take their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealer for a free repair.

In recent years, the way people approach their jobs has undergone a significant transformation.

Advances in technology, changing expectations from employees, and the experiences of recent years have all contributed to a shift in how organisations structure their work environments. One of the most notable developments is the growing popularity of hybrid work models, which allow employees to split their time between working remotely and spending time in a physical office.

This shift represents a broader cultural change in how businesses view productivity and flexibility. Rather than requiring employees to be present in the office every day, many organisations now recognise that different tasks and working styles benefit from different environments. As a result, companies are experimenting with new approaches that combine the advantages of both remote and office-based work.

Why Flexible Work Models Are Gaining Popularity

Many businesses have found that flexible working arrangements provide benefits for both employers and employees. From a recruitment perspective, offering flexibility has become an important way to attract skilled professionals. Job seekers increasingly value roles that allow them greater control over their working patterns, and companies that offer this flexibility often stand out in competitive industries.

Productivity is another key factor. For tasks that require focus and minimal interruption, working from home can often be more efficient. Meanwhile, the office remains a valuable environment for collaboration, brainstorming, and team discussions. A hybrid approach enables organisations to use each setting for its strengths.

Businesses may also benefit financially. Reduced office occupancy can lead to lower operational costs, while employees save time and money by commuting less frequently. These practical advantages have made hybrid working an appealing option for many companies.

Rethinking the Modern Office

As working patterns evolve, organisations are reconsidering the role of the office itself. Instead of being a place where employees simply sit at desks for the entire workday, offices are increasingly designed as spaces for collaboration and interaction.

Modern workplaces often feature flexible layouts with shared desks, breakout areas, and meeting rooms that encourage teamwork. Social spaces and informal seating areas can also help foster creativity and connection among colleagues. This shift reflects the idea that when employees come into the office, their time should be focused on activities that benefit from face-to-face interaction.

To support these changes, many companies are also reviewing their workplace strategies. Resources such as guidance on hybrid working can help organisations understand how to balance remote and office-based work effectively while ensuring that teams remain productive and connected.

The Role of Technology

Technology is a central component of successful hybrid workplaces. Cloud-based platforms allow employees to access files, software, and systems from almost anywhere, making it possible to collaborate even when team members are not in the same location.

Communication tools have also become essential. Video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management platforms help teams stay connected and organised. When used effectively, these technologies ensure that remote workers remain fully involved in discussions, projects, and decision-making processes.

However, technology alone is not enough. Organisations must also develop clear communication practices so that everyone knows when and how to connect with colleagues, regardless of where they are working.

Supporting Employee Wellbeing

One of the biggest advantages of hybrid working is the potential improvement in work–life balance. Employees can often organise their schedules more effectively, allowing them to manage personal commitments while maintaining professional responsibilities.

At the same time, businesses must be mindful of potential challenges. Remote workers can sometimes feel disconnected if communication is limited, and the absence of clear boundaries between work and home life may lead to longer working hours. Establishing clear expectations and encouraging regular check-ins can help ensure that employees feel supported and engaged.

A Long-Term Shift in Workplace Culture

Hybrid working is increasingly seen as a long-term evolution rather than a temporary adjustment. Organisations that successfully adopt this model are often those that focus on flexibility, strong communication, and thoughtful workplace design.

By recognising that productivity does not depend solely on location, businesses can create environments where employees feel trusted, motivated, and able to perform at their best. As workplace expectations continue to evolve, hybrid models are likely to remain an important part of the future of work.

A federal appeals court on Monday officially finalized the termination of the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, the Biden program that significantly lowered repayment rates for millions of student loan borrowers.

The judgment, issued by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit, reverses a lower court’s February dismissal of a Republican-led legal challenge against the SAVE plan. That ruling was issued by Judge John Ross of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri.

Originally introduced in 2023 under former President Joe Biden, the SAVE plan was hailed as the “most affordable repayment plan ever created” for federal student loan borrowers. The program was the first and only plan in history that prevented the balance from ever growing by subsidizing 100% of all unpaid monthly interest.

More than 7 million student loan borrowers reportedly remain enrolled in the SAVE plan as of the fourth quarter.

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION SERVES FINAL BLOW TO END BIDEN’S SAVE STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM

Student loan borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan have been urged to explore switching to a new repayment program.

Among alternative options, the Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan sets monthly payments at 10% to 15% of discretionary income over a 20 to 25-year period.

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION AGREES TO SPEED UP STUDENT LOAN FORGIVENESS UNDER NEW COURT DEAL

Under the Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), passed last year under President Donald Trump, the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) will become available starting July 1, 2026. RAP uses a sliding scale of 1% to 10% of a borrower’s total Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and requires 30 years of payments for all participants.

Borrowers pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), a federal program that cancels remaining student debt after 10 years of qualifying public service, should verify their eligibility and file an application to reclaim credit for the months when their SAVE plan progress was effectively frozen.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

Monday’s decision has effectively resolved a years-long legal battle between Republican-led states and the federal government. The ruling comes after nearly 8 million borrowers paused payments under “litigation forbearance” following an earlier injunction, and it follows a brief period of confusion when a lower court attempted to dismiss the case after a settlement with the Trump administration.

TOKYO: Oil prices seesawed on Wednesday after the Wall Street Journal reported the International Energy Agency has proposed the largest release of oil reserves in its history to offset supply disruptions stemming from the war on Iran.

Brent futures traded up 11 cents, or 0.13% higher, at $87.91 a barrel at 0129 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) traded 7 cents higher and was last up 0.08%, at $83.52 a barrel.

Both contracts ‌dropped immediately after ⁠the WSJ ⁠report, reversing early gains in WTI.

The IEA’s proposed drawdown would exceed the 182 million barrels of oil that IEA member countries put onto the market in two releases in 2022 when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the WSJ said, citing officials familiar with the matter.

The IEA and the White House did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comment.

The U.S. and Israel pounded Iran on Tuesday with what the Pentagon and Iranians on the ground called the most intense airstrikes of the war.
The U.S. military also “eliminated” 16 Iranian mine-laying vessels near the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, the U.S. Central Command said, as U.S. President Donald Trump warned any mines laid in the Strait by Iran must be removed ⁠immediately. Trump has ‌repeatedly said the U.S. is prepared to escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz when necessary. However, sources told Reuters the U.S. Navy has refused requests from the shipping industry for military escorts as the risk of attacks is too high for ⁠now.

“We continue to expect crude oil to remain highly volatile, driven by headlines while trading within a wide range between $75ish and $105ish in the sessions ahead,” Tony Sycamore, market analyst with IG in Sydney, said in a note.

Both contracts plunged more than 11% on Tuesday, the steepest percentage drop since 2022, a day after Trump predicted a quick end to the war, and after surging to a session high above $119 a barrel, their highest since June 2022, on Monday.

G7 officials have since gathered online to discuss a potential release of emergency oil stockpiles to soften the market blow.

French President Emmanuel Macron will host a video call with other G7 country leaders on Wednesday to discuss the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on energy and ‌measures to address the situation.

Abu Dhabi state oil giant ADNOC has shut its Ruwais refinery in response to a fire at a facility within the complex following a drone strike, according to a source, marking the latest energy infrastructure disruption due to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.

Saudi Arabia, the world’s ⁠largest oil exporter, is seen boosting supplies via the Red Sea, although they are still far below the levels needed to compensate for the drop in flows from the Strait of Hormuz, shipping data showed.

The kingdom is relying on the Red Sea port of Yanbu to help it boost exports to avert steep production cuts as its neighbours Iraq, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates have already reduced output amid the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran.

Energy consultancy Wood Mackenzie said the war is currently cutting Gulf oil and oil products supply to the market by some 15 million barrels per day which could raise crude prices to $150 per barrel.

“Even a quick resolution probably implies weeks of disruption for energy markets yet,” Morgan Stanley said in a note.

Reflecting higher demand, U.S. crude, gasoline and distillate stocks fell last week, market sources said, citing American Petroleum Institute figures on Tuesday.