The U.S. Treasury Department has frozen more than $344 million in cryptocurrency tied to Iran and is ramping up efforts to choke off the regime’s access to global revenue streams as part of an ongoing pressure campaign, officials said.

The actions are part of Operation Economic Fury, a broader campaign aimed at squeezing Iran’s economy by limiting its ability to sell oil abroad. The campaign is part of the administration’s broader “maximum pressure” strategy targeting Iran’s economy and oil exports.

A Treasury official said the department has disrupted billions of dollars in projected oil revenue in recent days while freezing hundreds of millions in crypto assets linked to the regime.

In a statement to FOX Business, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that Iran’s key oil export hub is nearing a breaking point, with mounting financial losses expected to escalate.

CHEVRON CEO WARNS AVIATION STRAIN COULD WORSEN AS JET FUEL CRUNCH DEEPENS

A view of the tanker “Eventin” off the coast of the German island of Rügen. The vessel was previously reported of transporting crude oil originating from Russia. (Stefan Sauer/picture alliance via Getty Images / Getty Images)

“Kharg Island, Iran’s primary oil export terminal, is soon nearing storage capacity, which will force the regime to reduce oil production,” he said. 

He noted that the resulting logjam will drain an additional $170 million per day in lost revenue and cause “permanent damage to Iran’s oil infrastructure.”

“Treasury will continue to exert maximum pressure,” he added. “Any person, vessel, or entity facilitating illicit flows to Tehran risks exposure to U.S. sanctions.”

Officials say the pressure campaign is aimed at cutting off funding streams tied to terrorism and destabilizing activity in the region.

UAE EXITS OPEC AND OPEC+, SEEKING OUTPUT FLEXIBILITY AS GLOBAL ENERGY MARKETS TIGHTEN

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has spoken on efforts to ramp up economic pressure on Iran, including freezing hundreds of millions in cryptocurrency tied to the regime. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Bessent said the Treasury has specifically targeted Iran’s international shadow banking infrastructure, weapons procurement networks, and the “shadow fleet” of tankers used to hide oil origins.

“These actions have disrupted tens of billions of dollars in revenue that would be used to fund terrorism,” he said, adding that the U.S. is also zeroing in on independent Chinese “teapot” refineries that support the trade.

A senior administration official said the U.S. is also increasing scrutiny on foreign entities and financial institutions accused of facilitating Iran’s illicit trade.

Treasury has shared information with governments, including China, Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates and Oman, identifying banks that have allegedly enabled Iranian activity and warning that continued cooperation could trigger secondary sanctions.

The U.S. Treasury Department has frozen more than $344 million in cryptocurrency tied to Iran. (Photo illustration by Chesnot/Getty Images / Getty Images)

Officials also flagged independent “teapot” refineries in China, particularly in Shandong Province, as ongoing buyers of Iranian crude oil, raising the risk of further enforcement actions.

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The administration has signaled it is prepared to expand sanctions to airlines, shipping networks and financial institutions that continue to support Iran’s economy.

Officials say the campaign will continue targeting both traditional sanctions evasion networks and the growing use of digital assets to move funds globally.

FUNDAMENTALS

* Spot gold was up 0.1% at $4,598.45 per ounce, as of 0055 GMT, after falling to its lowest level since April 2 in ‌the previous ⁠session.

* U.S. ⁠gold futures for June delivery rose 0.1% to $4,612.10.

* Efforts to end the Iran conflict were at an impasse with U.S. President Donald Trump unhappy with the latest proposal from Tehran, which he said had informed the U.S. it was in a “state of collapse” and figuring out its leadership situation.

Live Events

* Investors expect the Fed to hold interest rates steady ⁠at the ‌end of its two-day meeting ending later in the day.
* Investors will also be focusing on other central bank decisions ⁠this week, including those from the European Central Bank, the Bank of England and the Bank of Canada.
* China, the world’s top gold consumer, net imported 47.866 metric tons in March from Hong Kong, up from 46.249 tons in February, Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department data showed on Tuesday.
* Energy prices are expected to surge by 24% in 2026 to their ‌highest since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine four years ago, if the most acute disruptions caused by the war in the Middle East end in ⁠May, the World Bank said on Tuesday.

* Oil prices closed up nearly 3% on Tuesday as persistent worries about supply constraints from the closed Strait of Hormuz outweighed concerns about the United Arab Emirates’ decision to leave OPEC and the wider OPEC+ group. [O/R]

* Spot silver rose 0.1% to $73.12 per ounce, platinum gained 0.1% to $1,942.60, while palladium was down 0.1% at $1,459.14.

DATA/EVENTS (GMT)

0900 EU Consumer Confid. Final Apr

1200 Germany CPI Prelim YY Apr

1200 Germany HCIP Prelim YY Apr

1230 US Durable Goods Mar

1230 US Housing Starts Number Mar

A Local Entrepreneur With a Competitive Edge

Arthur Deibler didn’t start in business. He started on the field.

Growing up, he was known as a standout high school football player. Sports shaped his mindset early. Discipline, consistency, and teamwork became second nature.

“Football taught me how to show up every day and do the work,” Deibler says. “You don’t win games by accident, and you don’t build businesses that way either.”

That same mindset would later define his path as an entrepreneur in Valley View, Pennsylvania.

From College Graduate to Business Owner

After graduating from Lebanon Valley College in 2013, Deibler stepped into the real world with a clear goal: to build something of his own.

He didn’t rush into one idea. Instead, he focused on opportunities within his local community. Over time, that led to the creation and ownership of multiple businesses.

Today, he serves as Founder and CEO of several ventures, including Prima Pizzeria, Lucky Horse Tavern, and Bullpen Fitness & Recreation.

Each business serves a different purpose. But they all share one theme—community.

“I never wanted to build something that felt disconnected,” he explains. “If it doesn’t bring people together, it’s not something I’m interested in.”

Why Community Is at the Center of His Strategy

Deibler’s approach to business is simple. Focus on people first.

At Prima Pizzeria and Lucky Horse Tavern, that means creating spaces where locals feel comfortable gathering. At Bullpen Fitness & Recreation, it goes even deeper.

The facility is designed to be more than a gym. It’s a place where people can improve their health, connect with others, and build routines that last.

According to a feature in The Citizen Standard, Bullpen offers more than just workouts. It creates an environment where people feel part of something bigger.

“That’s what keeps people coming back,” Deibler says. “It’s not just the equipment. It’s the atmosphere.”

Building Bullpen Fitness With a Bigger Vision

Bullpen Fitness & Recreation stands out as one of Deibler’s most intentional projects.

Instead of focusing only on fitness trends, he focused on accessibility and experience. The goal was to make the space welcoming for all levels.

“I wanted a place where someone could walk in on day one and not feel out of place,” he says.

That mindset reflects his broader business philosophy. Growth doesn’t come from exclusivity. It comes from inclusion.

The result is a facility that serves a wide range of people—from beginners to experienced athletes.

Lessons From Managing Multiple Businesses

Running one business is hard. Running several requires a different level of focus.

Deibler credits his success to staying consistent and keeping things simple.

“You can’t overcomplicate it,” he says. “You show up, take care of your team, and take care of your customers.”

He also emphasizes the importance of being present.

“I like being involved,” he adds. “Not just behind the scenes, but actually seeing what’s working and what’s not.”

This hands-on approach helps him stay connected to each business and the people they serve.

Life Outside of Work

Despite a busy schedule, Deibler makes time for his personal interests.

He enjoys fishing, running, and mini golf. He also has a passion for old sports cars and follows Penn State football closely.

“These things keep me balanced,” he says. “You need something outside of work that clears your head.”

That balance plays a role in how he approaches business decisions. It keeps his thinking grounded and practical.

Giving Back to the Local Community

Deibler’s connection to his community goes beyond business.

He volunteers at Hebron United Methodist Church in Millersburg, Pennsylvania. It’s one of the ways he stays involved and gives back.

“Being part of a community means showing up in different ways,” he says. “Not just as a business owner, but as a person.”

This commitment reinforces the same values seen across his ventures.

What Sets Arthur Deibler Apart as a Business Leader

Arthur Deibler

doesn’t position himself as a traditional business leader. His focus is less on scale and more on impact.

He builds businesses that serve real needs in his area. He stays involved. And he keeps his approach straightforward.

“I’m not trying to reinvent anything,” he says. “I just try to do things the right way, consistently.”

That mindset has helped him grow a portfolio of businesses while maintaining a strong local presence.

The Takeaway: Consistency Over Complexity

Arthur Deibler’s story is not about rapid expansion or flashy ideas. It’s about steady growth and clear priorities.

Start with discipline. Stay consistent. Focus on people.

These are simple ideas. But they are often overlooked.

“Success isn’t complicated,” Deibler says. “It just takes time and effort.”

In a world that often chases the next big thing, his approach stands out for a different reason—it works.

TUCSON, Ariz. — Nearly three months after 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Catalina Foothills home, investigators continue pursuing advanced DNA testing on hair and blood evidence recovered from the scene, though authorities stress no major breakthroughs have been publicly confirmed as the search for the mother of “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie enters its 88th day.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos and the FBI have described the investigation as active, with forensic work ongoing at multiple labs including the FBI’s facility in Quantico. Sources familiar with the case told multiple outlets in mid-April that hair samples collected from inside Guthrie’s home were forwarded for advanced genetic genealogy and next-generation sequencing, techniques that have solved long-cold cases by building family trees from distant relatives.

The FBI has received DNA data including test results from a hair sample, but officials have pushed back on some media reports suggesting dramatic new evidence. A sheriff’s department statement on April 16 clarified that no fresh DNA had suddenly emerged and that analysis of materials collected in February continues through established lab partnerships.

Blood droplets found on the front porch were confirmed to match Guthrie’s DNA early in the investigation. Forensic experts, including blood spatter analysts consulted by media outlets, have suggested the pattern could indicate she coughed up blood during a violent struggle with her masked abductor, who was captured on doorbell camera footage approaching the door armed.

A glove discovered miles away and other items have also undergone testing, though results have not yielded a direct suspect match in CODIS. Genetic genealogist CeCe Moore has noted that rootless hairs can still provide mitochondrial DNA useful for lineage tracing, and saliva from the flashlight reportedly held in the suspect’s mouth remains a potential rich source if located.

The abduction occurred around 9:45 p.m. on Jan. 31 after family members dropped Guthrie off following dinner. She was reported missing the next morning when she failed to appear at church. Surveillance video showed a masked, armed intruder at her door, prompting a swift shift from missing person to criminal investigation.

No arrests have been made in the abduction itself. Family members, including Savannah Guthrie and her siblings, were cleared through DNA exclusion early on. The family has offered a $1 million reward for information leading to her safe return, with additional incentives for arrests and convictions.

A separate opportunist, Derrick Callella of California, faces trial after being charged with sending a fake ransom text to Savannah Guthrie. His case highlights how the high-profile disappearance has attracted scammers seeking to exploit the family’s anguish. No legitimate ransom demand from the actual perpetrator has been confirmed.

Search efforts have been exhaustive, involving drones, cadaver dogs, aerial teams and multi-agency coordination across Arizona’s challenging desert terrain. Private investigators and retired FBI agents have publicly assessed that survival odds for an 84-year-old after nearly 90 days are extremely low without proof-of-life communication.

Savannah Guthrie returned to the “Today” show in early April while maintaining a low public profile on the case. In emotional appeals, the family has pleaded for anyone with information to come forward. “We need to know without a doubt that she’s alive,” Savannah said in one video message.

The case has drawn national attention, shining a spotlight on vulnerabilities faced by elderly residents in suburban areas and the importance of home security systems. Doorbell cameras provided crucial early evidence, though the suspect’s mask and gloves have complicated identification.

Experts continue urging the public to report even seemingly minor tips. The FBI and Pima County Sheriff’s Office maintain dedicated hotlines and online tip forms. Retired agents note that in stranger abductions, breakthroughs often come from persistent forensic work or someone close to the perpetrator deciding to speak.

As April draws to a close, the investigation remains focused on forensic science, digital records and neighborhood canvassing. Additional surveillance images from nearby properties have been recovered and are under review. While optimism for a live recovery has faded, authorities emphasize the commitment to finding Nancy Guthrie and bringing those responsible to justice.

The high-profile nature of the case has also prompted discussions about elder safety and rapid response protocols. Advocacy groups note that missing elderly cases sometimes receive less immediate attention than those involving younger victims, though Guthrie’s family connections have kept national focus sharp.

For now, the family, investigators and the public continue hoping that advanced DNA techniques or a crucial tip will finally provide answers in a mystery that has gripped Tucson and the nation for nearly three months. Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit tips online.

Success doesn’t always start with a big break. For Joel Ney, it started with showing up, learning fast, and doing the work.

Joel grew up in Pine Grove, Pennsylvania. As a kid, he stayed active with sports and spent a lot of time with family and friends. Those early years shaped how he approaches life today—focused, steady, and grounded.

“Success to me is having the people around me trust that I can get the job done and being able to provide for my family,” Joel says.

That mindset would later define his career.

From School to Skilled Trades

Joel followed a practical path after high school. He graduated from Pine Grove High School and continued his education at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology and Mansfield University.

He didn’t chase shortcuts. Instead, he focused on building real skills.

That decision led him into construction, where he started working with PKF III Construction. Like many in the trades, he began at the bottom.

“One of the biggest obstacles I have faced is starting as the new guy and having to work my way up with little experience,” he says.

It wasn’t easy. But it was clear what needed to be done.

“I overcame this by working hard and learning from anyone I possibly could.”

Learning the Craft and Growing in Welding

Joel didn’t stay in one lane. He expanded his skills and moved into welding, working with Great Coasters International.

This shift shows a pattern in his career. He looks for ways to grow, then puts in the effort to make it happen.

“A hard-working attitude and the willingness to learn and grow within your career,” he says, are key to long-term success.

In industries like construction and welding, progress often comes from doing. Joel embraced that. Each job became a chance to improve.

He focused on mastering the basics. Then he built on them. Over time, that approach helped him take on more responsibility and earn trust.

What Drives His Work Today

Joel’s motivation is simple and personal.

“My family and the people around me that I work with, and strive to help them succeed as well.”

This focus shows up in how he works. He doesn’t just aim to complete tasks. He wants to be someone others can rely on.

That mindset has helped him contribute meaningfully to teams and projects. It also reflects a bigger idea—success is not just about individual results. It’s about helping others move forward, too.

Staying Focused and Moving Forward

Every career has moments of doubt. Joel has learned how to manage them.

“One thing at a time and stay away from feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt.”

That approach keeps him steady. Instead of getting overwhelmed, he breaks things down and focuses on the next step.

He also believes in setting clear goals.

“Setting goals and pushing myself to achieve them.”

This combination—focus and goal setting—has helped him move forward in his career without losing direction.

A Different View on Feedback

Joel has a practical view of feedback and outside opinions.

“As long as I believe myself and my work to be successful, peer feedback is not very valuable to me.”

This doesn’t mean ignoring others. It means trusting his own standards first.

In hands-on industries like construction and welding, results speak clearly. Joel focuses on the quality of his work and the trust he builds with others.

Life Outside of Work

Outside of his career, Joel Ney stays active and connected to his interests.

He enjoys traveling, hunting, fishing, and riding ATVs. He also continues to work on construction and contracting projects, even outside of his main job.

His connection to the community is just as strong. He volunteers at his church and helps with local youth sports teams. He also supports SPCA organizations and local charities.

These activities reflect the same values he brings to work—consistency, effort, and a focus on helping others.

Building a Career That Lasts

Joel Ney’s story is not about overnight success. It’s about steady progress.

He started with limited experience. He learned from others. He built skills over time. And he stayed focused on what matters—trust, family, and doing the job right.

His career shows how small, consistent actions can lead to real results. By taking things one step at a time, he has turned effort into opportunity.

And in his own words, it comes back to a simple idea:

“Having the people around me trust that I can get the job done.”

That trust is what he continues to build—one project at a time.

The County Durham firm has increased its share of the domestic appliance repair market with the deal

Domestic appliance repair firm Pacifica has announced the acquisition of the Repaircare business from Screwfix Spares, expanding its national service capability.

The acquisition sees County Durham-based Pacifica take on all Repaircare client contracts and operational activities. These include a number of partnerships with major retailers and manufacturers, collectively accounting for around 80,000 appliance repair jobs per year.

Repaircare was originally part of the Connect Group, which was acquired out of administration by Screwfix in 2023. As part of the deal, more than 35 back-office and operational staff will transfer to Pacifica under TUPE arrangements, while around 120 subcontracted engineers currently supporting Repaircare’s nationwide operations will transition to Pacifica’s network of repair professionals.

The Repaircare brand will be fully-integrated into the group’s Pacifica Appliance Services division. Pacifica said the deal aligns with its sustainability strategy, which focuses on extending appliance lifecycles through repair services and reducing unnecessary waste.

The acquisition strengthens Pacifica’s national infrastructure, which delivers more than 360,000 appliance repairs annually through a network of around 350 directly employed colleagues and partnerships with more than 200 engineering companies across the UK.

Rob Johnson, managing director of Pacifica Appliance Services, said: “This acquisition represents a significant step forward in the continued growth of Pacifica Appliance Services. Repaircare has built strong relationships with leading retailers and manufacturers, and we are delighted to welcome both its customers and operational teams into the Pacifica family.

“Our priority is to ensure a seamless transition for all partners and their customers. With our nationwide network of skilled engineers, advanced technology platforms and proven operational expertise, customers can be confident that they are in safe hands.”

Dan Monaghan, CEO of Screwfix Spares, said: “We are pleased to complete this transaction that sees RepairCare joining Pacifica. This move allows Screwfix Spares to remain focused on its core business, supplying spare parts and accessories that keep products in use for longer. Colleagues who are transferring will join a specialist repair business with a strong national footprint and deep expertise in this area. We wish everyone every success in this new chapter.”