BUSINESS

AI and other technologies are changing modern warfare. Iran War illustrates the benefits of commercial technology—especially AI software, space-based sensors and drones.

Freshman guard Braylon Mullins made a 3-pointer with less than a second remaining, clinching UConn’s 73-72 victory over Duke in the East Region final Sunday night.

A team with perennial Stanley Cup aspirations, the Vegas Golden Knights have countered a late-season swoon with a surprising coaching change, dismissing Bruce Cassidy.

Gaming is getting more expensive, and everyone is feeling the pinch.Sony (SONY) said it will raise U.S. prices for the PlayStation 5 lineup starting April 2. The standard PS5 will cost $649.99, the Digital Edition will cost $599.99, and the PS5 Pro will cost $899.99. At the same time, Microsoft (MSFT) is already charging $29.99 a month for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.That is why a new report about Game Pass is turning heads. GameSpot, citing The Information, said new Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma is aiming for new methods to make Xbox products, including Game Pass, more appealing to a larger set of users. One idea that is being considered is cheaper Game Pass tiers.That is the key point for both readers and investors. Microsoft has not confirmed that it is launching ads in Game Pass. What is reportedly under consideration is lower-priced options for Game Pass. The ad-supported angle is still a possible next step. However, that is not the confirmed takeaway.Why this story mattersGamers are looking for cheaper ways to play.Microsoft is investigating how to grow Game Pass.Sony’s higher PS5 prices may give Xbox an opening.A cheaper Game Pass tier will appeal to both budget-conscious users and investors on the lookout for user growth.Microsoft is chasing a simple ideaThis story is easiest to understand through one word: value.When Microsoft hired Asha Sharma, the tech giant was very happy and said she had experience building global platforms and aligning business models with long-term value. That matters now because Game Pass is no longer the no-brainer bargain it once seemed to be.Related: Sony hikes prices for the PS5 and PS5 ProFor many players, monthly subscription costs are building up. A cheaper Game Pass plan could be an easy way for Microsoft to keep Xbox appealing at a time when consumers are looking to make sure that they do not lose too many dollars.For investors, the logic is also simple. A lower-priced option could bring more people into the Xbox ecosystem, even if everyone ends up paying for the most expensive tier. That could help Microsoft grow its reach first and worry about upselling later.What a cheaper Game Pass tier could look likeA lower monthly price with fewer perksSome games won’t be available on day one.Limited access to cloud gamingAn option with adsA package that comes with another subscription, like Netflix.An important thing to note; the ad-supported option does not mean each and every tier of this package is coming.The ad-supported idea is getting attentionThe part of the story that gets the most attention is a possible ad-supported initiative.

Microsoft may make Game Pass cheaper, but there’s a catchPhoto by picture alliance on Getty Images

Earlier reporting has linked Microsoft to the idea of letting players watch ads. What do they get in exchange? Free or cheaper access to some Game Pass content. Console gamers are used to paying for a high-quality experience with few ads, so this would be a big change for them.Related: Microsoft drops support for key devicesThe report also said Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters is under discussions concerning the possible bundle ideas with Sharma. That is an important matter because it shows Microsoft may be considering doing something beyond a basic cheaper tier and looking at bigger subscription bundle ideas.What readers should understand about the ad rumorA cheaper Game Pass tier is the main idea under consideration.An ad-supported Game Pass version has not been confirmed.A Netflix-Xbox bundle has not been confirmed either.The main idea is that Microsoft might want a pricing model that is more flexible.For everyday readers, the takeaway is very simple. Microsoft may be trying to make gaming feel more affordable again.The message to stockholders is just as clear: if Microsoft can get more people to use Game Pass, it could help the Xbox business stay valuable in the long run.Sony’s price hike gives Microsoft an openingThis is where Sony plays a crucial role in the narrative.When PlayStation hardware gets more expensive, Microsoft holds a tremendous opportunity to look more consumer-friendly. Related: Samsung pulls off a stunning Galaxy S26 shockerXbox could tell gamers that they don’t need to spend as much up front to stay in a console ecosystem if they offer a cheaper Game Pass option.That might be the most important thing in the whole story. Microsoft might not be able to win by lowering the prices of its consoles a lot, but it could still compete by making the subscription side cheaper.What investors should watch nextIf Microsoft officially says anything about lower-priced Game Pass tiersIf the company talks about ads at allIf Netflix and Xbox ever make a dealWhether Sony’s higher PS5 prices will make more gamers who care about value switch to XboxWhether Game Pass growth becomes a bigger talking point under Asha SharmaThe consumer case is simple: if gaming keeps getting more expensive, players will be more likely to try a cheaper option.The case for investing is also simple: if Microsoft makes Game Pass cheaper, it might get more people to use it, which would make the Xbox ecosystem stronger over time.That doesn’t mean success, and Microsoft hasn’t said anything about a new tier yet. But it does make this rumor worth keeping an eye on.Related: Apple just got a brutal iPhone 18 warning

TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.Why we love this dealWe’re all so busy, so we especially love products that are easy and convenient. As you’re preparing for spring cleaning, you can save yourself time as you’re giving your bedroom a refresh with a new bedding set. Luckily for you, we found a limited-time deal on a 7-piece bedding set – sheets, comforter, pillowcases – everything you need to refresh your bed, all in one simple package. With this sale, you’ll get everything you need for a spring reset for your bed for less than $4 a piece. The Velorose 7-Piece Bedding Set is just $27 right now at Amazon, down 31% from its regular price of $39. Shop before this limited-time deal ends to get your new sheets and comforter at an amazingly affordable price. If you’re looking for another reason to add this set to your cart besides its affordable price tag, it’s important to note that it has fewer returns than similar items and customers usually keep it. Velorose 7-Piece Bedding Set, $27 (was $39) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at AmazonWhy do shoppers love it?This set includes everything you need for a beautiful, color-coordinated bed. Say goodbye to mismatched bedding when you upgrade to this matching set. The best sale price of $26 for a queen set is the black bedding, for a classic dark look, but you can also get it in a few other colors if you don’t mind spending a few dollars more. It’s also available in beige, dark gray, navy, Emerald Green, pink, red, and white. And if you’re shopping for multiple beds in the house, the manufacturer also has this set in other mattress sizes, including twin, twin XL, full, and king – just make sure to check for color availability and know that the pricing varies, yet many other options also have a deal offer right now. Shoppers love the thickness of the comforter, saying it keeps them warm without being too hot, making it perfect to use all year round. One shopper called it a “Soft, stylish queen bed-in-a-bag set that works year-round.” They continued, “The fabric feels soft and breathable, and the comforter has a nice balance of warmth without feeling too heavy, making it comfortable for all seasons. It doesn’t make noise when moving around at night, which is a small detail but definitely appreciated.” Many other shoppers agree that it is so soft, with one saying it is “soft and fluffy” and others noting that it is very comfortable. Many other shoppers note that the corners of the fitted sheet don’t fall off during the night while you move around. It’s designed with deep pockets to fix mattresses from 10 to 14 inches thick. One shopper said, “It is so soft, and the fitted sheet went on so smoothly. It didn’t slip or slide and remained taut in place. Great value.”Related: Amazon’s ‘lightweight’ 7-piece comforter set is ‘perfect for spring’ and the 19 colors start at $30When it comes to cleaning, this set is machine washable for easy care. The manufacturer recommends washing it separately. You simply run it on the gentle cycle using cold water. To dry, tumble on low heat. Details to knowMaterial: 100% polyester. Care: Machine wash.  Set includes: Comforter, flat sheet, fitted sheet, two pillowcases, and two pillow shams. This set ships in a vacuum-sealed bag, so when you first get it, you’ll need to fluff it back out. The manufacturer recommends either throwing it in your dryer on low heat or air drying it in the sun and then gently tapping it to get it back to its perfect shape and fluffiness. Shop more deals Jollyvogue 2-Pack Queen Pillows, $18 (was $28) at AmazonUtopia Bedding 2-Pack Down Alternative Pillows, $29 at AmazonOsbed 2-Pack Cooling Adjustable Pillows, $39 (was $47) at AmazonThis great deal on a complete bedding set won’t last forever, so pick up the Velorose 7-Piece Bedding Set while it’s available at the low, affordable price of just $27 at Amazon for a limited time. 

The start times, TV channels, broadcaster information, and more for the upcoming men’s Frozen Four at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas from April 9-11.

The Rockets will be without their starting point guard in the postseason.

On March 26, Freddie Mac released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS), finding that the weekly 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.38%.”The housing market continues to show gradual improvements compared to a year ago amid recent rate volatility,” said Freddie Mac chief economist Sam Khater. “Purchase and refinance applications are up year-over-year, and rates remain lower than last year when they averaged 6.65%.”The next day, the daily 30-year FRM hovered near 6.7% before settling at 6.64%, according to Mortgage News Daily (MND).”There were mixed blessings in the mortgage rate world today,” wrote MND chief operating officer Matthew Graham. “The bad news is that today’s rates are just a bit higher than yesterday’s, resulting in another 8-month high. The good news is that things were looking quite a bit worse earlier in the morning.””Mortgage lenders prefer to set rates once per day even though those rates are dictated by movement in the underlying bond market,” Graham continued. “If bonds move enough, lenders will change rates mid-day. Today was one of those days and, fortunately, the change was in a friendly direction.”Dave Ramsey warns Americans about importance of real estate agentsAs mortgage rates rise, homebuying and selling become difficult, rattling the housing market amid a drop in sales.As these economic trends affect individuals, bestselling personal finance author and radio host Dave Ramsey offers a warning about real estate investments, such as homes.”Whether you’re buying or selling a house, you’re dealing with a lot of cash,” Ramsey wrote. “But here’s the thing — just one mistake during the home-buying or home-selling process can cost you tens of thousands of dollars.””So, it’s no wonder why 88% of all buyers and 91% of sellers decide it’s worth working with a real estate professional,” Ramsey continued. “Because when you have a solid pro on your side, they’ll take care of the nitty-gritty details.”More on mortgages, housing market:Zillow sounds alarm mortgage rates, housing marketBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices predicts housing market pivotRedfin sends strong message on mortgage ratesRamsey acknowledges that working with a real estate involves expenses, but argues that those costs are justified.”Real estate agents are usually paid via commission (for example, 3% of a home’s purchase price) for helping you close on a home,” Ramsey explained. For example, if a home sells for $400,000, a 3% commission would give both the listing agent and the buyer’s agent about $12,000 each.

Dave Ramsey acknowledges that expenses exist when using a real estate agent, but argues that those costs are justified.Shutterstock

Dave Ramsey explains value of real estate agentsRamsey clarified his view that real estate agents are very much worth the money.”When you hire a buyer’s agent, you’re getting someone on your side who looks at hundreds of homes every year and helps tons of families navigate the home-buying process,” Ramsey wrote. “A buyer’s agent brings experience, market knowledge and negotiation skills to the table that can save you time, money and a ton of stress.”Ramsey lists top buyer’s agent tasksA strong buyer’s agent helps you identify the right home in the neighborhood that best matches your needs.They spot potential problems early so you don’t overpay or end up choosing a property that isn’t a good fit.They make sure you don’t overlook a home that could actually suit you well.They negotiate effectively on your behalf and work to protect your best interests throughout the process.They keep a close eye on new and updated listings so they can point you toward homes that match most of the features you’re looking for.They show you the strongest options and, when you find one you like, they help you prepare and submit a solid offer.After your offer is accepted, they arrange the home inspection and manage any needed repairs or contract updates.They make sure you don’t end up with a bad deal or miss important details buried in the paperwork.(Source:Ramsey Solutions)Ramsey lists top seller’s agent tasksA home seller’s agent has similar qualifications, but from the other side of the transaction, Ramsey explained.A good seller’s agent gives you confidence and peace of mind when you’re preparing to sell your largest asset.They bring deep market knowledge and help you set an accurate, competitive listing price.They manage the marketing of your home and coordinate showings with qualified buyers.They guide you through evaluating offers and negotiate to secure the strongest possible deal.They walk you through how to stage and present your home so it appeals to buyers.They use their knowledge of recent sales in your area to help you set a competitive, realistic price.They promote your home widely — through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), social media, and advertising — to attract as many buyers as possible.This broad exposure helps your home sell quickly and for the strongest possible price.(Source:Ramsey Solutions)Related: Zillow forecasts mortgage rate, housing market shift

Bank of America has agreed to pay $72.5 million to settle a class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of women who say they were victims of Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking operation, reported CBS News. The settlement was filed in Manhattan federal court on March 27.The bank denies wrongdoing. The settlement still requires approval from U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff, with a hearing scheduled for April 2.What the Jeffrey Epstein victims’ lawsuit allegedThe lawsuit, filed in October 2025 under case number 25-cv-08520 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, accused Bank of America of providing banking and financial services to Epstein and his associates while ignoring clear warning signs. Plaintiffs alleged the bank failed to file required suspicious activity reports with federal authorities until after Epstein’s death in August 2019, per CBS News.The lead plaintiff, identified only as “BOA Jane Doe,” said she was living in Russia when she met Epstein in 2011 and was coerced into what she described as a cult-like life. According to court filings, Epstein paid her rent and income through a Bank of America account while controlling her financially, emotionally, and psychologically, sexually abusing her on at least 100 occasions over eight years.More Wall StreetBillionaire Dalio sends 2-words on Fed pick WarshTop analyst bets these stocks will boost your portfolio in 2026Bank of America sends quiet warning to stock market investorsA central element of the lawsuit involved billionaire financier Leon Black, co-founder of Apollo Global Management. The suit alleged that $170 million Black paid to Epstein from a Bank of America account, described as compensation for “tax and estate planning advice,” represented suspicious transactions the bank should have flagged.Black was not a defendant in the lawsuit but was described as a “critical witness” by Sigrid McCawley, the lead attorney for the victims. Black had been scheduled to be deposed on the same day the settlement details were filed with the court.Bank of America’s position on Epstein lawsuit”While we stand by our prior statements made in the filings in this case, including that Bank of America did not facilitate sex trafficking crimes, this resolution allows us to put this matter behind us and provides further closure for the plaintiffs,” the bank said in a statement cited by NBC News.In February 2026, Judge Rakoff had allowed key claims to proceed, ruling that allegations of the bank’s “reckless disregard” were sufficient to support the case moving forward. The settlement was reached in principle on March 12, and its terms were made public on March 27.Which Epstein victims are covered and what happens nextThe settlement covers all women sexually abused or trafficked by Epstein or his associates between June 30, 2008, and July 6, 2019. Lawyers in the case said they are aware of at least 60 women victimized during that period.Plaintiffs’ attorneys, including McCawley of Boies Schiller Flexner, may seek up to 30% of the fund, approximately $21.8 million, in legal fees. The remaining amount would be distributed among class members after court approval.”Today’s resolution of the case against Bank of America is one more step on the road to much deserved justice,” McCawley said.

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How this compares to prior Wall Street Epstein payoutsJPMorgan Chase: Agreed to pay Epstein victims $290 million in June 2023, per NPR. JPMorgan separately paid the U.S. Virgin Islands $75 million later that year.Deutsche Bank: Agreed to pay victims $75 million in 2023, around the same time as JPMorgan’s settlement.Bank of America: $72.5 million settlement, pending court approval April 2.As with the prior settlements, Bank of America did not admit liability. The pattern across all three institutions has been the same: settle, deny wrongdoing, and move on.What Bank of America’s lawsuit settlement means for investorsThe $72.5 million figure is not material to Bank of America’s finances. The bank reported $7.6 billion in net income in the fourth quarter of 2025 alone, making the settlement cost roughly three days of profit.The more significant question for investors is reputational. Bank of America is the last of the major Wall Street institutions to settle Epstein-related claims. With this litigation moving toward closure, the legal overhang on the stock from this case is effectively resolved pending Rakoff’s approval.The broader pattern across all three banks is notable. Each institution processed transactions for Epstein over many years. Each was accused of ignoring red flags. Each ultimately chose to settle rather than go to trial. None admitted wrongdoing.The settlements collectively represent hundreds of millions of dollars paid to victims and their attorneys. But no bank has faced criminal charges or regulatory action directly tied to Epstein-related compliance failures.Related: Bank of America revamps Apple price target

The Toronto Blue Jays swapped one infielder for another after a significant offseason overhaul.