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Wealthy golden visa holders evacuated from UAE as Iran conflict escalates

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Wealthy golden visa holders evacuated from UAE as Iran conflict escalates

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As tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East for the third week, people are looking to evacuate the region — not only tourists, but also golden visa holders.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced in an X post that the government has “implement[ed] evacuation plans and facilitate[d] the return of around 500 UAE golden visa holders and residents stranded abroad.”

The post said the actions are “part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all who live in the UAE, at all times and wherever they may be.”

MAJOR AIRLINE SUSPENDS ABU DHABI FLIGHTS UNTIL END OF YEAR AMID AIRSPACE ‘UNCERTAINTY’

The UAE closed its airspace Tuesday after threats from incoming missile and drone ​threats from Iran opening operations shortly after, Reuters reported.

Golden visas have been booming across the globe, attracting some of America’s wealthiest seeking tax havens, safety and warmer weather.

airplane in dubai flying over town

The UAE announces it has evacuated 500 golden visa holders from the Middle East amid current tensions. (AFP via Getty Images)

Mo Bennis, an associate vice president at Arton Capital, a global financial advisory and consultancy firm, told Fox News Digital that geopolitical tensions highlight the value of mobility.

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“Moments like this inevitably remind people of the importance of having mobility and optionality in an increasingly unpredictable world,” said Bennis.

airplane flying over city with smoke in dubai

The UAE closed its airspace Tuesday after threats from incoming missile and drone ​threats from Iran. (AFP via Getty Images)

“In recent days, authorities moved fast to support residents stranded abroad, arranging returns, activating contingency plans and even providing temporary accommodation,” he said. 

“The message is unmistakable: The country stands behind those who call it home.”

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Bennis said the UAE’s response should become a case study for how countries should support their citizens during times of geopolitical uncertainty.

“The UAE golden visa holders are not just investors; they are part of the national fabric,” he said. 

Iran's strikes on UAE

“The UAE golden visa holders are not just investors; they are part of the national fabric,” said one expert. (Fadel Senna/AFP via Getty Images)

To qualify for the UAE golden visa as an investor, individuals must make a substantial financial investment — such as placing at least $545,000 in a UAE fund or business, or holding an ownership share of similar value in a company. 

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The visa lasts for 10 years.

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Arton Capital’s Passport Index ranked the UAE as the most stable, providing freedom of mobility.

Reuters contributed reporting.

Ashley J. DiMella is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital. 

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Cheerble Opens Pre-Orders for Match G1 AI Pet Feeder Following CES 2026 Debut

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Cheerble Opens Pre-Orders for Match G1 AI Pet Feeder Following CES 2026 Debut

HONG KONG, March 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Cheerble today opened pre-orders for the Pet Feeder Match G1, an AI-powered feeding system that uses facial recognition to identify cats and control food access. The product, which debuted at CES 2026 in January, is now available for purchase.

Solving Multi-Cat Feeding Without Wearables

Match G1 targets a specific problem in the 42% of U.S. cat-owning households with multiple cats: preventing food theft and managing individual diets. Traditional solutions require RFID collars or microchip implants. Match G1 uses on-device facial recognition instead.

The system was trained on more than 1,000 cats across multiple breeds. Recognition accuracy reaches 99.9% according to Cheerble’s testing. The feeder identifies cats within 25 centimeters, grants or denies access, and logs each feeding session through a companion mobile app.

All processing occurs locally on the device. No video uploads to cloud servers. The camera activates only during feeding attempts. A physical hood structure prevents unauthorized access even if recognition fails.

Development took nearly three years, with the bulk of engineering focused on two technical challenges: maintaining recognition accuracy across different lighting conditions and cat aging, and processing visual data fast enough to function as a real-time access control system.

Recognition from Tech Media

Tech outlets covering CES 2026 focused on the product’s facial recognition implementation. Interesting Engineering called it the “world’s first facial recognition feeder with 99.9% accuracy for multi-cat homes.” Android Headlines included it in their annual “Best of CES” product selections. TechTimes used the term “Feline Face ID” in their coverage.

Built for Daily Use in Multi-Pet Homes

Beyond AI recognition, Match G1 addresses practical feeding concerns. The whisker-friendly bowl shape reduces stress during meals, a common issue for cats with sensitive whiskers. Dishwasher-safe stainless steel components make cleanup straightforward for owners managing multiple pets. An integrated ice pack slot preserves wet food freshness between feedings. The system supports up to six cat profiles, accommodating households as cats are added over time.

Users can set feeding schedules, portion limits, and access windows through the Cheerble app. The system continues operating offline once configured. If Wi-Fi drops, scheduled feedings proceed without interruption.

Pricing and Availability

Match G1 is priced at $259. Pre-orders opening March 17, 2026 receive from 23% off, bringing the price to $199. The pre-order discount is available for a limited time at the Pre-order Page. First units ship in late May 2026.

About Cheerble

Founded in 2016, Cheerble pioneers smart pet technology designed to enhance quality of life for pets and their owners. Focusing on innovation, sustainability, and enrichment, Cheerble’s products serve millions of pet owners across more than 70 countries.

Instagram: @cheerble_global
Facebook: CheerbleBrand
Official Website: www.cheerble.com
Join the Match G1 Community: Cheerble Multi-Pet Family Hub

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Rate rise confirmed: Here is how much your mortgage will now increase

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Rate rise confirmed: Here is how much your mortgage will now increase

Australian home owners with a mortgage are looking towards tightening their belts with interest rates rising again.

As forecast by the big four banks the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raised the official cash rate 25 basis points to 4.10 per cent.

They forecast a hike as inflation sits above the RBA’s target, and the war in the Middle East puts pressure on fuel prices and in turn the greater economy,

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It is the second rate rise within two months and with banks expected to raise mortgage rates accordingly, those with a mortgage are looking at extra costs.

For someone with a $600,000 mortgage and 25 years remaining, this would translate into a $91 increase in their minimum monthly repayments according to Canstar modelling.

Across what would then be two back-to-back hikes, following February’s rise, the total increase would be $181 a month.

“This is a tough blow at a time when Aussie families are already feeling the pinch from a volatile global market. Between the rising cost of fuel and now higher mortgage repayments, financial safety nets could be pushed to breaking point,” said Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder

Rises in the regions

Around the country mortgage holders can expect to see their payments rise with exclusive modelling by Canstar for ACM showing the following impact.

All amounts are based on a mortgage being taken out with a 20 per cent deposit for a median priced house in each area.

In the country’s largest regional city, Newcastle, monthly repayments are expected to rise by $130 a month on a loan for a median priced house of $1.075 million.

In Wollongong, the rise in monthly repayments would rise by $139 a month on a loan for a median priced house of $1.145 million.

In Canberra the increase is $127 monthly on a loan for a median price house of $1.051 million.

Homeowners in the Victorian centre of Ballarat can expect monthly payments to rise by $80 a month on a loan for a median price house of $659,476.

In Bendigo the rise is $82 a month on a loan for a median price house of $670,974.

And in Warnambool monthly repayments will rise by $72 on a loan for a median price house of $670,974.

Belt tightening will also be underway in Tasmania with mortgage holders in Launceston, where the median house price is $605,160 and the rate rise will see mortgage prices jump by $73 a month.

Impact on buyers and sellers

The decision by the RBA to combat inflation by increasing interest rates for the second time this year will likely reduce borrowing capacity and soften buyer confidence according to a leading real estate analyst.

Group Head of Research and Business Intelligence, Mathew Tiller, said a strong Australian economy, buoyed by a stable jobs market, has enabled the RBA to take swift action.

It will also be monitoring conflict in the Middle East and fears of a looming oil crisis.

“What happens in the Middle East will matter for Australians, and how much of an impact really depends on how long the conflict drags on,” Mr Tiller said.

“The first impact will be higher fuel and energy prices, and if it continues, that could broaden into higher shipping and import costs. This is the sort of thing that the RBA will be watching closely, and it adds to the case of interest rates staying higher for longer.”

On the property front uncertain times are also having an impact.

Auction clearance rates are slightly down from 12 months ago; however, listing volume has increased.

Data from recent weeks suggests vendors are opting to take attractive early offers rather than put their property under the hammer according to Mr Tiller.

However he said the current situation may create some opportunities for first home buyers with an increase in listings creating new opportunities to take their first steps on the property ladder.

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‘Significant, but not catastrophic’: A fall in Chinese visitors barely dents tourism numbers to Japan

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‘Significant, but not catastrophic’: A fall in Chinese visitors barely dents tourism numbers to Japan

Visitors (L) dressed in kimonos look at photos they took during a visit to Sensoji Temple in the Asakusa district of central Tokyo on September 16, 2025.

Richard A. Brooks | Afp | Getty Images

After living in Tokyo for over a year, Karin Nordin noticed something peculiar. The hot spring towns of Kusatsu and Zao — normally packed with Chinese tourists — had thinned.

“We have seen less mainland Chinese tourists in Tokyo,” the 33-year-old Malaysian told CNBC after returning from Japan in early 2026.

Hotel prices in tourist areas appear to have stabilized and no longer spike during holidays observed by mainland China, unlike previous years.

Nordin’s experience is representative of Japan’s wider tourism landscape, which saw Chinese tourists stay away from Asia’s third largest economy amid a diplomatic spat that started last November over comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

Data from the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) revealed that the number of arrivals from mainland China plunged over 60% year on year in January, but overall tourist numbers were just down 4.9% year on year.

In December, the number of Chinese tourists plunged 43.3%, but the overall number of tourist arrivals from all countries climbed 3.7%.

Before November, mainland Chinese tourists were one of the largest groups heading to Japan.

Tourists from elsewhere

Where are these other tourists coming from? JNTO numbers suggest that more tourists are coming from South Korea and Taiwan — in January alone, South Korean tourist arrivals rose 21.6%, surpassing mainland China as the largest source of overseas visitors.

There were almost twice as many visitors from Taiwan than from China in January, with arrivals from Taiwan up 17%.

TOKYO, JAPAN – FEBRUARY 05: Tourists and shoppers walk through the Tsukiji shopping area on February 5, 2026 in Tokyo, Japan.

Tomohiro Ohsumi | Getty Images News | Getty Images

Japan’s appeal to people visiting from nearby countries lies in strong short‑haul flight links, the weak yen, and its reputation as a destination that is close, culturally familiar, and safe, said Zilmiyah Kamble, senior lecturer in hospitality and tourism management at James Cook University (JCU).

When asked about the decline in tourist from mainland China, Kamble said in an email to CNBC that the decline “is significant but not catastrophic.”

Kamble said that while Chinese tourists represent one of Japan’s most valuable inbound markets, being high spenders in retail, hospitality, and luxury goods, Japan has historically had a diversified tourism portfolio, which provides a level of resilience.

Different cities for different folks

But unlike Chinese tourists, who have commonly been perceived to visit tourist heavy spots like Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo, the influx of tourists from other countries seem to be bringing travelers to other regions in Japan.

Prefectures like Shizuoka — which houses the iconic Mount Fuji, and Nara — famous for its temples and deer park, have been harder hit due to the lack of Chinese tourists, according to analysts from Oxford Economics in a Feb. 27 report.

However, places like Fukushima are popular with people from Taiwan, while golf courses and hot springs in Ehime prefecture appeal to South Korean tourists, according to Oxford Economics.

Singapore university student Cheryl Ng, who visited Hiroshima in February, told CNBC the city had a large number of Western tourists. “Like, two‑thirds of the museum were Westerners,” she said, referring to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

Oxford Economics echoed that view, noting Americans, Australians, and Europeans are attracted to Hiroshima’s historical sites.

Hiroshima was hit by the first ever atomic bomb on Aug. 6, 1945 as U.S. forces closed in on Imperial Japan during the waning days of World War II.

Oxford Economics noted that “given persistent yen weakness, we think the overall tourist numbers are likely to stay robust, although an increase from the current level is unlikely given the shortage of accommodation.”

David Mann, chief economist for Asia-Pacific at Mastercard, agreed: “The broader picture is still positive,” he said in an email to CNBC.

Mann noted that overall inbound arrivals to Japan are running about 34% above pre‑pandemic levels, with tourism revenue growing even faster than visitor numbers thanks to higher per‑visitor spending driven by the weak yen.

The return of Chinese tourists?

The question then is, will Chinese tourists return to Japan?

Oxford Economics analysts said tourist numbers from China are “unlikely to recover anytime soon” in the near term, saying that Japanese businesses are looking to capture demand from elsewhere.

Department stores are expanding their promotional activities in ASEAN economies, and retailers are increasing their stock of products popular with Europeans, Americans, and Southeast Asians, instead of targeting Chinese tourists, the analysts said.

Mastercard’s Mann said that it was hard to put a precise timeline on the return of Chinese tourists, but any recovery is likely to be gradual.

His sentiment was echoed by JCU’s Kamble, who noted that travel decisions are shaped not only by politics but also by consumer confidence, social media narratives, and broader economic conditions.

Other factors such as airline connectivity, disposable income, and diplomatic stability will also play a role, she said.

“Restoring confidence requires time, particularly in a highly connected digital information environment,” she said.

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Explore More of Japan: Expanded JR EAST PASS Opens Access to the Underexplored Tohoku Region

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Explore More of Japan: Expanded JR EAST PASS Opens Access to the Underexplored Tohoku Region

New rail pass expands coverage across eastern Japan, making it easier for international travelers to explore Tohoku’s seasonal landscapes, festivals, and cultural destinations.

TOKYO, March 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — East Japan Railway Company (JR East) has announced the launch of a newly expanded JR EAST PASS, available from March 14, 2026. Tohoku, comprising six prefectures in northern Honshu, is emerging as one of Japan’s most compelling year-round destinations for travelers venturing beyond the major metropolitan hubs. However, it currently accounts for just 1.5 percent of overnight stays by inbound visitors. Recognizing the significant potential for further growth, JR East aims to increase that share to 5 percent by 2034 by improving rail accessibility and encouraging deeper regional exploration.

Tohoku Shinkansen passing through cherry blossoms in full bloom. (C) KENTA MUKAWA
Tohoku Shinkansen passing through cherry blossoms in full bloom. (C) KENTA MUKAWA

New JR EAST PASS:  https://www.jreast.co.jp/en/multi/pass/eastpass.html

The new JR EAST PASS replaces both the former JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area) and JR EAST PASS (Nagano, Niigata area) with a single consolidated pass that offers unlimited access to reserved seats in ordinary cars across all JR East lines, including Shinkansen, limited express, express, local, and rapid services. Coverage also includes select partner railways, such as Tokyo Monorail, and regional operators, ensuring smooth airport access and regional connectivity.

The pass is available in two formats:

  • 5 consecutive days – ¥35,000 (Child: ¥17,500)
  • 10 consecutive days – ¥50,000 (Child: ¥25,000)

*Note: Adult (12 years and older) / Child (6 to 11 years old)

Unlocking Tohoku

The JR EAST PASS unlocks multi-region travel, making Tohoku’s year-round attractions more accessible than ever for inbound travelers. In spring, travelers can venture northwards, utilizing the 10-day pass to chase the cherry blossom season in April at spectacular sites such as Miharu Takizakura in Fukushima and Hirosaki Park in Aomori. Alternatively, they can escape the heat and humidity of summer in Tokyo to explore Tohoku’s cooler coastlines and mountain villages. Summer also brings celebration across the region, with famous festivals, from the Aomori Nebuta Festival’s huge illuminated floats to the vibrant streamers of the Sendai Tanabata Festival in Miyagi. In the fall, foliage paints the mountain landscapes a kaleidoscope of color, while winter transforms locations such as Yamagata’s Zao Onsen and Iwate’s Appi Kogen into ‘Japow’ powder-snow paradises.

The unified JR EAST PASS offers a flexible, cost-effective solution for travelers planning multi-city itineraries across eastern Japan. Destinations such as Nagano, known for its alpine landscapes and winter sports, and Niigata, celebrated for its coastal scenery and sake breweries, are firm favorites with international visitors. The pass also includes Tokyo and the surrounding prefectures of Gunma, Kanagawa, and Chiba, as well as parts of Shizuoka, offering access to hot spring towns, mountain retreats, and coastal destinations within easy reach of the capital.

*More high-res images of Tohoku throughout the year are available for download here. Please refer to the file names for image credit information.

Images for Press: https://bit.ly/JRE-Tohoku-Media

With the newly broadened coverage, travelers can now continue north into Tohoku, reaching cities such as Aomori, Akita, and Sendai, without purchasing multiple regional tickets. Journeys between Tokyo and these destinations can entail substantial transport costs when purchased individually, and reserving seats further enhances convenience during peak travel seasons.

The expansion reflects JR East’s broader strategy to encourage travelers to move beyond established hubs and support more balanced regional tourism growth across eastern Japan.

[Ayumi Utagawa], Project Manager of East Japan Railway Company, said:

“As global interest in Japan continues to rise, we want to support more balanced tourism growth and sustainable regional revitalization. The JR EAST PASS removes barriers to deeper exploration, allowing travelers to experience the full richness of regional Japan, from its metropolises to its rural communities, onsen towns, and expansive landscapes. This region offers remarkable natural beauty and cultural richness across all four seasons, yet it remains underrepresented in many itineraries. We sincerely hope you will discover the Japan that is still unknown to many through the “JR EAST PASS.”

Additional Benefits

JR EAST PASS holders can also take advantage of JRE Rewards, offering hundreds of discounts and special offers at stations, restaurants, and local shops across eastern Japan when travelers present their pass.

JRE Rewards: https://www.jreast.co.jp/en/multi/jreastrewards/

Simplified Purchasing

The pass can be purchased through the JR-EAST Train Reservation online platform, JR EAST Travel Service Centers, major stations within the coverage area, and participating overseas travel agencies. The expanded JR EAST PASS is available to all non-Japanese passport holders, regardless of visa status, including foreign residents living in Japan.

In addition, several other rail products were updated on March 14, 2026:

  • JR East–South Hokkaido Rail Pass (6 days, ¥40,000) – Expanded to include Niigata.
  • Hokuriku Arch Pass (7 days, ¥35,000) – Expanded to include the Tokyo metropolitan area, Chuo Line, and Oito Line.
  • JR TOKYO Wide Pass (3 days, ¥16,000) – Revised pricing.
  • N’EX TOKYO Round Trip Ticket (¥5,200) – Revised pricing.
  • JR Tohoku–South Hokkaido Rail Pass (6 days, ¥32,000) – Revised pricing.
  • SENDAI AREA PASS (1 day, ¥1,420) – Revised pricing.

For detailed information on the JR EAST PASS and all other passes mentioned, please visit [Find Your Pass]  https://www.jreast.co.jp/en/multi/pass/

About East Japan Railway Company (JR East):
East Japan Railway Company (JR East) is one of the world’s leading rail operators, managing an extensive network of approximately 7,500 kilometers and serving more than 16 million passengers each day across eastern Japan. Expanding beyond traditional rail operations, JR East is committed to supporting regional revitalization and enhancing the travel experience across Japan. Through its “Beyond the Border” strategy, the company integrates transportation with retail, hospitality, and digital services, including innovations such as the “Suica Renaissance.” In July 2025, JR East unveiled its Group Management Vision, “To the Next Stage” 2034 (Yusho 2034). From a human-centric, market-in perspective, the company aims to create new value through “Lifestyle Transformation (LX),” delivering peace of mind and inspiration to all stakeholders.

Company Name:                           East Japan Railway Company
Location:                                       2-2-2 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Establishment:                              April 1, 1987
Paid-In Capital:                             200,000 million JPY
Total Number of Shares Issued:   1,134,412,200
Listed stock exchange:                 Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market
Representative:                             Yoichi KISE, President and CEO
Corporate Website:                      https://www.jreast.co.jp/en/company/

Press Release (PDF): https://bit.ly/JRE-Tohoku-Media-20260317-PressRelease
Media Contact:
Overseas PR Representatives, Bluemoon Marketing Inc.
E-mail: jreast@bluemoonmarketing.jp
* Media inquiries only 

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TSA officers skip work as paychecks stop during shutdown, airports face chaos nationwide

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TSA officers skip work as paychecks stop during shutdown, airports face chaos nationwide

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As the partial government shutdown continues to drag on, Transportation Security Administration officers are not getting their paychecks due to the lapse in funding at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Over the weekend, airports across the country faced long security delays, with TSA officers calling out of work.

There was a national callout rate of 10.19% on Sunday, a TSA spokesperson told Fox News Digital — that’s the highest rate the agency has seen.

AIRPORT SECURITY STRAIN DURING SHUTDOWN GROWS AS UNPAID TSA OFFICERS WARN, ‘WE’RE HURTING’

Videos circulating of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas show passengers standing in long lines outside. 

The airport itself posted video on its X account on Saturday showing travelers lined up at 4:30 a.m.

“We’re expecting a record-breaking volume of people — there are about 38K of you flying out today,” the caption said. 

“Please arrive at least 2.5 hours prior to your flight’s departure for domestic.”

Passengers were waiting for 80 minutes on Sunday and just over an hour on Saturday.

The highest peak wait times seen in Austin were on March 13 at 90 minutes.

Airport passengers wait in an hours-long security line at William P. Hobby Airport in Houston, Texas, US, on Monday, March 9, 2026.

The national callout rate for TSA officers was 10.19% this past Sunday. (Mark Felix/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

On Sunday, LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York City faced wait times of nearly three hours, with callout rates of 25.84%, a TSA spokesperson told Fox News.

Not far away, John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) had a 28.2% callout rate, while Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey had a 13.83% callout rate.

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Callouts during the shutdown through Sunday averaged 10.24% at EWR, 21.40% at JFK and 12.68% at LGA.

Over 300 airport security officers have left TSA since the start of the DHS shutdown, with unscheduled absences, a TSA official confirmed to Fox News Digital.

backs of tsa officers

Over 300 airport security officers have left TSA since the start of the DHS shutdown. (Mark Felix/AFP via Getty Images)

American travel website The Points Guy posted a video of Austin airport lines and captioned the post: “It’s the TSA Hunger Games at many airports across the country.”

The post continued, “Never settle for a long line,” adding a few tips it felt travelers should know.

“There are multiple entry points and sometimes CLEAR or PreCheck can be long. I got through Touchless TSA PreCheck in 2 minutes,” the group suggested. “You can opt in to Touchless ID ASAP in your airline loyalty app.”

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The Points Guy’s account also suggested passengers ask an employee in a red vest to point out the shortest line. 

“Explain if you’re TSA Pre/CLEAR/Touchless. They are helpful, especially if you have kids, and they have lines for those with children or accommodations,” the post continued.

Flight passengers wait in TSA lines in chicago

“It’s the TSA Hunger Games at many airports across the country,” said one travel account about what’s going on right now.  (Peter Zay/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Finally, passengers were advised to “be nice! Everyone is stressed, and TSA agents have missed a paycheck. Even if you have to wait, don’t take it out on frontline officers.”

Fox News Digital reached out to The Points Guy for further comment.

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Deondre White, a TSA officer at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in D.C., told Fox News Digital last week that officers are “financially trying to do the best that they can.”

White said that thanks to the financial support of his own family, he’s been able “to show up” for his job. 

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“I’m thankful for my family to be able to come to work and be able to provide gas [to travel to work] because the gas prices have been rising,” he said. “However, there are a lot of officers here who do not have those resources or family commitments from others [to help them out].”

He added, “When we’re here, we will do our best as always. We have a crucial mission. We do take that very seriously.”

Ashley J. DiMella is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital. 

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Reachy Mini Hits AliExpress, Taking Embodied AI Global

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Reachy Mini Hits AliExpress, Taking Embodied AI Global

Developer-favorite desktop robot now available to more consumers worldwide through AliExpress Anniversary Sale

LOS ANGELES, March 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Reachy Mini, the open-source desktop robot that has captivated the developer community, is now available to global consumers on AliExpress, coinciding with the platform’s Anniversary Sale promotion. This extension marks an important step in expanding Reachy Mini beyond the open-source developer community to a broader consumer audience across key markets including the United States, Europe, South Korea, Japan and Brazil.

Developed within the Hugging Face ecosystem, a leading open-source AI platform, Reachy Mini is a flagship embodied AI project designed for human-AI interaction, creative coding, and hands-on experimentation. Reachy Mini has earned strong recognition among AI researchers and developers worldwide. Now, through AliExpress, the robot is becoming more broadly accessible to consumers interested in exploring the next wave of AI-powered robotics.

The addition of Reachy Mini reflects AliExpress’ broader push to attract innovative technology products and brands. Seeed Studio, the hardware manufacturing partner behind Reachy Mini, selected AliExpress as its consumer market launchpad.

“AliExpress has made a strong commitment to supporting premium hard tech products, which aligns perfectly with Seeed Studio’s mission,” said Joey Jiang, VP of Global Sales and Marketing at Seeed Studio. “As an open-source hardware provider focused on emerging technologies, we have built a technology ecosystem based on open-source hardware, AI-driven capabilities, and cross-domain co-creation. The Anniversary Sale gives us a rare opportunity to tap into global demand and introduce Reachy Mini to a wider audience.”

The timing comes amid growing visibility for Reachy Mini. At CES 2026, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang featured Reachy Mini in his keynote address, demonstrating the desktop robot to a global audience and signaling that the era of embodied AI has arrived. The spotlight from one of the world’s most-watched tech stages has helped drive surging interest and pre-order demand for the compact robot.

From March 16 through March 25, Reachy Mini will be available in stock – no pre-orders required. Seeed Studio’s official AliExpress store will release limited units daily throughout the promotional period, giving consumers worldwide a chance to own one of the most talked-about robots in the embodied AI space.

Reachy Mini Robot
Reachy Mini Robot

Reachy Mini is among a growing roster of premium tech brands joining AliExpress Brand+, the platform’s dedicated channel for high-end global technology brands. In 2025, Unitree Robotics opened its official flagship store on AliExpress, while Rokid AR glasses and other emerging global tech brands have used the platform to reach international consumers directly. As more frontier technology brands seek global scale, AliExpress is emerging as the platform of choice for hard tech brands looking to grow beyond their home markets.

“Reachy Mini joining AliExpress during our Anniversary Sale is a strong signal of where consumer technology is headed,” said Chris Carl, Head of Marketing, AliExpress U.S. “We aim to bring the world’s most innovative technology products to consumers everywhere.”

Reachy Mini is available HERE through Seeed Studio’s official AliExpress store.

About AliExpress

Launched in 2010, AliExpress is a global e-commerce platform dedicated to creating a better shopping experience for hundreds of millions of consumers in more than 200 countries and regions. In addition to the English version, the AliExpress platform is available in 15 other languages. AliExpress is part of Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group.

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NYSE Content Update: Frore Systems Reaches $1.64 Billion Valuation after Series D Funding Round

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NYSE Content Update: Frore Systems Reaches $1.64 Billion Valuation after Series D Funding Round

NYSE issues a pre-market daily advisory direct from the trading floor.

NEW YORK, March 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) provides a daily pre-market update directly from the NYSE Trading Floor. Access today’s NYSE Pre-market update for market insights before trading begins. 

 

Ireland INC will ring today’s Opening Bell

Ashley Mastronardi delivers the pre-market update on March 16th

  • Markets are fractionally higher as investors monitor the latest oil price movement.
  • Ireland INC President Ian Hyland joins NYSE Live after ringing the Opening Bell to recognize the strong economic ties between the U.S. and Ireland.
  • Frore Systems reached unicorn status after securing a $143 million Series D funding round.
  • CoinDesk will launch a weekly show that explores the intersection of traditional finance and digital assets. 

For market insights, IPO activity, and today’s opening bell, download the NYSE TV app at tv.nyse.com

Opening Bell
Ireland Day and Ireland INC celebrate amplification of the significant Irish investment across the United States

Closing Bell
She Means Business and Citizens (NYSE: CFG) celebrate International Women’s Day and the Citizens “She Means Business” Program

Click here to download the NYSE TV App

EltaMD rang the Closing Bell on March 13.
EltaMD rang the Closing Bell on March 13.

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Aigens Empowers Honeymoon Dessert to Elevate Customer Experience via WeChat Mobile Ordering

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Aigens Empowers Honeymoon Dessert to Elevate Customer Experience via WeChat Mobile Ordering

HONG KONG, March 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Located in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, Honeymoon Dessert, one of Hong Kong’s most well-loved dessert chains, has strengthened its commitment to innovation with the introduction of Aigens Mobile Ordering on WeChat. The new digital ordering solution was launched ahead of the 2026 Chinese New Year Golden Week to efficiently manage the anticipated surge of customers from Mainland China—and it continues to deliver lasting benefits to both tourists and locals throughout the year.

Aigens x Honeymoon Dessert - WeChat Mini Program
Aigens x Honeymoon Dessert – WeChat Mini Program

With WeChat Mobile Ordering, dine-in customers can browse Honeymoon Dessert’s entire menu simply by scanning the WeChat QR code placed on their table. Orders can be placed directly within a WeChat Mini Program, and payment is completed seamlessly through WeChat Pay, without any redirection to external pages. This fully integrated experience is especially convenient for Mainland visitors, who are already familiar with WeChat’s all-in-one ecosystem.

The new system delivers major advantages for both guests and staff. Customers enjoy a frictionless dining journey—ordering at their own pace, reviewing menu images and descriptions, and adding items easily at any time during their meal. Meanwhile, Honeymoon Dessert benefits from greater operational efficiency, reduced waiting times, and optimized table turnover, all while providing a modern, user-friendly dining experience that enhances customer satisfaction.

Mr. Ken Mui, Human Resources and Administration Manager of Honeymoon Dessert, shared his appreciation for the partnership: “Aigens WeChat Ordering has transformed the way we serve our guests. It’s fast, intuitive, and exactly what our customers expect in today’s digital dining environment.”

Even beyond the festive period, the solution continues to support the strong tourism demand driven by the 37.8 million visitors from Mainland China who came to Hong Kong in 2025, many of whom frequent the Tsim Sha Tsui area year-round. By offering a familiar and convenient ordering experience, Honeymoon Dessert ensures it remains a preferred destination for visitors seeking authentic Hong Kong-style desserts.

Aigens Mobile Ordering on WeChat is available to F&B outlets of all sizes and concepts across Hong Kong. Restaurant operators interested in adopting the system can reach out to Aigens for a free consultation and discover how digital ordering can enhance their operations.

About Aigens Technology Limited:

Aigens Technology Limited, founded in 2012, is a leading provider of digital restaurant solutions, trusted by the world’s most reputable QSR, restaurant groups, food courts, hotels & resorts, airports, and casinos, across Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, Australia, and Southeast Asia. Renowned for delivering cutting-edge restaurant QR ordering, kiosk ordering, loyalty, payment, and system integration solutions, Aigens powers over 7,000 locations with seamless, robust, and scalable technologies.

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Alex Johnston makes cheeky gag as new statue unveiled at South Sydney headquarters

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Alex Johnston makes cheeky gag as new statue unveiled at South Sydney headquarters

Alex Johnston has given the strongest indication yet he could finish his career at the PNG Chiefs, with South Sydney unlikely to stand in the way of the record-breaking tryscorer.

Fresh off breaking Ken Irvine’s mark on Friday night, Johnston on Monday had a statue of him unveiled at Rabbitohs headquarters.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Alex Johnston’s statue unveiled

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Made in Thailand three years ago with the financial backing of Souths supporter Danny Taibel, the life-sized monument has sat in storage ever since.

Johnston admitted on Monday breaking Irvine’s mark of 212 tries had been on his mind since the end of 2022, before an achilles injury in 2024 threatened his shot.

The 31-year-old gave the statue the tick of approval, while joking he would now become a victim of bird faeces outside Heffron Park.

“The majority of my footy career has been overwhelmingly positive, but along the way a few fans have shit on me,” Johnston quipped.

“There have been a few coaches who have shit on me, the media has shit on me – now the pigeons can shit on me.”

Johnston’s feat also attracted a letter from Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape, along with celebrations across the country.

Of Torres Strait Islander and PNG descent, Johnston has played 12 Tests for the Kumuls since 2019.

The winger is off contract next year, and will likely be a priority target for the Chiefs when they enter in 2028.

“They just love rugby league so much over there, the Chiefs, every week they’ll get massive support,” Johnston said.

“It’s something I probably want to be a part of.

“Obviously, I’d love to stay at Souths. But the footy over there, I think everyone needs to experience it. I fall in love with the game of footy going over there.”

Asked how much he had to weigh up over the coming year, Johnston admitted there were emotional lures both ways.

“It’d be cool to be the first signature over there, but I bleed red and green. I’ve still got this year and next year at the club,” he said.

“If I’m still kicking and still got some miles on these legs, I’ll go from there and see where I end up.

“I love this club. I’ve always wanted to be a one-club player, and I’m in this position now. Things could go either way.”

Souths inserted a clause into Johnston’s current contract that allows him to join the Chiefs at any time and become their first signature.

CEO Blake Solly also confirmed on Monday the Rabbitohs would not make life hard and fight to keep Johnston if he wanted to leave.

“We understand how strong AJ’s connection is with Papua New Guinea,” Solly said.

“In many ways, it would be such a great moment for the game if he was their inaugural player signed.”

Solly, meanwhile backed calls for the NRL’s leading tryscorer award to be renamed the Johnston-Irvine medal, as an evolution from the Ken Irvine Medal, which Johnston has won four times.

“The medal is named after Ken because he had the record and his contribution to the game. Now that AJ’s got the record it’s absolutely right that AJ’s there,” Solly said.

“We should never forget all of the great things Ken did for the game and it’s fitting that it will be named the Johnston-Irvine medal.”

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