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U.S. and Iran exchange fire in strait as Trump attempts to open shipping lane

U.S. and Iran exchange fire in Strait of Hormuz

World

The U.S. is using force in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Strait of Hormuz" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/04/iran-attack-uae-missiles-ceasefire-hormuz" data-vars-content-id="f7bc9aa9-0845-4ea4-ad32-d8627f719ab2" data-vars-headline="U.S. and Iran exchange fire in strait as Trump attempts to open shipping lane" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/04/iran-attack-uae-missiles-ceasefire-hormuz" target="_self">Strait of Hormuz</a> and diplomacy in New York in an effort to break Tehran&#x27;s chokehold on the vital shipping lane.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="f7bc9aa9-0845-4ea4-ad32-d8627f719ab2" data-vars-headline="U.S. and Iran exchange fire in strait as Trump attempts to open shipping lane" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> has already shown it&#x27;s willing to respond with force, putting the two countries on the verge of a return to full-fledged war.

Budget travelers mourn Spirit's death

The grounding of the low-cost carrier comes as Americans have a bleak outlook on their personal finances.

Economy

For some budget travelers, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Spirit Airlines" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/02/spirit-airlines-shutdown" data-vars-content-id="a3cc7382-826e-4af0-99fe-2aacc25a8cf0" data-vars-headline="Budget travelers mourn Spirit&#x27;s death" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/02/spirit-airlines-shutdown" target="_self">Spirit Airlines</a> was more than the punchline of a joke about ultra-low-fare airline options — it was the only option, travel pros tell Axios.The big picture: The grounding of the low-cost carrier comes amid an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="affordability crisis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/25/cities-affordability-solutions-rising-costs" data-vars-content-id="a3cc7382-826e-4af0-99fe-2aacc25a8cf0" data-vars-headline="Budget travelers mourn Spirit&#x27;s death" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/25/cities-affordability-solutions-rising-costs" target="_self">affordability crisis</a> that&#x27;s left Americans with a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bleak outlook" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/28/trump-economy-gallup-finances" data-vars-content-id="a3cc7382-826e-4af0-99fe-2aacc25a8cf0" data-vars-headline="Budget travelers mourn Spirit&#x27;s death" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/28/trump-economy-gallup-finances" target="_self">bleak outlook</a> on personal finances.

Iran ceasefire in peril as UAE says it's under attack

There were fires reported at a fuel facility and on board multiple ships.

The United Arab Emirates reported that four missiles were fired toward its territory from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="15a3ba9d-fdf8-4ced-a811-6e785f14af3a" data-vars-headline="Iran ceasefire in peril as UAE says it&#x27;s under attack" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> on Monday, and that it was actively engaging with another &quot;missile and drone attack.&quot;<ul><li>There were also fires reported at a fuel facility in the UAE and on ships off its coast. Iran has not claimed responsibility for any of the apparent attacks.</li></ul>Why it matters: This would be the first time Iran attacked a Gulf state since the ceasefire was announced nearly a month ago. The U.S. and Iran may now be on the precipice of a return to war.

What is, and isn't, worrying about 100% debt to GDP

The details of how the debt got there and where it's going are quite a bit more problematic than the ratio itself.

The United States has crossed a symbolic milestone: The national debt is now larger than its gross domestic product. But it&#x27;s not the level of that ratio that is alarming — it&#x27;s the trajectory.The big picture: There&#x27;s nothing inherently unsustainable about a 100% debt-to-GDP level. What matters is why it got that high, the prospects for future borrowing, and the forecast for growth and borrowing costs.

How BookTok is reshaping Hollywood

Real-time reader trends are guiding some of Hollywood's biggest bets.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="BookTok" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/07/06/tiktok-instagram-book-bestsellers-we-were-liars" data-vars-content-id="f38ad07b-21ff-467e-9475-cdb175b26dac" data-vars-headline="How BookTok is reshaping Hollywood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/07/06/tiktok-instagram-book-bestsellers-we-were-liars" target="_self">BookTok</a> community — ravenous readers who share reviews of their latest reads — is reshaping the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="streaming wars" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/20/netflix-stock-nflx-subscribers-warner-bros" data-vars-content-id="f38ad07b-21ff-467e-9475-cdb175b26dac" data-vars-headline="How BookTok is reshaping Hollywood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/20/netflix-stock-nflx-subscribers-warner-bros" target="_self">streaming wars</a>.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Production" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/18/hollywood-ai-amazon-netflix" data-vars-content-id="f38ad07b-21ff-467e-9475-cdb175b26dac" data-vars-headline="How BookTok is reshaping Hollywood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/18/hollywood-ai-amazon-netflix" target="_self">Production</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="studios" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/media-trends-membership/2026/01/17/streaming-ads-netflix-prime-disney" data-vars-content-id="f38ad07b-21ff-467e-9475-cdb175b26dac" data-vars-headline="How BookTok is reshaping Hollywood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/media-trends-membership/2026/01/17/streaming-ads-netflix-prime-disney" target="_self">studios</a> are tuning in to influential creators and built-in fanbases, placing their bets on book adaptations to win viewers.

First look: Novo Marketplace, opens in Allston

The food hall opens May 1 with cuisine ranging from Indian to Korean to Indonesian.

Business

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Novo Marketplace" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/03/24/allston-food-hall-vendors-seek-alcohol-licenses" data-vars-content-id="d877f31e-9a20-492f-993b-145f5c37e432" data-vars-headline="First look: Novo Marketplace, opens in Allston" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/03/24/allston-food-hall-vendors-seek-alcohol-licenses" target="_self">Novo Marketplace</a> opens Friday, bringing a gathering space with a dozen Asian food vendors to Allston. Why it matters: Some U.S. food halls are struggling to turn a profit — the latest example being <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Time Out Market" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/time-out-market-food-hall-boston-not-closing/" data-vars-content-id="d877f31e-9a20-492f-993b-145f5c37e432" data-vars-headline="First look: Novo Marketplace, opens in Allston" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/time-out-market-food-hall-boston-not-closing/" target="_blank">Time Out Market</a>— but owner Winson Chen is betting on the demand for gathering spaces and Asian cuisine in the Allston-Brighton area.

Jaylen Brown's nonprofit could land $700K in Mass. budget

Brown has become a prominent social justice advocate in Boston.

Politics

Celtics star <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jaylen Brown" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/04/16/what-to-know-about-the-celtics-playoff-series-against-the-76ers" data-vars-content-id="1722c684-8e04-4c44-96ff-bb7712a1da7f" data-vars-headline="Jaylen Brown&#x27;s nonprofit could land $700K in Mass. budget" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/04/16/what-to-know-about-the-celtics-playoff-series-against-the-76ers" target="_self">Jaylen Brown</a>&#x27;s nonprofit could score $700,000 in taxpayer funds under earmark spending approved by the House.Why it matters: The budget allocation shows a significant appetite in the Legislature to dedicate public tax dollars to athlete-led charity work.

Massachusetts' electricity bills exceeded national average in 2025

Nantucket had the highest estimated average monthly electric bills in the continental U.S.

Money

Massachusetts residents have some of the highest home electric bills in the country, per a new Axios analysis of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data" data-vars-click-url="https://electricity.heatmap.news/" data-vars-content-id="c6737cb4-1650-4cbf-b315-71e535e4a340" data-vars-headline="Massachusetts&#x27; electricity bills exceeded national average in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://electricity.heatmap.news/" target="_blank">data</a> collected and shared by climate newsroom Heatmap News.Why it matters: Tensions over rising energy bills and power-hungry AI data centers are emerging as a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="key political issue" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/05/data-centers-midterms-state-bans-bills-ai" data-vars-content-id="c6737cb4-1650-4cbf-b315-71e535e4a340" data-vars-headline="Massachusetts&#x27; electricity bills exceeded national average in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/05/data-centers-midterms-state-bans-bills-ai" target="_self">key political issue</a>, and should be a potent force in this year&#x27;s midterms.

Substation trading cards highlight Boston history

The trading cards highlight MBTA and substation history.

History

A rescue hook. An Orange Line train. A historic blackout.<ul><li>These are the details of Roslindale&#x27;s history highlighted in the Substation&#x27;s trading card series.</li></ul>

Exclusive: Minogue's Trump-less, Healey-free intro ad

The former Abiomed CEO is spending mid-six figures to introduce himself to voters.

Fresh off a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="landslide win" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wbur.org/news/2026/04/25/minogue-gop-endorsement-massachusetts-governor" data-vars-content-id="145fd834-b882-40b4-9be5-5f0e56ce56bc" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Minogue&#x27;s Trump-less, Healey-free intro ad" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wbur.org/news/2026/04/25/minogue-gop-endorsement-massachusetts-governor" target="_blank">landslide win</a> at the Mass. Republican Convention, candidate for governor <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mike Minogue" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/02/02/massachusetts-political-debate-dodges-2026" data-vars-content-id="145fd834-b882-40b4-9be5-5f0e56ce56bc" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Minogue&#x27;s Trump-less, Healey-free intro ad" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/02/02/massachusetts-political-debate-dodges-2026" target="_self">Mike Minogue</a> hits the airwaves this week.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the former biotech CEO&#x27;s first big chance to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="introduce himself" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1FRo7plC6A" data-vars-content-id="145fd834-b882-40b4-9be5-5f0e56ce56bc" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Minogue&#x27;s Trump-less, Healey-free intro ad" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1FRo7plC6A" target="_blank">introduce himself</a> to general election voters.

Mass. lawmakers could extend rideshare fee into 2027

The 20-cent fee is set to expire Jan. 1, 2027.

The Massachusetts Senate voted to extend the state&#x27;s 20-cent fee on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rideshare" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/09/uber-and-lyft-drivers-aren-t-going-away-future-of-mobility" data-vars-content-id="f7a105a2-afc1-481d-bee5-333d07f4a1b9" data-vars-headline="Mass. lawmakers could extend rideshare fee into 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/09/uber-and-lyft-drivers-aren-t-going-away-future-of-mobility" target="_self">rideshare</a> trips past Jan. 1, when it&#x27;s due to sunset.Why it matters: Riders will ultimately pay millions of dollars annually to the state, which faces a deficit amid federal funding cuts and rising costs.

What's next for MBTA's new Red Line cars held by Trump administration

Detained Red Line train shells cleared — but with 190 cars still unbuilt and no updated timeline from CRRC MA, the end-of-2027 delivery target isn't looking so good.

Transit

The end of an international logjam involving the Trump administration could soon mean more new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Red Line" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2024/11/25/mbta-red-line-boston-phillip-eng" data-vars-content-id="51ef8b4e-fcf7-4796-be42-ead0835a9f79" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s next for MBTA&#x27;s new Red Line cars held by Trump administration" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2024/11/25/mbta-red-line-boston-phillip-eng" target="_self">Red Line</a> subway cars in the tunnels beneath Boston.Why it matters: The clock is now ticking on a long-promised project already years behind schedule.

Inside La Casa, the South End's new arts and community center

When it opens in May, La Casa will be the largest Latino performing arts center in New England.

Development

When Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción&#x27;s arts center opens, it will host concerts, youth arts programming, workshops and maybe a quinceañera (a traditional 15th birthday celebration for Latinas).The big picture: La Casa, a $33 million project, will be the largest Latino arts center in New England.

Housing permits dip while prices remain high, report says

Mass. may see even slower housing construction in the next few years, while prices stay high.

Real Estate

Let&#x27;s start with the good news: Massachusetts has added nearly 98,000 new housing units in the past five years, including 71,000 in Greater Boston.<ul><li>The bad news: Permits for future house construction have dropped, and most renters can&#x27;t afford to buy a home here, per a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Boston Foundation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tbf.org/-/media/tbf/reports-and-covers/2025/2025-gr-boston-housing-report-card-final-2025.pdf" data-vars-content-id="059e28db-432e-469d-8406-919460bfa663" data-vars-headline="Housing permits dip while prices remain high, report says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tbf.org/-/media/tbf/reports-and-covers/2025/2025-gr-boston-housing-report-card-final-2025.pdf" target="_blank">Boston Foundation</a> report.</li></ul>

Utilities change course on charging interest on winter relief

Utilities asked state regulators early this week to let them charge interest on the deferred amount.

The Healey administration fended off an attempt by utility companies to charge interest on energy costs deferred under the governor&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="winter relief plan" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/01/22/healey-energy-bill-cut-massachusetts-winter-electric-gas-relief-fund" data-vars-content-id="06acfa04-cbd0-4312-bd58-5c95341bd51d" data-vars-headline="Utilities change course on charging interest on winter relief" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/01/22/healey-energy-bill-cut-massachusetts-winter-electric-gas-relief-fund" target="_self">winter relief plan</a>.Why it matters: The relief plan could have cost households more in the long run if utilities charged interest on the deferred amount.

Coworking can be costly in Boston, but options abound

Coworking companies promise a haven for productivity and community, but it'll cost you.

Coworking companies, large and small, promise a haven for productivity and maybe even community, but it&#x27;ll cost you.The big picture: Boston coworking spaces must balance the cost of doing business in one of the nation&#x27;s costliest real estate markets with members&#x27; tighter budgets.

These Boston restaurants are streaming the World Cup

Boston-area restaurants are extending their hours and promoting World Cup watch parties.

Boston-area restaurants are extending their business hours and planning watch parties for World Cup games.<ul><li>Here is where to go for June matches so far, per the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="City of Boston" data-vars-click-url="https://www.boston.gov/departments/small-business-development/neighborhood-business-guide" data-vars-content-id="f45ccf23-9fcf-4d9a-ad47-f459ba5685a9" data-vars-headline="These Boston restaurants are streaming the World Cup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.boston.gov/departments/small-business-development/neighborhood-business-guide" target="_blank">City of Boston</a>.</li></ul>

The MAGA millionaire looking to turn deep blue Massachusetts

Mike Minogue's landslide win sets up a high-stakes 2026 race, testing if a MAGA-aligned Republican can win in Massachusetts.

Deehan here with Spill of the Hill, my column unraveling Massachusetts politics.Biotech multimillionaire <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mike Minogue" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/04/28/minogue-governor-campaign-ad-massachusetts-gop-momentum" data-vars-content-id="3bfc90ff-6837-4f63-8e6a-be484fc15648" data-vars-headline="The MAGA millionaire looking to turn deep blue Massachusetts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/04/28/minogue-governor-campaign-ad-massachusetts-gop-momentum" target="_self">Mike Minogue</a>&#x27;s landslide victory at the Mass. Republican Convention last month set up what promises to be a costly and very unlikely run to unseat Gov. Maura Healey in November.The big picture: Minogue&#x27;s win goes a long way to settle the GOP field and lays bare one of the central questions of the 2026 cycle: Can a Trump-aligned Republican come anywhere close to winning in Massachusetts?

Boston restaurants, stores often flout captions ordinance

Changing a business' TV settings makes spaces more inclusive for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people, say disability rights advocates.

Boston businesses often violate the city&#x27;s ordinance requiring captions on TVs, more than three years after the law&#x27;s passage.<ul><li>And the city rarely enforces the law, according to records reviewed by Axios.</li></ul>Why it matters: A simple change to a business&#x27; TV settings makes spaces more inclusive for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people, who make up roughly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2% of Boston&#x27;s population" data-vars-click-url="https://www.boston.gov/sites/default/files/file/2023/04/%28ENG%29%20LCA%20Disability%20Demographic%20Data%20Report.pdf" data-vars-content-id="54015d40-b269-402a-8c5c-25e0cff58389" data-vars-headline="Boston restaurants, stores often flout captions ordinance" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.boston.gov/sites/default/files/file/2023/04/%28ENG%29%20LCA%20Disability%20Demographic%20Data%20Report.pdf" target="_blank">2% of Boston&#x27;s population</a>, disability rights advocates say.

Mass. races to regulate the "Wild West" of e-bikes and scooters

State officials propose a new four-tier speed system to bring order to the growing wave of electric micromobility devices.

News

Massachusetts officials are racing to bring some legal clarity to e-scooters, e-bikes and other new electric vehicles that are growing in popularity faster than the rules meant to govern them.Why it matters: Massachusetts ranks <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fifth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/12/04/metro/boston-traffic-delays-congestion/" data-vars-content-id="d5021a7b-84da-4af5-ae22-7ab22a25bec0" data-vars-headline="Mass. races to regulate the &quot;Wild West&quot; of e-bikes and scooters" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/12/04/metro/boston-traffic-delays-congestion/" target="_blank">fifth</a> in the nation for road congestion, while <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="57% of all in-state trips" data-vars-click-url="https://www.massbike.org/micromobility_commission_report" data-vars-content-id="d5021a7b-84da-4af5-ae22-7ab22a25bec0" data-vars-headline="Mass. races to regulate the &quot;Wild West&quot; of e-bikes and scooters" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.massbike.org/micromobility_commission_report" target="_blank">57% of all in-state trips</a> are three miles or shorter.<ul><li>80% of those short trips are still made by car, but small, cheap, personal electric vehicles are beginning to fill the gap.</li></ul>

Massachusetts housing market's spring thaw begins

Still, the total number of houses on the market remains lower than this time last year.

Massachusetts saw more new homes for sale listed last month, per data released Monday by the state&#x27;s real estate agents association.The intrigue: Listings and sales typically increase in the spring, but the increase comes amid persistent high interest rates and rising costs.

King family demands body cam video release as both sides lawyer up

King family demands body cam video release as civil rights attorney Ben Crump and Karen Read defense attorney David Yannetti take opposite sides of the Stephenson King shooting case.

The family of Stephenson King Jr., the Dorchester man fatally shot by a Boston police officer last month, demanded body camera footage of the incident be released.State of play: The case is drawing high-profile legal firepower on both sides.

Critics warn social media ban goes too far, could ban YouTube, Wikipedia

A sweeping definition of "social media" has critics warning it could rope in nearly the entire internet — including sites children rely on every day.

The Massachusetts House wants the Commonwealth to become <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the most restrictive state in the country" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/04/08/massachusetts-house-senate-cellphone-ban-social-media-youth-children-schools-healey-bill" data-vars-content-id="ca294bc7-c03c-477f-9644-fa6f102fbbb7" data-vars-headline="Critics warn social media ban goes too far, could ban YouTube, Wikipedia" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/04/08/massachusetts-house-senate-cellphone-ban-social-media-youth-children-schools-healey-bill" target="_self">the most restrictive state in the country</a> for young people on the Internet, but some worry the bill goes much too far.Why it matters: Critics argue the House&#x27;s bill trades child safety for a surveillance state and may accidentally ban platforms children use every day.

Less than 1% of Greater Boston nonprofit revenue helps women of color

Less than 1% of revenue for women's nonprofits went to groups serving women and girls of color.

Less than 1% of the revenue that Greater Boston nonprofits serving women, girls and gender-expansive people reported in 2024 went to groups prioritizing girls and women of color.Why it matters: Those groups&#x27; leaders reported being understaffed, overworked and less supported than other nonprofits, according to a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bostonwomensfund.org/carryingtheweight" data-vars-content-id="d5991ea0-3ceb-4bb3-95e5-94bc39177dd1" data-vars-headline="Less than 1% of Greater Boston nonprofit revenue helps women of color" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bostonwomensfund.org/carryingtheweight" target="_blank">new report</a> from the Boston Women&#x27;s Fund and UMass Boston.<ul><li>The findings come six years after U.S. business, philanthropic and political leaders pledged to address racial inequities.</li></ul>

Haymarket station in limbo as Bulfinch Crossing project drags on

The transit hub has been torn apart for over four years and there's no word on when the project will be done.

One of downtown Boston&#x27;s busiest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="transit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/transit" data-vars-content-id="5d2b4d09-6b81-4786-ae5a-daf754b3d9a5" data-vars-headline="Haymarket station in limbo as Bulfinch Crossing project drags on" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/transit" target="_self">transit</a> hubs has been torn apart for over four years and there&#x27;s no word on when the project will be finished.Why it matters: The demolition of the former Government Center Garage has repeatedly disrupted Orange and Green Line service at the Haymarket station and shuttered the bus terminal indefinitely, forcing riders onto a makeshift busway for years.

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What we know (and don't) about Boston's World Cup fan festivities

Organizers are planning a cultural showcase as part of the FanFest, but little else is known so far.

Sports

Small businesses looking to host <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="FIFA World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/03/11/world-cup-boston-foxborough-funding-dispute" data-vars-content-id="3b10a0c0-c3ef-4e07-91b5-3041da31b94f" data-vars-headline="What we know (and don&#x27;t) about Boston&#x27;s World Cup fan festivities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/03/11/world-cup-boston-foxborough-funding-dispute" target="_self">FIFA World Cup</a> watch parties and other events are still awaiting clarity on what they can do this summer.Why it matters: Boston-area businesses want a piece of the economic boon that FIFA organizers predict the tournament will bring.

Boston celebrates 50 years of "Rocky Horror" with doc screening

Fifty years ago this month, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" midnight screenings debuted in NYC.

Culture

&quot;The Rocky Horror Picture Show&quot; has outlived the Soviet Union, Y2K and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="COVID-19 pandemic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/health/coronavirus" data-vars-content-id="89c3f8a9-86ea-4435-9215-41be43236002" data-vars-headline="Boston celebrates 50 years of &quot;Rocky Horror&quot; with doc screening" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/health/coronavirus" target="_self">COVID-19 pandemic</a>.<ul><li>Boston-area fans will celebrate its legacy on Saturday with a documentary showing that pays tribute to the cult classic and its fandom.</li></ul>

Boston-area patios and rooftops to visit this spring

The only thing better than longer days is getting to watch the sunset from a patio over dinner or drinks.

Boston-area patios and rooftops are opening just in time for warmer weather.The intrigue: The only thing better than longer days is getting to watch the sunset from a patio over dinner or drinks.

Things to do in Boston this week

From a 35mm Bob Odenkirk premiere to Eddie Izzard's one-woman Hamlet, here is your curated guide to Boston.

Monday, 3/16<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Irish in Boston" data-vars-click-url="https://framinghamlibrary.org/calendar/event/the-irish-in-boston" data-vars-content-id="a7fef10d-ac18-4201-b2fd-f2793f7f90b5" data-vars-headline="Things to do in Boston this week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://framinghamlibrary.org/calendar/event/the-irish-in-boston" target="_blank">The Irish in Boston</a> features historian Anthony Sammarco at the Framingham Public Library. He&#x27;ll explore the 19th and 20th-century institutions—from Boston College to the Cathedral of the Holy Cross—founded by Irish immigrants, 7pm–8pm.<ul><li>Free.</li></ul>

Boston's biggest concerts this spring and summer

Boston is packed with concerts this spring and summer despite Boston Calling's hiatus.

Some of the world&#x27;s biggest acts are coming to Boston this spring and summer.The intrigue: Boston is drawing stars like R&amp;B singer Ari Lennox to jam band Phish, even as Boston Calling takes a hiatus in 2026.

Boston's buzzworthy spring restaurant openings

From a beachfront Kowloon to Michelin-recommended expansions, here are the most anticipated restaurant openings coming to Boston in 2026.

Food and Drink

From a beachfront tiki bar to a Michelin-recommended expansion, Greater Boston can expect several new openings this season.Why it matters: A wave of high-profile concepts is slated to debut in the spring or summer. <ul><li>The cluster of openings is a mix of established local veterans expanding their footprints and new places hoping to make an impact.</li></ul>

RFK Jr. took aim at Dunkin'. Mass. residents threatened revolts

RFK Jr. took aim at Dunkin's sugary coffee drinks. Massachusetts residents blew up.

The United States&#x27; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="250th anniversary" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/07/black-history-250-who-decides" data-vars-content-id="c892d6ba-a617-43da-98dc-fc962d4a2d41" data-vars-headline="RFK Jr. took aim at Dunkin&#x27;. Mass. residents threatened revolts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/07/black-history-250-who-decides" target="_self">250th anniversary</a> may be remembered as the year a Kennedy declared war on Massachusetts.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dunkin" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/02/25/dunkin-boston-iced-coffee-mitten-bucket" data-vars-content-id="c892d6ba-a617-43da-98dc-fc962d4a2d41" data-vars-headline="RFK Jr. took aim at Dunkin&#x27;. Mass. residents threatened revolts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/02/25/dunkin-boston-iced-coffee-mitten-bucket" target="_self">Dunkin</a>&#x27;, the Bay State&#x27;s beloved coffee chain, is the Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy&#x27;s latest target.

Restaurant under scrutiny after Patriots players' late-night party

Estella's owner may now face penalties from licensing officials.

A downtown Boston restaurant may face penalties for hosting <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Patriots" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/02/09/super-bowl-patriots-loss" data-vars-content-id="41b46e05-61c3-4fdb-95b1-8d6ac172243a" data-vars-headline="Restaurant under scrutiny after Patriots players&#x27; late-night party" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/02/09/super-bowl-patriots-loss" target="_self">Patriots</a> players after hours in a pot- and hookah-filled celebration in January.Why it matters: Helder George Brandao, the owner of Estella on Temple Place, said the celebration caught him by surprise and broke several local laws and regulations.<ul><li>Brandao described the evening to the Boston Licensing Board on Tuesday morning, per reporting by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="UniversalHub" data-vars-click-url="https://www.universalhub.com/2026/downtown-bar-owner-says-patriots-came-celebrate-his-place-after-they" data-vars-content-id="41b46e05-61c3-4fdb-95b1-8d6ac172243a" data-vars-headline="Restaurant under scrutiny after Patriots players&#x27; late-night party" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.universalhub.com/2026/downtown-bar-owner-says-patriots-came-celebrate-his-place-after-they" target="_blank">UniversalHub</a>.</li></ul>

How to do Dine Out Boston on a budget

The restaurant week aims to bring new customers to local eateries, but it's becoming pricer.

Dine Out Boston returns this week with more restaurants and higher price points.The intrigue: The restaurant week aims to bring new customers to local eateries, but it&#x27;s becoming harder for cash-strapped Boston-area residents to enjoy.

Food hall app Wonder opening 9 Mass. restaurants

Wonder opens locations in Natick, Belmont and Framingham Thursday with more on the way.

A fast-growing company that&#x27;s part-restaurant, part-food pickup and delivery app opens three Massachusetts locations Thursday.Why it matters: Massachusetts is the latest market for New York-based Wonder, which is ramping up operations across the Northeast.

Foodie's closure sparks fight over South End storefronts

Residents fended off an attempt to convert the market into a school. But the battle's not over.

South End residents convinced a private school to back off plans to turn a grocery store into classrooms, but that&#x27;s just half the battle.The big picture: The news of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Foodie&#x27;s Market" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/02/04/foodies-market-closure" data-vars-content-id="7c582db7-c9e0-4abc-9083-f2e6fec22da5" data-vars-headline="Foodie&#x27;s closure sparks fight over South End storefronts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2026/02/04/foodies-market-closure" target="_self">Foodie&#x27;s Market</a> closing in June has mobilized residents to lobby for a new grocer to maintain food access around 1421 Washington St., the only supermarket in that part of the South End.

Drink wars heat up as fast-food chains bet big on beverages

Drinks are becoming one of the fastest-growing, highest-margin parts of fast food — and chains are racing to capitalize.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fast-food giants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/17/taco-bell-menu-chicken-new-items" data-vars-content-id="88d7552b-fbf7-4a2f-a567-6b48e7524130" data-vars-headline="Drink wars heat up as fast-food chains bet big on beverages" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/17/taco-bell-menu-chicken-new-items" target="_self">Fast-food giants</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="coffee chains" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/26/starbucks-menu-protein-coffee-drinks" data-vars-content-id="88d7552b-fbf7-4a2f-a567-6b48e7524130" data-vars-headline="Drink wars heat up as fast-food chains bet big on beverages" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/26/starbucks-menu-protein-coffee-drinks" target="_self">coffee chains</a> are racing to reinvent their <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="drink menus" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/09/starbucks-menu-update-2026-new-drinks-food" data-vars-content-id="88d7552b-fbf7-4a2f-a567-6b48e7524130" data-vars-headline="Drink wars heat up as fast-food chains bet big on beverages" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/09/starbucks-menu-update-2026-new-drinks-food" target="_self">drink menus</a> — betting beverages can drive visits all on their own.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Drinks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/15/coke-pepsi-mini-cans-new-flavors" data-vars-content-id="88d7552b-fbf7-4a2f-a567-6b48e7524130" data-vars-headline="Drink wars heat up as fast-food chains bet big on beverages" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/15/coke-pepsi-mini-cans-new-flavors" target="_self">Drinks</a> are becoming one of the most profitable and fastest-growing parts of the restaurant business, as consumers look for small, affordable treats.

Biotech's next leap is AI-driven, and Greater Seattle is ready

Seattle combines top research institutions and AI infrastructure to reduce the time from discovery to viable therapies.

Partners

AI and advanced computing are increasingly driving breakthroughs in life sciences, and Greater Seattle is accelerating that shift.Why it&#x27;s important: Regions that integrate scientific research with advanced software infrastructure can bring therapies closer to clinical use more quickly.

Massachusetts hits reset on its Cannabis Control Commission

A new cannabis law disbanded the commission and sets the clock on appointing replacements.

Gov. Maura Healey signed into law Sunday a cannabis reform bill that disbands the Cannabis Control Commission.Why it matters: Lawmakers want to reboot the embattled commission that has experienced delays and infighting in hopes that it will run more efficiently.

Midwives question insurance rates as birth centers ramp up

Mass., like much of the U.S., falls far behind developed nations in healthy pregnancies and births.

Health

Massachusetts stands to get more birth centers in the next year, but midwives and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="doulas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/21/doula-maternal-health-crisis" data-vars-content-id="c05fb1f8-cb90-4ec2-939c-54a4268e26de" data-vars-headline="Midwives question insurance rates as birth centers ramp up" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/21/doula-maternal-health-crisis" target="_self">doulas</a> will struggle to scale up their work without more funding, their advocates say. Why it matters: Massachusetts, like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="much of the nation," data-vars-click-url="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2024/jun/insights-us-maternal-mortality-crisis-international-comparison" data-vars-content-id="c05fb1f8-cb90-4ec2-939c-54a4268e26de" data-vars-headline="Midwives question insurance rates as birth centers ramp up" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2024/jun/insights-us-maternal-mortality-crisis-international-comparison" target="_blank">much of the nation,</a> lags behind other developed countries when it comes to safe pregnancies and births.

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