Business stories in Boston

A shareholder has filed a lawsuit against Roblox's CEO and directors, claiming they misled investors about the negative effects of age verification checks on user growth. The lawsuit alleges that these checks significantly reduced daily active users, contradicting previous statements from company leaders.

The U.S. has officially designated helium as a critical material due to its essential role in semiconductor production and energy generation. This move aims to bolster domestic production and reduce reliance on foreign sources amid global supply disruptions.

Hasbro, the iconic toymaker known for brands like G.I. Joe and Monopoly, is moving its headquarters to Boston's Seaport district. CEO Chris Cocks discussed the reasons behind this significant relocation during an interview.

Saus, a popular sandwich and fry shop in Bow Market, Somerville, is set to close its doors permanently in December after eight years of operation. The announcement was made via the company's Instagram account, marking the end of a beloved local eatery known for its diverse sauce options.

Meta has postponed the implementation of its updated terms of service, which would have allowed the company to scrape content from users' websites for AI purposes. The delay, now set for November 20, aims to provide more clarity to partners and stakeholders regarding the changes.

Ramen Haven, a Central Massachusetts-based ramen brand, is set to open two new locations in Greater Boston, specifically in Boston and Braintree. This expansion reflects the growing popularity of the brand in the region.

U.S. stock futures are down as oil prices rise sharply, with Brent crude reaching $114.92 per barrel. Concerns over rising gasoline prices and the impact of geopolitical tensions are weighing on the market.

Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks announced the company's relocation from Pawtucket, Rhode Island, to Boston's Seaport, bringing an iconic animatronic Optimus Prime. This move could position Boston as a key player in the toy and gaming industry.

Airbnb has announced a new policy that limits checkout chores for guests, effective November 20. Hosts can only make 'reasonable' requests, addressing ongoing concerns about cleaning fees and expectations.

Simran Mohinani, a Northeastern University graduate, has founded Mohlia, a business that offers eco-friendly flower arrangements that can last up to 10 years. Her innovative approach has earned her recognition as a fellow of the 2026 Women Who Empower Innovators Award.

A truckers' protest in southern Italy has disrupted the production of buffalo mozzarella, leading to an estimated loss of 3 million euros in just 24 hours. The blockade has prevented milk from reaching dairies and finished cheese from reaching customers, causing panic among farmers.

Mark Zuckerberg has reached an agreement with Meta's board to manage his potential tax liability from a proposed California tax on billionaires. If the tax passes, it could impose a significant financial burden on Zuckerberg, prompting him to secure his ownership stake in the company while committing to remain in California for eight years.

The Boston Licensing Board will review a proposal to transform the former Mattress Superstore on Beacon Street into a Dunkin'/Jimmy John's combo. This location would feature 30 seats and operate from 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The Sharon family plans to acquire the Jamaica Plain Blanchard's and rename it Kappy's, following a similar change in West Roxbury. The Boston Licensing Board will review the application next week.

A Cambridge arcade is pivoting its business model after closing indefinitely due to financial misconduct by a former manager. The establishment aims to innovate and stay afloat in the wake of this unfortunate situation.

Governments and organizations in Europe and the U.S. took websites offline to address vulnerabilities in the PHP programming language. The FBI warned that these flaws could allow remote code execution, posing risks to sensitive data.

A bistro in Boston's South End is offering a promotion where diners can enjoy dinner and receive a free lunch for the following day. This initiative aims to attract more customers during the evening hours.

A New Mexico judge has ordered Meta to pay $25 billion for misleading users about privacy on Facebook, marking the largest fine against the company. The ruling follows a jury's finding of over 43 million violations of consumer protection laws linked to the Cambridge Analytica scandal.

Target is looking to hire 1,900 seasonal employees in the Boston area to support the upcoming holiday shopping season. This move aims to meet the increased demand during one of the retailer's busiest times of the year.

Starting in 2026, taxpayers taking the standard deduction can claim deductions for charitable cash contributions, up to $1,000 for individuals and $2,000 for couples. This change aims to benefit millions who previously received no tax advantage for their donations.

U.S. stocks opened higher as strong profit reports from SpaceX and Capital One Financial offset disappointing updates from Netflix and AT&T. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq composite saw modest gains, with SpaceX's stock jumping significantly after exceeding profit expectations.

Happy Market is in the process of applying for an alcohol license to establish itself in the new retail location at Doyle's development. The business will present its request at a local association meeting on October 21, with the license being a crucial factor for their move.

A recent survey reveals that many residents of Silicon Valley, including tech workers, are increasingly worried about the impact of artificial intelligence. Only 28% believe AI will positively affect their lives in the next two decades, with concerns about job threats and widening inequality dominating the discourse.

The Gellert Global Group, a New Jersey food importer, has filed a lawsuit against President Trump's 50% tariffs on Canadian goods, claiming misuse of a Depression-era law. This legal action comes amid escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada.

Economists Eric Zwick and Owen Zidar reveal a hidden class of wealthy entrepreneurs, termed 'everywhere millionaires,' who significantly influence wealth distribution in the U.S. Their new book highlights the importance of these individuals in understanding economic inequality.

Instacart has agreed to a $5 million settlement over allegations of discrimination against U.S.-born job seekers in its hiring practices. The settlement follows claims that the company created barriers for U.S. applicants by requiring physical applications for certain positions.

Roxy's arcade in Cambridge is shutting down after an employee misappropriated tens of thousands of dollars, failing to pay vendors. The owners plan to repurpose the space for community-driven activities while their restaurant and food trucks remain operational.

China has condemned the U.S. ban on DeepSeek's AI products for federal agencies, warning of potential retaliatory measures. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security cited national security concerns regarding the accessibility of sensitive data.

A beloved French bakery brand in the Boston area has opened a new location, further delighting its fans. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the brand, known for its quality and charm.