Business fact-checks
Infact's fact-checks in Business, newest first. Each links to a full verdict with a 0–100 accuracy score and cited evidence.
- 70 Jürgen Trittin criticizes Germany's energy and industrial policies, highlighting issues with CO₂ emissions trading, offshore wind energy, and potential technological dependence on China.
- 91 The text explains how airlines allocate seats based on ticket class, availability, and frequent flyer status, with options for passengers to choose seats during booking or check-in, sometimes for an extra fee.
- 75 Ice cream makers, Christmas lights manufacturers, and German landlords may receive extra EU protection from cyber attacks under the NIS2 Directive, which was passed in 2022. Governments were supposed to have legislation by late 2024, but France and Spain have not passed corresponding laws, and company registrations are slow in Germany.
- 78 A Professional sleeper is paid to sleep, often for scientific research or product evaluation. As of Aug 2, 2022, their average annual salary in the United States is $59,998, which is about $28.85 per hour.
- 91 Michael Jordan received more money from Nike than all the workers in the company's factories in Malaysia.
- 91 Mercedes’ logo symbolizes its mission to facilitate transportation on land, water, and air.
- 67 The video discusses John Hanke's involvement with Pokémon Go, funding from In-Q-Tel, and the game's impact, including its use for 3D mapping and its rapid success and controversies.
- 59 The Chinese cigarette brand Peony released a holographic cigarette pack featuring Karl Marx, with health warnings in Chinese.
- 56 The text states that assembling a Rolls-Royce takes six months, while assembling a Toyota takes 13 hours.
- 89 Stuttgart faces a financial crisis due to a sharp decline in tax revenues, primarily from the automotive industry, affecting jobs and municipal budgets.
- 71 The text states that there is no daily routine at Google, and employees start and finish work as they see fit.
- 56 The text questions whether Walmart has a promotion called Walmart swag.
- 77 The video discusses the widespread use of Meta's apps, issues with Instagram's algorithm recommending explicit content, and the presence of illegal ads featuring child sexual abuse material. It highlights India's cyber police efforts and concerns about Meta's algorithm control.
- 41 The website discusses the Telegram channel @eMagzinewspars, highlighting its subscriber count, advertising opportunities, and content offerings from various newspapers and magazines.
- 28 The text claims that Walmart offers a Tough Shed for $49.
- 70 Porsche SE reported a €2.2 billion net loss in early 2026, and Daimler Truck saw a 48% profit drop in the second quarter compared to last year.
- 54 The European aviation industry is in crisis due to the Middle East conflict, with Wizz Air reporting a 198 million euro loss. The airline operates 207 Airbus A320s, employs over 8,200 staff, and covers 190 airports in 54 countries.
- 20 The text questions the legitimacy of Costco's $59 Tough Shed offer.
- 56 Cockroach milk is claimed to be three times healthier than cow's milk, highly nutritious, containing all necessary amino acids, environmentally friendly, and potentially available in stores.
- 64 Germany has nearly 3 million unemployed people, with 15,000 layoffs in industry monthly. The defence industry is projected to grow until 2035. KNDS hired 100 managers in 2025. Rheinmetall plans 5,000 jobs in 2026, Hensoldt 1,600. Applicants from certain countries are not considered. Team leaders earn €120,000, senior leaders €140,000–€180,000.
- 90 Tukaram Munde has been transferred 25 times in his career. The license of Rustom ice cream parlor in Mumbai was suspended. There is no category called energy drink in India. Synthetic and chemical milk production is occurring. India has 22 types of food standards regulations.
- 52 The text describes a trading success story where capital grew from $150 to $15,000 in four weeks, mentions a unique trading method, free trading signals, and a new challenge to grow $70 to $7,000 in two weeks.
- 92 Nokia's initial products included paper and galoshes.
- 86 In 1936, Christian Troelstrup covered his store with coats to attract buyers.
- 88 LEGO gifted employees with 25 years of service a 14-carat gold 2x4 brick.
- 94 Salvador Dalí designed the logo for the Chupa Chups lollipop brand.
- 70 BASF has reduced its workforce to its lowest level since 1954, cutting more jobs in early 2026 than in the previous two years combined, with a total reduction of 7,000 employees since January 2024. The headcount is now below 30,000 employees, and German labor laws require substantial severance payments.
- 82 European imports of Russian LNG reached a multi-year high in early 2026, with France, Belgium, and Spain as major buyers. TotalEnergies holds a 20% stake in Yamal LNG, and new EU rules will soon restrict long-term contracts for Russian gas.
- 50 A strike has started at the Haribo factory in Bonn, Germany, demanding a 5.8% wage increase. Haribo offered a 2% increase and a 156 euro allowance. Confectionery production has decreased by 3.9%.
- 93 India successfully launched its first private-sector orbital rocket Vikram-1, marking a milestone in its space ambitions. The rocket was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, deploying payloads into a 450km orbit. Skyroot Aerospace, the company behind Vikram-1, became the first Indian space-sector company to reach a $1bn valuation.
- 47 Wednesday is suggested as the best day to ask for a pay raise at work.
- 50 Volkswagen faces issues due to Middle East tensions, with Qatar opposing a deal involving the Osnabrück plant and Israel considering India for production lines.
- 50 The text discusses the economic crisis in Germany, highlighting the high number of bankruptcies, the closure of several businesses, and the impact on employment.
- 81 The website reports that Connecticut has been selected for an NSF award to boost quantum technology innovation, with QuantumCT receiving initial funding of $15 million. Quantum technology industries are projected to grow significantly, and Connecticut companies are already supporting numerous jobs in this sector.
- 79 The website reports that Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina will resume management of the State Health Plan in 2028, potentially saving $1 billion over three years. The switch from Aetna, which led to legal battles, involves changes like premium hikes and a new provider system.
- 68 The website reports on the sentencing of a former Oglala Sioux Tribe employee for a $4.7 million fraud scheme involving the Tribal Employment Rights Office.
- 44 Industry experts suggest Volkswagen employees work more hours, possibly for free, to compete with China. Škoda can produce competitive electric cars. VW employees seek explanations for factory closures and layoffs.
- 77 Leading companies in Germany have lost over €58 billion in share value since last October. Rheinmetall's share value declined by almost 50%, and KNDS canceled its stock exchange listing. Rheinmetall's purchase portfolio is eight times its revenue, and the F126 frigate project cancellation had a devastating effect. Quantum Systems raised $1 billion, and Helsing raised $1.8 billion, increasing its valuation to $18 billion.
- 46 Volkswagen plans to discontinue 10 models, including the Jetta, Porsche Taycan, and Skoda Fabia, to save approximately $7.4 billion.
- 82 The Eichbaum brewery in Mannheim is closing after nearly 350 years, resulting in about 240 job losses. Founded in 1679, the brewery sold the Karamalz brand to Veltins but could not avoid closure due to declining exports and beer consumption. Eichbaum exported to over 60 countries.
- 84 BYD is building a car factory in Hungary, starting production in 2026, and expanding in Germany. Concerns about labor conditions have been raised.
- 72 American Airlines saved $40,000 annually in 1987 by removing one olive from each first-class salad, reportedly without affecting passenger experience.
- 93 MTY Food Group plans to close 68 underperforming restaurants, including 45 to 50 Papa Murphy's locations, due to a $10 million loss over the past year. The company's net income and revenue have decreased significantly.
- 92 The website reports that MTY Group plans to close 68 corporate locations, including up to 50 Papa Murphy’s stores, due to financial losses. Papa Murphy’s locations have decreased to about 1,000 stores. MTY acquired Papa Murphy’s for $190 million in 2019.
- 94 Brookfield has been approved as the lead bidder for GoldenPeaks in a bankruptcy sale.
- 92 GoldenPeaks Poland filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy with significant debt, operated 664 megawatts of solar power, and faced challenges due to Spectris Energy's collapse and grid restrictions.
- 91 The website reports that a leading energy company has filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy.
- 92 The website reports on various topics including the likely cause of Lindsey Graham's death, international rulings on the South China Sea, a penalty for the Keystone Pipeline, McConnell's hospitalization, and Volkswagen's cost-cutting measures.
- 70 Lazareth has introduced a flying motorcycle with jet turbines in each wheel, priced at $560,876.
- 81 The website reports on various new AI tools and services in the accounting industry, including Puzzle's AI Suite, MyCPE One's CPE Wallet, Sam's List Concierge Launch, AuditFile E-Signatures, and Expensify's expanded Concierge AI capabilities.
- 92 SilverBlue and NAFIN have partnered to provide financing for leasing companies, with NAFIN offering significant funding. SilverBlue is also investing in renewable energy projects and has acquired Solage to enhance its capabilities in this sector.
- 93 A new Costco is planned in the Triangle and changes are planned for Crabtree Mall.
- 79 Massachusetts has improved its position in CNBC's business ranking, leading in education and business in New England, with significant GDP growth and job additions.
- 71 The website discusses the controversy in Green River over the proposal to install automated license plate readers, highlighting privacy concerns, potential data misuse by Motorola, and the effectiveness of the technology.
- 58 More than 1,200 job cuts are looming at Xbox, with uncertainty about timing and impact.
- 32 The text states that only two people know the Coca-Cola recipe, they cannot fly together, and if their plane crashes, the recipe would be lost.
- 76 The website reports a lawsuit against Costco for selling Orgain protein powder contaminated with toxic heavy metals, despite marketing it as safe and nutritious.
- 93 Costco is facing a lawsuit related to protein powder.
- 78 The website discusses Italy's plans to expand digital health initiatives, a $2M AI deal by Beamtree for Saudi hospitals, FDA clearance for a remote monitoring system, and Lunit's role in cancer screening at a Saudi hospital.
- 89 Costco is accused of selling protein powder contaminated with heavy metals like lead and arsenic, with claims of consumer protection law violations in six states.
- 80 Deutsche Bahn will invest 50 million euros in a new notification system, including the Kiana AI assistant, to improve communication about train delays and cancellations. The DB Navigator app will update platform changes faster, and 7,000 new information boards will be installed. The Nuremberg-Regensburg line reopening is delayed until July 31.
- 41 Transparent coffee was invented in Slovakia by brothers Adam and David Nady, who keep the recipe secret. The coffee doesn't stain teeth or clothes.
- 81 Oribe's Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo has been recalled due to bacterial concerns, specifically Pluralibacter gergoviae, which poses little risk to healthy individuals but may affect those with weakened immune systems.
- 79 The website discusses Askari, a Georgia Tech startup developing counter-drone defense technology, highlighting its funding, collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense, and its operations within Georgia Tech's ecosystem.
- 94 Oribe shampoo was recalled due to the presence of Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria, affecting certain lots sold in the U.S. and Canada.
- 79 Shampoo sold nationwide by a Cincinnati-based company was recalled due to potential contamination with Pluralibacter gergoviae. The bacteria poses little risk to healthy individuals but may affect those with weakened immune systems. Microsoft plans to cut 4,800 jobs worldwide.
- 67 The German automotive industry faces challenges as Mercedes considers ending the 35-hour workweek, and Volkswagen may close factories and cut jobs. The industry is affected by issues in China and US tariffs.
- 77 Some wineries age their wine underwater, usually in the sea, a process known as 'underwater wine.'
- 52 Mercedes-Benz employees are protesting cost-cutting measures, with 20,000 people participating in Germany. 90,000 employees may lose special payments, and extended working hours without compensation are possible. A car rally is planned as part of the protests.
- 51 Proceeding with planned armament could lead to economic and political collapse. Rheinmetall is expanding into satellites and shipyards, with a history of delays and festive moods at exhibitions.
- 77 M&Ms are named after the businessmen Mars & Murrie's who created them.
- 80 AT&T has received federal approval to end landline service for 184,000 California households, despite state opposition, and plans to start withdrawing service by June 1, 2027.
- 80 Rolife is described as an actual miniature brand.
- 81 Trump announced pardons for individuals convicted of emissions control violations, aligning with his push for the right to repair. Elite Diesel Service was involved in disabling diagnostic systems on trucks, leading to significant environmental impact.
- 69 The Bundeswehr is launching a YouTube series to attract recruits amid a personnel shortage. The series aims to appeal to young people by showing military life and will be available on multiple platforms. There is a debate about conscription in Germany.
- 62 Kraken Robotics has completed its acquisition of Covelya Group Limited for approximately $615 million, aiming to enhance its market presence and technical capabilities. The acquisition is expected to generate significant cost synergies and improve financial metrics.
- 80 UC San Diego Health and Palomar Health have formed a system.
- 36 German businesses are expected to lose profits due to the national team's World Cup defeat. Expected sales in Bavaria drop from 400 million to 300 million euros. Retailers anticipated no consumer boom, ordering fewer T-shirts, and facing missed opportunities in fan merchandise sales.
- 80 Jack Daniels employees receive a free bottle of whiskey with their paychecks on the first Friday of every month.
- 50 Alice Weidel, leader of the AfD, suggests Germany should end its boycott of Russian oil and gas to boost the economy. She claims AfD can win upcoming state elections, aiming for national leadership. Weidel supports a return to cheap Russian energy, citing job losses and high U.S. energy costs. Before sanctions in 2022, Russia provided significant oil and gas imports to Germany. Volkswagen may cut up to 100,000 jobs due to high energy costs.
- 50 The text advertises CBTF7, claiming it is India's first and oldest brand, offering sports predictions and live casino games from top providers, powered by a leading gaming brand.
- 50 German politicians are concerned about EU automotive regulations affecting jobs and call for technological openness beyond electric cars. They oppose mandatory electric vehicle shares in fleets, viewing it as undue interference.
- 50 Shares of Rheinmetall fell sharply after Germany rejected the F126 frigate project, resulting in an 18.7% loss. Germany plans to buy eight Meko A-200 ships from TKMS instead. Rheinmetall's stock has been declining since its peak in 2025.
- 50 Volkswagen is considering cutting up to 100 thousand jobs over several years. Currently, the company employs about 657 thousand people. The planned cuts are double the previous target. Four factories in Germany may be at risk of shutting down production, and Volkswagen may separate its main brand and components division into separate companies.
- 79 It cost the company $0 to create the Coca-Cola logo, and it was created by their accountant.
- 55 The current arms policy in Germany might lead to economic and political collapse. There are concerns about Germany's largest rearmament spending, Rheinmetall's expansion, and significant investments in arms.
- 77 The website reports on a federal judge barring Trump from requiring proof of citizenship to vote, earthquakes in Venezuela causing damage, Ukraine's strikes on Russian facilities, charges against a former NYC mayor's chief of staff, and Camp Mystic's bankruptcy after Texas floods.
- 27 The text reports that European tech companies want to engage with Ursula von der Leyen to change EU policies. They believe that regulation hinders competition with the US and China and claim the European market is not fully formed. The Airbus CEO warns that the current political approach may not enhance Europe's competitiveness.
- 68 Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital has been certified as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission, which developed the program with the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. The hospital joined Vanderbilt Health in 2021 and has received numerous accreditations.
- 55 Alternative for Germany wants to abolish the foreign aid ministry, using a fraud scandal at GIZ as justification. The scandal involves 24 dismissed employees in Yemen over irregularities, with estimated damages of tens of millions of euros. Chancellor Merz’s party considered abolishing the ministry in 2025, but it is opposed by coalition partners. An AfD motion to abolish the ministry is expected to be rejected in parliament.
- 68 The text mentions that advertising can be placed via Telega․io in just a few minutes, and it offers various formats and rates.
- 86 The website reports that Lantern and Marathon Health have partnered to integrate primary and specialty care for employers.
- 49 The text discusses an internal survey at Volkswagen revealing concerns about the group's critical location, risk to existence, and tense situation.
- 41 France might exit the joint tank project with Germany due to concerns over political support and budget cuts.
- 43 Germany is facing labor shortages and layoffs, potentially lacking 4.3 million workers by 2036 due to aging population, stricter migration, and economic issues. Volkswagen, Bosch, and BASF are reducing jobs.
- 81 West Marine filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, plans to close 59 stores, and cited supply chain issues and consumer behavior shifts as reasons. The company secured lender agreements for restructuring, and new boat sales dropped 8.8% in 2025.
- 72 The website reports that Elon Musk became the first trillionaire after SpaceX's IPO, which raised $75 billion and valued the company at $2.1 trillion. Despite losses, SpaceX aims for ambitious space projects, while its AI business xAI lacks a clear path to profitability.
- 73 The Texas Organization of Rural and Community Hospital’s Clinically Integrated Network plans to end contracts with UnitedHealthcare due to unsustainable reimbursement rates, risking the financial survival of rural health systems.
- 83 The website reports an active shooting in Midland, Texas, with Midland Memorial Hospital on lockdown and several gunshot patients received. Traffic in the area is affected, and Prime Day 2026 is scheduled for June 23-26.
- 54 Perlon, a German plastic fiber company, went bankrupt last summer. It had 850 employees and a €150 million turnover but faced reduced demand. Chinese company Wuxi Yinda Nylon signed a purchase agreement, planning to retain 450 of 510 jobs, along with the Perlon brand and three factories in Germany.
