Ticketmaster quietly adds new hidden charges to cover crackdown on ‘junk fees,’ report says Months after U.S. regulators banned surprise fees that appear while purchasing tickets, Ticketmaster raised the cost of other fees to “offset the revenue loss,” according to a report. The company had previously vowed to display all-in ticket pricing upfront after a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) ban on so-called “junk fees” took effect in May 2025. While Ticketmaster stopped charging small amounts it tacked on at checkout to comply with the rules, it increased the price of other fees to make up for the loss, documents obtained by The Guardian revealed. In an email to the Findlay Toyota Center in Arizona last year, Ticketmaster stated, “To account for the loss of order processing revenue, we must adjust fees to offset the revenue loss.” The venue had eliminated its $6 order processing fee but raised its service fee by $2 per ticket. The Guardian obtained copies of Ticketmaster’s contracts with 26 venues nationwide, most of which included an order processing fee similar to the one mentioned in the email. However, such fees are no longer allowed under FTC rules. At least eight venues amended their contracts to raise other fees following the all-in pricing rules, according to the report. Grouping an illegal fee with another charge could violate the FTC’s rule against misrepresenting fees, which took effect in May 2025. John Newman, a former economist at the FTC, warned that Ticketmaster may effectively still be charging the fee by disguising it as something else. “That type of behavior can run afoul of the FTC rule,” he said. The Independent has contacted Ticketmaster for comment. In a statement to The Guardian, the company said, “Since May 2025, tickets on Ticketmaster.#ticketmaster #live_nation_entertainment #ftc #the_guardian #findlay_toyota_center
Gen Z Men Embrace 'Boy Kibble' for Quick Nutrition The viral meal trend known as "boy kibble" is gaining popularity among health-conscious Gen Z men. This easy-to-prepare dish typically includes ground beef, rice, and occasionally a vegetable or fat, making it a convenient option for those seeking to fuel their workouts. According to The Guardian, gym enthusiasts praise the meal for its simplicity and nutritional benefits, particularly its combination of carbohydrates and protein. Nutrition experts highlight that while the concept of "boy kibble" represents a modern rebranding of traditional bodybuilding meals, it can be a reasonable choice when balanced with healthy fats and fiber. Jim White, a registered dietitian nutritionist, notes that the meal’s appeal lies in its straightforward preparation, which can be advantageous for individuals, especially those who may struggle with executive function. However, some dietitians caution against overreliance on this meal. Scott Keatley warns that a diet dominated by "boy kibble" could lead to nutrient deficiencies, as it often lacks the variety needed for optimal health. Abbey Sharp adds that repeated consumption of the same meal might trigger disordered eating patterns, particularly for individuals with a history of such issues. Experts recommend diversifying meal options to include alternatives like salmon with rice, Greek yogurt with fruit, or stir-fry with tofu and vegetables. They argue that while "boy kibble" can be part of a healthy diet, it should not be the sole focus. Balancing it with a variety of foods is essential to meet overall nutritional needs.#gen_z #the_guardian #jim_white #scott_keatley #abbey_sharp
