Why can’t I access the homepage without signing in?

I use MSN as my Homepage to make it easy for me to access my email.

I have just been prompted to sign into my email account to access JUST the MSN.com Homepage.

WHY?

I do not want to be signed in to my email account at all times.

When did this go into effect? ......and why????

If I have to have my email accessible to anyone using my computer by having MSN.com as

my homepage, I WILL BE CHANGING MY HOMEPAGE.

Clicks equal money guys.  BAD idea.