World's oldest ruler re-elected in Cameroon, protests erupt

As the government shutdown stretches into its 27th day, nearly 7,000 flights in the US have been delayed, causing significant disruptions for travelers. This situation highlights the broader impact of political gridlock on everyday life, as many people are left stranded or facing uncertainty in their travel plans. The ongoing shutdown not only affects air travel but also raises concerns about the efficiency of government services, making it a critical issue for both citizens and the economy.

The looming government shutdown poses a significant threat to SNAP and other antipoverty programs, potentially leaving millions of families without essential support. This situation is critical as it highlights the ongoing struggle for funding and resources that many low-income households rely on. If the shutdown occurs, it could disrupt food assistance and other vital services, exacerbating poverty and food insecurity across the nation.

South Korea's economy showed strong growth in the third quarter, with a 1.2% increase in gross domestic product from the previous quarter. This growth is largely attributed to effective government stimulus measures and the resilience of exports, even in the face of tariff challenges. This positive economic trend is significant as it reflects the country's ability to adapt and thrive despite external pressures, which could bolster investor confidence and support further economic stability.

The government is taking action to address concerns from drivers who feel blinded by the glare of brighter headlights at night. This review of vehicle design is important as it aims to enhance road safety and improve the driving experience for everyone. By tackling this issue, authorities hope to find a balance between effective lighting and minimizing discomfort for drivers, ultimately making nighttime driving safer.

Australia's bond market is experiencing a surge in sales, with projections indicating record issuance this year. The government's rare AAA ratings are significantly enhancing the market's appeal, attracting investors looking for stability. This trend is important as it reflects confidence in Australia's economic management and could lead to increased funding for public projects, ultimately benefiting the economy.

Malta's government has announced a new tax cut initiative aimed at supporting parents and encouraging higher birth rates in the country. This move is significant as Malta faces declining native birth rates, which could impact its future workforce and economy. By easing the financial burden on families, the government hopes to create a more favorable environment for raising children, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable population growth.

Moody's Ratings has given a positive outlook on Johannesburg's finances, which is significant given the city's ongoing political challenges and concerns over mismanagement. This vote of confidence suggests that despite the political dysfunction and threats from the national government regarding funding, Johannesburg's economic potential remains strong. It highlights the resilience of the city as it navigates through its issues, making it an important case study for other urban centers facing similar challenges.

India's government has expressed optimism about the country's economic growth, highlighting a strong outlook despite ongoing trade tensions with the US. The diversification of trade partnerships is seen as a key factor in maintaining resilience against tariffs. This matters because a robust economy can lead to increased investment, job creation, and overall stability in the region.

Former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has joined the International Advisory Board of AI company Rohirrim, marking a significant step in his involvement with artificial intelligence. In a conversation with Rohirrim CEO Stephen Aberle on Bloomberg, Turnbull discussed his new role and the company's vision to transform Australia's procurement processes through AI. This development is important as it highlights the growing influence of AI in government and business, potentially leading to more efficient practices in Australia.

HSBC reported a 14% drop in third-quarter profits, primarily due to legal charges that impacted its financial performance. Despite this setback, the bank has raised its income outlook, indicating a potential recovery and resilience in its operations. This news is significant as it highlights the challenges faced by major financial institutions while also showcasing their ability to adapt and forecast future earnings.

In recent discussions, Bessent emphasized the importance of maintaining a 'sound' monetary policy in Japan. This is significant as it highlights the ongoing efforts to stabilize the economy and ensure sustainable growth. By focusing on sound monetary practices, Japan aims to navigate economic challenges effectively and foster a more resilient financial environment.

Indonesia's central government has announced a new policy allowing it to lend directly to local authorities and state companies. This move is significant as it aims to enhance financial support for regional development projects and improve infrastructure. By facilitating access to funds, the government hopes to stimulate economic growth and empower local entities to address their specific needs more effectively.

HSBC reported a significant decline in its quarterly profit, dropping 21% to $4.87 billion, largely due to a $1.1 billion hit from the Madoff lawsuit. This decline highlights the ongoing financial repercussions of past scandals and raises concerns about the bank's future performance. Investors and analysts will be closely watching how HSBC navigates these challenges moving forward.

HSBC reported a significant 21% drop in net profit for the third quarter, falling to $4.87 billion, largely due to a $1.1 billion hit from the Madoff lawsuit. This decline highlights the ongoing financial repercussions of past scandals and raises concerns about the bank's future performance. Investors and analysts will be closely watching how HSBC navigates these challenges moving forward.