How do you trust a robot you’ve never met?

A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals a troubling trend: private equity takeovers of hospitals are linked to an increase in deaths among Medicare emergency patients. Specifically, the study found that there are seven more deaths per 10,000 patients in private equity hospitals compared to their non-private equity counterparts. This finding raises significant concerns about the impact of profit-driven healthcare models on patient safety and outcomes, highlighting the need for scrutiny in how hospitals are managed under private equity ownership.

Recent reports reveal that tens of thousands of homes insulated under government schemes are facing significant issues with damp and mould, raising concerns about the effectiveness of these multi-billion-pound programmes. This situation is critical as it not only affects the living conditions of many families but also highlights the need for better oversight and quality control in public housing initiatives.

In August, a staggering 56,000 purchase agreements were canceled in the U.S., marking a significant 15.1% of homes that went under contract that month, according to Redfin. This trend highlights the growing hesitation among would-be homebuyers, who are increasingly backing out of deals as they grapple with rising interest rates and economic uncertainty. For sellers, this shift presents a challenging reality as they struggle to adapt to a market that is rapidly changing, making it crucial for both parties to navigate these new dynamics carefully.

In a significant crackdown on alleged scammers, authorities in the US and UK have seized Bitcoin worth $14 billion and frozen assets, including a £100 million office building in London. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat cryptocurrency-related fraud and protect investors, showcasing the commitment of law enforcement to tackle financial crime on a global scale.

In September, China experienced a slight easing of deflationary pressures, although not as significantly as anticipated. This development is important as it reflects Beijing's ongoing efforts to manage excess capacity and stimulate domestic demand, which are crucial for the country's economic stability and growth.

Three supertankers have diverted from Rizhao port in China due to recent US sanctions affecting the terminal, which is crucial for about 10% of the country's oil imports. This shift not only impacts the shipping industry but also raises concerns about China's energy security and its ability to meet domestic demand. The sanctions highlight ongoing tensions between the US and China, making it a significant development in global trade and geopolitics.

Japan's recent government bond sale has shown a remarkable increase in demand, surpassing the 12-month average. This uptick is largely attributed to higher yields that have drawn in investors, signaling confidence in the market despite recent political turmoil. Such strong interest in government bonds is crucial as it reflects investor sentiment and can influence future economic policies.

Coinbase has made a significant investment in the Indian cryptocurrency exchange CoinDCX, which is now valued at $2.45 billion. This move highlights the growing interest and potential of the Indian crypto market, as Coinbase aims to expand its footprint in Asia. The investment not only boosts CoinDCX's resources but also signals confidence in the future of cryptocurrency in India, a country with a rapidly evolving digital economy.

Malaysia is set to engage in discussions regarding sectoral tariffs with the United States during the upcoming ASEAN summit, as reported by state media. This dialogue is significant as it reflects Malaysia's ongoing efforts to strengthen trade relations and address tariff issues that could impact economic growth. The outcome of these discussions may influence future trade policies and partnerships in the region.