Tax authorities examine finances of key Nigel Farage ally

Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, is facing criticism as its Kent council plans to raise council tax despite earlier promises to cut costs. This decision comes after a cabinet member revealed that services were already stretched thin, indicating a struggle to maintain essential services. The move raises concerns about the party's ability to manage local governance effectively and the impact on residents who may face higher taxes during challenging economic times.

France is facing new political and market instability following the resignation of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu. His departure has prompted President Emmanuel Macron to urgently seek a stability plan, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the French government. This situation is significant as it could impact economic policies and public confidence in leadership during a critical time.

Ecopetrol is moving forward with plans to establish a new liquefied natural gas import terminal at a Colombian port, addressing the country's increasing fuel shortfall. This initiative is significant as it aims to enhance energy security and meet the rising demand for natural gas in Colombia, which is crucial for both residential and industrial use.

In the third quarter, the U.S. warehouse vacancy rate remained stable at an 11-year high, marking a significant shift as it did not increase for the first time in three years. This stability comes amidst rising demand for warehouse space, even as the construction of new facilities continues to decline. This trend is important as it reflects the changing dynamics in the logistics and supply chain sectors, indicating a potential shift in how businesses are managing their storage needs.

Citadel Securities is making strides in the finance sector by partnering with small and mid-tier banks to enhance their trading capabilities in fixed-income securities. President Jim Esposito highlighted this initiative during an appearance on Bloomberg Television, emphasizing the firm's commitment to providing better pricing options for these banks. This move not only strengthens Citadel's position in the market but also supports smaller financial institutions in accessing competitive trading opportunities, which is crucial for their growth and stability.

Argentina's government has been actively selling dollars in the foreign-exchange market for the fifth consecutive day, aiming to stabilize the declining peso. This move is significant as it reflects the government's efforts to manage economic challenges and maintain currency value, which impacts both local businesses and consumers.

Xcel Energy's stock has reached an all-time high of 81.16 USD, marking a significant milestone for the company and its investors. This surge reflects strong performance and investor confidence in the energy sector, highlighting the company's successful strategies and growth potential. Such achievements are crucial as they not only boost shareholder value but also signal a positive outlook for the energy market.