Calls to Australia’s National Debt Helpline rose nearly 12 per cent in the year to August, with about 15,000 linked directly to debt collection. The ABC reports that advisers recommend checking whether a debt is valid, negotiating affordable repayments and using complaints processes when collectors act improperly.
The US Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 25 basis points, citing persistently high inflation, according to DW. The move could draw criticism from President Donald Trump, who has called for lower rates.
A liter mug of beer at Munich’s Oktoberfest will cost an average of €15.61 this year, according to DW. UniCredit economist Andreas Rees found prices have increased about 400% since 1985, compared with roughly 120% growth in German consumer prices, although this year’s rise is 2.4%.
Saudi Arabia has not commented on reports that crude shipments to some European refiners were cancelled or delayed after drone strikes prompted a precautionary shutdown of its East-West pipeline. Argus reported that at least three refiners faced postponed cargoes, while the overall impact remained unclear.
Fuel prices in Germany have surged, with motorists facing sharp increases and limited alternatives in rural areas. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has promised action, but coalition partners remain divided over tax relief, direct payments, price caps and a possible excess-profits tax.
Economists expect UK consumer-price inflation to increase to about 3.1% in August, from 2.9% in July, putting it further above the Bank of England’s 2% target. Higher fuel prices are cited as a key driver, while Pantheon Macroeconomics says increased electronics costs linked to chip shortages could also contribute.
Fortescue has appealed a Federal Court order to pay $150.3 million to Yindjibarndi traditional owners over damage linked to four iron-ore mines in Western Australia. The Yindjibarndi body and WA government have also filed appeals, challenging different aspects of the judgment; no hearing date has been set.
The Spirit of Tasmania booking website experienced loading problems and errors after tickets for the new Spirits IV and V went on sale. The release included more capacity, pet-friendly cabins and previously sold-out sailings, while the operator says the new ferries will carry more passengers and caravans.
Turkey’s government says the longstanding practice of keeping gold at home is harming the economy. The tradition reflects mistrust of banks and a desire to save against difficult times, according to NPR’s supplied excerpt.
South Australia’s decision to permanently close Whyalla’s blast furnace will eliminate more than 600 jobs and leave the city waiting for a new steelmaking industry. The government says nearly $3 billion in public funds are supporting a long-term transition, but locals are questioning when the promised investment will produce results.
The US national debt has surpassed $40 trillion as investors question the sustainability of Washington’s borrowing. DW reports that higher Treasury yields, potential shifts by major bondholders and competition from corporate debt are increasing pressure on the government, although economists say investors still have few alternatives to US markets.
More than 1,100 women invested in ventures including the Royal African Company and the South Sea Company, according to research reported by The Guardian. The findings show women financed, traded and supported the companies, using returns to build financial independence and support their families.
Former Australia Test opener Ed Cowan says the Big Bash League should not rush into privatisation to compete with other T20 competitions. Speaking to the ABC Cricket Podcast, he said concerns about players leaving for rival leagues were premature and warned private investment could become difficult to control.
UK payroll employment fell by 26,000 in August and was down 145,000 year on year, while total pay growth slowed to 3.9% in May to July. Analysts said that rate could determine next year’s state pension rise under the triple lock, subject to September inflation data and government policy.
The state pension is likely to increase by 3.9% next April, according to the latest jobs and pay data cited by the BBC. The annual rise will be determined by the triple lock, which uses the highest of wage growth, inflation or 2.5%.
Australia has suspended fresh pomelo imports from Vietnam for six months after detecting pest and disease symptoms on imported consignments. Citrus Australia welcomed the pause, while growers warned that an exotic incursion could threaten the wider citrus industry.
The closure of Whyalla’s blast furnace will cost about 600 direct and labour-hire jobs, while the future of 200 embedded contractors remains uncertain. ABC News reports that replacing the furnace with an electric arc facility could take two to four years, with two bidders still seeking to acquire the steelworks.
Aliko Dangote has launched an offering intended to raise $1.6 billion from retail investors, valuing his Nigerian refinery at about $49 billion. The sale has attracted strong interest but also criticism over the valuation and Dangote’s plan to retain an 87% stake.
Cash incentives are helping some US workers move from expensive cities to smaller communities, where housing and household costs can be lower. BBC News reports that recipients have gained financial security but also faced fewer amenities, car dependence and the challenge of leaving friends and family.
Turkish Airlines has permanently removed Luanda from its schedule, joining other carriers that have reduced or ended service to Angola’s capital. Euronews reports that the new Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport handled 756,028 passengers in 2025, well below its annual capacity of 15 million.
Pubs and restaurants in Scotland are reportedly losing business as the use of weight-loss drugs increases, according to a report cited by Sky News. The supplied material provides no further details about the report’s findings or the scale of the impact.
Dangote Industries plans to raise about $1.6 billion through a public offering to fund a $14.3 billion expansion of its Nigerian refinery. DW reports that the low share price may attract ordinary Nigerians, but widespread poverty and inflation could limit participation.
Dangote Industries plans to raise about $1.6 billion through an initial public offering to help finance a $14.3 billion expansion of its Nigerian refinery. Analysts say public ownership could reduce reliance on dollar debt, but poverty, inflation and the cyclical nature of refining may limit ordinary Nigerians’ ability to participate.
Petrol and diesel prices have risen to their highest levels since 2022, according to the RAC. The increase comes as oil prices remain elevated, raising the cost of filling vehicles.
Companies in Japan are helping employees leave their jobs by handling resignation procedures, sometimes completing the process within 15 minutes. Young workers are described as particularly interested in using these services.
Owners of car dealerships, law firms, dental practices and restaurant chains collectively control substantial wealth, according to NPR. The group may exceed the Forbes 400 in aggregate assets and also exercise significant political influence.
AI-related stocks declined after executives called for a slower pace of development. The anticipated valuation of private company OpenAI also fell in IG’s pre-IPO market, dropping from about $1.64 trillion to $1.57 trillion.
Amazon has paused operations with cargo carrier 21 Air after one of the company’s jets overshot a runway at Miami International Airport and struck several vehicles. The crash was fatal, according to the report.
The United States is hosting G20 energy meetings in Houston, with major economies and oil producers expected to attend. The talks come as the conflict between the United States and Iran disrupts global fuel markets, while Washington promotes an “energy abundance” agenda.