‘£850 to skip the queue’: how scammers are exploiting driving test delays

A private home project in Singapore has nearly sold out in its first weekend, highlighting the city's robust residential market despite ongoing government cooling measures. This surge in demand reflects the resilience of Singapore's property sector, making it an exciting time for both buyers and investors.

French Prime Minister has called for an end to what he describes as a 'ridiculous spectacle' as the deadline for the national budget approaches. This statement highlights the urgency and seriousness of the budget discussions, which are crucial for the country's economic stability. With the government facing pressure from various factions within parliament, the Prime Minister's remarks aim to refocus efforts on reaching a consensus that will benefit the economy and avoid potential financial turmoil.

The recent layoffs linked to Trump have intensified the Democrats' resolve against a government shutdown, as highlighted by Senator Patty Murray's passionate remarks. She emphasized the need for compromise to reopen the government, reflecting a growing frustration with the current political climate. This situation is significant as it showcases the deepening divide in Washington and the challenges ahead in reaching bipartisan agreements.

The recent government shutdown poses a significant threat to Washington D.C.'s $11 billion tourism industry, especially as fall is a peak season for conferences and business travel. With many events likely to be affected, local businesses and the economy could face serious repercussions. This situation highlights the interconnectedness of government operations and the local economy, making it a critical issue for residents and stakeholders alike.

The French Prime Minister is currently facing a significant budget challenge as the government prepares for upcoming financial decisions. This situation is crucial as it could impact the country's economic stability and public services. The Prime Minister's ability to navigate this challenge will be closely watched, as it may influence future policies and the government's overall approval ratings.

The Trump administration has begun the process of firing workers who were laid off due to the ongoing government shutdown, intensifying the conflict between Democratic and Republican lawmakers over funding. This situation is significant as it not only affects thousands of employees but also highlights the deepening divide in Congress, making it clear that the stakes are high in the battle for government funding.

In a significant move, the Wall Street regulator has streamlined the process for initial public offerings (IPOs) amid the ongoing government shutdown. This decision is crucial as it allows companies to access capital markets more easily during uncertain times, potentially boosting economic activity and investor confidence. By easing the IPO path, the regulator aims to support businesses looking to go public, which can lead to job creation and innovation.

As the government shutdown stretches into its 10th day, federal worker reductions have begun, impacting thousands of employees and their families. This situation not only affects the livelihoods of those workers but also has broader implications for the economy and public services. With Congress still at an impasse, the uncertainty continues to grow, raising concerns about the long-term effects of the shutdown on government operations and the economy as a whole.

Brazil has introduced an innovative housing credit model that will unlock $6.7 billion for new loans, aiming to boost the housing market and support families in need of affordable housing. This initiative is significant as it not only addresses the housing shortage but also stimulates economic growth by increasing access to financing for homebuyers.

As the government shutdown enters its tenth day, betting odds suggest it could last up to 28 days, yet consumers remain largely unconcerned. This situation highlights the ongoing political stalemate between Democrats and Republicans, who have yet to agree on a funding deal. While the shutdown affects various government services, the public's current indifference may indicate a belief that a resolution will come soon.

Malaysia is gearing up to invest a substantial $111 billion in its 2026 budget, aiming to enhance its tax collection efforts. This ambitious financial plan is expected to stimulate economic growth and improve public services, reflecting the government's commitment to strengthening the nation's fiscal health. Such investments are crucial as they can lead to job creation and infrastructure development, ultimately benefiting the citizens.

Despite concerns over a potential government shutdown affecting air travel, Delta and United Airlines stocks have shown resilience. This is significant as it reflects investor confidence in these airlines' ability to navigate challenges and maintain operations, even in uncertain times. The performance of these stocks could indicate broader trends in the aviation industry and its recovery post-pandemic.

Recent discussions suggest that China may soon gain access to advanced U.S. semiconductor technology. This development is significant as it could reshape the global tech landscape, impacting everything from manufacturing to international trade relations. As both nations navigate their complex relationship, the implications of such a shift could be far-reaching, influencing market dynamics and technological advancements.

Keli Goff is making waves in the fashion world by ensuring that the contributions of Black designers like Stephen Burrows and Patrick Kelly are recognized and preserved. Their designs are now part of the V&A costume collections for the first time, highlighting the importance of diversity in fashion history. This initiative not only honors these talented designers but also inspires future generations to appreciate and celebrate Black creativity in the industry.

The potential for a renewed trade war between China and the United States is casting a shadow over the impressive gains seen in Chinese stock markets this year. Investors are concerned that escalating tensions could lead to economic instability, which would not only affect stock prices but also put pressure on the yuan. This situation is significant as it highlights the fragility of market confidence and the interconnectedness of global economies.

Taiwan is currently evaluating the effects of China's recent restrictions on rare earth exports, which are crucial for the chip industry. This assessment is significant as it could influence Taiwan's semiconductor production and its position in the global tech market. Understanding these impacts will help Taiwan strategize its response and maintain its competitive edge.

The rise of AI agentic commerce is reshaping the business landscape, offering new opportunities for efficiency and innovation. However, this shift also raises concerns about job displacement and the widening gap between tech-savvy companies and those that struggle to adapt. Understanding who stands to gain and who may be left behind is crucial as we navigate this evolving market.

An Adobe executive has expressed a positive outlook on candidates who utilize AI in their job applications, viewing them as the innovators shaping the future. This perspective contrasts with many CEOs who consider AI use in hiring tests as cheating. By embracing AI-savvy applicants, Adobe aims to attract forward-thinking talent that can drive the company and the industry forward.