Tax Rises, Pensions and Property: What to Watch in the UK Budget

Abbott Laboratories has agreed to acquire Exact Sciences Corp., a cancer-screening company, for approximately $21 billion. The deal involves a cash payment of $105 per common share, representing a 51% premium over Exact Sciences' closing price prior to the announcement. This acquisition marks the largest healthcare deal in two years.

Verizon Communications Inc. announced significant layoffs that will reduce its non-union workforce by up to 20%. This decision is part of a turnaround strategy led by new CEO Dan Schulman, with plans to cut more than 13,000 jobs. The announcement was communicated through an internal message to employees, which was reviewed by Bloomberg News.

The rising salaries of college athletes in the US are raising concerns among investors in higher-education municipal debt. This comes five months after a settlement was approved that permits top sports colleges to compensate their student-athletes, leading to potential financial implications for university athletic budgets.

Italy’s Juventus Football Club SpA has initiated a stock sale to raise additional funds. This move aims to bolster the club's financial position amid ongoing market challenges.

Walmart Inc. has raised its full-year sales and profit outlook, indicating that the world's largest retailer is successfully attracting price-sensitive customers while managing rising costs. The company now anticipates net sales growth of 4.8% to 5.1%, surpassing its previous forecast from August. This marks the second upward revision of its outlook during the fiscal year.

Brazil's Central Bank received warnings for years regarding the risks associated with Banco Master SA, which was liquidated this week amid fraud allegations. The bank's rapid expansion and opaque asset holdings raised significant concerns about its financial practices.

Mortgage rates in the US have risen for the third consecutive week, reaching 6.26%. This increase is further straining affordability for potential homebuyers, complicating the already challenging housing market.

Mexico's sluggish economy is expected to ease inflationary pressures in the coming months, as indicated by the central bank's latest rate decision minutes. Most board members believe that the current economic conditions will help stabilize prices, despite ongoing trade uncertainties.