Is the UK economy really as bad as we think it is? Here is the truth of the matter | Jonathan Swarbrick

The Guardian's picture editors have curated a selection of photographs from around the world, showcasing significant events such as air strikes, parades, and even underwater chess, reflecting a diverse array of human experiences and cultural expressions. This collection highlights the power of visual storytelling in capturing the complexities of contemporary life.

The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has announced that it will not investigate Chancellor Rachel Reeves or the Treasury regarding pre-budget briefings, despite allegations from the Conservative Party suggesting potential market manipulation. The FCA's decision leaves open the possibility for future inquiries if necessary.

Lord Evans of Watford has been suspended from the House of Lords for five months after being found guilty of breaching lobbying rules, with allegations emerging that he received at least $1 million from a corrupt deal. This suspension follows undercover reporting by the Guardian that revealed multiple violations of parliamentary conduct.

A recent UBS report reveals that a record number of individuals have become billionaires through inheritance, with 91 people reaching this status due to bequests. The total number of billionaires globally has surged from 2,682 in 2024 to 9,919 this year.

Five families from different parts of the world, including Kenya and Nepal, are sharing their experiences in combating the rising consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) among children. This issue is particularly alarming as UPFs now constitute a significant portion of diets globally, especially in the UK and US, where they make up over half of the average diet.

A report from the Transition Security Project highlights that the US is allocating billions to stockpile critical minerals for military applications, including advanced weaponry and AI-driven warfare. This diversion of essential resources is occurring amidst a global arms race, which is impeding efforts to address climate change as these minerals are vital for sustainable technologies like solar panels and electric vehicles.

In March 2018, a novichok poisoning incident in Salisbury targeted former Russian spy Sergei Skripal, leading to his recovery but resulting in the death of innocent British citizen Dawn Sturgess. An inquiry has been conducted to investigate the attack, the response of emergency services, and the broader implications of this international incident.

Joe Root achieved his 40th Test century, and notably his first in Australia, during the second Test at the Gabba, contributing to England's score of 325-9 despite Mitchell Starc's impressive bowling performance of 6-71.