Country news

New Caledonia: parliament approves postponement of provincial elections

2025년 10월 29일 Jean Martin

The French Parliament has approved the postponement of provincial elections in New Caledonia, originally set for November, to June 28, 2026 at the latest. This decision, passed by the National Assembly on October 28 and the Senate on October 29, represents a first step toward resuming debates on a sensitive institutional reform. It comes amid the May 2024 violence and the fragile Bougival agreement, rejected by independentists.

Fed cuts rates for second straight time to 3.75-4 percent

The US Federal Reserve cut its interest rate for the second consecutive time, lowering it by a quarter percentage point to a 3.75-4 percent range, to support a cooling labor market. The decision, approved 10-2, comes amid moderate economic growth and somewhat elevated inflation. Officials also announced they will stop shrinking their asset portfolio starting December 1.

High Court rules women must return dowry after divorce

A Kenyan High Court has ruled that women must return dowry payments in customary marriages upon divorce, reigniting debates on tradition and equality. The decision in the case of CKN Vs DMO emphasizes the symbolic role of dowry in dissolving unions. This precedent could reshape how divorce cases handle cultural practices.

Industry warns of cost shock from rising rail track prices

The German industry is sounding the alarm over new costs from increases in rail track prices for freight transport. Starting in 2026, these prices are set to rise by 7.5 percent, causing millions in additional expenses for companies like BASF. Critics fear offshoring and higher emissions from a shift to trucks.

Simón Levy reports assassination attempt in Washington and denies Portugal detention

2025년 10월 29일 Juan Pérez

Businessman and former tourism undersecretary Simón Levy recounted an alleged assassination attempt on his life in Washington, D.C., from which he escaped unharmed in a bulletproof vehicle. Meanwhile, Mexico City's prosecutor's office confirmed his detention in Portugal due to two active arrest warrants. Levy rejected the official account and accused Morena-linked individuals of threats.

South Africa ends load shedding and boosts rail services

South Africa has seen significant improvements in electricity supply and rail transport under the national coalition government formed in June 2024. Load shedding has ended, easing economic pressures, while Transnet's enhancements have increased mining sales. These changes reflect the ANC's shift toward private sector involvement in key services.

Kaiser promises to close border with Bolivia and warns La Paz

Johannes Kaiser, the presidential candidate of the Partido Nacional Libertario, promised to close the border with Bolivia at a campaign event in Osorno. He stressed drastic measures against what he called humiliations by the neighboring country, including a warning about renaming its capital. The statements are part of his security plan for the 2025 elections.

Simón Levy denies detention in Portugal and reports assassination attempt in Washington

Businessman and former official Simón Levy denied being detained in Portugal by Interpol and revealed he was the victim of an assassination attempt against him in Washington, United States. He accused Morena members of death threats due to his criticisms of former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. He claimed the arrest warrants against him are false and part of a smokescreen.

Reasons the US dollar stays below $4,000 pesos in Colombia

2025년 10월 29일 Carlos Ramírez

The US dollar has completed eight weeks without exceeding $4,000 pesos in Colombia, driven by global and local factors like the Federal Reserve's rate cut and increased dollar inflows. Analysts point to the DXY index's weakness and government operations strengthening the peso. This stability benefits imports and travel to the United States.

Zé Felipe modifies tattoo honoring Virginia

2025년 10월 29일 João Silva

Singer Zé Felipe altered a neck tattoo honoring his ex-wife, Virginia Fonseca, changing the initials 'Vi' to 'Vida'. The modification followed Virginia's public relationship with player Vini Jr. and was revealed on social media alongside his current girlfriend, Ana Castela. Fans speculated on the influence of her new romance.