Junior Doctors in England Announce Historic Strike During Christmas Period
In a historic move, England’s junior doctors have announced a prolonged strike over the Christmas season, escalating a year-long dispute over pay amid a national cost of living crisis. The British Medical Association (BMA) confirmed the unprecedented action, with strikes planned from December 20 to 23 and January 3 to 9. Despite the government offering a 3.0% average pay rise, junior doctors argue it falls short amid soaring inflation. The decision to strike during the busiest time of the year has raised concerns about its potential impact on NHS services. The move reflects a broader trend of UK workers resorting to industrial action amid economic challenges.
Bank of America Agrees to Pay $250 Million in Refunds and Fines
Bank of America, one of the largest banks in the United States, has agreed to pay over $250 million in refunds and fines following revelations of unethical consumer practices. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) found that the bank systematically overcharged customers, withheld promised bonuses, and opened accounts without customer approval. These actions not only violated banking regulations but also eroded customer trust. The settlement serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in the banking industry. As customers, it is crucial to remain vigilant and informed about banking transactions while advocating for stronger consumer protections.
St. Petersburg Economic Forum Implements Tighter Security Following Drone Threat Concerns
To prioritize the safety of attendees and high-profile guests, organizers of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) have implemented enhanced security measures, including the temporary disruption of mobile web access. The decision comes amid growing concerns over potential drone attacks, especially targeting President Vladimir Putin. As recent incidents have highlighted Russia’s evolving drone threat landscape, security precautions have been significantly heightened, reflecting the need to address these emerging challenges. Such measures aim to ensure a secure environment for participants, underscoring the importance of proactive security protocols in an ever-changing world.
Exclusive: First Quantum warns employees that Panama mine may close if dispute is not settled
First Quantum Minerals Ltd has warned employees it may have to shutter operations in Panama if the government does not allow its copper exports to resume by next week, according to a memo sent to staff and seen by Reuters.
Exclusive: Peru mines on power despite protests, though halt risk looms
Peru’s biggest copper mines have been able to maintain production despite road blockades, attacks and protests that have roiled the Andean nation for over two months and led to warnings of production halts, an analysis showed on Wednesday.
U.S. stops granting export licenses for China’s Huawei – sources
The Biden administration has stopped approving licenses for U.S. companies to export most items to China’s Huawei, according to three people familiar with the matter.
Goldman Sachs to stop making unsecured consumer loans – source
Goldman Sachs Group Inc plans to stop originating unsecured consumer loans, a source familiar with the move told Reuters on Monday, in another sign the bank is stepping back from its consumer business.
Exclusive: Temasek considers sale of Advanced MedTech, likely valued at about $1 bln – sources
Temasek Holdings is exploring selling Advanced MedTech, multiple sources told Reuters on Monday, after the medical devices firm, fully-owned by the Singaporean state investor, received interest from suitors including buyout funds.
UK banks start cutting ‘Truss premium’ from mortgage rates, but slowly
Having hiked mortgage rates after political turmoil drove up the cost of borrowing, British banks are now cutting home loan prices, albeit slowly, as markets calm since Liz Truss’s government collapsed and Rishi Sunak took power.
PayPal says policy to fine customers for ‘misinformation’ was an ‘error’
PayPal Holdings Inc said on Monday it will not fine users for misinformation and an earlier policy update that said customers could have to pay $2,500 in damages was sent in error.
