The Trump administration has promised more than $15 billion in farm payments and initiatives in the weeks before the 3 November US midterms, AP reported, citing higher diesel and fertilizer costs. The total combines separate measures: USDA announced $8 billion in one-time payments on 19 October and at least $5 billion in guaranteed loans on 23 October. The loans are guarantees to lenders, not direct payments. USDA says payment rates for the $8 billion program would be released in November; exact payment timing and the effect on farmers or voters remain unknown.
Fawzi Abu Khazam took over the duties of Libya's central bank governor on 22 October, the bank confirmed in a board statement dated 25 October. The House presidency described the appointment as interim, pending a final House decision on Naji Issa's resignation.
Comcast reported 144,000 domestic residential broadband net losses in its third-quarter results released on 22 October, more than analysts expected and more than a year earlier.
Meta’s 21 October results show US$32.79 billion in operating cash flow and US$34.91 billion in capital spending, including finance-lease principal payments, for the quarter ended 30 September. Its company-defined non-GAAP free cash flow was negative US$2.12 billion.
Niger introduced restrictions on overnight fuel sales on 19 October as it sought to restore regular supplies. Africanews subsequently reported long queues and disruption to transport and daily activities amid a nationwide shortage.
Proofpoint agreed on 15 October to acquire data-security company Varonis in an all-cash transaction valued at about US$6.3 billion. The companies expect closing in the first half of 2027, subject to approvals and other conditions.