Thursday, October 30, 2025
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News from October 29, 2025

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Senate Confirms New Service Chiefs
Technology

Senate Confirms New Service Chiefs

News Investigators/ The Senate on Wednesday screened and confirmed the appointment of new Service Chiefs, nominated by President Bola Tinubu. News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new service chiefs confirmed are Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff, Maj.-Gen Waheedi Shaibu, Chief of Air Staff, AVM Kennedy Aneke and Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas. President Tinubu had in a letter addressed to the President of the Senate and read at plenary on Oct. 27 sought the expeditious consideration and confirmation of appointment of the service chiefs by the Senate. Tinubu had said their nomination was part of a strategic realignment aimed at deepening professionalism, boosting morale, and enhancing inter-agency coordination in national security operations. In his presentation during the screening, Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, said the Nigerian Navy would deploy modern technology, including drone surveillance, to enhance maritime security and curb criminal activities along the nation’s waterways. Abbas explained that while the Navy already has existing operational structures to combat maritime crime, the introduction of advanced technology would help reduce costs and improve efficiency. “We already have structures in place to curb maritime crimes, but I intend to incorporate more technology, especially drones. “Some of our patrols do not yield expected results because of the nature of the terrain, and resources are often wasted on fuel. Using drones will allow us to monitor these areas more effectively.” He also addressed concerns about insecurity along the inland waterways, noting that a Special Operations Command has already been established in Makurdi, Benue, to strengthen patrols and response operations between Benue and Lokoja. On the proposed creation of a Coast Guard, Abbas said there was no need for such a body since the Nigerian Navy already performs coast guard duties. “Creating another agency would only duplicate functions. “Instead, funds meant for establishing a new Coast Guard should be redirected to strengthen the Navy’s operational platforms and logistics.” Abbas also said the Navy had made progress in blocking the use of large tankers offshore, which were previously used to ferry stolen crude oil. “Most of the illegal activities occur in hard-to-reach areas, but with the use of drone technology, we can monitor and stop them more effectively,” he said. On the issue of deradicalisation of repentant criminals, Abbas supported the initiative but cautioned that it should be handled with sensitivity and consideration for victims’ families. “Deradicalising repentant criminals is a good idea, but we must also think of the moral burden. Families who lost loved ones to these criminals should be consulted before amnesty is granted,” he said. He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to its Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy, which, he said, addresses major threats such as piracy, oil theft, kidnapping, and banditry. “The challenges we face cannot be solved by the military alone. It requires a whole-of-society approach,” Abbas said. Also, the Chief of Defence Staff, Lt.Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described his tenure as Chief of Army Staff as one of the most challenging yet rewarding periods of his military career. “My tenure was quite challenging. Though we made significant progress in securing the country, there is still room for improvement. Security is not a task for the military alone — it requires the cooperation of every Nigerian.” He explained that his former role demanded total commitment and long hours of planning to address complex security threats confronting the nation. “It took a great deal of experience, sleepless nights, and unwavering focus to safeguard our nation. “While resources remain limited, Nigeria must invest in developing its own capacity to counter emerging challenges, from terrorism to cybercrime,” Oluyede said. The military chief also emphasised the need for effective information management and the development of indigenous defence technologies, warning that unchecked misinformation could worsen the country’s security situation. Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau urged the nominees to be loyal to the President and the Constitution of Nigeria. “We urge all the nominees to be loyal to the Commander-in-Chief, and loyal to our Constitution. “We are sure with you and the zeal of Mr. President to bring total security to this country will be accomplished, and we have no doubt you will do that.” In his remarks, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, said the screening and confirmation exercise was a constitutional responsibility designed to ensure that only the most competent and patriotic officers were entrusted with the nation’s security. “The screening is part of our constitutional duty, It is aimed at ensuring that only the most competent and patriotic officers are entrusted with safeguarding the nation” He said part of the oversight responsibility of the Senate was to guarantee discipline, professionalism, and accountability within the armed forces. “He added that the National Assembly expects a constructive engagement that would strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture,” he said.

Editor
This 401(k) milestone could cost you thousands in hidden fees — are you there yet?
Technology

This 401(k) milestone could cost you thousands in hidden fees — are you there yet?

Global Desk People love 401(k)s because they let you save money from your paycheck before taxes, and that money grows over time. Many employers even add “matching” money to help you save more. Every 401(k) plan has fees — sometimes small, but they can add up. These fees can go as high as 2%, and once your savings reach $50,000, you could end up paying $1,000 every year just in fees. Hidden 401(k) fees many people missBig plans usually charge around 0.85%, while smaller ones average 1.09% in fees, as per the report by Money Digest. These fees cover costs like plan management and investment operations. Sometimes there are extra service fees too — for example, if you take out money early. A 2024 U.S. Government Accountability Office study found that 40% of people didn’t fully understand their 401(k) fees, and 41% didn’t even know they were paying any fees at all. How to lower your 401(k) costsA report by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Employee Benefits Security Administration warned that fees can seriously cut your savings. For example, if someone starts with $25,000 and invests for 35 years at a 7% return, a 0.5% fee would grow to $227,000 — but a 1.5% fee would only grow to $163,000, which is 28% less. Check the expense ratio of your investments — this is the yearly fee charged by funds. Cheaper options like index funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) often cost less than actively managed funds. If you find a lower-cost option, think about whether it makes sense based on your 401(k)’s rate of return. A lower fee is good only if it doesn’t hurt your growth.Live EventsIf you have 401(k)s from past jobs, consider rolling them into one account with lower fees, such as an IRA (Individual Retirement Account). IRAs usually cost less — especially if you use Robo Advisors instead of human managers. According to the report by Money Digest., once your 401(k) hits that $50,000 milestone, the fees can quietly eat away your savings. Knowing what you’re paying and making smart switches can help you keep more money for your future. FAQsQ1. How much are 401(k) fees usually?Most 401(k) fees range from 0.5% to 2%, depending on your plan size and provider.Q2. How can I lower my 401(k) fees?You can lower fees by switching to low-cost index funds or IRAs and checking your plan’s expense ratio regularly.Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onhow to save on 401(k) fees401(k) feeshidden 401(k) costslower 401(k) fees401(k) savingsretirement plan fees401(k) expense ratioreduce 401(k) chargesIRA vs 401(k)401(k) management fees (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onhow to save on 401(k) fees401(k) feeshidden 401(k) costslower 401(k) fees401(k) savingsretirement plan fees401(k) expense ratioreduce 401(k) chargesIRA vs 401(k)401(k) management fees(Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless

Durva More
Japan defies US on Russian LNG imports – media
Technology

Japan defies US on Russian LNG imports – media

Japan will continue importing Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) despite pressure to halt purchases, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, according to multiple news outlets. Trump, who was visiting Tokyo as part of a broader Asia tour, reportedly urged Japan to suspend Russian energy imports, but Takaichi sought his understanding, emphasizing Japan’s energy needs. Russia supplies roughly 9% of Japan’s total LNG imports, and Takaichi said that an embargo on Russian shipments would harm the economy and therefore “would not be possible,” according to Nikkei. Earlier this month, US Treasury Secretary Bessent expressed hope that Japan would end its purchases of Russian energy, and Trump reiterated that request during his meeting with Takaichi. A hardline conservative who assumed office last week, Takaichi is reportedly known for prioritizing Japan’s strategic and economic security over foreign pressure. Japan is not alone in resisting Washington’s demands: in early October, Türkiye also rejected US calls to abandon Russian gas, citing energy security. The European Union agreed to phase out Russian LNG imports as part of its 19th sanctions package adopted in October. The measures, approved after months of US lobbying, stipulate that short-term contracts must expire within six months and all remaining Russian gas imports, including LNG, must end by January 1, 2028. Moscow has decried restrictions leveled against it by the EU and US as “illegal and self-defeating.” The talks between Trump and Takaichi also reportedly covered the Sakhalin-1 and Sakhalin-2 oil and gas projects in Russia’s Far East, which are partly owned by Japanese firms. Sakhalin-1 is operated by Russia’s state-run oil company Rosneft, which was sanctioned by the US earlier this month.

Unknown
Survivors recovering after deadly gas station explosion
Technology

Survivors recovering after deadly gas station explosion

— Minister Walrond says government providing full support to affected families THE survivors of Sunday night’s deadly explosion at the Mobil Service Station on Regent and King Streets, Georgetown, are recovering steadily, even as the government continues to provide full support to the affected families. Delivering an update during a joint press conference on Tuesday evening, Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond said that the three injured children and one adult are receiving medical treatment and have shown positive signs of recovery. “The adult is, first of all, doing as can be expected. They are recovering. The two children have been able to start eating; they are still hospitalised and will be kept in the hospital for a few more days. The adult has a fracture and is expected to be released in a day or two. The other children are currently out of surgery. The plastic surgeon is looking at the child who had many lacerations as a result of the glass, but they are all recovering well,” Minister Walrond said. She added that the government has pledged continuous support to the families, particularly that of six-year-old Soraya Bourne, who tragically lost her life in the explosion. “We have assured, first of all, little Soraya’s mother, whose name is Samantha Bourne. I’ve spoken with her; we’ve given a pledge of government support in whatever regard. In terms of when she wishes to lay Soraya to rest and all related support. We’ve already started and we’ve assured her, and will continue to assure her, of our support,” Walrond noted. The Minister explained that additional assistance is also being coordinated through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security and the Ministry of Education, given that the injured children are all school-aged. “In relation to the parents and the family of the two children who are hospitalised, it’s an entire family unit and we will continue to support them. They are getting support through Human Services, and the Minister of Education has also reached out to them,” she said. Minister Walrond reaffirmed the government’s position that justice will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law. “The penalty for terrorism, under the section as quoted by the Commissioner, is death and we will be pursuing that in the courts. We will be making a case for the death penalty,” she declared. The deadly blast occurred on Sunday, October 26, destroying several vehicles and damaging nearby buildings. Investigators have since arrested the prime suspect, Venezuelan national Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomoo, who has reportedly confessed to the crime.

Staff Reporter
Auditor-General’s audit exposes ex-deputy NSA boss was enrolled as a Service Personnel
Technology

Auditor-General’s audit exposes ex-deputy NSA boss was enrolled as a Service Personnel

A forensic audit by the Auditor-General has revealed that Gifty Oware-Mensah, Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), was unlawfully enrolled as a national service personnel while already employed as a full-time public officer. According to the audit report, Mrs. Oware-Mensah was manually added to the National Service Scheme database on March 16, 2021, under the guise of serving based on her Master of Public Administration degree from KNUST — a move that contravenes statutory eligibility requirements. Her full service allowance of GH¢6,708.48 (GH¢559.04 monthly for 12 months) was diverted to a vendor via the NSA’s “MarketPlace” platform for a supposed credit facility. The approval, issued on April 22, 2021, came from then-Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, whom auditors noted had no legal mandate to authorize such a PIN assignment. Though officially posted to Koblimahagu Sobriya Primary School in Tamale, Mrs. Oware-Mensah neither reported for duty nor underwent biometric validation, yet her details remained active on the payroll. The audit identified her as one of 4,556 individuals improperly enrolled as service personnel, resulting in irregular expenditures amounting to GH¢899,349.67. Only 19 of those enrollees met the minimum validation criteria. Investigators blamed the lapse on manual overrides, poor system security, and the absence of automated verification tools to block salaried officers from dual enrolment. The report also flagged misuse of the NSA’s “MarketPlace” platform, which enabled unauthorized deductions and payments without evidence of goods or services rendered. The Auditor-General described the situation as a “serious breach of public trust” and recommended the recovery of all funds, with Mrs. Oware-Mensah and implicated officials — including Osei Assibey Antwi and Eric Nyarko — to be surcharged with the total amount plus interest at the prevailing Bank of Ghana rate. The report further urged disciplinary action against those who bypassed standard procedures and called for immediate automation of the service’s validation systems to prevent future abuses.

Yaw Opoku Amoako
Azure outage: What is Microsoft Azure? Global outage hits world’s second-largest cloud platform ahead of quarterly earnings
Technology

Azure outage: What is Microsoft Azure? Global outage hits world’s second-largest cloud platform ahead of quarterly earnings

Microsoft Azure Microsoft experienced a major disruption to its cloud and productivity services with outages impacting the Azure portal and Microsoft 365 apps just hours before the company was scheduled to report quarterly results. The interruption affected thousands of customers worldwide and knocked out access to multiple consumer and enterprise services running on Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure. User reports began to spike on outage tracker DownDetector; by midday, the company’s own status pages acknowledged the issue. “Starting at approximately 16:00 UTC, we began experiencing Azure Front Door (AFD) issues resulting in a loss of availability of some services. We suspect that an inadvertent configuration change as the trigger event for this issue. We are taking two concurrent actions where we are blocking all changes to the AFD services and, at the same time, rolling back to our last known good state.”What is Azure?Azure is Microsoft’s cloud computing platform, a vast global network of data centers that allows organizations to build, run, and manage applications without maintaining their own physical infrastructure. With more than 200 products and services, it competes directly with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud in a market worth hundreds of billions of dollars.Live EventsAzure provides the backbone for critical systems in banking, healthcare, travel, government, and entertainment. On any given day, it handles millions of virtual machines, database queries, and AI computations. When it fails, the ripple effects are immediate and global.Core services and capabilitiesComputing: Azure offers virtual machines, serverless options such as Azure Functions, and managed Kubernetes services to host and scale applications efficiently.Storage and Databases: It provides everything from standard disk and file storage to archival options and advanced databases, including Azure SQL and NoSQL platforms like Cosmos DB.Networking: Azure delivers tools for virtual networking, load balancing, and content delivery, essential for managing data flow and keeping applications online.Analytics and AI: A growing segment of Azure is devoted to AI and machine learning, powering data analytics, model training, and even large language model (LLM) deployments used in Microsoft Copilot and other intelligent applications.Security and Governance: The platform integrates encryption, identity management, and compliance monitoring. Microsoft employs a 24/7 global security team to detect and mitigate threats.Hybrid and Edge: Azure allows organizations to extend its capabilities beyond the cloud, connecting on-premises servers and edge devices to the same management ecosystem.Developer Tools: Developers rely on Azure’s deep integration with GitHub, Visual Studio, and Azure DevOps to build, test, and deploy software at scale.The disruption cascaded across industries. Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines reported system outages linked to Azure, advising passengers to check in manually at airports. Starbucks, Costco, and several UK internet providers also reported intermittent service failures.The Azure support page noted that Microsoft has not yet provided an estimated time for completing the rollback of the configuration change believed to have triggered the outage.Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onAzure outageMicrosoft Azurecloud computingMicrosoft 365Azure servicesAzure Front DoorAWS outageMicrosoftAzure supportglobal outage (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onAzure outageMicrosoft Azurecloud computingMicrosoft 365Azure servicesAzure Front DoorAWS outageMicrosoftAzure supportglobal outage(Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless Explore More Stories123

Microsoft Azure
Don’t go broke! What to do right now if you have been furloughed or laid off
Technology

Don’t go broke! What to do right now if you have been furloughed or laid off

APGovernment shutdown 2025 furloughed workers Government shutdown 2025 furloughed workers: The current government shutdown, which started on October 1, has put numerous federal workers out of their jobs, but not necessarily out of employment, as over 700,000 federal employees have been furloughed, i.e., they've been put on temporary, unpaid leave, because of a lack of government funding, as per a report.But furloughs aren't only a threat to government employees. Private sector companies may also temporarily furlough workers because of economic downturns, seasonal conditions, or budget issues. For those who are affected, the sudden absence of pay can bring on serious financial hardship.What Does It Mean to Be FurloughedA furlough is a temporary unpaid leave during which the employer wants to recall employees once conditions are better. Employees remain technically employed and sometimes retain workplace benefits such as health coverage, life insurance, or disability, although employees might still be required to contribute their share.A layoff, on the other hand, suspends employment and benefits, and employees who are laid off can be entitled to severance pay, COBRA coverage of health, and unemployment compensation. Furloughed employees typically have the assurance of coming back to work, but the situation might potentially turn into a layoff if the company needs it, as per a Yahoo Finance report.ALSO READ: After Amazon, now GM joins the layoff wave — thousands of jobs lost across key US states, check who's impactedLive EventsAre Furloughed Workers Eligible for Unemployment BenefitsHowever, furloughed employees are typically entitled to unemployment benefits. Federal employees are eligible for Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE), which is governed by state regulations, as per the Yahoo Finance report. Because benefits may take weeks to begin, it is important to file a claim as soon as it is possible. After it has been approved, continued claims need documentation that you continue to be furloughed and not paid. Most states offer up to 26 weeks of benefits, although the maximum amount differs.How to Manage Your Money During a FurloughCount your expenses and cut back on discretionary expenditures to make your income last. Draw on your emergency fund as a last resort, but attempt to preserve it by reducing day-to-day costs first, as per the Yahoo Finance report.If you’re paying off credit cards, student loans, or auto loans, contact your creditors to explain your situation, as per the Yahoo Finance report. Many lenders offer hardship programs that may include deferred payments, lowered interest rates, or waived late fees, and at the very least, continue making minimum payments to protect your credit, as per the report.Even on a temporary basis, a side job can add a bit of money during a furlough and remember that any earnings might cut into unemployment benefits if they reach some levels, but they can also cushion necessities, as per the Yahoo Finance report.ALSO READ: Hurricane Melissa devastates Jamaica - island has no power, communication network crippled and lives shatteredWhat Furloughed and Laid-Off Workers Need to KnowFurloughed federal workers and those working without pay, including coast guardsmen and park rangers, received smaller partial paychecks in early October and were to miss their first complete paychecks on October 24. Service members on active duty received pay October 15 but might miss their subsequent paycheck on October 31.The Department of Agriculture has also said that federal food assistance under SNAP will not be made available on November 1 as a result of the shutdown. This ongoing shutdown is now the second-longest in US history, with some analysts expecting it to last through to November. Calls for action from lawmakers are increasing as open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act marketplace starts on November 1 and Thanksgiving travel becomes an issue shortly afterwards, as per the Yahoo Finance report.FAQsWill I lose my health insurance during a furlough?Not necessarily. Many employers allow furloughed workers to keep benefits, but you may need to pay your share of the costs.Can federal workers get unemployment benefits?Yes. They may qualify under Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE).Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onGovernment shutdown 2025 furloughed workersgovernment shutdown democratsunemployment benefits for furloughed employeesgovernment shutdown news todaySNAP benefits suspension 2025federal workers missing paychecksfurlough vs layoff difference explainedgovernment shutdown furlough updatehow long will the government shutdown lastfurlough financial survival guide (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onGovernment shutdown 2025 furloughed workersgovernment shutdown democratsunemployment benefits for furloughed employeesgovernment shutdown news todaySNAP benefits suspension 2025federal workers missing paychecksfurlough vs layoff difference explainedgovernment shutdown furlough updatehow long will the government shutdown lastfurlough financial survival guide(Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless

Shreya Biswas
Joe Mettle is a mogul in the industry– Perez Musik
Technology

Joe Mettle is a mogul in the industry– Perez Musik

Ghanaian gospel musician Frank Tagoe, known as Perez Musik, has praised award-winning artiste Joe Mettle, describing him as “a mogul in the industry.” Speaking on Hitz FM’s Daybreak Hitz with Kwame Dadzie and Doreen Avio on October 27, 2025, Perez Musik reflected on Joe Mettle’s remarkable growth and recent achievements, particularly the launch of his new multi-purpose studio. “I knew Joe Mettle when the studio was at Dansoman. The wisdom it takes to achieve what he has achieved and do what he has done is something else. I think he needs to be studied,” Perez Musik said. He commended Joe Mettle’s humility, consistency, and support for fellow artistes, describing him as a model of leadership within the gospel music scene. “Joe Mettle is just not an artiste; he has gone beyond being an artiste. He is a mogul in the industry now,” he stated. Perez Musik added that Joe Mettle’s discipline and focus have cemented both his artistry and personality, serving as an inspiration to many. “He has cemented his artistry, his personality, and his craft beyond doubt. He’s shown what discipline and focus can achieve. I’m greatly encouraged by it,” he added. Perez Musik, known for songs such as Blema Tesaa, Hewale Lala, Big God, Glorified, and Kaafo, is currently promoting his new single, ‘We Hail You’.

Emmanuella Sarfo
Walmart faces $2 billion blow as SNAP payments freeze — will stores close on November 1?
Technology

Walmart faces $2 billion blow as SNAP payments freeze — will stores close on November 1?

Global Desk As the U.S. government shutdown continues with no solution in sight, confusion and concern are surfacing online about whether Walmart, the nation’s biggest retailer will close its doors on November 1, 2025. Several have connected this speculation to a serious revelation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in regard to a halt in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) advantages.As per the official notice published on the USDA website, “Bottom line, the well has run dry. At this time, there will be no benefits issued November 01.” The statement attributes the continuing shutdown to stalled negotiations in Congress.The department cited, “We are approaching an inflection point for Senate Democrats.” It continued, “They can continue to hold out for healthcare for illegal aliens and gender mutilation procedures or reopen the government so mothers, babies, and the most vulnerable among us can receive critical nutrition assistance.”The USDA stated that SNAP has exhausted its November budget and cannot legally get away from emergency disaster funds to continue regular advantages. Even if those funds were available, they could only supplement,not completely substitute, the monthly disbursements. States were also warned that they would not be reimbursed if they deployed their own money to maintain SNAP payments active.Live EventsWhile Social Security and Medicare continues to be unaffected, the possible suspension of SNAP advantages could have a severe ripple effect, affecting more than 40 million Americans who depend on the program, as per the AFROTECH.Economic Impact on Walmart and RetailA Newsweek analysis cautioned that if SNAP payments stop, major retailers could watch a significant drop in customer spending. Market research from Numerator (based on 31,600 verified recipients and more than 1,200 survey responses) discovered that Walmart accounts for 24% of total SNAP spending, followed by Kroger (8%), Costco (6%), Amazon (5%), and Sam’s Club (4%).With the federal government spending nearly $100 billion each year on SNAP — almost $8.3 billion per month, Walmart could lose almost $2 billion in sales if advantages are not issued in November.Economist Ismael Martinez of the Economic Policy Institute cited to Newsweek that even a temporary lapse could have widespread challenges. “SNAP benefits make up about 8 percent of all retail spending on groceries–even a short interruption of this spending could lead to layoffs or other painful adjustments in this sector,” he described.He highlighted, “Walmart alone accounts for almost one quarter of SNAP spending (about $25 billion), and SNAP spending accounts for more than 8 percent of their grocery sales … We should be doing everything we can to ensure that families have this vital source of support as the threat of food and economic insecurity continues to rise.”Political DeadlockThe government shutdown started on October 1, 2025, following Democrats and Republicans failing to agree on an extension of expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies, making it the second-longest shutdown in U.S. history, as per the AFROTECH.Hundreds of thousands of federal staff have been furloughed or are working without pay as negotiations continue to be gridlocked. On October 14 and 15, the Senate voted against a House-passed, Republican-supported stopgap bill that would have temporarily financed the government operations through November 21.Republicans argue that Democrats should accept the short-term financing measure and revisit policy debates later, while Democrats insist that any deal must have major healthcare provisions. As per the CBS News, the Senate attempted yet another vote on October 28,its 13th failed effort to end the gridlock.So, Is Walmart Actually Closing?Despite the panic surfacing online, Walmart has not revealed any plans to close stores on November 1. The company has not confirmed any nationwide shutdowns, and the viral speculations appear to have arrived from confusion in the USDA’s SNAP statement rather than an official Walmart decision.While the pause in advantages could affect sales and consumer activity, Walmart stores continue to be open, and operations are anticipated to continue as usual. The major issue lies with the government financing deadlock, not with Walmart’s internal business method.FAQs:1. Is Walmart actually closing on November 1, 2025? No. Walmart has not announced any nationwide shutdown. 2. What did the USDA say about SNAP benefits? The USDA cited, “Bottom line, the well has run dry. At this time, there will be no benefits issued November 01,” stating that payments would stop if the shutdown continues.Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onSNAP benefits freezeWalmart shutdown newsSNAP program fundingEconomic effects of SNAPWalmart sales impact SNAPWalmart financial lossWalmart store operationsUSDA SNAP announcementUSDA government funding 2025Government shutdown 2025 (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onSNAP benefits freezeWalmart shutdown newsSNAP program fundingEconomic effects of SNAPWalmart sales impact SNAPWalmart financial lossWalmart store operationsUSDA SNAP announcementUSDA government funding 2025Government shutdown 2025(Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless

Advaita Suresh
Auditor-General uncovers GHS1.01bn irregular payments to former National Service Personnel
Technology

Auditor-General uncovers GHS1.01bn irregular payments to former National Service Personnel

A forensic audit by the Auditor-General has uncovered that the National Service Authority (NSA) made irregular payments totalling GH¢1.01 billion to former National Service Personnel (NSPs) who continued to receive allowances beyond the legally mandated 12-month service period. The audit, which reviewed payroll data from 2018 to 2024, found that 120,777 service personnel were paid beyond the approved 13-month limit, which includes a one-time travel and transport (T&T) allowance. Some individuals reportedly continued receiving monthly stipends for years after completing their service. According to the Technical and Forensic Audit Report submitted to Parliament on October 1, 2025, the payments directly contravened Act 426 of 1980, which governs the National Service Scheme and stipulates a one-year compulsory service for eligible citizens. “Our audit analysis of payroll data revealed widespread anomalies, where some National Service Personnel were paid well beyond the statutory 13-month maximum, with payments spanning multiple years,” the report stated. The GH¢1.01 billion overpayment forms part of a broader GH¢2.45 billion in financial irregularities at the NSA, including payments to vendors without contracts or proof of service delivery. The Auditor-General cited the findings as evidence of “serious lapses in payroll management and internal controls” and recommended an immediate overhaul of the NSA’s payroll system as well as prosecution of those found culpable.

Yaw Opoku Amoako
'Right Time To Invest In India's Shipping Sector’: PM Modi To Global Investors At Maritime Leaders Conclave
Technology

'Right Time To Invest In India's Shipping Sector’: PM Modi To Global Investors At Maritime Leaders Conclave

Mumbai, Oct 29 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday exhorted global investors to take bets on the Indian shipping sector, pointing out that this is the "right time" for such a move. The Prime Minister also met a select chief executives of global majors, including DP World and APM, at a specially convened meeting on the sidelines of the India Maritime Week 2025 held here. "For all of you hailing from different countries, this is the right time to work in the Indian shipping sector and also expand (your presence)," Modi said during a public address before the closed-door meeting with CEOs. Modi listed several targets being chased by India in the maritime sector over the next few years, and underlined the importance of the global community in the same. "You all are an important partner who will help us achieve all our aims. We welcome your ideas, innovations and investments," Modi said. He said that India allows 100 per cent foreign direct investment in the shipping and ports sector, and also provides incentives under the "Make In India, and Make For The World" vision. Addressing an audience, including leaders of various companies, the Prime Minister affirmed India's commitment to strengthening the supply chain resilience at a global level. He also said that India is engaged in creating world-class mega ports, and cited the work undertaken on the Vadhavan Port to the north of the financial capital, which entered the top-10 firms in the world on the first day. The government is also looking to grow the capacity at 12 major ports by four times and increase India's share in containerised cargo at the global level. Later, Modi held a meeting with top CEOs of shipping sector companies from across the world. As per people in the know, he met AP Moller-Maersk Chairman Robert Maersk Uggla, DP World Group Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Mediterranean Shipping Company Chief Executive Soren Toft, Adani Ports and SEZ Managing Director Karan Adani and French company CMA-CGM's Senior Vice President Ludovic Renou. The participation from over 85 countries in the IMW sends a strong message, Modi said, noting the presence of CEOs of major shipping giants, startups, policymakers, and innovators at the event. The Prime Minister also thanked Port of Singapore (PSA) for the nearly Rs 8,000 crore investment in the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority's fourth terminal, pointing out that this is also the largest FDI in the port sector in India. Modi said more than 150 new initiatives have been launched under the 'Maritime India Vision', resulting in nearly doubling the capacity of major ports, a substantial reduction in turnaround time, and a new momentum in cruise tourism. PTI AA BKS BAL BAL

PTI
Love and Deepspace is going all out with the romance in the new Heartbeats Ablaze event
Technology

Love and Deepspace is going all out with the romance in the new Heartbeats Ablaze event

The Heartbeats Ablaze event will run until November 18th New five-star memories and themed outfits Numerous QoL improvements go live too After celebrating Xavier’s birthday just a few weeks ago, Love and Deepspace is turning the spotlight toward something a little louder and a lot more romantic. The rhythm-driven limited-time event, Heartbeats Ablaze, runs from October 29th to November 18th, bringing a full ensemble of music-inspired 5-Star Memories that practically pulse with energy. The newly released trailer sets the tone, blending light, sound, and a bit of heat as five new 5-Star Memories take centre stage: [Xavier: Offbeat Track], [Zayne: Chilling Crescendo], [Rafayel: Ignited Echoes], [Sylus: Improvised Flow], and [Caleb: Passionate Overload]. During the event, you can pick any three of the five to focus your Wishes on, with dramatically increased drop rates and a 75% chance that any 5-Star pull will feature one of your chosen Memories. Each new Memory captures its star’s rhythm and emotion, and the event also adds Memory-Themed Outfits — sharp, expressive stagewear that mirrors their individual performance styles. They’re unlocked through cumulative Wish rewards, alongside special items like Universal Earrings [Heartwork Broadcast] and Deepspace Wish: Limited 5-star. Quality-of-life tweaks keep the tempo smooth, too. A Precise Wish System guarantees your chosen Memory within two 5-Star pulls, while pity progress continues across all Limited Wish Pools. New Shop Packs, including the Dance Fever Pack and Rhythm Unite Pack, add a few extra perks for anyone looking to top up on Deepspace Wish: Limited items during the event. All five featured Memories will remain exclusive to Heartbeats Ablaze and won’t join the permanent pool once it ends, so this might be your only encore. Download Love and Deepspace now for free by clicking on your preferred link below. Before you dive in, don’t forget to check out our updated list of Love and Deepspace codes to grab a few bonus rewards and get a head start on those Wishes.

Tanish Botadkar
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