French strikes, UK interest rates, Ueno Bank liquidation

France’s protests draw at least 600,000, ministry says

France’s Interior Ministry counted at least 600,000 demonstrators on 5 November as strikes disrupted schools, hospitals and transport. Lecornu has called a social conference to seek answers on wages and purchasing power.

France strikes shut 81 lycées, affect about 17.5% of primaries, ministry says

France’s national strike closed high schools and disrupted other services after school protests grew into a wider campaign over living costs. Yellow-vest organizers have called for further action on 6 and 7 November.

England and Wales police record 3,145 honor-based abuse offences

Police recorded more honor-based abuse-related offences than in the previous year; the Home Office says better recognition and training are likely to have contributed to the rise in reports.

Paraguay’s central bank closes Ueno Bank and starts liquidation

Paraguay’s central bank has opened Ueno Bank’s liquidation after a fall in its solvency ratio. The closure has frozen customer accounts and tied up pension and healthcare funds, while authorities say a guarantee fund provides for reimbursement up to a limit.

Bank of England raises interest rate to 4%

The Bank of England raised its rate for the first time since August 2023 to contain the wider effects of higher energy prices. Governor Andrew Bailey said another rise could be warranted, with the next decision due on 17 December.

Dow rises nearly 3% after US midterm elections

The Dow recorded its best day in over a year, reversing an overnight decline in stock futures as investors assessed the election result.

McCaysville crews rescue more than 30 from flooding, police chief says

McCaysville’s police chief said more than 30 people were rescued by boat by mid-morning 5 November; a later county update put overnight swiftwater rescues at about 57. Crews continued searching while some flooded areas remained out of reach.

UK flu hospitalizations rise to 2.83 per 100,000, health agency says

The flu hospitalization rate rose from the previous week as surveillance indicators showed mixed trends. A UK health agency epidemiologist expects flu and RSV activity to increase in the coming weeks as schools return.

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Refrigeration cyberattacks hit at least 11 European countries

The attacks affected more than 100 European stores and reached food suppliers and blood storage. US authorities urged operators to disconnect exposed controls and install updates.

India’s cybersecurity agency says Crafty Falcon breached financial firms

India’s cybersecurity agency says Crafty Falcon has breached non-bank lenders, fintech firms and cryptocurrency exchanges. It says incomplete fixes were followed by repeat attacks, while India’s cybercrime agency has recommended payment safeguards.