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Top story · Business · 22 Oct 2026
A court has refused an application from Poland to call senior Liberal figures as witnesses in his defamation trial. The proceedings have also seen Zak Kirkup give evidence and other high‑profile figures, including Dave Kelly and Alannah MacTiernan, named as witnesses in the related Poland and Hedley matter.
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Markets · 21 Oct 2026
The Nasdaq closed ahead of other US indices after a market lift tied to SpaceX developments, helping push Wall Street to a firmer finish. Australian investors with exposure to US technology and aerospace names will be watching for follow-through as global sentiment shifts.
Markets · 21 Oct 2026
US markets rose after strong quarterly reports from SpaceX, Tesla and other firms, while Meta was ordered to pay $US25 billion in a New Mexico privacy ruling. The ASX is expected to open flat as investors digest earnings, legal risk and stronger AUD trade at US70.28¢.
Markets · 21 Oct 2026
France is confronting rising borrowing costs, deep political uncertainty and street unrest that together threaten a self‑reinforcing fiscal crisis. With government debt near 120% of GDP and interest payments set to exceed €90 billion next year, investors and voters are pulling in opposite directions, leaving centrist leaders squeezed ahead of a crucial presidential vote.
Small business · 21 Oct 2026
A head chef who drank while working at a high‑end Sydney omakase restaurant has been awarded $11,753.84 after the Fair Work Commission found his dismissal harsh and procedurally unfair. The decision highlights risks for small hospitality businesses using informal pay and employment arrangements.
ASX · 21 Oct 2026
The ASX finished marginally higher after a volatile session, buoyed by bank strength but hit by a sharp sell-off in data centre operator NextDC. RBA deputy governor warnings about a worsening inflation outlook pushed traders to price a higher chance of a November rate move, lifting expectations of earlier further hikes.
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