New cost of living data for September 15 indicate pensioner expenses climbed as electricity and insurance prices rose. Close to half of Australians living in share accommodation are at least 40 years old. International petrol price jumps triggered protests in several countries. In Syria, price hikes caused the widest demonstrations since Assad fell.

Australia is experiencing economic stress with worldwide trade rules falling apart, according to Nine.com.au. A Guardian report said the Iran war cost the United States $38 billion and depleted its missile stockpile.