From the BBC World Service: The World Health Organization’s director for Europe warned half a million more people might die this winter unless regional restrictions are tightened. But some European cities have seen a weekend of anti-lockdown protests. Plus, Australia is opening its border to more fully vaccinated travelers. And, the economic challenges for oil-rich Venezuela as President Maduro’s party sweeps to victory in regional elections.

Also today: Christopher Low joins us for today’s discussion about the markets. In New York City, the scars from the flooding of basement apartments illustrate the collision of housing and climate crises.

Also today: We look into how the costs of COVID testing has affected shoppers near the border between U.S. and Canada. The FTC is cracking down on companies that make cancelling subscriptions too difficult, which could affect a lot of media companies.

From the BBC World Service: The Japanese government has announced nearly half a trillion dollars to provide further economic support from the coronavirus pandemic. Meanwhile, Austria announces a full national lockdown starting Monday, while Germany won’t rule out a similar move. And, after a year’s long protest by hundreds of thousands of farmers in India, the government vows to repeal controversial farm laws. 

Also today: President Biden is asking the Federal Trade Commission to look into whether sharply rising gas prices at the retail level are due to some kind of illegal conduct. Sticking with the theme of natural gas, Andy Uhler’s exploration of the natural gas industry and its impact took him to the town of Hackberry in Louisiana, a shale oil and fracking territory near Shreveport. He checks in with us from there.

Also today: Home builders have enough supply challenges, but data suggests yet another one: A shortage of land. We also look into how HBCUs also have an extensive history of being underfunded.

From the BBC World Service: As Turkey’s central bank further slashes a key interest rate, we hear how President Recep Tayyip Erdogan believes unorthodoxly that high interest rates cause prices to rise. And, with inflation so high, what is life like for the average person in Turkey? Plus, the Chinese blockbuster that’s causing consternation in Hollywood.

Also today: Postmaster General Louis DeJoy breaks down his plan for the embattled U.S. Postal Service as the holidays arrive. We ask for the thoughts of small businesses about paid family leave.

Also today: A recent Bankrate survey notes how some Americans aren’t confident about their ability to save up for retirement.