From the BBC World Service: There’s no live tracker of Alibaba’s sales data, or live audiences for the company’s annual gala this year. But predictions suggest that spending on beauty, health and electronic goods from Alibaba and their competitors will outperform Singles Day last year. And, as Germany grapples with a fourth wave of COVID-19, the public and businesses are becoming fiercely divided on the need for another round of restrictions. 

Also today: We look at the mountain of work companies have to do to prepare for the Biden Administration’s federal vaccination rule. The Justice Department is suing Uber over its wait-time fees, saying they violate the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Also today: We hear some more insight on inflation from U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who talked with Marketplace’s Kai Ryssdal earlier in the week. Sticking with the theme of rising prices, we look into how people are swapping out what they buy in the grocery store as a result. There’s also been a rise in foreclosures, and it doesn’t seem like it’ll slow down. 

Also today: The electric vehicle maker Rivian makes its debut on the Nasdaq. The BBC reports from the COP26 climate conference regarding a draft agreement from the United Nations.

From the BBC World Service: Now, the tech giant may be forced to rethink parts of its business model after the European Union’s second highest court upheld a $2.8 billion fine imposed by the E.U.’s digital and competition chief, Margrethe Vestager. Plus, shares of another Chinese property developer, Fantasia, dropped nearly 50% in Hong Kong. And, Afghanistan’s former finance minister says the country’s government was brought down by rampant corruption, even among top army generals.

Also today: We discuss the markets with David Kelly of J.P Morgan. We also look into how the jammed-up ports of Los Angeles has retailers concerned about their ability to keep their shelves filled ahead of the holidays.

Also today: Some new research shows a shift in how people view the process of getting a loan. We also look into the lingering impact that abandoned, dormant oil wells can have.

From the BBC World Service: That warning comes from the Federal Reserve’s latest financial stability report. So what risk do China’s property woes pose to the global economy? Plus, Australia’s plan to spend $130 million on electric-vehicle charging stations is panned by critics. And, the people smugglers in Afghanistan who say business has nearly doubled since the Taliban takeover in August.

Also today: The U.S. opens its borders today to international travelers from dozens of countries. Airlines are gearing up for an influx of passengers and for the holiday travel season. We discuss what the reopening means. In Philadelphia, a carpentry program helps young people get experience in a profession and perhaps map out a path to employment.