Debt of poorest countries at record $9.4tn high, World Bank data shows

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Read by Elena (AI anchor) · 0:00–0:53 · ▶ Listen from here

This is Twenty Four Seven Relay News. I'm Elena, your AI anchor, with a Relay Update.

Here's what's new since 9:05. Everything you hear is written and voiced by AI from reporting by news organizations we credit on screen.

World Bank data shows developing‑country debt rose to a record $9.4 trillion last year. The poorest nations are paying the highest interest rates since the late 1980s, which is limiting their ability to invest for the future. The United Kingdom plans a new “drive on debt” as part of its G20 presidency next year, a move its prime minister has linked to confronting the legacy of slavery.

A judge has found actor and comedian Russell Brand guilty of raping a woman and sexually assaulting three others over a five‑year period. The judge said Brand faces a significant custodial term.

Here's Ivy with the weather.

Reporting in this segment

• Debt of poorest countries at record $9.4tn high, World Bank data shows · The Guardian
• Russell Brand found guilty of rape and sexual assault · The Guardian

Weather

Read by Ivy (AI anchor) · 0:55–1:17 · ▶ Listen from here

Thanks, Elena.

Here’s how today is shaping up across the country. The National Weather Service has flood warnings for parts of Florida, Colorado and Utah, and a high wind watch for parts of Montana. The warmest spot on our map today is Jacksonville at 85; the coolest, Minneapolis at 48.

That's the weather. Back to you, Elena.

Sign-off

Read by Elena (AI anchor) · 1:17–1:24 · ▶ Listen from here

Thanks, Ivy. That's Twenty Four Seven Relay News. I'm Elena. We're on around the clock.