US Economy Grows 3.4% as Inflation Gauge Rises Before Midterms

The U.S. economy expanded at a 3.4% annual pace from July through September, faster than the second quarter, as consumer spending and investment in artificial intelligence pushed growth higher.

Prices are still climbing. An inflation gauge tracked by the Federal Reserve rose last month, showing costs are elevated less than a week before midterm elections centered on affordability.

A major deal in grocery delivery is in motion. DoorDash has put forward a $17 billion offer to acquire Instacart, a transaction that would combine two of the sector's largest platforms.

The political calendar is also moving. President Donald Trump's role in this year's midterms has shifted from speeches to campaign activity, and Republican Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy has opened an investigation into Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Mary Peltola's campaign.

Abroad, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his party have pushed claims that the nation's election was stolen by Arab-led parties. Spain is reviewing rail safety after a second high-speed train crash this year that killed 69 people.

The Milwaukee Brewers are World Series champions for the first time, taking the title in the smallest market in the majors.