Key Financial Stories Today: Power Struggles, Strategic Moves, and Regulatory Adjustments

The Financial Times highlights key financial stories today. Keir Starmer plans a meeting with Donald Trump. Thames Water faces a downgrade in credit rating. Anglo American's CEO discusses suitor payments. The UK accounting watchdog issues a directive to audit firms. Chevron considers board adjustments for merger approval.

The Financial Times brings forth crucial stories in today's financial landscape. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a meeting with former US President Donald Trump during his visit to New York, notably excluding U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris from his itinerary.

Meanwhile, Thames Water's credit rating has been significantly downgraded, plummeting to the lowest junk status as it scrambles to refinance £530 million ($709.67 million) in debt within the next 11 days to evade nationalization pressures.

In the corporate sphere, Anglo American's CEO has made it clear to potential buyers that they must meet their price expectations, post the failed takeover by BHP. The UK accounting regulator has mandated audit firms to report any private equity approaches to the watchdog, signaling a forthcoming wave of investments in the sector. Additionally, Chevron is willing to keep John Hess off its board if necessary to secure regulatory approval for its merger with Hess.

(With inputs from agencies.)