U.S. stock markets experienced a significant downturn as the S&P 500 fell by 1.7% and the Nasdaq dropped 2.3%. This decline coincides with the U.S. Mint's decision to cease penny production due to escalating costs, and the national debt surpassing $38 trillion, heightening fiscal concerns. Additionally, increased operating costs, such as doubled trucking tolls and a 43% rise in insurance expenses, are contributing to market pressures. In other economic developments, New Zealand's manufacturing PMI rose to 51.4, indicating sector expansion, while the UK's GDP growth for Q3 remained stagnant at 0.2%.