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| 23-03-2025 |
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Welcome to the weekly international news from Stockmark.IT - covering the news that affecting international financial markets.
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The London Metal Exchange fined £9.2m for failures during nickel market chaos
The London Metal Exchange (LME) has been issued a £9.2m fine by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for its mishandling of the nickel market disruption in March 2022, marking the first such penalty levied against a leading investment exchange. The regulator found the LME unprepared to manage the severe risks that emerged as nickel prices […]
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Nvidia to Invest Hundreds of Billions in US Manufacturing Amid Shifting Supply Chains
Nvidia, the worldâs largest computer chipmaker, has pledged to invest “several hundred billion” dollars in US manufacturing over the next four years. Jensen Huang, the companyâs chief executive and co-founder, confirmed the move as Nvidia seeks to reshape its supply chains to reduce reliance on Asia amid increasing geopolitical risks and trade tensions. The California-based […]
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Government Debt Costs In Rich Nations At Highest Levels Since 2007
The cost of servicing government debt in the wealthiest countries has reached its highest point since 2007, surpassing spending on defence, police, and housing. According to a report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), debt servicing costs across its 38 member states rose to 3.3% of national income in 2024, up from […]
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BBC cuts off expats from Sounds service moves to new ad funded platform
The BBC has announced a significant overhaul of its international audio services, restricting overseas access to its Sounds platform. From next month, expats will no longer be able to use the BBCâs UK-based audio streaming service. Instead, international listeners must turn to an advertising-supported platform on BBC.com or the BBC app to tune in to […]
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Asda faces fresh challenges as supermarket price war looms
Allan Leighton, Asdaâs executive chairman, is spearheading a bold strategy to rejuvenate Britainâs fourth-largest supermarket chain. Returning to Asda last November after a 24-year hiatus, Leighton is confronting a business in a vastly different state than when he first departed. Once the nationâs second-largest supermarket, Asda’s market share has slipped from 14.8 per cent to […]
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Rising Costs Of Disability Benefits Force Government To Rethink Welfare System
The UKâs welfare system is under significant strain as the cost of disability and sickness benefits continues to soar. Figures reveal that spending on Britainâs primary disability benefit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), has skyrocketed, set to increase from £15 billion before the pandemic to £37 billion by the end of the decade. The total cost […]
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Apple Faces Annual Loss of $1 Billion on Streaming Service Competition Intensifies
Apple is reportedly losing £1 billion annually on its streaming service, Apple TV+, as it struggles to compete with industry giants like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. Despite significant investment in original content, the platform is failing to attract enough subscribers to rival its competitors’ dominance. Apple TV+ was launched in 2019 with ambitious […]
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NHS rebates threaten UK pharmaceutical innovation growth
Britainâs largest pharmaceutical companies have raised urgent concerns over what they describe as an “excessive” NHS sales rebate, warning it is harming investment in an economically crucial sector. Industry leaders from AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, Novartis, Merck, and Sanofi have urged the government to make revisions to the branded medicines repayment scheme […]
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Global Markets React to Central Banks’ Cautious Stance on Interest Rates
Stock markets across the globe retreated this week as central banks in major economies opted to hold interest rates steady amidst uncertainty sparked by US tariff policies. The Federal Reserve, the Bank of England, and central banks in Japan and Sweden emphasised the potential for resurgent inflation caused by the upcoming tariffs, maintaining a cautious […]
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UK wage growth stabilises amid economic challenges
Wage growth across the UK has held steady at 5.9 per cent during the three months to January, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The data aligns with economistsâ expectations and comes as the Bank of England opted to keep interest rates unchanged at 4.5 per cent in March. […]
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UK households face rising energy bills as Ofgem approves £4bn power grid investment
Ofgem has approved a £4 billion investment to secure the future of Britain’s electricity infrastructure and help meet the nationâs ambitious 2030 green energy targets. This move will allow companies such as National Grid, SSE, and Scottish Power to order key equipment long before securing final planning approval, aiming to alleviate bottlenecks in the global […]
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Lloyds Faces $2.3 Billion Losses From California Wildfires
Lloydâs of London, the worldâs oldest insurance market, expects losses of approximately $2.3 billion from the Californian wildfires that occurred in January 2025. These losses represent a significant portion of the marketâs $6 billion budget reserved for major claims. The catastrophe is estimated to be five times costlier than the Baltimore Bridge collision, which stood […]
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Prudential anticipates double digit growth from new business in 2025
Prudential, the Asia-focused insurer, has reported a robust 2024 performance and projected more than 10% growth across key metrics for 2025. This forecast comes amidst increasing demand for long-term savings, protection products, and wealth management services in its key markets. The company highlighted significant opportunities arising from its core presence in Asia and Africa, where […]
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Tesla recalls 46000 cybertrucks over panel issue
Tesla has issued a recall for nearly all of its Cybertrucks sold in the United States after admitting that exterior panels on the futuristic vehicle have been falling off. The recall affects 46,000 vehicles produced between November 2023, when production began, and February 27 2025. Tesla has stated that a stainless-steel trim panel used in […]
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Impact of Elon Musk led us government spending cuts on accenture revenue
Accenture, one of the worldâs largest consultancy firms, has reported a significant slowdown in revenue growth due to sweeping government cost-cutting measures in the United States. These cuts are being overseen by Elon Musk, who is leading the Department of Government Efficiency under the Trump administrationâs return to the White House. The consultancy giant revealed […]
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Covent Garden stake sold to Norway oil fund for £570 million pounds
Norwayâs oil fund has secured a 25 per cent stake in Covent Garden, one of Londonâs most iconic tourist spots, for £570 million. Shaftesbury Capital, the owner of the estate, will maintain control over the historic fruit and vegetable market, which has transformed into a thriving retail and leisure destination. Shaftesbury Capital will use the […]
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UK Interest Rates Held at 45 Percent by Bank of England Amid Uncertainty
The Bank of England has decided to maintain interest rates at 4.5 per cent, as the country grapples with persistent inflation and modest economic growth. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), responsible for setting rates every six weeks, voted 8-1 in favour of no change. The sole dissenting member, Swati Dhingra, advocated for a 0.25 percentage […]
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Bentley, Chinese demand, US tariffs, automotive industry, luxury cars, electric vehicles
The UK government has been urged to fulfil its commitment to the full £8.3 billion budget pledged to Great British Energy (GB Energy) amidst concerns about its ability to meet ambitious energy reform targets. A report from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), a prominent think tank, warns that reducing the companyâs funding could […]
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Tesla Shares Plunge Fueling Hedge Fund Short Sellers
Hedge funds have capitalised significantly on the dramatic decline in Teslaâs share price over the past three months, with short-sellers reportedly reaping more than $16 billion in paper profits. The electric car manufacturerâs stock has halved in value since reaching a record high in mid-December, erasing approximately $700 billion from its market value. Elon Musk, […]
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Santander UK to Close 95 Branches Restructuring Network and Jobs at Risk
Santander UK has announced plans to close 95 branches across the country as part of a restructuring strategy, a move expected to put approximately 750 jobs at risk. The closures, starting in June, will reduce the bankâs network to 349 branches from the current total of 444. This includes 290 full-service locations, five work cafés, […]
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Bentley to Pass on Costs of US Tariffs to Buyers Amidst Decline in Chinese Demand
Bentley, the prestigious British luxury carmaker owned by Germanyâs Volkswagen, has announced plans to pass on the costs of potential US tariffs to its customers. This development comes as the company faces growing financial challenges, including a drop in profits due to weakening demand from China. The warning follows comments from the US President, who […]
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Londons black cabs face extinction within 20 years warns TfL thinktank
The iconic black cabs of London, a hallmark of the capitalâs transport system since the 17th century, could vanish from the streets by 2045 if current trends continue. This stark warning comes from Centre for London, a prominent thinktank, calling for urgent action to halt the decline and preserve the trade. Current figures paint a […]
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Pfizer sells remaining Haleon stake for £2.4 billion pounds as consumer healthcare firm strengthens its position
Pfizer has completed the sale of its remaining 7% stake in Haleon, the FTSE 100 consumer healthcare company, raising £2.4 billion. This transaction, involving the placement of 618 million shares at 385p, comes at a slight discount to Haleonâs previous closing price of 391p. Haleon shares have dipped marginally to 390.5p following the sale. As […]
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Understanding the ramifications of erasing biological sex from official data
Vital data accuracy is at risk in the UK due to the erasure of biological sex in official statistics, health records, and education data. A detailed review led by Professor Alice Sullivan of University College London has exposed how the conflation of sex and gender has created inconsistencies in data collection across public bodies, including […]
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Tesla Showrooms Targeted by Arson and Vandalism in Growing Anti Musk Protests
Police and federal authorities are investigating a series of targeted arson attacks and vandalism incidents at Tesla showrooms across the United States, with the latest occurring in Las Vegas, Nevada. The attacks are being considered as potential acts of domestic terrorism. The FBI has confirmed that at least three other incidents involving Molotov cocktails have […]
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Elon Musk SpaceX Becomes Most Valuable Asset Amid Tesla Stock Crash
Elon Musk’s extensive stake in Tesla is no longer his most valuable asset, as the electric vehicle manufacturer faces a significant decline in stock value. For the first time in five years, Musk’s stake in SpaceX, his private rockets and satellites business, has surpassed Tesla in value. According to Forbes, Muskâs net worth remains the […]
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Value of Elon Musks X rebounds to $44bn purchase price
In a surprising reversal of fortunes, Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, has regained its $44bn valuation, the price he initially paid when acquiring the platform, formerly known as Twitter, in October 2022. This new valuation was established during a recent secondary deal, where investors exchanged existing stakes in the company according to reports from […]
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EU ACCUSES APPLE AND GOOGLE OF VIOLATING DIGITAL MARKETS ACT
The European Commission has launched a landmark action accusing Apple and Googleâs parent company, Alphabet, of breaching the EUâs Digital Markets Act (DMA). This move is likely to amplify tensions with former US President Donald Trump, who has previously warned of retaliatory tariffs against foreign companies in response to stricter European regulations targeting American technology […]
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Motor finance scandal costs close brothers dear as firm slumps to £103m loss
Close Brothers, one of the United Kingdom’s leading car loan providers, has reported a staggering operating loss of £103.8 million for the six months leading up to 31 January. This sharp turnaround comes after the lender posted an £87 million profit during the same period last year. The financial hit follows fallout from a motor […]
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US Tariff War Sparks Pound Surge and Wall Street Decline
The pound has risen to a four-month high against the dollar as fears of a US recession deepen following President Donald Trumpâs trade policy announcements. Sterling edged up by 0.1pc on Tuesday, surpassing $1.30 for the first time since November. This resurgence in the pound coincides with growing uncertainty surrounding Americaâs economic performance. Scott Bessent, […]
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Impact of Trump trade war on uk economy interest rates and inflation|
Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England, faces mounting challenges as Donald Trump’s aggressive trade war continues to disrupt the global economy. Having only just begun to get a grip on the cost-of-living crisis, Bailey and the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) must now navigate a volatile economic landscape while determining how to manage interest […]
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UK Property Market Sees Spring Surge with Record Home Choices Amid Stamp Duty Deadline Looms
New data reveals a spring resurgence in the UK housing market, driven by record property availability and a rush to beat the looming stamp duty deadline. According to Rightmove, the average price of a property coming to market has risen by 1.1 per cent or £3,867 this month, reaching £371,870. Despite this increase, new sellers […]
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Rise in UK Construction Job Demand Reflects Economic Activity Boost
The UK construction industry is experiencing a notable rise in recruitment demand, signalling firmsâ readiness to expand capacity as economic conditions show signs of improvement. Recent research conducted by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) in collaboration with data firm Lightcast highlights an increase in advertised vacancies for construction workers following a period of subdued […]
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Forever 21 files for bankruptcy again amid rising competition from online fast fashion rivals
Forever 21, a popular fashion retailer, has filed for bankruptcy for the second time in six years and announced a wind-down of its United States operations. The company has struggled to compete in the increasingly crowded fast-fashion market, particularly in the face of rising costs, e-commerce dominance, and declining foot traffic in shopping malls. These […]
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Supermarkets TESCO SAINSBURYS AND M&S SHARES PLUNGE AMID ASDA PRICE WAR
Amid mounting concerns over a potential intensification of the ongoing grocery price war, over £4 billion has been wiped off the value of Tesco, Sainsburyâs, and Marks & Spencer shares. This stock market fallout follows Asdaâs announcement of increased investments in price reductions and staffing enhancements in its stores. Tesco, the UKâs largest supermarket chain, […]
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Trump trade wars crippling global growth says new OECD report
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has issued a warning that escalating trade wars initiated by Donald Trump are eroding progress on economic growth and inflation reduction. The Paris-based organisation has downgraded its global growth forecasts for 2025 and 2026 due to heightened trade barriers and geopolitical uncertainty. According to the OECDâs interim […]
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CityFibre faces delays in securing £1.5 billion financing for network expansion
CityFibre, the UKâs largest alternative broadband network provider, is facing challenges in securing the £1.5 billion needed to support its operations and ambitious expansion plans. The company, which has positioned itself as a key rival to BT Openreach and Virgin Media O2, has hit a hurdle as lenders grow increasingly cautious about extending credit to […]
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Regional energy pricing could force Londoners to subsidise cheaper power in Scotland
The potential overhaul of Britainâs energy market system has sparked a heated debate over fairness and investment costs. Proposals to switch from the current national wholesale power model to regional zoning could lead to households in London and the southeast shouldering higher bills to offset cheaper electricity for those living near wind farms in northern […]
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China displays economic resilience amidst heightened us tariffs
China’s economy showed considerable momentum at the start of the year, even as it faced increased tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. Retail sales climbed by 4 per cent year-on-year during January and February, outpacing December’s 3.7 per cent growth and exceeding industry forecasts. Analysts have attributed the rise in consumer activity to Beijingâs […]
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Bupa expands healthcare services as profits soar
Bupaâs only UK hospital, Cromwell Hospital in Kensington, West London, is gearing up for expansion. Currently housing 100 beds, 700 consultants, and 900 staff, the hospital has established itself as a leader in specialist fields such as cardiothoracic medicine, womenâs health, and cancer treatment. With demand for its services surging, a new adjoining facility is […]
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Thames Water Secures £3 Billion Refinancing Amid Legal Battles
Thames Water, the UKâs largest water provider, has successfully secured a £3 billion emergency refinancing deal following a ruling by the Court of Appeal. This lifeline has staved off immediate fears of nationalisation and ensures the utility can access critical funding to address its financial woes. The Court of Appeal dismissed legal challenges from junior […]
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Astrazeneca announces groundbreaking billion dollar deal with Esobiotec
AstraZeneca, one of the worldâs leading pharmaceutical companies, has announced a transformative acquisition of the Belgium-based biotech firm Esobiotec in a deal worth up to $1 billion. This strategic move sees AstraZeneca continue to bolster its position in the field of oncology and innovative cell therapy technologies under the leadership of CEO Sir Pascal Soriot. […]
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Treasury to Review Financial Ombudsman Service Amid Concerns Over Regulation
The Treasury has announced a review into the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS), following concerns that the body has overstepped its powers as a complaints adjudicator into the realm of a quasi-regulator. The investigation aims to determine if the service has wrongfully imposed todayâs regulatory standards on past practices, particularly in the motor finance industry. This […]
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MHA plans London flotation splitting £80 million windfall between partners
Dozens of current and former partners at MHA, the British arm of Baker Tilly International, are set to share £80 million following the announcement of the firmâs plans to float on Londonâs Alternative Investment Market (AIM). The move, confirmed on Monday, will see the accountancy firm raise £125 million through its initial public offering (IPO), […]
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Qinetiq Shares Plunge After Warning On Revenue And Profit Outlook
Shares in Qinetiq fell sharply after the defence company issued a profit warning, announcing that full-year revenue and profits would be lower than expected due to challenging trading conditions. The firm revealed a £140 million impairment charge on its US operations, sending shares down by as much as 20.6 per cent to 416½p. In a […]
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Anduril Industries to Open UK Drone Factory as Part of European Expansion
One of the United States’ most prominent defence start-ups, Anduril Industries, has unveiled plans to establish a state-of-the-art drone factory in the United Kingdom. This facility is expected to serve as the firmâs European headquarters, marking a significant expansion of its operations beyond its home market. The company, which specialises in developing autonomous systems and […]
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UK Economy Downgraded by OECD Amid Trump Tariff Uncertainty
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has revised down the UKâs 2025 and 2026 growth projections, citing escalating global trade tensions and persistent inflationary pressures. According to the Paris-based economic body, the UK economy is now expected to grow at 1.4% in 2025, down by 0.3 percentage points, and 1.2% in 2026, a […]
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Rising cost of sickness benefits fuels welfare reform debate in the uk
More than seven million Britons are now claiming sickness benefits, according to official figures, marking an increase of 1.8 million since 2019. Data shows that one in ten working-age adults in the UK rely on these benefits, a situation that has sparked mounting political debate on the sustainability of the welfare system. The Institute for […]
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Labour Plans to Reform Welfare Benefits to Save £5 Billion
The government has unveiled sweeping reforms to the welfare system in an effort to save £5 billion, aiming to address the sharp rise in sickness and disability benefit claims. Over the past five years, the number of incapacity benefit claimants has grown by 700,000, reaching 3.3 million, a figure predicted to surpass 4 million within […]
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Arla Confronts Misinformation Challenge Amid Backlash Over Methane Emission Trials
Lurpak’s parent company, Arla, has found itself at the centre of a social media storm following unfounded claims related to its methane-reducing livestock feed trial. The uproar began when conspiracy theories falsely linked philanthropist Bill Gates to the dairy companyâs UK trials of Bovaer, a synthetic additive designed to cut methane emissions from cattle. Bovaer, […]
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Tesla halts cybertruck sales amidst concerns over build quality and buyer backlash
Elon Muskâs Tesla has been forced to suspend sales of its all-electric Cybertruck amidst growing scrutiny over build quality issues. Reports have surfaced from owners and enthusiasts about metal panels detaching from the vehicle, leading to widespread criticism of its supposed âindestructibleâ design. Customers on online forums and platforms like Cybertruck Owners Club and Muskâs […]
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Welsh Startup Space Forge Secures Major Milestone for Space Manufacturing
A Cardiff-based startup, Space Forge, is set to revolutionise advanced manufacturing by launching an innovative robotic factory into space. The companyâs oven-sized ForgeStar-1 satellite is scheduled to be sent into orbit later this year from the US after securing a critical licence from the UKâs Civil Aviation Authority. This marks a significant milestone in developing […]
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UK Retailers Face Backlash Over Refusal to Accept Cash Amid Cost of Living Crisis
Major high street chains and restaurants, including Gailâs Bakery, Itsu, and Zizzi, are under scrutiny as campaigners push back against the increasing trend of businesses refusing to accept cash payments. This shift comes at a time when more consumers are turning to notes and coins for their everyday spending, driven by the rising cost of […]
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Tax relief for side hustles threshold for UK tax returns to rise to three thousand pounds by 2029
Up to 300,000 individuals in the UK who earn additional income through side hustles such as selling second-hand clothes, dog walking, or gardening could soon benefit from not having to complete a self-assessment tax return. This change was announced as part of the governmentâs effort to simplify the process for part-time entrepreneurs who are supplementing […]
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Sweden Reconsiders Cashless Society Amid Security Concerns
Sweden, once a trailblazer in digital payments, now faces new challenges as it reassesses its transition to a cashless society. Predictions made by a former deputy governor of Swedenâs central bank in 2018 have largely materialised, with cash accounting for just 10% of all purchases. Card payments dominate, with the mobile payment app Swish, launched […]
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Apple faces encryption legal battle with UK government behind closed doors
A court hearing involving Appleâs legal challenge against the UK government was held behind closed doors on Friday, as media organisations were barred entry to the proceedings. The US-based technology giant has appealed a government order issued under the Investigatory Powers Act, demanding access to its encrypted Advanced Data Protection (ADP) service. The hearing took […]
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Elon Musk Starlink Controversy Sparks Exodus of UK Users Amid Political Backlash
Elon Muskâs ventures have encountered growing scrutiny, and Starlink, his satellite broadband service, is no exception. Despite its rapid adoption in remote and rural areas across the UK, discontent among users is mounting as Muskâs political associations and actions become increasingly controversial. This backlash is prompting some to abandon the service entirely. One such subscriber, […]
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Alton Towers Themed Ride Toxicator Faces Sewer Pipe Incident On Opening Day
Alton Towersâ highly anticipated new ride, Toxicator, faced an unexpected setback during its grand debut over the weekend. The Staffordshire theme park, which kicked off its 2025 season on Saturday, was forced to temporarily close the toxic waste-themed attraction due to a sewage leak caused by a burst pipe. The Toxicator promises thrill-seekers an immersive […]
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Virgin Rail Fights Regulator Decision Jeopardising UK Train Network Return
Sir Richard Bransonâs Virgin Group has launched an appeal against a decision which threatens its plans to return to Britainâs railways. The group is challenging a ruling by Network Rail, claiming there is sufficient unused capacity for it to operate services on the west coast main line. The appeal has been escalated to the Office […]
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How to revitalise aim and make London a global growth powerhouse
The challenges facing AIM, London’s junior stock market, are growing. In 2024 alone, 89 companies left AIM, with notable names such as Hornby opting for private ownership due to regulatory hurdles and listing costs. The governmentâs decision to introduce a 20 per cent inheritance tax on AIM-quoted shares has further discouraged investment, raising serious questions […]
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Roche and Zealand Pharma Strike $5.3 Billion Weight Loss Deal
The Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche has announced a partnership with Danish biotechnology firm Zealand Pharma in a deal valued at up to $5.3 billion. The collaboration aims to develop and commercialise a promising treatment in the next-generation obesity drugs market, widening Rocheâs portfolio in this rapidly growing sector. The agreement focuses on Petrelintide, a drug […]
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The risks of trade tariffs for US jobs and the global drinks industry
London-based drinks giant Diageo, the producer behind iconic brands such as Johnnie Walker whisky, Guinness, and Tanqueray gin, has issued a stark warning over the potential economic fallout of proposed US import tariffs. The company has highlighted that such protectionist measures could jeopardise thousands of American jobs while exerting significant strain on global trade in […]
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Biotech Pioneer BPH Discovers Precious Metals in Seaweed Research Programme
Australian biotechnology company BPH Global has unveiled groundbreaking research revealing significant concentrations of gold and copper in seaweed, opening new possibilities for sustainable metal extraction from seawater. Recent assays conducted in partnership with Temasek Innovation Holdings in Singapore have identified gold concentrations reaching 14.85 milligrams per kilogram and copper levels of up to 10.88 milligrams […]
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India Charts Bold Course With New Oil and Gas Exploration Laws to Slash Import Dependence
The Indian government has unveiled groundbreaking legislation designed to revolutionise its domestic oil and gas exploration sector, marking a decisive shift towards energy independence. The move comes as Asia’s third-largest economy grapples with an enormous import bill, currently bringing in 80% of its oil requirements from overseas markets. The strategic legislation aims to modernise the […]
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Roche and Zealand in multibillion pound deal to transform obesity drug sector
Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche has finalised a £4.4 billion deal with Danish biotech firm Zealand Pharma to develop and commercialise a next-generation obesity treatment. The agreement focuses on Petrelintide, a weekly injectable drug targeting weight loss. This collaboration marks a significant step in expanding Rocheâs pipeline for a market projected to exceed £82 billion by […]
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Porsche to Cut 4000 Jobs Amid US Tariff Concerns
The German luxury carmaker Porsche has announced plans to reduce its workforce by nearly 10 per cent in response to challenging market conditions and ongoing tariff uncertainties. The company, which is majority-owned by Volkswagen, confirmed it intends to cut 4,000 jobs through measures such as non-renewal of fixed-term contracts, natural turnover, and retirements over the […]
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Curve seeks fresh funding as growth strategy refocuses
Curve, the British financial technology firm challenging Apple Pay, has announced plans to raise new funding after pausing its operations in the United States. The company, founded by Shachar Bialick in 2015, provides a platform that combines multiple cards and PayPal accounts into one smart card or device, with wearable payment options such as rings […]
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Peak AI acquired by UiPath in strategic deal
Peak AI, the Manchester and Jaipur-based artificial intelligence software firm, has been acquired by American automation group UiPath for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition is part of UiPathâs strategy to expand its AI capabilities and comes after what has been a challenging period for Peak AIâs business growth. Founded in 2015 by Richard Potter, David […]
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Impact of Market Turmoil on the Magnificent Seven Tech Giants
The market turmoil gripping the United States has dealt a significant blow to the collective valuations of America’s top technology companies, known as the Magnificent Seven. Over $2.7 trillion has been wiped from the combined market value of Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Meta Platforms, Nvidia, and Tesla. The sharp decline follows a stellar run for […]
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NHS Bureaucracy Drives Virtual Reality Firm to Focus on US Market
Oxford Medical Simulation, a UK-based virtual reality (VR) training company, has shifted its primary focus to the United States, citing bureaucratic obstacles within the NHS as a major hindrance to innovation. The London-based firm, founded in 2017, offers virtual reality simulations to train healthcare professionals, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Co-founders […]
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Telegraph Media Group Circulation and Revenue Figures Under Auditor Review
Telegraph Media Group has initiated an independent review into its reported circulation figures and certain revenue recordings between 2020 and 2023. The move follows concerns raised by the acting Chief Financial Officer, Cathy Southgate. She took over the role after her predecessor, Cormac OâShea, departed early last year amidst an ongoing government investigation into the […]
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Ireland faces tough choices as US trade tensions escalate
Amid ongoing tensions between the United States and the European Union, Ireland finds itself in a precarious position as trade talks intensify. For years, the Irish economy has benefited significantly from US investment, but concerns are mounting over potential tariffs and tax changes that could undermine its economic stability. Currently, Ireland holds the fourth-largest trade […]
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How uk steel industry is navigating us tariffs
The UK steel industry faces significant challenges as President Trumpâs latest tariffs tighten their grip on global trade. The new measures impose a 25 per cent levy on aluminium products and extend beyond raw materials to include goods partly made with steel or aluminium. British companies exporting to the United States are now grappling with […]
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Seraphim Space Trust Struggles to Gain Investor Interest Despite Defence Spending Boom
Seraphim Space Investment Trust, a London-listed company specialising in military applications in space, has faced a perplexing lack of interest from investors despite the announcement of significant increases in global defence spending. According to its manager, Mark Boggett, the trustâs share price has barely moved, even as other defence-related stocks have enjoyed substantial gains. The […]
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Trainline Faces Statebacked Rival Amid Slumping Sales
Trainline, the rail ticketing giant, has reported weaker-than-expected sales growth, compounding investor anxiety over the looming threat of a state-backed competitor. Despite a 12 per cent rise in net ticket sales to £5.9 billion over the 12 months to February, this fell marginally short of City analystsâ predictions. The company attributed the shortfall to changes […]
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Deliveroo reports first full year profit but investors remain cautious over growth prospects
Deliveroo has reached a milestone by reporting its first full year of profit since its founding 12 years ago. The food delivery company posted a net profit of £2.9 million for the financial year ending in December 2024, a significant turnaround from a £31.8 million loss the previous year. However, its performance fell short of […]
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Hornby to Delist from AIM Market After 40 Years
The iconic model train maker Hornby has announced its intention to delist from AIM, Londonâs junior stock exchange, after more than four decades as a public company. The move comes amidst increasing regulatory burdens and costs that the company says outweigh the benefits of staying listed. Hornby, which has been backed by billionaire Mike Ashley […]
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Savills sees profits rise but doubts linger over property market recovery
Shares in Savills have faced new pressure, despite the property agent announcing a significant rise in profits for 2024. The firm reported a 59 per cent increase in pre-tax profits, reaching £88.3 million compared to the £55.4 million recorded in 2023. This performance was supported by a 7 per cent growth in revenues, which climbed […]
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John Lewis profits triple but staff bonuses scrapped again
The John Lewis Partnership has announced a significant leap in profits, with pre-tax earnings before exceptional items tripling to £126 million for the year ending 25 January 2025. This marks a dramatic rise from the previous yearâs figure of £42 million. However, the long-standing employee-owned retailer has, for the third consecutive year, decided against paying […]
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Trump Threatens Massive Tariff on European Wine Sparking Trade War Escalation
President Donald Trump has reignited trade tensions between the United States and the European Union by threatening a substantial 200 per cent tariff on wine, champagne, and other alcohol products imported from the EU. The move is a response to the blocâs planned 50 per cent surcharge on US whiskey exports, which is set to […]
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Keir Starmer discusses UK steel tariffs in talks with Donald Trump
Keir Starmer has confirmed he will not respond with immediate counter-tariffs if former US President Donald Trump imposes a 25% levy on all steel and aluminium imports from the United Kingdom. The Prime Minister, who discussed the matter with Trump during a phone call on Monday, has prepared for the tariffs to take effect at […]
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Motability Faces Uncertain Future Amid Rising Disability Benefit Cuts
Motability Operations, the company managing Britainâs largest vehicle leasing scheme for people with disabilities, is at a crossroads as the government prepares to slash disability benefit payouts. With 815,000 customers, almost one in five new cars sold in the UK today is linked to the scheme. This highlights its critical role not only for the […]
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Discord and Klarna poised for IPOs in 2025 boosting global markets
Discord, the communications platform primarily used by gamers, and Klarna, the Swedish payments giant, are reportedly laying the groundwork for their initial public offerings (IPOs) in 2025. Both companies are in discussions with investment banks as they prepare to debut on the stock markets. This move has the potential to reinvigorate the global IPO market, […]
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Synairgen to delist from aim amid investor pressures and funding struggles
Synairgen, the respiratory-focused biotechnology company born out of the University of Southampton, is set to delist from the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) following a turbulent period of funding challenges. Shareholders are expected to vote on the decision later this month as the company pivots towards seeking private investment to stabilise its future. The decision follows […]
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Thames Water faces scrutiny over £3bn refinancing as creditors raise alarms
A contentious £3 billion refinancing package for Thames Water has stirred significant debate as critics argue it could worsen the companyâs financial troubles. The plan, approved by the High Court last month, was hailed by Thames Water as a critical milestone in addressing its mounting debt of £19 billion. However, environmental and consumer groups, along […]
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UK Economy Faces Fiscal Crunch as Spring Statement Looms
The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, is expected to face significant fiscal challenges at the upcoming Spring Statement, scheduled for 26 March 2025. The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) is set to release its latest economic forecasts, which are widely anticipated to downgrade growth expectations and increase financial pressure on the government. Recent developments, including soaring inflation […]
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US Canada Trade War Escalates As Tariffs And Rhetoric Intensify On Both Sides
The trade war between the United States and Canada reached new heights on Tuesday as Donald Trump announced plans to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium products. The levies, initially set at 25%, are expected to rise to 50% amid rising tensions between the two neighbouring nations. This move follows Ontarioâs imposition of a […]
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Banks face massive payouts as FCA edges closer to car finance compensation scheme
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is on the verge of introducing a compensation scheme that could see banks proactively inform borrowers if they have been mis-sold car loans, potentially resulting in billions of pounds in redress. This development arises amid escalating concerns over the widespread mis-selling of motor finance, a scandal reminiscent of the Payment […]
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Development of Quiet Supersonic Jets Paves the Way for the Future of Air Travel
The sonic boom of Concorde, a groundbreaking aircraft that once sped across the skies, spelled its ultimate downfall more than two decades ago. Its thunderous 110-decibel roar ensured the jet was banned from flying over land, limiting its usage to transatlantic routes. Alongside prohibitive maintenance costs and a fatal crash, the disruption caused by its […]
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Isa season approaches maximise your allowance before april deadline
The end of the financial year is fast approaching, and with it comes the need for UK investors and savers to make the most of their Individual Savings Account (ISA) allowances before 5 April. Each year, individuals are entitled to shelter up to £20,000 from tax in an ISA, but this allowance operates on a […]
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latham watkins becomes second law firm to surpass $7 billion revenue mark
Latham & Watkins has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the second law firm in history to surpass the $7 billion revenue threshold. The Los Angeles-founded firm reported a 23 per cent increase in revenue during the last quarter, solidifying its position as one of the most successful legal practices on the global stage. The […]
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Robots introduced to support at home care in the uk crisis
One of the UKâs leading care providers, Cera, is trialling the use of robots to deliver support and improve care for elderly and vulnerable individuals. Collaborating with North Northamptonshire Council, Cera aims to enhance the experience of home-based care while addressing staff shortages in the sector. These robots assist with medication reminders, encourage hydration and […]
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Volkswagen sells more sausages than cars as profits slump
Volkswagen Groupâs latest financial results reveal an unconventional yet intriguing highlight. Despite a challenging year that saw a significant 30.4% drop in profits after tax for 2024, the German automaker sold a record-breaking 8.5 million currywurst sausages â 200,000 more than the previous year. The company, which operates leading brands such as Audi, Porsche, and […]
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US markets slump as Trump aluminium tariffs hit investor confidence
The downturn in US stock markets deepened yesterday following the Trump administration’s announcement of fresh tariffs on Canadian aluminium imports. Equity prices continued their slide, wiping billions from company valuations and raising fears of worsening economic disruption. America’s leading stock indices suffered across the board. The S&P 500, widely seen as a barometer for the […]
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Boohoo to be Renamed Debenhams Group as New CEO Plans Turnaround
Online fashion retailer Boohoo is to undergo a significant transformation as it rebrands itself as the Debenhams Group. Under the leadership of new chief executive Dan Finley, the company aims to replicate the success of Debenhams, which it acquired in 2021, to revitalise its broader business operations. Finley, who previously headed the Debenhams business before […]
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Nationwide to Pay £50 Pounds to 12 Million Customers After Virgin Money Acquisition
More than 12 million Nationwide customers are set to receive a £50 payment as a âthank youâ gesture, following the building societyâs acquisition of Virgin Money last year. This £600 million initiative will be distributed to eligible members who held either a savings or current account with at least £100 in it, or a Nationwide […]
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Trump tariff threats cast shadow over global economy
The Bank for International Settlements (BIS), often referred to as the âcentral bank of central banks,â has raised serious concerns over the impact of President Trumpâs trade policies on the global economy. Despite forecasting that the US and most advanced economies will steer clear of a recession this year, the BIS has warned that escalating […]
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Virgin galactic eyes uk soil for spaceflights branson pushes for uk spaceport
Sir Richard Branson has expressed his aspiration to commence Virgin Galactic spaceflights from UK soil, with Cornwall emerging as a potential launch site. Speaking via video link from his private retreat on Necker Island, he highlighted ongoing discussions with Italian officials about constructing a spaceport there and emphasised his desire to explore similar possibilities with […]
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UK whistleblowers to receive hefty incentives for exposing tax fraud
Whistleblowers in the UK could stand to earn significant financial rewards for exposing tax avoidance and fraud under a new scheme outlined by the Treasury. Inspired by similar programmes in the United States, informants will be entitled to receive a share of the additional tax revenue raised, with payments ranging from 10% to 25% of […]
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UK business closures rise amid inflation and tax hikes
The UK’s business landscape has witnessed a notable contraction, with the number of companies registered at Companies House declining in the final quarter of 2024. For the first time since 2012, the total figures for businesses on the official register fell, marking a challenging period for entrepreneurs and small business owners. According to data, the […]
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