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| 11-05-2025 |
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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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Kbeauty Boom Drives South Korean Skincare Expansion Into UK High Streets And Beyond
Korean beauty products, popularly known as K-beauty, are making significant strides on UK high streets, transitioning from social media trends to brick-and-mortar retail stores. Riding on the back of viral sales powered by TikTok and Instagram, the industry is leveraging unique ingredients like snail slime and salmon sperm to achieve market dominance. Retailers are now […]
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British Gas Faces Shareholder Rebellion Over CEO Pay Amid Energy Crisis
British Gas owner Centrica has faced significant backlash from its investors after nearly 40% voted against remuneration plans for its chief executive, Chris OâShea, during the companyâs annual meeting in Manchester. The controversy arises as rising energy prices leave many households struggling with record debts while OâShea received a £4.3 million pay packet last year. […]
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UK Manufacturers Celebrate Tariff Relief in New Trade Deal With the US
British manufacturers and exporters have expressed optimism following the announcement of a breakthrough trade deal between the United Kingdom and the United States. The agreement, confirmed on 8 May 2025, delivers significant tariff reductions on specific UK exports to the US, including cars, jet engines, and steel. This news has already sparked a positive reaction […]
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US trade deficit widens to record high impacting economy contraction
The United States has recorded its largest-ever trade deficit, revealing a significant challenge for the countryâs economic stability. The deficit surged by 14 per cent in March, reaching a historic $140.5 billion, compared to Februaryâs revised figure of $123.2 billion, according to data from the Department of Commerceâs Bureau of Economic Analysis. This rise in […]
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UK house prices rise despite stamp duty changes and global uncertainty
UK house prices rose by an average of 0.3% in April, defying expectations of a decline. According to Halifax, one of the nationâs largest mortgage lenders, this marks an improvement on the 0.5% dip recorded in March. On an annual basis, house prices have increased by 3.2%, the highest year-on-year growth registered by Halifax so […]
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Warner Bros revenues dip amid box office struggles
Warner Bros Discovery, the media powerhouse behind notable releases like A Minecraft Movie and hit TV series The Last of Us, has reported a challenging first quarter. The company posted revenues of $8.98 billion, missing analystsâ expectations of $9.61 billion and reflecting a 10 per cent decline year-on-year. Despite this, shares rose 4.9 per cent […]
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IFOREX PLANS FIFTY MILLION POUND LONDON STOCK MARKET FLOATATION
The financial betting company Iforex Financial Trading Holdings is preparing for a possible £50 million flotation on the London Stock Exchange in a move that could bolster the Cityâs flagging IPO activity. This decision comes amidst concerns over the diminishing number of new listings in the UK and could offer a boost to Londonâs financial […]
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Sir Martin Sorrells S4 Capital Reports Revenue Decline as AI Spending Takes Priority
S4 Capital, the digital advertising group founded by Sir Martin Sorrell, has reported an 11.4 per cent drop in first-quarter revenue, highlighting the impact of global economic challenges and shifting priorities among its tech clients. The company, which focuses heavily on the digital marketing sector, revealed that many of its technology clients continue to invest […]
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Why Water Bills Could Hit Two Thousand Pounds By 2050
Household water bills in England could soar to £2,000 per year by 2050, according to Ofwat, the water regulator. Current projections estimate that achieving this figure would require investments of up to £400 billion to tackle pressing challenges, such as cleaning polluted waterways, reducing river water extraction, and constructing new infrastructure like reservoirs. These developments […]
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Intercontinental Hotels Group Gains Strong Growth Despite Decline In China
The Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG), owner of renowned brands such as Holiday Inn, Kimpton, and Crowne Plaza, has reported promising first-quarter results for 2025, driven by robust performance across Europe, the Middle East, and the Pacific region. This growth offsets a continued decline in China, showcasing the resilience of the global hospitality market. The FTSE […]
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John Lewis expands cafe and restaurant operations to boost footfall
John Lewis is making a significant move to increase footfall in its department stores by expanding its dining and hospitality offerings. This year, the retailer plans to open five new cafés and restaurants, bringing the total across its estate to 62. This decision reflects the growing importance of food and drink within the companyâs evolving […]
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Heathrow Substation Fire Investigation Leaves Questions Unanswered
Investigators have so far been unable to determine the root cause of the fire that disrupted operations at Londonâs Heathrow Airport in March. The blaze, which occurred at the North Hyde substation, cut power to the airport, leaving over 1,350 flights grounded and affecting nearly 300,000 passengers. In addition to the chaos at Heathrow, around […]
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UK Investors Shed Bonds Amid Tariff Turmoil And Uncertainty Over Rates
Investors in the United Kingdom have turned away from bonds at an unprecedented pace, with £1.2 billion pulled from fixed income funds in April. This marks the fastest rate of bond sell-offs since April 2020, when the initial shocks of the pandemic surged through financial markets. The downturn comes amid escalating concerns over global economic […]
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UK Economy at Risk as Rachel Reeves Faces £60 Billion Shortfall
Chancellor Rachel Reevesâ ambitious fiscal policies could see her forced into raising taxes or cutting public spending by up to £60 billion before the next general election, according to leading economists. The National Institute for Economic and Social Research (NIESR) has criticised the governmentâs tax hikes for creating a precarious economic environment, warning that Reeves […]
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UK Interest Rates Expected to Be Cut by Bank of England as Growth Forecasts Downgrade
The Bank of England is anticipated to announce its fourth interest rate cut since August as part of its efforts to stimulate the flagging UK economy. Analysts predict that the monetary policy committee (MPC) will reduce borrowing costs by 0.25 percentage points, lowering the base interest rate from 4.5% to 4.25%. This marks the fastest […]
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Harbour Energy to Cut 250 Jobs Following Government Tax Increases
Harbour Energy, the largest oil and gas producer in the North Sea, has announced plans to cut 250 onshore jobs, representing up to a quarter of its North Sea workforce. The roles, mainly based in Aberdeen, are being reduced as the company grapples with what it describes as a “punitive fiscal regime” imposed by the […]
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Novo Nordisk Reduces Profit Outlook Amid Slowing Wegovy Sales in the US
Denmark’s Novo Nordisk has adjusted its annual revenue and profit forecasts downward following weaker-than-expected sales of its weight-loss drug Wegovy in the United States. The company, which became Europeâs most valuable listed firm last year with a market capitalisation of $615 billion (£461 billion), has seen its valuation decline substantially to approximately $310 billion. This […]
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UK India Trade Deal Raises Concerns Over NIC Exemptions And Immigration Impacts
A highly anticipated multibillion-pound trade deal between the United Kingdom and India is being hailed as a potential economic boost, delivering cheaper clothing and footwear for British consumers, expanded markets for scotch whisky producers and luxury carmakers, and billions in additional trade. However, the focus has shifted to controversy surrounding national insurance contributions (NICs) and […]
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UK Construction Activity Contracts For Fourth Straight Month Amid Rising Costs And Uncertainty
The UK construction sector is facing another challenging period as new data reveals that activity contracted for the fourth consecutive month in April. Despite a brief bounce-back at the end of 2024, the start of this year has been marked by stalled momentum and rising costs, according to the latest industry survey. S&P Globalâs construction […]
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British Steel to hire over 180 new employees as production ramps up
British Steel has announced plans to recruit over 180 new staff as part of efforts to ramp up operations at its two blast furnaces. Less than a month after the government stepped in to save the company from potential closure, this hiring spree signals a major step towards securing the future of the Scunthorpe plant […]
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Trainline Shares Fall as London Contactless Zone and Government Plans Threaten Growth
Trainline, the UK-based online rail ticketing retailer, reported a significant drop in its share value on Wednesday, with shares tumbling as much as 8% before stabilising to a 4% loss. This comes despite the company reporting a robust operating profit of £86 million for the financial year ending 28 February, a 56% increase compared to […]
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Amazon unveils Vulcan robot revolutionising warehouse operations
Amazon has announced a significant breakthrough in robotics, unveiling a new device named Vulcan, which is equipped with a sense of touch. This innovative robot is designed to handle approximately three-quarters of the items in the company’s sprawling warehouses, marking a substantial progression in automating its fulfilment processes. The Vulcan robot was launched at the […]
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Federal Reserve warns of inflation and job risks amidst Trumps erratic trade strategy
The Federal Reserve has once again opted to leave interest rates unchanged amidst growing concerns over the American economy. The central bank’s decision marks the third consecutive occasion in which it has maintained the benchmark interest rate, now holding at a range between 4.25% and 4.5%. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has openly cautioned against […]
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UK faces drought crisis as crop failures and water shortages loom
British farmers are warning of impending agricultural losses as drought conditions continue to grip the UK. The lack of substantial rainfall has led to the earliest irrigation efforts on record, with crops already failing in some regions. The Environment Agency has urged the public to limit water use, while water companies brace for significant challenges […]
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The impact of rising costs on the UK offshore wind energy sector
The UKâs ambitious plans to expand offshore wind energy capacity have faced a significant blow as the Danish energy firm Ãrsted announced the cancellation of its Hornsea 4 project. The windfarm, located off the Yorkshire coast, would have been one of the largest in the UK, comprising 180 turbines capable of powering 1 million homes […]
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Barbie maker Mattel to reduce China dependence raise prices amid Trump tariff impact
Barbie-maker Mattel has announced plans to reduce its reliance on China-sourced products for the US market while raising prices in response to the tariff policies introduced under Donald Trumpâs administration. The toy giant imports approximately 20% of the goods sold in the US from China but expects to lower this figure to below 15% by […]
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UK services sector contracts for the first time in 17 months amid Trump tariff fears
The UK services sector, which contributes approximately three-quarters of the country’s overall economy, saw its first contraction in 17 months this April. This downturn comes as global economic uncertainties, triggered by Donald Trumpâs aggressive tariff policies, begin to bear down on domestic and export-oriented businesses alike. The S&P Global UK services PMI activity index fell […]
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Renault and Stellantis Warn EU Regulations May Force Difficult Factory Decisions
Carmakers Renault and Stellantis have issued stark warnings over the future of their factories in Europe, citing the urgent need for EU regulatory reforms to support the production of smaller, more affordable vehicles. As consumer demand increasingly shifts towards larger SUVs, the leaders of these automotive giants have highlighted how current regulations are disproportionately designed […]
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Peabody threatens to walk away from Anglo American coal deal after mine explosion
A $3.3 billion deal between Peabody Energy and Anglo American faces uncertainty following an explosion at the Moranbah North mine in Australia. The incident, which took place in March, has halted production at the site, prompting Peabody to claim the event constitutes a âmaterial adverse changeâ to their agreement. Moranbah North, the largest contributor to […]
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OpenAI shifts course to retain nonprofit control over for-profit arm
OpenAI, the organisation behind the AI tool ChatGPT, has decided to maintain nonprofit oversight of its for-profit division following significant backlash from former employees and competitors. Chief among the critics was Tesla founder Elon Musk, who has been vocal about OpenAI’s shift away from its founding mission. The decision is seen as a compromise to […]
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Sharp rise in profit warnings on London markets over tariffs
The London stock market experienced a significant increase in profit warnings last month, driven largely by tariff threats from the United States. Twenty-six companies listed in the UK issued profit warnings in April, reflecting a 24 per cent rise when compared to the same month in 2024, according to new research by EY. Half of […]
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Scott Bessent Soothes Market Jitters Amid Trump Tariff Plans
Scott Bessent, the United States Treasury Secretary, sought to calm financial markets on Monday following President Trump’s announcement of a controversial 100 per cent tariff on foreign-produced films. Speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Bessent reassured investors about the resilience of the American economy and its appeal as a […]
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Record sales at IWG despite global uncertainty
The serviced office provider IWG has reported record sales for March, reaffirming its resilience amidst a backdrop of global economic volatility. The company, which operates under brands such as Regus and Spaces, posted a two per cent revenue increase, reaching $1.05 billion for the first quarter of this year. This robust performance comes as hybrid […]
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UK car sales slump amidst tax changes and electric vehicle challenges
New car sales in the UK fell by over 10 per cent in April, reversing the strong gains seen during March, the month of seasonal number plate changes. The decline is attributed largely to buyers rushing to complete purchases before tax increases came into effect in April, with rises in vehicle excise duty and the […]
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Kingsmill and Hovis set for merger talks amid processed foods backlash
Associated British Foods (ABF), the owner of Kingsmill, has confirmed it is exploring a potential merger between Allied Bakeries, its bread business, and Hovis, which is currently owned by the private equity firm Endless. The move comes as the baking industry faces significant challenges, including changing consumer habits and rising manufacturing costs. A merger between […]
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Junior Doctors Strike Ballot Sparks Concerns Over NHS Recovery
Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, has criticised junior doctors for moving forward with a strike ballot before the government has had the opportunity to present its pay offer. He argued that such actions are premature and warned of the potential strain further strikes could place on the National Health Service (NHS). Speaking in an interview, […]
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UK and India reach historic free trade agreement boosting economic ties with billions in growth
The United Kingdom and India have officially signed a landmark free trade agreement, representing the most significant trade deal for Britain since its departure from the European Union. The newly minted agreement is expected to inject up to £5 billion annually into the UK economy and elevate gross domestic product by 0.1 per cent. This […]
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Floral Energy set to disrupt off grid power market in Britain and America
Floral Energy, a British microgrid energy start-up, is positioning itself as a game-changer in the off-grid power sector. Founded by former Rolls-Royce executives Paul Stein, Mark Thompson, and Paul Tobin, the company aims to address the growing gap between grid capacity and increasing energy demand. This demand, accelerated by AI, cloud computing, and the electrification […]
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US MEDIA STOCKS SLIDE AFTER TRUMP MOVIE TARIFF THREAT
Shares in US streaming and production companies saw a notable drop on Monday following Donald Trumpâs announcement of his plan to impose 100% tariffs on films produced overseas. This policy shift, unveiled via his Truth Social platform, has sparked renewed concerns about trade policies under his administration and their potential economic ramifications. Early trading on […]
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Ministers to Meet Bank Chiefs Over Small Business Lending
Senior executives from leading banks, including HSBC, NatWest, and Lloyds, will meet with UK ministers this week to address growing concerns over restricted lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The discussions come as the government focuses on supporting its growth strategy amidst widespread criticism over limited access to affordable credit for struggling small businesses. […]
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UK Greenhouse Project Aims to Reduce Reliance on Spanish Tomato Imports
A groundbreaking greenhouse initiative in Essex is set to revolutionise British tomato production, reducing the countryâs dependence on imports from Spain and other nations. The Rivenhall greenhouse project, planned to be the second largest of its kind in the UK, promises to contribute 7% of the nationâs tomato supply, a significant boost to domestic horticulture. […]
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Trump orders reopening of Alcatraz to house most dangerous criminals
President Donald Trump has officially announced plans to reopen and expand Alcatraz, the infamous island prison located in San Francisco Bay. The facility, which closed in 1963 due to high operational costs, is set to undergo a significant rebuild to house Americaâs most dangerous criminals. The decision marks a bold move to revive the notorious […]
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Trump announces 100% tariffs on foreign films to revive Hollywood
President Donald Trump has unveiled plans to impose 100 per cent tariffs on all foreign-made films, as part of a bid to rebuild Hollywood and bring movie production back to the United States. The president argued that financial incentives offered by countries like the UK, Canada, and Europe have significantly harmed the American film industry. […]
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Marks and Spencer and Co Op Hacking Crisis Disruptions and Cybersecurity Concerns
Marks & Spencer (M&S) and the Co-op are the latest victims of a sophisticated cyberattack attributed to the Scattered Spider network, which has caused significant operational disruptions. The attackers employed advanced social engineering tactics, tricking IT help desks into resetting passwords for accounts with elevated privileges. This breach allowed the hackers to infiltrate and compromise […]
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Asylum Seekers Working Illegally as Couriers to Repay Smugglers
Asylum seekers housed in UK Home Office-funded hotels are working illegally as couriers for food delivery services to pay off debts owed to people smugglers. A recent investigation has uncovered cases of migrants earning up to £500 a week by using platforms such as Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats. Many of these migrants, prohibited […]
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Leadership challenges and merger talks destabilise uk television industry amid channel 4 and itv uncertainty
The UKâs television sector is facing a turbulent summer as Channel 4 and ITV contend with major leadership changes and potential restructuring. Alex Mahon, chief executive of Channel 4, has announced her departure after nearly eight years in the role, leaving the broadcaster under interim management. Meanwhile, ITV faces investor scepticism and speculation surrounding the […]
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Great Rail Journeys Acquired by Vitruvian Partners in £200 Million Deal
Great Rail Journeys, a renowned provider of luxury escorted tours, has been acquired by Vitruvian Partners in a deal worth over £200 million. This significant buyout reflects the growing demand for premium travel experiences among those with time to explore the worldâs most scenic routes. Based in York and established in 1973 as a family-run […]
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FCA Regulator Moves to Consultancy Raising Questions Over Revolving Door Practices
A senior official from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has made headlines by joining a consultancy firm with ties to the motor finance industry. Roma Pearson, formerly in charge of the consumer finance division at the FCA, has taken up a role as Senior Advisory Director at Square 4 Partners. This move comes amidst ongoing […]
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Early intervention urging NHS England to improve cancer detection service
Cancer experts and health policy analysts have urged the NHS in England to adopt a stronger focus on early intervention to improve cancer survival rates. A recent report by health consultancy Incisive Health highlights missed opportunities in diagnosing cancer early, which ultimately impacts patient outcomes and survival. The publication comes as the government works on […]
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The race for prime office spaces in London
The London office market is experiencing a significant shift as demand for premium office spaces accelerates in the wake of the pandemic. Developers are entering what many describe as an âarms raceâ to attract companies back to physical workplaces with amenities reminiscent of luxury hotels. From private cinemas and gyms to dining spaces with outdoor […]
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The future of bet365 what could be next for Denises Coates empire
Recent reports have sent shockwaves through Londonâs financial sector, suggesting that Denise Coates, founder of Bet365 and Britainâs richest woman, is considering selling the online gambling giant. Investment bankers across the City have been abuzz, grappling with the possibility of a deal that could value the company at an estimated £9 billion. The news follows […]
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Heathrow third runway sparks calls for regulatory reform amid airline backlash
The longstanding debate over Heathrow Airport’s third runway has reignited tensions between the airport’s management and major airlines, with industry heavyweights Virgin Atlantic and British Airways pushing for sweeping regulatory reforms. The proposed £60 billion-plus expansion has sparked concerns that airlines, and ultimately passengers, will bear the financial burden of the development under the current […]
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Warren Buffett Announces Retirement as Berkshire Hathaway CEO
Legendary investor and billionaire Warren Buffett has revealed his decision to step down as Chief Executive Officer of Berkshire Hathaway at the end of this financial year. The announcement came during the companyâs milestone 60th annual meeting in Omaha, Nebraska. Buffett, widely known as the âSage of Omaha,â has led the transformation of Berkshire Hathaway […]
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Bet365 Owners Consider Nine Billion Pound Sale of Betting Giant
The billionaire owners of Bet365 are reportedly exploring the sale of their gambling enterprise for a valuation of £9 billion. Founded by Denise and John Coates in 2000, the group has initiated discussions with American banks and advisers regarding either a full sale, the divestment of a business stake, or even a potential initial public […]
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Labour Plans to Relax Rules to Deliver 15 Million Homes by 2029
The Labour government is pressing forward with a controversial planning and infrastructure bill aimed at expediting housing development in a bid to meet its ambitious target of delivering 1.5 million new homes by 2029. Central to this initiative is the proposal to ease regulations, allowing developers to build on previously protected green spaces, significantly altering […]
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Lloyds Banking Group profits drop 7% amid concerns over Trump tariffs
Profits at Lloyds Banking Group took a hit as the high street bank allocated more funds than anticipated to cover potential bad debts stemming from the economic fallout of Donald Trump’s trade policies. The group, which operates brands such as Lloyds Bank, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland, reported a 4% rise in net income to […]
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UK Banks Invest £75 Billion in Carbon Bomb Projects Fueling Climate Crisis
Banks within the City of London have been accused of pouring astronomical sums into fossil fuel projects, despite the accelerating urgency of the climate crisis. According to a recent study, nine London-based banks, including HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, and NatWest, have funnelled more than £75 billion into companies developing so-called “carbon bombs” between 2016 and 2023. […]
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Impact of trump tariffs leads to fastest decline in uk factory export orders in five years
British factories experienced their sharpest decline in export orders for five years last month, as Donald Trumpâs international tariff policies disrupted global trade flows. UK manufacturers reported a significant downturn in both output and new orders during April, attributed to mounting economic and trade uncertainties. Many factories were left with no choice but to reduce […]
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McDonalds Faces Biggest Drop in US Sales Since Pandemic
McDonaldâs has reported its steepest quarterly decline in US same-store sales since the pandemic, as the impact of geopolitical tensions and a weakening American economy takes its toll on consumer confidence. The fast-food giant revealed a 3.6 per cent drop in US same-store sales for the first quarter of 2025, marking its most significant fall […]
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Harrods faces cyber attack amid growing concerns for UK retailers
Harrods, the iconic luxury department store, has fallen victim to a cyber-attack, becoming the latest retailer in the UK to face such challenges. This comes just days after Marks & Spencer and the Co-op also experienced major disruptions caused by hacking attempts targeting their operations. The retailer confirmed that it had detected unauthorised attempts to […]
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US reportedly seeks negotiations with China over 145% Trump tariffs
The United States has reportedly approached China to initiate discussions surrounding the 145% tariffs imposed under the Trump administration. According to sources cited on Yuyuan Tantian, a Chinese state media-affiliated social media platform, American officials have been actively reaching out through various channels to open a dialogue on the contentious issue. Key figures such as […]
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UK Housing Market Shows Resilience Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty
Persimmon, one of the UKâs largest housebuilders, has reported strong demand for new homes despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. The company revealed that it has not seen any material impact from global trade wars or heightened macroeconomic challenges on its supply chains or sales activity. The firm, founded in 1972 and listed on the London Stock […]
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Aston Martin cuts US exports amidst tariff uncertainty
Aston Martin Lagonda has decided to scale back its exports to the United States as it keeps a close eye on the effects of American tariffs on luxury vehicle demand. The carmaker, known for its high-performance sports cars, has taken a cautious approach in response to the evolving situation under the current trade policies. The […]
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Rising Energy Costs Hindering British Companies Growth Plans
Three out of five British companies have reported that increasing and volatile energy costs are severely hampering their growth strategies. A recent survey conducted by EY, the professional services firm, revealed that the escalating prices are weighing heavily on profitability and competitiveness for businesses across the UK. The International Energy Agency recently highlighted that Britainâs […]
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UK advantage as Trump deplatforms diversity equity and inclusion initiatives
The chief executive of the London Stock Exchange, Dame Julia Hoggett, has suggested that President Trumpâs recent executive order banning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives could provide London with an advantage in attracting global companies for their stock listings. This development comes as the US takes a significant step to restrict DEI practices in […]
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Fall in European Airlines Shares as US Travel Demand Weakens Amid Consumer Uncertainty
The major international airlines of continental Europe are experiencing a significant drop in demand for travel to the United States. Lufthansa and Air France-KLM have both cited stricter enforcement of border controls as a key factor discouraging travellers. This slowdown comes during the early months of Donald Trumpâs second presidential term, which has triggered broader […]
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Business confidence rises to highest level since October budget
Business confidence has climbed to its highest point since before the October budget, largely driven by a delay in US reciprocal tariffs. According to the Institute of Directorsâ latest economic confidence index, sentiment among business leaders rose to -51 in April, a significant improvement from -58 the previous month. This marks the most optimistic report […]
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Co-op Cyberattack as Marks and Spencer Disruption Continues to Unfold
The Co-op has become the latest major British retailer to fall victim to a cyberattack, following a similar disruption at Marks & Spencer. Operating over 2,300 food shops and 800 funeral homes, the Co-op was forced to shut parts of its IT systems after detecting attempts to gain unauthorised access. Despite this, all stores, including […]
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Meta reports revenue surge as AI attracts advertisers
Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, has exceeded analystsâ expectations with its first-quarter revenue results, driven by the increasing integration of artificial intelligence into its advertising tools. The tech giant reported $42.31 billion in revenue, surpassing the anticipated $41.40 billion. This surge demonstrates the robust appeal of its platforms for advertisers […]
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Microsoft reports strong revenue growth amid AI investments and European expansion
Microsoft has surpassed Wall Streetâs quarterly expectations, driven by robust demand for its cloud computing services. The tech giant reported a 13 per cent increase in overall revenue year-on-year, reaching 70.1 billion . Net income rose by 18 per cent to. Revenue from Microsoftâs Azure cloud computing platform showed notable growth, rising by 33 per […]
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Elon Musk steps back from white house role shifting focus to Tesla
Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and head of Tesla, has announced plans to reduce his involvement with the United States governmentâs Department of Government Efficiency (DoGE). After months of spearheading policies on workplace efficiency, Musk will now concentrate more on his electric vehicle company following a significant decline in Tesla’s profits. Speaking to reporters, Susie […]
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Private School Fees Leave Families Earning £100k With Less Than Minimum Wage
Families earning an annual household income of £100,000 are finding themselves worse off than couples working full time on the national minimum wage if they send two children to private school, a new report has revealed. The financial strain has been exacerbated by the introduction of VAT on school fees, making private education increasingly unattainable […]
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The Rise Of Mandatory Solar Panels On New Homes In England
England is set to undergo a significant shift in its housing sector, as almost all new properties will soon require solar panels to be installed by law. The mandate, expected to come into effect by 2027, is part of the government’s ambitious plans to reduce carbon emissions and decarbonise the electricity grid by 2030. This […]
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US Ukraine Minerals Deal Signals Historic Economic Partnership
Ukraine and the United States have finalised a highly anticipated agreement to establish a joint minerals deal, marking a new chapter in their economic cooperation. This partnership is being hailed as a major step forward in securing Ukraineâs sovereignty, bolstering its economy, and ensuring continued support in its defence against Russia. The deal, described as […]
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Gymshark profits take a hit as tariffs and investment weigh on growth
British athleisure brand Gymshark has reported a drop in profits for the financial year ending July 2024, as the companyâs investments in new retail locations and the looming threat of tariffs in the United States squeeze its operations. Pre-tax profits fell from £13.1 million to £11.9 million, marking a rare setback in the company’s otherwise […]
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Trump Makes Trade Deal with UK Second Order Priority in Blow to British Negotiators
Donald Trump’s administration has reportedly relegated a potential UK-US trade deal to a lower priority, casting doubt over Britain’s ambitions to finalise such an agreement within weeks. Sources familiar with the negotiations have indicated that the United States has divided trade discussions with over a dozen nations into three phases. The UK, according to US […]
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HSBC warns of rising impact from US China trade tensions and global economic shifts
HSBC, the London-based bank with deep roots in Asia, has cautioned that US-China trade tensions are already taking a toll on global trade volumes. The bank, which is the world’s largest trade financier, revealed that the imposition of tariffs has hampered transactions on the US-China trade corridor, with certain sectors not benefiting from waivers or […]
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National Express owner faces leadership crisis after reporting massive losses and halting dividend
The chief executive of Mobico Group, the parent company of National Express, has stepped down amidst a financial crisis that has seen the company report staggering losses of £793 million. Ignacio Garat, who had been at the helm since 2020, left the company by mutual agreement. The announcement came shortly after Mobico revealed its withdrawal […]
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Carlsberg Reports Drop in Volumes as US Tariffs and Uncertainty Weigh on Performancef
Carlsberg, the Danish brewer founded in 1847, has reported a 2.3 per cent decline in organic volumes for the first quarter of the year. The drop, which is deeper than the 1.7 per cent expected by analysts, has been attributed to subdued consumer spending, the impact of US tariffs, and heightened macroeconomic volatility. Jacob Aarup-Andersen, […]
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Octopus Titan Reports £147 Million Loss in 2024 Under Pressure From Shareholders
Britainâs largest venture capital trust, Octopus Titan, has reported a loss of £147.6 million for 2024, bringing its cumulative losses over the past three years to more than £600 million. The trust, which focuses on investing in high-risk UK start-ups, acknowledged widespread dissatisfaction among its 20,000 shareholders, many of whom are high-net-worth individuals. The trust […]
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BP profits halve as strategy head steps down amid investor pressure
BP has announced a sharp reduction in its spending plans following a halving of profits for the first quarter of the year. The companyâs strategy chief, Giulia Chierchia, has revealed plans to step down amidst intensified pressure from activist investor Elliott Management. The energy giant reported a subdued profit of $1.38 billion for the first […]
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Marks and Spencer cyberattack disrupts operations as teenage hackers demand ransom
A recent cyberattack has caused massive disruption to Marks & Spencerâs operations, with a group known as âScattered Spiderâ allegedly behind the breach. Reports suggest the teenage hacking group gained entry into M&S systems earlier in the year, employing sophisticated techniques to compromise the retail giantâs IT network. The attack, which first surfaced publicly last […]
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Starbucks Faces Tough Sales Decline Amid Economic Uncertainty
Starbucks has reported a sharper-than-expected fall in global comparable sales, raising concerns over the success of its turnaround strategy. The coffee giant revealed a 1% decline in same-store sales during the second quarter, exceeding analysts’ projected 0.3% drop. Despite a 2% increase in net revenues to $8.8 billionâmeeting market expectationsânet income took a significant hit, […]
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AstraZeneca Resilient Despite Mixed Q1 Results and Challenges in Key Markets
AstraZeneca, the FTSE 100 pharmaceutical giant, has reaffirmed its full-year forecasts despite posting mixed first-quarter results and grappling with potential headwinds in major markets. The company reported a 10 per cent increase in total revenue, reaching $13.6 billion, driven by strong double-digit growth in cancer treatments and biopharmaceuticals. However, this result fell slightly short of […]
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Why Amazon Reversed Its Tariff Transparency Plan After Pressure From The White House
Amazon’s plans to display additional tariff charges resulting from the US trade war with China have been swiftly abandoned following pressure from the White House. Reports emerged that the retail giant intended to highlight these costs alongside product prices, a move that prompted swift backlash from former US President Donald Trump and his team. Earlier […]
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Tony Blair calls for a reset of irrational net zero policies
Sir Tony Blair, the former Prime Minister, has urged a radical rethinking of net-zero climate policies, warning they are destined for failure without substantial adjustments. Speaking days before the local elections, Blair criticised what he described as “irrational” measures, stating that voters are being forced to endure lifestyle changes and financial sacrifices, which ultimately yield […]
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Plus500 sees revenue boost during Trump presidency market volatility
Plus500 has reported a significant financial lift in the wake of heightened market volatility triggered by the return of President Trump to the White House. The financial betting company, which specialises in contracts-for-difference (CFDs) and derivatives, experienced a 13 per cent rise in revenues in the first quarter of the year to $205.8 million. Adjusted […]
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ITV faces shakeup as Banijay Group considers takeover bid for the British broadcaster
The French media conglomerate Banijay Group, known for producing acclaimed shows such as Peaky Blinders and Grantchester, is reportedly exploring a potential takeover of ITV. Discussions have allegedly been initiated for either a full acquisition of the company or specifically its studio production arm, ITV Studios. The move comes amid ongoing speculation about a possible […]
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Marriott to Acquire Citizen M in Strategic Move into Affordable Luxury
Hotel giant Marriott International has announced plans to acquire the Citizen M hotel chain as part of its expansion into the âaffordable luxuryâ market. The deal, valued at $355 million, will see Marriott add Citizen Mâs brand and intellectual property to its broad portfolio, which already includes prestigious names like Ritz-Carlton and Sheraton. The acquisition […]
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IBM to Invest $150 Billion in US Manufacturing Over Five Years
IBM, one of the worldâs leading technology companies, has announced plans to invest $150 billion in domestic manufacturing within the United States over the next five years. The companyâs significant commitment highlights a growing trend among tech giants to prioritise investments in their home countries amidst shifting global trade dynamics. The funds will include $30 […]
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Prostate cancer urine test could revolutionise screening in the UK
A groundbreaking urine test for prostate cancer is being hailed as a significantly more accurate alternative to the current PSA blood tests. Scientists believe this development could pave the way for routine prostate cancer screening in the UK, akin to the breast cancer screening programme already in place for women. Prostate cancer remains the most […]
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Paris wine fraud claims restaurants caught serving cheap plonk to tourists
Parisian cafés and bistros are reportedly swapping premium wines with cheaper alternatives, deceiving customers and damaging the esteemed reputation of French wine. According to an investigation by Le Parisien, unsuspecting tourists are frequently served inferior wines at the price of premium vintages, particularly in establishments catering to visitors. Sommeliers involved in the probe revealed startling […]
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Rachel Reeves £100 billion plan may fall short to revive UK public services and economy
Rachel Reevesâs ambitious £100 billion investment initiative, aimed at bolstering public infrastructure and economic growth, is facing criticism for being insufficient to meet the pressing needs of the UKâs public services. According to the Resolution Foundation, much of this funding will be consumed by reversing planned cuts, leaving limited resources to address other critical projects. […]
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UK risks fallout with Trump as EU alliance strengthens
Britain is set to ruffle feathers in Washington as it moves towards formalising a shared geopolitical framework with the European Union, potentially jeopardising its hopes for a US trade agreement. The UKâs alignment with Brussels on key issues such as Ukraine, climate change, and free trade is seen as a marked shift in foreign policy […]
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Impact of extended sugar tax on milkshakes and coffees announced by government
The government has announced plans to expand the current sugar tax to include pre-packaged milkshakes and lattes, marking a significant shift in its strategy to tackle obesity and improve public health. The levy, which previously focused on high-sugar fizzy drinks, will now target hundreds of additional products, including popular brands and supermarket offerings. This decision […]
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Bernstein analysts project a stable outlook for aluminum prices, with limited scope for major gains in the years ahead.
In a recent report, the brokerage forecasts a moderate rise of 10â15% from current price levels, aligning with where the market has hovered for much of 2025. The global aluminum market is expected to remain broadly balanced over the next decade. Bernstein estimates that demand will grow at an annual rate of 2.1% through 2040, […]
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UK nuclear fusion company First Light Fusion sees massive value write-down after pivot away from reactor plans
A British nuclear fusion company, First Light Fusion, has experienced a substantial 60 per cent reduction in its valuation following the decision to abandon its plans for building a prototype fusion reactor. The Oxford-based firm saw its price tag slashed by one of its key backers, IP Group, dropping from £236 million last year to […]
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Shein Reacts to Trump Tariffs with Sharp Price Increases and Production Shift
Chinese fast-fashion giant Shein has implemented substantial price increases for its American customers in response to Donald Trumpâs heightened tariff policies. The online retailer, known for its low-cost offerings, has raised the prices of certain products by as much as 377 per cent. Items popular with US shoppers, including makeup and womenâs clothing, have seen […]
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Trump seeks free transit for US ships through crucial global canals
Former US President Donald Trump has ignited significant geopolitical discussions following his demands for American military and commercial vessels to be granted free passage through the strategic Panama and Suez canals. His controversial statements, which also called for swift governmental action, have drawn a sharp response from officials managing these critical maritime routes. Trump claimed […]
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Indie Brewers Face Barriers as Multinationals Dominate UK Pubs
Independent breweries in the UK are facing mounting challenges as large brewing corporations and some pub chains restrict access to local markets. A recent study by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (Siba) reveals that about 60% of pubs within a forty-mile radius of small brewers are now inaccessible to them. This worrying trend […]
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