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| 18-05-2025 |
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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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United Health Faces Criminal Investigation Over Alleged Medicare Fraud
One of the largest healthcare organisations in the United States, United Health Group, is now the subject of a criminal investigation by the US Department of Justice. The investigation, overseen by the justice departmentâs healthcare division, reportedly focuses on the companyâs Medicare Advantage business practices. While the exact accusations remain unclear, the inquiry has been […]
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NatWest reprivatisation nears completion as government stake falls below one per cent
The government is on the cusp of fully reprivatising NatWest, with the taxpayersâ shareholding in the bank now reduced to less than 1 per cent. This latest step marks the near-conclusion of a process that began a decade ago following the bankâs £45.5 billion state bailout during the 2008-09 financial crisis. The bailout, which left […]
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US homebuyers flock to UK property amidst Trump effect
Interest from American buyers in UK property has surged to an eight-year high, with Edinburgh overtaking London as the most popular destination. Scotland now accounts for 28 per cent of inquiries from US-based buyers, compared with 26 per cent for Greater London. Edinburgh leads as the city of choice, with other popular destinations including prime […]
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BT to Carve Out International Business in Strategic Move
BT is set to establish an independent international division as part of its broader shift to prioritise its UK-focused operations. The move, which will impact more than 8,000 employees, aims to enhance the companyâs focus on its core domestic market. Allison Kirkby, who took over as BTâs Chief Executive last year, has made clear her […]
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Business investment in uk expands at fastest pace in two years
Business investment in the United Kingdom has surged at the fastest pace in two years, defying earlier concerns that increased payroll taxes would dampen private sector expenditure. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed a 5.9 per cent rise in business investment between January and March. This marks a sharp rebound from the […]
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Coinbase cyber attack exposes weaknesses in crypto security
The largest cryptocurrency exchange in the United States, Coinbase, has revealed that a recent cyber-attack targeting a “small subset” of its customers could cost the company between $180 million and $400 million. The attack, which occurred earlier this month, involved hackers obtaining account data such as names, addresses, and email addresses. Although login credentials and […]
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Walmart to raise prices this month due to Trump tariffs
Walmart, the global retail giant, has announced it will begin increasing prices this month in response to rising tariff costs, a move that signals a challenging period ahead for consumers. Shoppers in the United States are expected to notice the change in prices by the end of May, with effects becoming more prominent in June, […]
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Government Urged to Delay Tax Changes for Farmers
A group of influential MPs has called on the government to delay controversial plans to change inheritance tax rules for farmers, allowing more time for consultation and better policy formulation. The proposed changes, which aim to bring farms and other agricultural properties into inheritance tax rules, have sparked widespread protests and concern among the farming […]
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Wealthy Britons May Be Avoiding More Tax Than First Thought
Wealthy individuals across Britain may be dodging more tax than previously estimated, as revealed by a new report from the National Audit Office (NAO). The findings come amidst a dramatic 75% drop in penalties issued to the super-rich in the financial year ending March 2024. This revelation has led to calls for increased government action […]
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Thames Water ministers set to block executive bonuses in emergency loan crisis
The UK government plans to intervene to block Thames Waterâs executives from receiving substantial bonuses tied to a £3 billion emergency loan, according to informed sources. The decision arises as the countryâs largest water provider fights financial insolvency amidst rising customer bills, pollution incidents, and ballooning debt. Thames Water recently revealed that senior managerial staff […]
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Energy Bill Defaults Hit Record High Says ONS Households Struggle to Keep Up
A record number of households in Britain have been unable to pay their energy bills via direct debit, as per new data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Figures from April reveal that over 2.7% of direct debit payments for electricity and gas failed due to insufficient funds. This marks the highest default rate […]
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Aviva acquisition of Direct Line investigation launched by CMA
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has opened an investigation into Avivaâs £3.7 billion acquisition of rival insurer Direct Line. This significant move could reshape the UKâs insurance sector, combining the operations of two of the largest players in the market. The scrutiny by the CMA will determine the dealâs potential effects on competition within […]
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Bank of London facing regulatory probe and questions over financial stability
The Bank of London, a relatively new entrant to the UK financial market, is facing significant challenges as it comes under investigation by UK regulators. The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), part of the Bank of England, has launched an inquiry into potential breaches that occurred before the bank changed ownership in 2024. The findings could […]
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Denmark rethinking nuclear power after 40 year ban amid shifting European energy landscape
Denmark, a nation renowned for its renewable energy achievements, is revisiting its 40-year ban on nuclear power as it explores the potential of new reactor technologies. The Danish government recently announced plans to evaluate the benefits of small modular reactors (SMRs), which represent a significant departure from traditional, large-scale nuclear reactors. This development signals a […]
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Ownership Limits on UK Newspapers to End Telegraph Saga
The UK government is set to introduce a 15% cap on foreign state ownership of British newspapers, potentially ending a protracted two-year uncertainty over the ownership of The Daily and Sunday Telegraph. The announcement, expected from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, comes through a new statutory instrument intended to safeguard the independence of […]
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The impact of Imperial Brands CEO Stefan Bomhard resignation on shares and future strategy
Stefan Bomhard, Chief Executive of Imperial Brands, has announced his decision to retire in a move that has unsettled investors and resulted in a significant drop in the companyâs share price. Imperial, one of the UKâs leading tobacco manufacturers, saw its shares tumble 7.3 per cent, wiping £1.5 billion off its market value. This surprise […]
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Compass Group Reports Profit Growth and Highlights Outsourcing Surge in First Half
Compass Group, the FTSE 100 contract catering giant, has reported a rise in profits for the first half of the financial year, citing strong revenue growth and a surge in demand for outsourced catering services across its global markets. Profit before tax increased to $1.28 billion for the six months ending in March, up from […]
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GSK Acquires Boston Pharmaceuticals Liver Disease Drug Asset For $2 Billion
GSK, one of the UKâs leading pharmaceutical companies, has committed up to $2 billion to acquire a promising new liver disease drug from Boston Pharmaceuticals. The latest acquisition aims to bolster GSKâs biopharma pipeline as it targets group revenues of over £40 billion by 2031. The drug, efimosfermin, is set to enter late-stage clinical trials […]
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Tui faces challenging year as summer bookings drop
Europeâs largest travel operator, Tui, has reported a drop in summer bookings alongside a widening loss for the first quarter of the year. The company, headquartered in Germany, recorded an underlying loss before interest and tax of â¬206.8 million for the three months to the end of March, compared to a â¬188.7 million loss over […]
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Evri and DHL to Merge Forming UK Parcel and Letter Delivery Giant
The UK parcel delivery provider Evri has announced a significant merger with DHL eCommerce UK, a move set to create one of the largest delivery companies in the country. The combined entity will have the capacity to handle over one billion parcels and an equal number of letters annually. This marks Evriâs debut in the […]
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Burberry to Cut Workforce Amid Global Luxury Market Struggles
Burberry, the British luxury fashion house, has announced plans to cut up to 1,700 jobs, representing nearly 18 per cent of its global workforce. The cuts will primarily impact head office roles, including its London headquarters, and staff rotas, alongside the elimination of the night shift at its Castleford factory in West Yorkshire. The decision […]
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London set to benefit from new entertainment arena boosting economy and Olympic ambitions
A major new entertainment arena is being proposed for London, with the aim of bolstering the cityâs cultural and economic appeal. Tim Leiweke, chief executive of Oak View Group, has expressed plans for another large-scale venue, following his success in transforming the Millennium Dome into The O2, which is now considered the most successful arena […]
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Lindsell Train Founders Secure £23m in Dividends Despite Profit Drop
The founders of Lindsell Train, one of Britainâs prominent fund management firms, received £23 million in dividends last year despite declining profits and significant client withdrawals. Michael Lindsell and Nick Train, who are celebrated for their stock-picking prowess, have faced mounting pressure in recent years due to underperformance in some of their key funds. Recent […]
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Marks Spencer Cyberattack Sparks Insurance Claim Worth £100 Million GBP
Marks & Spencer is poised to file an insurance claim of up to £100 million following a recent cyberattack that severely disrupted its operations. The retailerâs main insurance policy, facilitated by Allianz, is set to cover an initial £10 million of its losses, with further payouts possible. Beazley, a specialist insurer in cyberattack coverage, is […]
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US inflation drops to lowest level in more than two years as tariffs ease
US inflation fell unexpectedly in April, coinciding with President Trumpâs announcement of significant reductions in tariffs, marking what he described as âliberation day.â The annual rate of price growth dropped to 2.3 per cent, down from 2.4 per cent in March. This is the lowest inflation rate recorded since February 2021, providing some relief for […]
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Co-op supply chain in crisis as cyberattack impacts stores nationwide
Co-op supermarkets across the UK are grappling with severe product shortages following a large-scale cyberattack that has disrupted its supply chain. The attack targeted critical ordering and logistics systems, leaving shelves noticeably bare, particularly of fruit and vegetables. Effects of the attack have been confirmed at 2,500 stores, with some areas experiencing worse shortages than […]
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Massive arms deal signals shift in middle east alliances
President Trump has announced a historic arms deal with Saudi Arabia valued at $142 billion, the largest defence agreement ever signed. This high-profile transaction cements the strategic partnership between the United States and the Gulf kingdom, further advancing economic and military ties at a time of evolving geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The agreement […]
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UK Wage Growth Slows As Unemployment Rate Rises In Early 2025
Wage growth in the UK dropped to its lowest point since November, while the unemployment rate edged higher over the first quarter of the year. According to data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), pay growth in the three months to March slowed to 5.6 per cent, a slight decline from 5.9 per […]
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Vinted triples its profits in a year to £80m
The popular second-hand marketplace Vinted has recorded a remarkable financial performance, tripling its profits to â¬95.4 million (£80.3 million) in 2024. This growth, up from â¬33.4 million the previous year, reflects the companyâs ongoing success in expanding its platform across multiple categories and markets. Vintedâs revenue has also witnessed a significant increase, rising by 36 […]
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Jaguar Land Rover Profits Surge as Electric Car Production Plans Advance
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has recorded its highest profit levels in a decade, buoyed by preparations for a new wave of electric vehicle production. The Indian-owned automotive group, part of Tata Motors, posted pre-tax profits of £875 million for the last quarter of its financial year, up from £661 million in the same period last […]
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Marstons swings back to profit after cost cuts and event focus
Marstonâs, the Wolverhampton-based pub chain, has announced a return to profit in the first half of its financial year. The company reported pre-tax profits of £19.5 million for the 26 weeks ending 29 March, a significant improvement from the £26.9 million loss recorded in the same period last year. Chief Executive Justin Platt attributed the […]
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US Tech Firms Secure Major AI Deals During Trump Gulf Tour
US technology firms have announced significant deals in the Middle East as former president Donald Trump proclaimed $600 billion in commitments from Saudi Arabia to American artificial intelligence companies during his tour of the Gulf states. Among the most high-profile agreements was a deal signed by Nvidia, which will supply hundreds of thousands of cutting-edge […]
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UK will not accept chlorine chicken or hormone beef trade deal implications for agriculture
The UK’s environment secretary has firmly reiterated that the nation will not accept chlorine-washed chicken or hormone-fed beef, practices that are currently prohibited in both the UK and EU. This statement came during a meeting held in London with the US agriculture secretary, Brooke Rollins, who indicated that these methods may no longer be critical […]
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Bentley Sales to US Delayed Amid Uncertainty Over Tariff Cuts
The British luxury carmaker Bentley has reported a complete halt in its US sales as customers await clarity on lower tariffs promised under a recent UK-US trade deal. The deal agreed last week has set a 10% tariff on 100,000 car exports to the US, a significant reduction from the 25% levy currently imposed on […]
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Microsoft to axe 6000 jobs despite consistent profit streak
Microsoft has announced plans to lay off approximately 3% of its global workforce, equating to around 6,000 employees. The tech giant, based in Redmond, Washington, employed 228,000 full-time staff as of June last year. These cuts mark Microsoft’s largest reduction in workforce since early 2023, when it shed 10,000 jobs during an industry-wide scaling back […]
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Nissan to Close Seven Factories Cutting 20000 Jobs Amid Global Restructuring Plan
Nissan, the Japanese carmaker, is set to undergo major restructuring, announcing the closure of seven factories worldwide and a reduction of 20,000 jobs. The company faces a steep £3.4bn loss and plans to consolidate from 17 factories to 10 by 2027, in a bid to combat declining sales in the US and China. The restructuring […]
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Gold fever grips markets amid global economic volatility
New Yorkâs renowned Diamond District was bustling last month, but the focus of conversation was not on diamonds. Instead, gold has emerged as the key asset on everyoneâs mind. Years of economic uncertainty driven by Covid, geopolitical conflicts such as the Ukraine war, and lingering trade tensions initiated during Donald Trumpâs presidency have dramatically revived […]
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Post Brexit subsidies closure wrongly blocks 3000 farmers from funding
The government has admitted to mishandling the closure of a crucial post-Brexit farming subsidy scheme, leaving 3,000 farmers in England unable to access promised funds. This revelation has sparked significant anger within the farming community, particularly after a sudden pause in payments left many land managers uncertain about their financial futures. The Sustainable Farming Incentive […]
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UK windfall tax can support green jobs for North Sea energy workers
Fossil fuel reserves in the North Sea are depleting at an accelerated pace, leading to inevitable job losses across the sector. A new report suggests that a permanent windfall tax on oil and gas producers could generate enough revenue to fund a transition towards green jobs and renewable energy projects. By redirecting this financial support, […]
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UK Employment Hits 12 Year Low Amid Rising Costs and Uncertainty
UK employment levels have reached their lowest point in over a decade, driven by a combination of rising labour costs and global uncertainties. The most recent data from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) shows a sharp decline in hiring intentions among employers, marking the weakest levels outside the pandemic since 2014. Private […]
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IG Group set to exceed city expectations amidst market volatility
IG Group, Britainâs longstanding spread-betting firm, has announced that it expects to meet or slightly exceed the higher end of financial forecasts for its annual revenues and profits. This comes amid the sharp market volatility following Donald Trumpâs re-election and subsequent economic policies. The company revealed that elevated turbulence across various asset classes during the […]
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Pharmaceutical Industry Faces Market Shakeup as Drug Price Reforms Take Centre Stage
President Donald Trump has issued an executive order aimed at tackling high drug prices in the United States, sparking concern and volatility across the global pharmaceutical industry. The announcement marks a renewed attempt to align Americaâs drug prices with those of other developed nations, intensifying pressure on multinational companies. During a White House press conference, […]
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UK Immigration Reforms Risk Economic Downturn Say Leading Business Groups
The UK governmentâs proposed immigration reforms have sparked warnings from leading business organisations, who argue the changes could harm the economy if not accompanied by a significant overhaul of skills training. These reforms, championed by Sir Keir Starmer, aim to substantially reduce migration to the UK. However, businesses have raised concerns about the potential negative […]
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Bank of England MPC Member Says Trump Tariffs Could Cut UK Inflation
Megan Greene, a member of the Bank of Englandâs Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), has suggested that a global trade war, driven by tariffs introduced by former US President Donald Trump, could help reduce inflation in the United Kingdom. Speaking at the Bank of England Watchersâ Conference, Greene explained her decision to vote for a 0.25 […]
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Thames Water Faces Financial Turmoil As MPs Demand Answers
Thames Water, Britainâs largest privatised water utility, is grappling with a financial and regulatory crisis. With a debt of £20 billion, a poor track record on pollution, leakage, and customer service, and no shareholders following the withdrawal of key investors, serious questions surround its ability to survive. On Tuesday, Sir Adrian Montague, the companyâs chairman, […]
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UK Pension Schemes Pledge Billions for Economic Investment
Seventeen of the UKâs largest pension providers have committed to invest £25 billion into domestic assets following government pressure to bolster the national economy. The initiative, which forms part of a new voluntary agreement, requires these defined-contribution schemes to allocate no less than 10 per cent of their default funds into private markets by the […]
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US and China agree to temporary tariff cuts boosting global markets rally
Global stock markets surged on news that the United States and China have agreed to temporarily reduce trade tariffs, creating a 90-day negotiation period to seek a long-term resolution. This unexpected shift in trade policy sparked strong gains across major indices, with investors viewing it as a positive step towards stabilising global economic growth. Germany’s […]
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Impact of US Tariffs on UK Economy Remains Limited Bank of England Chief Economist Says
American tariffs imposed on the UK are unlikely to cause significant disruption to the British economy, according to Huw Pill, the chief economist at the Bank of England. Despite a recent trade agreement with Washington that altered certain tariff structures, the overall impact is expected to have minimal influence on inflation and economic growth. The […]
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Burberry faces global headwinds as investors await latest update
Burberry is gearing up to report its latest financial updates, with investors holding cautious optimism after a better-than-expected performance over Christmas. The British luxury brand, known for its iconic trench coats and scarves, had previously defied analyst predictions with a smaller-than-forecast 4 per cent dip in like-for-like sales in the third quarter, against a 12 […]
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UK Plans to Restrict Overseas Recruitment for Care Homes Amid Migration Overhaul
The UK government is set to introduce significant new measures aimed at reducing net migration, with care homes now facing a ban on recruiting workers from abroad. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced that employers in the care sector should instead focus on recruiting foreign staff already residing in the UK or extending existing visas. […]
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UK Aerospace and Automotive Sectors Gain Major Wins in US Trade Agreement
British aircraft parts, including Rolls-Royce engines, are set to be exempted from US import tariffs under an evolving trade agreement with the administration of Donald Trump. The landmark development is anticipated to provide a significant boost to the UKâs £40 billion aerospace industry, a sector supporting around 450,000 jobs nationwide. According to Howard Lutnick, US […]
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Keir Starmer urges closer UK EU trade ties as nation moves beyond Brexit
Keir Starmer has outlined a bold vision for strengthening the United Kingdom’s economic relationship with the European Union, as he emphasised the importance of focusing on the future rather than revisiting the debate over Brexit. Speaking onboard HMS St Albans in Oslo ahead of a high-profile UK-EU trade summit, the Prime Minister signalled his eagerness […]
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China Exports to US Plunge by 20% Amid Trade War Tariffs
Chinaâs exports to the United States fell sharply last month, triggering a 21 per cent collapse in goods shipments to one of its key trading partners. This decline follows the imposition of a 145 per cent tariff by the Trump administration earlier in April, which has been described by many as a near trade embargo. […]
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UK Market Ends Week with Decline Despite Modest Gains
The UKâs FTSE 100 index experienced a modest rebound on Friday, gaining 23.19 points or 0.3%, closing at 8,554.80. However, this minor uplift was not enough to offset a challenging week for Londonâs leading share index, which saw its worst weekly decline since mid-April, falling 0.5% over the four-day trading period. The FTSE 250, a […]
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Government Backs £1 Billion Sunderland Gigafactory Funding Deal
The UK government has confirmed a £1 billion funding deal to construct a major electric vehicle battery plant in Sunderland. The âgigafactoryâ will be developed by AESC, a company owned by the Chinese group Envision, and is set to create 1,000 jobs in the region. Production is expected to transform the UK’s battery output, with […]
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Labour Shortages Highlight Necessity Of Immigration Policy Reforms In The UK
Businesses across the UK are urging policymakers to rethink immigration policies amidst growing labour shortages and economic uncertainty. Rain Newton-Smith, the head of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), has emphasised the significance of economic migration for job creation, investment, and economic growth. Her concerns arise as the government prepares to unveil its immigration white […]
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UK housing market outlook resilient despite ongoing economic challenges
The UK housing market continues to defy expectations, remaining resilient in the face of economic headwinds. Despite the rapid rise in interest rates that peaked at 5.25 per cent, house prices have demonstrated remarkable stability. Recent reductions in mortgage costs signal renewed optimism among homebuyers and investors. Recent data shows several high street lenders offering […]
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Santander UK attracts NatWest bid amidst takeover speculation
The future of Santanderâs UK operations has resurfaced as a critical point of interest in financial circles, following revelations that NatWest attempted to acquire the business for an estimated £11 billion earlier this year. Reports suggest the Spanish banking giant rejected the approach on the grounds that the offer undervalued the division. Negotiations are no […]
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British Airways Owner IAG Announces MultiBillion Pound Aircraft Deal
The International Consolidated Airlines Group (IAG), the parent company of British Airways, has unveiled plans for a major investment in its fleet. The group has committed to purchasing 53 new long-haul aircraft from Boeing and Airbus, securing its position as a key player in the aviation market. The agreement includes options to acquire an additional […]
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UK bioethanol industry under threat from US trade deal
Britain’s bioethanol industry faces an uncertain future following a recent trade agreement with the United States. Domestic producers warn the deal could jeopardise the long-term viability of the sector, putting hundreds of jobs at risk. Ensus UK and Vivergo Fuels, two of the countryâs leading bioethanol manufacturers, are urging the government to reconsider its decision […]
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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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