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| 01-06-2025 |
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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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Hailey Bieber Sells Beauty Brand Rhode To Elf Beauty In $1 Deal
Hailey Bieber, wife of pop sensation Justin Bieber, has sold her beauty brand Rhode to Elf Beauty in a landmark deal valued at up to £1 billion. The agreement includes £640 million in cash and approximately £160 million in newly issued Elf shares, with an additional £200 million contingent upon future performance. Rhode, named after […]
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Minimum wage breaches revealed by Pizza Express British Airways and others
Pizza Express, British Airways, and outsourcing giant Capita are among several high-profile businesses recently named and shamed by the UK government for failing to meet legal minimum wage requirements. A detailed investigation carried out by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) revealed the breach, which led to over 60,000 workers receiving back pay totalling £7.4 million. […]
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Nvidia Shares Surge with Strong Results Despite Chinese Rivalry
Technology shares experienced a notable boost on Thursday, driven by Nvidiaâs strong financial performance. The Stoxx Europe tech index rose by 0.8% following the companyâs results, while Nvidiaâs own shares jumped by 6% in pre-market trading. The tech-focused Nasdaq futures also climbed 2%, indicating widespread optimism in the sector. Nvidia exceeded Wall Street forecasts as […]
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BP looks to divest Castrol lubricants business for up to $10 billion
BP has officially commenced the process of selling its Castrol lubricants business, with expectations to fetch between $8 billion and $10 billion. Reliance Industries and leading private equity firms such as Apollo Global Management and Lone Star Funds have reportedly shown interest in the deal. This follows earlier indications that Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest […]
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Government Eyes Salary Sacrifice Schemes in Autumn Budget Plans to Boost Finances
The government is reportedly considering changes to salary sacrifice schemes for pensions and benefits in kind, as pressure mounts to address the growing fiscal deficit. Recent surveys commissioned by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) suggest that Chancellor Rachel Reeves may need to explore new measures to increase revenue and balance the books during the upcoming […]
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Britain’s Railway Stations to Be Powered by Solar Energy in Groundbreaking Deal
Network Rail has signed a pioneering 14-year deal to power its mainline railway stations using solar energy, marking a significant milestone in the rail sector’s commitment to sustainability. The agreement, the first of its kind for Britainâs railways, is part of an ambitious strategy to transition to renewable energy across the industry. The deal is […]
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Aldi boss dismisses supermarket price war claims
The chief executive of Aldiâs UK operations has downplayed the notion of a supermarket price war, pointing to record sales and steady growth as evidence of the companyâs continued dominance. Speaking recently, Giles Hurley, who has led the German-owned discount chain since 2018, described claims of aggressive pricing moves from competitors as exaggerated. Asdaâs chairman, […]
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The Impact of Pension Reforms on Millions of Britons Pensions
Government pension reforms have sparked concern among industry experts, campaigners, and businesses, as they warn of potential risks to millions of pensions. These reforms, which include measures to facilitate employer access to surplus pension funds and encourage investment in British assets, have raised serious questions about their influence on pension security and returns. The newly […]
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Asda turnaround driven by lower prices and better product availability
Asda’s chairman, Allan Leighton, has highlighted significant progress in the retailerâs ongoing turnaround efforts, pointing to improvements in product availability and competitive pricing strategies. Despite challenges, the supermarket giant is seeing early signs of a recovery, described as âgreen shootsâ in its fight to regain customer trust and market share. In the four months to […]
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Kingfisher sees UK spring boost but Polish sales slump weighs on outlook
Kingfisher, the owner of B&Q and Screwfix, has reported a modest recovery in its first-quarter sales, led by a 12.6% surge in seasonal products like gardening and outdoor living ranges. The British DIY group, listed on the FTSE 100, recorded an overall like-for-like sales increase of 1.8% to £3.3 billion, reversing the 1.7% decline experienced […]
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McKinsey cuts 10% of workforce amidst market slowdown
McKinsey & Company, the prestigious New York-headquartered consultancy, has reduced its workforce by over 10 per cent over the past 18 months following a boom in growth during the pandemic. With employee numbers falling from more than 45,000 at the end of 2023 to approximately 40,000, the firm now faces challenges stemming from reduced demand […]
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Pets At Home Reports Rise In Profits Despite Slow Retail Outlook
The FTSE 250 pet retailer and veterinary group, Pets at Home, has reported a 14.1 per cent increase in pre-tax profits for the financial year, driven predominantly by the strength of its veterinary division. Despite this growth, the companyâs retail arm continues to face challenges, with subdued consumer demand for pet toys and accessories expected […]
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The revival of Harland and Wolff under Navantia UK
The historic Belfast shipyard Harland & Wolff, renowned for building the Titanic, has been given a new lease of life following its acquisition by the UK arm of Navantia, the Spanish state-owned shipbuilder. The £93 million takeover marks a significant shift in the British defence sector, as vessels for the Royal Navy will now be […]
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Record Fine for Thames Water as Ofwat Cracks Down on Regulatory Breaches
Thames Water, the UKâs largest water supplier, has been handed a record fine of £122.7 million by the regulator Ofwat. The penalty is the largest ever imposed by the watchdog and follows two separate investigations into significant failures by the utility company. These failures included breaches in its wastewater operations and improper dividend payments. Ofwat […]
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Starling Bank faces fresh scrutiny over covid loans and financial conduct
Starling Bank, the digital-only lender, is under renewed scrutiny for its handling of government-backed Covid-era loans, having disclosed a £28.2 million provision to remove state guarantees from certain bounce back loans. The move follows an internal review that identified loans issued prior to April 2021 which potentially failed to meet the required compliance standards of […]
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UK Backs Struggling Nissan with One Billion Pound Loan
The British taxpayer is set to provide critical support to Nissan, the struggling Japanese car manufacturer, with a £1 billion loan guarantee through UK Export Finance (UKEF). This financial backing forms part of a £5.2 billion restructuring plan designed to stabilise the company amidst significant financial challenges. The move is seen as a key effort […]
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Shein shifts IPO focus from London to Hong Kong
Shein, the fast-fashion titan valued at £50 billion, is preparing to shift its highly anticipated public listing from London to Hong Kong. The move follows a series of setbacks, including regulatory hurdles from Chinese authorities and evolving global trade policies, which derailed its plans for a London listing. Initially targeting the London Stock Exchange for […]
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Rachel Reeves standoff with ministers over proposed public service spending cuts
Tensions are escalating within the British government as Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces resistance from ministers over proposed spending cuts to public services. Key departments, including the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, remain embroiled in disputes with the Treasury over budget agreements ahead of the looming spending review on 11 June. The Ministry of […]
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Trump Media Set to Invest $2.5 Billion in Bitcoin Plans Strategic Digital Assets Reserve
Donald Trumpâs media company has announced a groundbreaking $2.5 billion investment to establish a bitcoin treasury. According to reports, institutional investors will collectively provide $1.5 billion in private placements for common shares in Trump Media and Technology Group, the operator of Truth Social and its associated ventures. An additional $1 billion will be raised through […]
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Toxic Pesticide Levels Found In Tampons Raise Health And Safety Concerns
Tampons sold in the UK have been found to contain glyphosate, a pesticide linked to cancer, at levels 40 times greater than the legal limit for drinking water. This alarming discovery comes from a report by the Pesticide Action Network UK (Pan UK), the Womenâs Environmental Network and the Pesticide Collaboration. Glyphosate, classified as âprobably […]
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Salesforce agrees $8 billion takeover of Informatica
Salesforce, the global cloud software giant, has confirmed an $8 billion takeover of Informatica, a leading provider of data management solutions based in Redwood City, California. The acquisition aims to bolster Salesforce’s profitability and expand its capabilities within the rapidly growing artificial intelligence market. Informatica’s expertise lies in cloud data management, and its tools are […]
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The impact of proposed veterinary business regulations on small practices
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has raised significant concerns over the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) proposed reforms to the veterinary sector, arguing that the remedies could disproportionately affect smaller practices. The BVA, which represents professionals across the veterinary industry, believes the new measures risk jeopardising the financial viability of independent clinics and unintentionally harming […]
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John Lewis approved to build 430 homes in Ealing despite opposition
The John Lewis Partnership has received approval for its largest build-to-rent project in Ealing, west London, overcoming objections from local residents and the council. The government planning inspector has granted permission for the development of 430 homes in towers up to 20 storeys tall, located above a Waitrose supermarket in the borough. This decision was […]
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Nvidia Earnings Watch Massive Gains Amid Tech Cold War And AI Boom
Nvidia, the worldâs second most valuable company after Microsoft, is set to reveal its highly anticipated first-quarter earnings. The announcement comes against a backdrop of geopolitical challenges, rising AI demand, and strategic customer expansion. Over the past five years, the chipmaker’s stock has skyrocketed by nearly 1,500 per cent, solidifying Nvidiaâs pivot from gaming graphics […]
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UK Housing Market Rebounds in 2025 as Mortgage Rates Improve
After years of turbulence, the UK housing market is showing signs of recovery in 2025, bolstered by improved mortgage rates and a significant increase in properties available for buyers. Estate agents are reporting their busiest period since the post-lockdown property boom of 2021, with more people actively looking to move this spring. According to data […]
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Tesla sales across Europe drop significantly amid growing competition and Musk backlash
Tesla has witnessed a sharp decline in its European sales, dropping by 49 per cent in April compared to the same period last year. Despite a 28 per cent rise in the broader battery-electric vehicle market, Tesla’s sales fell to 7,261 units from 14,228, according to data provided by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association. This […]
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UK Gilt Market Risks Highlighted by IMF Amid Shifts in Investor Landscape
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised concerns about risks in the UK government bond market due to the growing influence of hedge funds and foreign creditors. In its annual review of the UK economy, the IMF flagged potential vulnerabilities within the gilt market as long-term investors such as pension funds and insurers reduce their […]
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British flying taxi completes cross country trip marking milestone for air mobility
The UK’s first electric flying taxi has achieved a significant milestone, completing a cross-country flight through open airspace in Europe. The prototype VX4 aircraft, developed by Bristol-based Vertical Aerospace, is designed to carry one pilot and four passengers. It successfully reached speeds of up to 150mph, showcasing a range of 100 miles during the landmark […]
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Parkdean Resorts plans £250m fundraiser to capitalise on UK staycation boom
Parkdean Resorts has announced plans to raise £250m from investors as it looks to capitalise on the growing demand for UK staycations. The holiday park operator, which boasts 66 freehold venues across the UK from Cornwall to Scotland, aims to use the new funding to expand its market presence and strengthen its balance sheet. The […]
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Labour government promises £113 billion investment to revitalise UK economy and create jobs
Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, has unveiled plans for a landmark £113 billion capital investment as a centrepiece of the upcoming spending review. This substantial financial commitment aims to fund projects in housing, transport, and energy, which Reeves has argued could only have been delivered under Labourâs governance. The investment, sourced through recent adjustments to fiscal […]
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Ryanair and Budget Airlines Face Pressure Over Hand Luggage Policy
Ryanair, alongside other budget airlines such as easyJet and Wizz Air, is facing increasing scrutiny over its controversial hand luggage and seat reservation charges. Campaigners and consumer groups are calling for intervention from European lawmakers to address what they describe as an exploitative practice that ignores a ruling deeming such fees for reasonably-sized hand luggage […]
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Why rural house prices are increasing faster than urban properties since covid
House prices in the countryside have been rising far faster than those in towns and cities since the onset of the pandemic, according to a detailed analysis by Nationwide. Their findings reveal that rural property values have jumped by 23 per cent since 2020, compared to an 18 per cent increase in urban areas during […]
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Pension contributions minimum must rise to secure decent retirement
The UK government is being urged to reconsider the mandatory minimum pension contribution rates, as experts warn that the current 8% of earnings is insufficient to guarantee a comfortable retirement for most workers. Steve Webb, former pensions minister and current partner at consultancy firm LCP, has called for a long-term plan to address the growing […]
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Monsoon Owner Reports Steep Losses Amid Weak Consumer Demand And Inflation
Monsoon and Accessorize owner Adena Brands has plunged into the red, reporting a pre-tax loss of £7.5 million for the year ending August 31. This is a sharp contrast to the £14.1 million profit recorded in the previous financial year. Turnover fell to £204 million, down from £231 million, reflecting the impact of challenging trading […]
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TikTok reshapes the future of UK beauty retail
Not long ago, purchasing a new Clarins face cream or MAC mascara was synonymous with a trip to the high street. Beauty shopping revolved around physical retail spaces, where customers could test products, consult in-store advisers, and make impulse purchases. Today, the journey increasingly begins with a social media scroll. The British beauty market, worth […]
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Britains energy costs could be slashed by severing link between gas and electricity prices
Britainâs energy bills could be reduced by at least £2 billion annually through reforms to prevent costly gas-fired power plants from setting wholesale electricity prices. According to Adam Bell, a former head of energy strategy at the Department for Business, removing gas plants from the electricity market entirely could create significant savings for consumers. Currently, […]
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European Markets Rally as Donald Trump Postpones EU Tariffs Plan
European markets experienced a notable rally on Monday after President Donald Trump reversed his earlier threats to impose a 50 per cent tariff on goods imported from the European Union. The deadline for the proposed tariffs has now been pushed back to 9 July, allowing additional time for trade negotiations following a constructive call with […]
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AstraZeneca Faces Scrutiny Over Operations Expansion in Russia Amid Ukraine Conflict
AstraZeneca, Britainâs largest pharmaceuticals company, has come under intense criticism after reports revealed the expansion of its operations in Russia, despite the ongoing war in Ukraine. Financial filings and investigative research have laid bare the increase in the companyâs sales, taxes, and workforce within Russia, raising questions about its commitment to neutrality. According to accounts […]
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UK Developers Spend Billions Repurposing Office Spaces
Over the past three years, developers across the UK have invested almost £3.5 billion on purchasing office spaces, aiming to convert them for alternative uses. Data from CBRE shows that 5.9 million square feet of office buildingsâequivalent to roughly twelve Gherkin skyscrapersâhave been sold for transformation since 2022. With older office spaces requiring costly upgrades […]
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British Food Producers Face Financial Strain Following PostBrexit Import Check Delays
British food and flower suppliers have incurred millions of pounds in losses due to delays in post-Brexit import checks. The industry had been preparing for the implementation of full sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) controls on agri-food imports from the European Union, with expectations set for a July 2025 start. However, a recent shift in government […]
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Tax Investigation Into Football Clubs R&D Claims Totals £17 Million
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is conducting an extensive investigation into 33 professional football clubs that are suspected of exploiting the Research and Development (R&D) tax relief scheme, with claims amounting to £17.4 million. This inquiry follows revelations that some clubs have been receiving substantial public funding ostensibly meant to support genuine scientific and technological […]
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Hold The Insect Burger Eating Bugs Is Bad For The Climate
New research has cast doubt on the environmental benefits of using insects as a sustainable protein source, challenging the view that they offer a greener alternative to traditional livestock. A study commissioned by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) suggests that insect protein might have a far higher environmental impact than initially […]
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Trump Tax Cuts and Trade Tariffs Rattle Global Financial Markets
Donald Trumpâs new economic policies have once again sparked a dramatic reaction in global markets. His administrationâs latest initiative, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, promises sweeping tax cuts and dramatic spending revisions aimed at spurring the US economy. However, the bond market appears less enthralled, with investor confidence faltering under the weight of mounting […]
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Elon Musk’s Doge Role Leads to Massive Tesla Brand Decline
Elon Muskâs controversial decisions as the head of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, or Doge, under Donald Trumpâs administration have caused what some experts describe as one of the greatest corporate brand destructions in history. Marketing professor Scott Galloway, speaking on the Pivot podcast, highlighted the damaging economic and reputational consequences of Muskâs actions, […]
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The QR Code Quishing Scam Exploiting Drivers Financial Security
In a world increasingly driven by digital convenience, an alarming trend is surfacing in car parks across the United Kingdom. Fraudsters are capitalising on the reliance on app- and phone-based payments, with a scam known as “quishing” now targeting unsuspecting drivers. This sophisticated fraud starts with a QR code deceptively placed on parking payment machines, […]
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The Trump Crypto Controversy Ethical Alarms Over Presidential Ventures
Donald Trumpâs bold foray into the cryptocurrency industry is raising significant concerns over ethical propriety and potential corruption. His promotion of the $Trump memecoin, a novelty crypto token that has generated vast sums, has sparked criticism as it intertwines personal profit with his political position. Beyond the coin itself, Trumpâs broader involvement in crypto ventures […]
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Nigel Farage to Challenge Labour Policies with Bold Welfare Proposals
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, is set to announce significant welfare policy changes in an upcoming speech, aiming to position his party as a strong alternative to Labour. Reports suggest that Farage will commit to reinstating the winter fuel payment for all pensioners and abolishing the controversial two-child benefit cap. These pledges appear designed […]
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The easyJet fleet overhaul increasing profits and reducing costs
EasyJet is taking decisive steps to strengthen its competitive edge in the budget airline market by replacing 80 of its ageing Airbus A319 jets with more modern and efficient models. This fleet upgrade is a significant move, as many of these A319s have been in service for up to 20 years. The smaller A319s, which […]
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Why the ONS credibility is under immense pressure amid data flaws
The credibility of the Office for National Statistics (ONS) is facing intense scrutiny, with mounting evidence of systemic issues undermining its ability to deliver reliable economic data. This problem was brought into sharp focus in late 2023, when the agency had to delay its unemployment figures due to a lack of usable Labour Force Survey […]
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Marks And Spencer Expands Despite Cyber Attack
Marks & Spencer (M&S) is pushing forward with an ambitious expansion plan as the retailer rebounds from a disruptive month-long cyberattack that impacted operations. The company’s strategy includes converting 12 former Homebase locations into some of its largest food stores, with 550 new jobs expected to be created. This move, seen as a pivotal step […]
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Sheffield Forgemasters taxpayer aid reaches £400 million following government rescue
Taxpayer funding for the nationalised British steelmaker, Sheffield Forgemasters, has exceeded £400 million, as confirmed by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). This funding, intended to be distributed over a ten-year period from the government’s intervention in 2021, has been utilised in just three and a half years. The accelerated expenditure equates to an average of […]
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UK Doctors to be Prioritised for NHS Jobs Under Labour Plan
Doctors who have trained in Britain will gain priority access to NHS job placements under Labourâs newly proposed ten-year plan to overhaul the health service. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has outlined measures to correct what he describes as an imbalance caused by the competition between UK-trained and overseas doctors for specialty training positions. Under the […]
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The Surge of Barbershops on Britain’s Declining High Streets
In a small Welsh town named Porth, nestled in the Rhondda Valley, a striking transformation of the local high street is underway. Once home to a mix of shops, the street is now dominated by a growing number of barbershops. With 13 such establishments already in operation, and plans for a 14th underway, the surge […]
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Xeinadin Mid Market Accountancy Firm Prepares For Sale Amid £800 Million Valuation Hopes
The mid-market accountancy firm Xeinadin is preparing for a potential sale that could fetch over £800 million. This move comes as private equity-backed deals continue to rise in the professional services sector, driven by significant investor interest. The sale is being spearheaded by the private equity firm Exponent, which acquired a stake in Xeinadin in […]
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The next great shift why the smartphone era may soon end
This week, OpenAI made headlines with its monumental £4.7 billion acquisition of Sir Jony Iveâs design house, LoveFrom. Known for his groundbreaking work on the iPhone, iPad, and iPod at Apple, Ive is considered one of the most influential designers of the modern era. The massive deal aims to disrupt one of the worldâs largest […]
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UK public borrowing records sharp increase amid fiscal challenges
Government borrowing in the UK surged last month, rising to £20.2 billion compared to the forecast of £17.9 billion by economists. This figure, reflecting higher-than-expected public sector spending and pay awards, underscores the ongoing fiscal pressures facing the Treasury. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirmed that Aprilâs data represents the fourth-highest public sector borrowing […]
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Rio Tinto CEO Jakob Stausholm Steps Down Amid Strategic Shifts
Jakob Stausholm, the Chief Executive Officer of Rio Tinto, has announced his decision to step down after less than five years at the helm of the global mining giant. The unexpected departure was confirmed by the Anglo-Australian firm, which has yet to provide a clear explanation for the move. Reports indicate that Stausholm will remain […]
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Global Bond Sell Off Accelerates After Trump Tax Bill Passes House
A significant sell-off in global bond markets has gained momentum following the passing of President Trumpâs sweeping tax bill through the US House of Representatives. The controversial legislation, which adds an estimated $3.8 trillion to Americaâs debt pile over the next decade, has sparked fresh concerns among investors about the countryâs fiscal sustainability. The Republican-controlled […]
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Contact lenses allow humans to see in the dark with super vision
Chinese scientists have unveiled groundbreaking contact lenses that enable wearers to see in the dark, revolutionising the potential for wearable technology. These innovative lenses, which do not require bulky equipment like traditional night-vision goggles, utilise nanoparticles embedded in a flexible, transparent material to convert infrared light into visible colours such as red, blue and green. […]
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Net migration in the UK halves due to new visa changes
Net migration to the UK has halved in the past year, demonstrating one of the most significant year-on-year reductions recorded in modern times. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the net migration figure fell from 866,000 in the previous year to 431,000. This major drop follows policy changes introduced by the Conservative government […]
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Strava Acquisition Boosts Valuation to $2.2 Billion Dollars
Strava, the global exercise tracking platform, has seen its valuation soar to $2.2 billion following its acquisition of the London-based running app Runna. This marks the first time since November 2020 that the company has disclosed its worth. The valuation represents a significant leap from $1.5 billion during the height of the pandemic, when new […]
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British Steel Faces Potential Debt Wipeout as Government Weighs Strategic Options
The UK government is reportedly exploring new legislation to erase nearly £1bn in debt accumulated by British Steel, a move aimed at making the company more attractive to prospective buyers. This decision follows the governmentâs recent takeover of the Scunthorpe steelworks, after Jingye Steel, the Chinese owner, announced its intention to close the plant within […]
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Public sector pay increases spark industrial action concerns
Public sector workers in the UK are reacting strongly to the governmentâs latest pay rise announcements, with unions across various sectors threatening industrial action. Ministers have pledged above-inflation pay increases to over two million public sector employees, ranging from 3.6 per cent to nearly 6 per cent. This decision will reportedly cost more than £2 […]
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Disney Plus secures five year deal for Womens Champions League rights across Europe
Disney+ is poised to redefine the broadcasting landscape for womenâs football by acquiring exclusive rights to the UEFA Womenâs Champions League across multiple European territories, including the United Kingdom. The five-year agreement, which begins next season, will enable Disney+ to showcase every single match live. This development represents a significant milestone for the visibility and […]
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BT profits rise as job cuts and fibre focus fuel turnaround
BT has reported an increase in profits, with its latest financial results offering a glimpse of sustained revenue growth on the horizon. The telecoms giant announced a pre-tax profit of £1.3 billion for the year, an improvement from £1.2 billion in the previous period. Revenue, however, remained flat at roughly £20 billion, reflecting ongoing pressures […]
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UK urged to lead hydrogen revolution to protect jobs
Ed Milibandâs push towards achieving net zero is jeopardising British jobs by fostering a dependency on Chinese manufacturing, Jo Bamford, heir to the JCB empire, has warned. The Wrightbus owner criticised the Government’s reliance on importing green energy equipment from the Far East and called for a more strategic focus on hydrogen to safeguard domestic […]
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SSE Slashes Green Energy Spending and Warns of Missed Net Zero Goals
Energy powerhouse SSE has announced a dramatic £3bn reduction in its green energy spending plans, raising concerns over its ability to meet 2030 net zero targets. The company cited delays in planning processes and a challenging macroeconomic climate as key factors behind the decision. This move comes amidst shifting policies and significant hurdles in obtaining […]
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The risks of global debt as Japan struggles with bond market turmoil
The global economy may be facing a seismic shift as cracks begin to appear in Japanâs bond market, sparking fears for heavily indebted nations including the UK and the US. A recent lacklustre auction of Japanese 20-year bonds has sent long-term yields soaring to historic highs, putting pressure on markets already jittery over debt sustainability. […]
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Is it worth investing in mobico as shares hit record low ?
Phil White, one of the pivotal figures behind the rise of National Express, has made a return to the company, now rebranded as Mobico. At the age of 75, White steps back in as executive chairman during a period of substantial financial and structural challenges, including the companyâs all-time low share price, mounting debt, and […]
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JD Sports Shares Fall As US Tariffs Impact Profits Performance
JD Sports has warned that elevated US tariffs could lead to higher prices for American consumers, as the sportswear giant struggles to navigate a challenging global market. The FTSE 100 retailer, which generates approximately 40% of its revenue in the United States, reported an 11.8% decline in pre-tax profits, dropping to £715 million for the […]
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Bloomberg Terminal Blackout Disrupts Global Trading And Delays Debt Auction
Bloomberg, a key financial data platform used by traders worldwide, experienced a significant system blackout on Wednesday, disrupting market transactions and delaying a major UK debt auction. The Terminal system, which plays a central role on trading desks in both the City of London and Wall Street, was affected for around four hours, leaving financial […]
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UK Inflation Rises to 3.5% in Awful April as Household Bills Soar
Inflation in the UK surged to its highest level in more than a year last month, driven by sharp increases in household bills, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). In April, inflation climbed to 3.5 per cent annually, up from 2.6 per cent in March and marking the steepest level since […]
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London Office Rents Reach Record High Amid Supply Shortage
The London office market is experiencing unprecedented rental growth as a severe shortage of prime workspace drives prices to record levels. Developers and landlords report that demand for best-in-class offices continues to soar, with limited new developments unable to meet this rising need. Great Portland Estates (GPE), a key player in London’s commercial property market, […]
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Harvey Nichols refocuses strategy by axing festive hampers and non-core operations
Harvey Nichols, the historic British luxury retailer, has announced plans to discontinue its food and hamper divisions as part of an ambitious strategy to return to profitability. The decision is expected to put around 70 jobs at risk, with the changes aimed at repositioning the brand as a leading destination for high-end fashion, beauty, and […]
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Jony Ive and OpenAI Seal $6.5 Billion Dollar Deal for Future Tech Innovation
Sir Jony Ive, the creative force behind Appleâs iconic design rebirth, has struck a landmark agreement with OpenAI, the artificial intelligence leader behind ChatGPT. The deal, valued at a staggering $6.5 billion (£4.8 billion), will see Ive’s latest start-up, io, merge with OpenAI in a bid to reshape technology through cutting-edge hardware and forward-thinking innovation. […]
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Marks and Spencer faces £300m setback from cyberattack
Marks & Spencer has revealed that the recent cyberattack on its systems will cost the company £300 million, dealing a heavy blow to its bottom line and shareholder confidence. The attack, which took place over the Easter weekend, has caused ongoing disruption, particularly to online sales and supply chain operations, with normal functionality not expected […]
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Global Copper Supply Falling Short Energy Transition Faces Risks
The world is facing a significant shortfall in copper supplies needed for the transition to low-carbon energy systems, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Projections indicate that global copper supply may fall 30% short of demand by 2035 unless urgent action is taken. Copper, a fundamental material in all modern electrical energy systems, is […]
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Nvidia CEO Labels US Chip Export Curbs A Failure Fueling Chinese Tech Development
US export controls on high-tech microchips have unintentionally propelled Chinese technological advancement, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang revealed during a keynote speech at the Computex technology forum in Taipei. The billionaire executive lamented the impact of restrictive trade measures, describing them as counterproductive policies that have energised Chinaâs innovation ecosystem. Huang noted that while the US […]
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Trump Administration Reverses Order On New York Offshore Wind Farm
The Trump administration has overturned its decision to halt the construction of the Empire Wind offshore wind farm near New York. This decision brings relief to the renewable energy sector, which has faced increased regulatory and financial challenges in recent years. Equinor, the Norwegian state-owned energy company leading the project, has confirmed the resumption of […]
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The economic imperative of robust action on greenhouse gas emissions
The climate crisis has escalated the cost of commodities and aggravated global famine, highlighting the urgent need for decisive action on greenhouse gas emissions. According to Simon Stiell, the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), addressing emissions at scale is crucial not only for environmental purposes but also to […]
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SSP Cost Cutting Plans and Delayed India Float Announced
The catering group SSP, which operates popular brands such as Upper Crust and Caffè Ritazza in airports and railway stations, has announced a significant cost-cutting initiative alongside the postponement of its planned initial public offering (IPO) of its Indian joint venture. The decision has been attributed to a âheightened level of uncertaintyâ in some of […]
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Vodafone merger signals a new telecommunications era for UK
Vodafone has pledged a return to profit growth as it prepares to finalise its highly anticipated £16.5 billion merger with Three in the UK. The telecoms giant announced that its German business is poised for a turnaround, projecting adjusted earnings between â¬11 billion and â¬11.3 billion for the current financial year. This figure marks an […]
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Bank of England warnings over early interest rate cuts sparking inflation risks
The Bank of Englandâs chief economist, Huw Pill, has raised concerns that cutting interest rates too soon might sustain inflation at higher levels for longer. Speaking at a Barclays event, Pill revealed he voted against a recent rate cut at the latest Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, citing ongoing risks to the economic outlook. The […]
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Greenergy biodiesel plant faces shutdown amid challenges in UK biofuels market
One of the last remaining biodiesel plants in the United Kingdom is at risk of closure due to the ongoing pressure of subsidised imports from the United States. Greenergy, which operates out of Immingham Docks in Lincolnshire and is owned by commodities trader Trafigura, announced it has temporarily ceased operations at the site while undergoing […]
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HSBC cyber attacks make cybersecurity banks biggest expense
Ian Stuart, the chief executive of HSBC UK, has revealed that the bank faces relentless cyber-attacks, making cybersecurity its largest expenditure. He informed MPs during a Treasury select committee hearing that the bank invests hundreds of millions of pounds to safeguard its systems against hackers, as the risk of cybercrime continues to escalate. During his […]
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Elon Musk confirms commitment to Tesla leadership for five more years
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has reaffirmed his commitment to remain at the helm of Tesla as chief executive for at least the next five years. Speaking at the Qatar Economic Forum, Musk addressed investor concerns about his ongoing focus on the electric vehicle giant amidst waning sales figures in Europe and criticism over his controversial […]
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Regeneron to Acquire Bankrupt DNA Testing Firm 23andMe for $256 Million
Drugmaker Regeneron Pharmaceuticals has announced plans to acquire 23andMe Holding for $256 million through a bankruptcy auction. The purchase, set to conclude in the third quarter of the year, comes as 23andMe struggles with declining demand for its genetic testing kits and the fallout from a significant 2023 data breach that compromised genetic data for […]
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France Perrier Owner Nestle Under Scrutiny Over Illegal Mineral Water Treatments Cover Up
Franceâs prestigious mineral water industry has been thrust into the spotlight following a damning report by the French Senate. At the centre of the controversy lies Perrier, the iconic fizzy water brand long recognised as âthe champagne of table watersâ. The report revealed that Nestlé Waters, which owns Perrier along with the Vittel brand, had […]
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UK-EU Brexit Deal to Boost Economy Reduce Costs and Secure New Agreements
A landmark agreement between the United Kingdom and the European Union has been billed as a significant economic turning point, expected to add £9 billion to the UK economy while reducing food costs for consumers. The deal removes cumbersome checks on food exports, unlocking new market potential for British producers. Reached after late-night negotiations, the […]
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British Businesses Urge Chancellor to Reinstate Tax Free Shopping for Tourists
Luxury retailers and fashion houses are renewing calls for the reintroduction of tax-free shopping for international tourists as transatlantic trade faces increased pressure from US tariffs. Leading UK trade bodies have expressed concerns that the removal of the VAT exemption for visitors has damaged the competitiveness of British businesses while also diminishing the UKâs appeal […]
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Diageo announces cost cutting plan amid us trade tariffs
Diageo, the drinks giant behind iconic brands such as Guinness and Johnnie Walker, has revealed a $500 million cost-cutting initiative to mitigate the financial impact of newly imposed US tariffs. These 10 per cent levies on UK and European imports, introduced by former President Trump, are expected to cost the company $150 million annually under […]
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Unilever invests £80 million in fragrance facility in the UK
Unilever has announced an £80 million investment to develop an in-house fragrance facility at its historic Port Sunlight site in the northwest of England. This initiative is part of a broader £300 million plan to enhance research and development infrastructure, set to unfold over the next two years in the United Kingdom. The new facility […]
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Thames Water Braced For £6 Billion Debt Write Off Amid KKR Bid
Creditors of Thames Water are reportedly preparing to write off approximately £6 billion of its debt as the American private equity firm KKR advances its bid to take control of the troubled utility company. This debt reduction, amounting to one-third of Thames Water’s obligations, forms part of proposals aimed at lowering the companyâs debt-to-asset-value ratio […]
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Bank Of England Considers Loosening Banking Ring Fencing Rules
City regulators are examining potential changes to the UK’s ring-fencing rules, which were introduced to safeguard consumer deposits by separating retail banking from riskier investment operations. The Bank of England’s Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) is reviewing the regulatory framework after criticism from senior banking executives regarding its effectiveness and operational inefficiency. Implemented in 2019, the […]
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Ryanair Experiences Passenger Growth Despite Profit Decline And Boeing Delays
Ryanair, Europeâs largest budget airline, has recorded unprecedented passenger growth, carrying over 200 million customers in the financial year ending March 2025. This represents a 9 per cent increase from the 183 million passengers it reported the previous year. The impressive milestone was achieved despite a challenging market environment, including delayed deliveries of its highly […]
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US borrowing costs to 5% after massive tax cuts approved
The yield on 30-year US government bonds, often referred to as treasuries, surged to 5.03% on Monday, reaching its highest level since November 2023. The increase follows a contentious vote where the House Budget Committee narrowly approved a $3.8 trillion tax cut package proposed by former President Trump. The move has significantly rattled financial markets. […]
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Energy Prices Set To Drop By 7% this summer
Energy costs for UK households are projected to fall by seven per cent from this July, with the average annual bill dropping to £1,720, according to the latest forecast from Cornwall Insight. The adjustment follows decreases in wholesale gas prices, attributed to factors such as recent tariff policies in the United States and milder weather […]
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Revolut to Invest Over €1 Billion in France as European Expansion Grows
Revolut, the fintech giant based in London, has announced plans to invest more than â¬1 billion in France over the next three years. This significant expansion will establish Paris as its head office for operations across Western Europe, further enhancing the French capitalâs standing as a leading financial hub. The move comes with the creation […]
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Marks and Spencer Investors Await Updates on Cyber Attack Fallout and Financial Results
Marks & Spencer is set to release its annual financial results this Wednesday, as both investors and consumers closely monitor any updates on the impact of the recent cyber-attack. The retailerâs IT systems were compromised over the Easter weekend, forcing the UKâs largest clothing chain to halt online operations. The incident has affected product availability […]
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Slot Machine Companies Target Poorest Areas as Profits Flow to Billionaires High Streets Flooded with Adult Gaming Centres
Slot machine firms are increasingly targeting some of the UKâs most economically deprived areas, channelling profits to billionaire-owned corporations overseas and Wall Street funds, a recent investigation has revealed. Over a third of the 1,452 adult gaming centres (AGCs) reviewed by analysts are located in neighbourhoods among the poorest 10% of British communities. More than […]
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