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| 08-06-2025 |
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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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Lord Ashcroft to Receive £67m from Marlowe Sale to Mitie
Lord Ashcroft, the billionaire investor and former Conservative Party treasurer, is set to gain £67 million following the acquisition of Marlowe by Mitie, a larger competitor. The deal consists of £44 million in cash along with £23 million in new Mitie shares. The transaction marks a significant exit for Ashcroft, who holds an 18.9 per […]
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Dr Martens will not raise prices in 2025 despite high tariffs on Vietnam and Laos production
Dr Martens has pledged to maintain its footwear prices throughout 2025, even amidst soaring US tariffs on imports from Vietnam and Laos. The iconic British footwear brand, renowned for its yellow-stitched boots, will continue sourcing 93% of its products from these South-East Asian nations, which have faced substantial tariff increases of 46% for Vietnam and […]
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Boeing faces criticism and enhanced penalties over 737 Max crash settlements
Boeing has reached a contentious $1.1 billion settlement to avoid prosecution following two devastating crashes involving its 737 Max aircraft that caused the deaths of 346 individuals. This agreement with the US Department of Justice (DoJ) includes a payment of $444.5 million to the victims families and an additional $445 million investment into improving compliance, […]
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Labours Warm Homes Plan Secures Funding in Spending Review
The UK government has confirmed that Labour s £13.2 billion Warm Homes Plan will not face cuts during the upcoming spending review. This announcement signals a decisive victory for Ed Miliband, who has been advocating for the protection of this flagship energy-efficiency programme that aims to meet the nation s net zero targets while reducing household energy […]
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Wise to Shift Main Listing to US in Blow to London Stock Market
Wise, the online money transfer giant, has announced its decision to move its primary share listing to the United States, representing a significant setback for the London Stock Exchange. The decision, revealed on Thursday, marks another high-profile defection from London as global companies increasingly look to the US for stronger investor bases, improved valuations, and […]
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Tata Steel Risks Exclusion From UK US Tariff Free Agreement
UK Ministers are working to ensure that Tata Steel, the country’s largest steel producer, benefits from tariff-free access to the United States under a new trade deal negotiated by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump. This deal, still awaiting final approval, aims to suspend the current 25 per cent tariffs on British […]
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Donald Trump to Meet Xi Jinping in China After Trade Discussions
Donald Trump has confirmed he will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in China following a positive phone conversation discussing trade relations between the two largest economies in the world. The US President announced the development in a post on Truth Social, where he described the discussion as very good and largely centred around trade matters. […]
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Centrica Secures Ten Year Gas Deal with Equinor for UK Energy Stability
The owner of British Gas, Centrica, has signed a £20 billion agreement with Norwegian energy company Equinor to guarantee long-term gas supplies for the United Kingdom. This contract, spanning ten years from October 2025 to 2035, will provide five billion cubic metres of gas annually. This volume accounts for 10 per cent of the UK s […]
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Amazon testing humanoid robots for package delivery
Amazon, the £1.47 trillion technology giant, is reportedly advancing its robotics programme with the development of humanoid robots designed for package delivery. According to sources, the company is building a humanoid park in the United States to trial these machines, with the potential to revolutionise its logistics operations. The robots, powered by Amazon’s proprietary artificial […]
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European Central Bank Reduces Interest Rates to Two Percent to Support Slowing Eurozone Growth
The European Central Bank (ECB) has announced a reduction in interest rates to 2%, marking the eighth consecutive quarter-point cut within a year. This decision aims to counteract the economic challenges faced by the 20-member eurozone, particularly following the impact of trade tensions stemming from Donald Trump s policies. The latest rate adjustment brings the cost […]
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Electric Vehicle Sales Rise Despite Tesla Struggles
The UK automotive market continues to show signs of transformation as electric vehicle (EV) registrations surged in May, despite struggles from industry giant Tesla. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), approximately 32,000 pure electric cars were registered, marking a 25% increase compared to the same month last year. Electric vehicles now […]
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China considers 500 Airbus order escalating trade spat with US
China appears poised to make a significant shift in its aviation strategy by potentially ordering up to 500 aircraft from the European manufacturer Airbus. This move, reported by Bloomberg, comes as trade tensions between Beijing and Washington continue to escalate. The deal, which would include both narrow-bodied and wide-bodied aircraft, would mark a substantial increase […]
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Trump Tax Bill Projected to add $2.4 Trillion to National Debt Says Report
A recent analysis from the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has revealed that former President Donald Trump s flagship tax bill is expected to increase the United States national debt by £2.4 trillion over the next decade. The legislation, often dubbed Trump s one big, beautiful bill , aims to extend the tax cuts implemented in 2017 while […]
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UK rental market under pressure as immigration grows
The UK rental market is facing increased strain as population growth and rising immigration levels generate higher demand for rental properties. Nigel Terrington, Chief Executive of Paragon Banking Group, has highlighted that the country lacks sufficient landlords to support the growing population, which is projected to increase by another four million people by 2032. Terrington […]
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Deliveroo drone trials in Dublin set to revolutionise takeaway delivery
Deliveroo has launched a groundbreaking trial of drone deliveries in Dublin, partnering with Irish aerial distributor Manna to explore faster and more sustainable food delivery methods. The trial, which begins in the northern suburb of Blanchardstown, will assess the feasibility of using drones to transform delivery services. Customers within a three-kilometre radius of Blanchardstown can […]
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Virgin Australia to relist on australian stock market marking major recovery
Virgin Australia is set to return to the Australian Stock Exchange five years after collapsing into administration. The airline, founded by Sir Richard Branson, plans to relist with a valuation of A$2.32 billion ( £1.2 billion). This landmark flotation signals a significant step forward for the aviation and tourism industries, particularly after the turbulence of the […]
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Cobalt Holdings Pulls Out of London Flotation Amid Investor Reluctance
Cobalt Holdings, a Glencore-backed group aiming to make one of London s most significant stock market debuts in over a year, has withdrawn its flotation plans after struggling to secure sufficient investor interest. Initially intended to raise $230 million, or $2.56 per share, the move highlights ongoing challenges for London s financial centre as it contends with […]
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What now for Thames Water as rescue deal collapses
Thames Water, Britain’s largest water company, has once again found itself in precarious waters after the collapse of a high-profile rescue deal. US private equity giant KKR, following weeks of due diligence and negotiations, has officially withdrawn its bid to take over the heavily indebted firm. The news has left Thames Water s creditors scrambling to […]
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UK Faces Pressure to Accelerate Defence Spending Amid Global Tensions
Britain is under escalating pressure from both the United States and its own defence experts to significantly boost defence spending without delay. US officials, alongside NATO leaders, have urged the UK to commit to spending at least 5 per cent of GDP on defence and security. This increase would constitute a strategic response to growing […]
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Labour Government Announces Changes to Winter Fuel Payments amidst Criticism and Economic Challenges
The Labour Government has initiated significant changes to the winter fuel payment system following public backlash over its initial decision to cut the benefit. Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that the payments will be reinstated and more pensioners will qualify for support this winter. This decision comes after weeks of uncertainty and concerns about the potential […]
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Tesla UK sales drop 45% amid EV industry growth in May
Sales of Tesla s electric vehicles in the UK plummeted by more than 45 per cent in May compared to the same period last year, highlighting increasing challenges for the company as it faces intensifying competition. The decline marks the fifth consecutive month of shrinking sales figures in the UK as well as other key European […]
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HMRC phishing scam affects over 100,000 taxpayers
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has suffered a significant financial blow, losing £47 million to an organised phishing scam that targeted over 100,000 individual taxpayer accounts. This disclosure was made during a recent Treasury committee hearing where senior HMRC officials provided details of the breach and the steps being taken to safeguard affected individuals. The […]
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UK-US trade deal could take effect within weeks says starmer
Keir Starmer has announced that a trade deal with the United States could come into force within weeks, following assurances from the White House that the UK will be exempt from the steep 50 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminium. The tariffs, which were imposed this week, will remain at 25 per cent for […]
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Employment Rights Bill Could Harm UK Business Growth
The looming introduction of changes under the government s Employment Rights Bill has sparked deep concern across the facilities management sector. In an open letter to Sir Keir Starmer, Deputy Angela Rayner and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, 128 companies have issued warnings about the potential “serious unintended consequences” of the legislation. These include industry leaders such […]
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Sellafield clean up too slow costly and plagued by workplace issues
Members of Parliament have voiced ongoing concerns about the speed and cost-efficiency of the nuclear clean-up operation at Sellafield, sparking broader concerns over public safety, environmental risks, and taxpayer value. According to a detailed report by the public accounts committee (PAC), the decades-long project to decommission the ageing Sellafield site is falling behind schedule and […]
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Elon musk slams Trump tax bill as a disastrous abomination
Tech billionaire Elon Musk has sparked fresh controversy by denouncing Donald Trump s sweeping tax and spending legislation as a disgusting abomination . His comments, shared on his social platform X, have added fuel to an already heated debate over the bill, which has polarised opinion among Republicans as it moves through Congress. Musk took to social […]
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CMR Surgical Set to Explore $4 Billion Sale Amid Regulatory Success
CMR Surgical, a Cambridge-based robotics company, is reportedly exploring a potential sale of its business valued at approximately $4 billion. This development comes after a significant regulatory breakthrough in the United States, further solidifying the company’s position in the highly competitive medtech sector. Founded in 2014, CMR Surgical has rapidly ascended as a global leader […]
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Trump 50% Tariffs on Foreign Steel and Aluminium Shake Global Markets
The United States has officially doubled tariffs on foreign steel and aluminium to 50 per cent, following President Donald Trump’s announcement to bolster the American steel industry. This controversial move, formalised through an executive order, has sparked discontent among key trading partners and trading blocs across the world. While the White House cites job creation […]
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Eurozone inflation drops ecb expected to cut rates again
The European Central Bank (ECB) is poised to cut interest rates further this week as inflation in the eurozone has fallen below the 2 per cent target for the first time since September 2024. According to Eurostat, annual consumer price inflation across the single currency area stood at 1.9 per cent in April, undershooting expectations […]
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Investment Focus Shifts as Reeves Announces £15bn Boost for Trams Trains and Buses Outside London
Rachel Reeves has unveiled a bold £15bn investment package aimed at revitalising trams, trains, and buses outside of London. This move seeks to address longstanding regional disparities and refocus attention on economic growth in northern cities and the Midlands. The Labour Chancellor highlighted the significance of capital spending in transforming neglected regions and boosting productivity. […]
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Investigation Into Multimillion Pound Fraud At Collapsed Thurrock Council
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has launched an investigation into Rockfire Investment Finance, a company at the centre of an alleged financial scandal that saw over £100m of UK council funds channeled into solar farms. Rockfire Investment Finance, which offered renewable energy bonds with returns of 3% to 6%, has since gone into liquidation. Between […]
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UK pharmaceutical sector at risk due to NHS medicine rebate scheme
Britain is poised to miss out on billions in pharmaceutical R&D investment and access to new medicines unless urgent reforms are made to the NHS medicine rebate system, according to industry experts. The agreement, which caps the total sales of branded medicines to the NHS by imposing repayments above a certain threshold, was designed to […]
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UK Interest Rates Become More Uncertain Due To Global Trade Turbulence
The Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, has warned that the future course of UK interest rates is becoming increasingly uncertain, largely affected by global trade disruptions attributed to Donald Trump s policies on tariffs and trade deals. Bailey, addressing MPs during a session with the cross-party Treasury select committee, stated that while the […]
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Yoshua Bengio Launches Organisation to Advance Honest Artificial Intelligence
Yoshua Bengio, widely acknowledged as one of the godfathers of artificial intelligence, has unveiled a non-profit organisation dedicated to developing systems aimed at securing honesty in AI interactions. The organisation, named LawZero, aspires to create mechanisms that prevent AI systems from engaging in deceptive or potentially harmful behaviours. Equipped with an initial funding of $30 […]
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US trade war squeezes manufacturing as dollar weakens
The dollar slipped to $1.3542 against sterling following the release of a disappointing US manufacturing survey, which signalled a significant drop in production levels. Monday s data has pushed the currency towards a three-year low amidst continuing unease over President Donald Trump s trade policies. The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) purchasing managers index, a key indicator […]
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Monzo profits surge with rise in customer base to £12 million
Monzo, the UK s leading digital bank, has reported a dramatic increase in profits, highlighting a dynamic year of growth. The bank, which now boasts over 12 million customers, grew revenues by 48 per cent to £1.2 billion in the year to March. Deposits surpassed an impressive £16 billion, and underlying profits surged eightfold, reaching £114 […]
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UK House Prices Rise With Strong Performance in May 2025 after Stamp Duty Deadline
House prices in the United Kingdom saw an impressive rebound in May 2025, climbing by 0.5 per cent compared to the previous month. This unexpected increase brings the average property price to £273,427, nearly matching the record highs achieved during the summer of 2022. The rise defied economists earlier predictions of just 0.1 per cent […]
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London IPO market revival beckons as private equity giants eye listings opportunities
London s IPO market, which has experienced a significant slowdown in recent years, could soon see a revival led by the world s largest private equity firms. After a subdued period dominated by smaller listings like Raspberry Pi and MHA, the focus is shifting to bigger players capable of delivering substantial returns to investors. Private equity giants […]
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Legal Action Looms Over Frozen Chelsea Sale Proceeds as UK Government Pressures Roman Abramovich
The UK Government is intensifying efforts to secure £2.5 billion from the sale of Chelsea Football Club, threatening legal action against Roman Abramovich. Ministers argue that the proceeds, frozen since the club s sale in May 2022, should be allocated to aid victims of the war in Ukraine, following Russia’s invasion. Despite agreeing to the funds […]
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UK Economy Faces Growth Downgrade as Fiscal Rules Are Put at Risk
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has issued a warning that the UK s economy faces significant risks to its fiscal rules amid deteriorating growth prospects. The chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has been cautioned that ongoing economic challenges could sharply reduce the government s ability to meet its deficit reduction targets, leaving fiscal buffers at critically […]
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Sizewell C Nuclear Power Plant Could Get Go Ahead Within Weeks
UK ministers are reportedly on the brink of giving the green light to the Sizewell C nuclear power station in Suffolk, potentially within a matter of weeks. Labour leader Keir Starmer is expected to confirm this decision during a key UK-France summit scheduled next month, bringing an end to a 15-year effort to secure crucial […]
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UK Faces NATO Pressure to Boost Defence Spending to 35% GDP by 2035
Britain is under mounting pressure to significantly increase its defence spending as NATO allies push for a higher commitment in the face of escalating global security challenges. The UK is projected to raise its defence expenditure to 3.5% of GDP by 2035, following demands by NATO that member states strengthen their military capabilities. Currently, Britain […]
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UK economic growth slows as tariff impacts linger over global markets restricting fiscal recovery
The UK is bracing for slower economic growth over the next two years, according to a forecast released by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The economic outlook suggests that growth will drop from 1.3 per cent in 2025 to just 1 per cent in 2026, reflecting the ongoing impact of global trade […]
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Gleeson warns profit slump driven by higher buyer incentives and cost pressures
Housebuilder MJ Gleeson has issued a stark profit warning, revealing a decline in earnings due to increased buyer incentives, rising costs, and market challenges. The developer, which focuses heavily on building homes across the Midlands and northern England, has announced that its pre-tax profits for the year will fall between 15 and 20 per cent […]
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Thames Water faces uncertainty as KKR pulls out
Thames Water, the UK’s largest water utility company, faces increased uncertainty following the collapse of a £4 billion takeover bid by American private equity firm KKR. The withdrawal raises the prospect of temporary renationalisation through a special administration process. Thames Water, which supplies over 16 million people in London and the Thames Valley, has struggled […]
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Economy Class Aviation Investment Neglect Since The 1990s
Economy-class seating on aircraft has been woefully neglected since the 1990s, according to Sir Tim Clark, president of Emirates airline. Speaking at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) conference in Delhi, Clark criticised the lack of innovation in economy seating over the past two decades as airlines prioritised first and business-class passengers. He highlighted that […]
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The End of State Ownership in NatWest A Landmark Moment for UK Banking
The United Kingdom government has sold its remaining shares in NatWest, bringing 17 years of state ownership to a close. This marks the conclusion of one of the most defining episodes in British banking history following the £45 billion bailout during the 2008 financial crisis. The privatisation of NatWest underscores the end of a long […]
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Impact of Trumps Steel Tariff Rise on UK Trade Talks with the US
Donald Trump s latest decision to double tariffs on imported steel from 25% to 50% has generated significant uncertainty within global markets. The announcement, which will come into effect on Wednesday 4 June, has added immense pressure on the already strained global steel industry, raising concerns for businesses and consumers alike. The UK s Trade Secretary, Jonathan […]
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The rise of nuclear power in Europe and beyond shaping the energy debate
After the Iberian Peninsula suffered its largest blackout in decades last month, the focus on Europe s renewable energy strategy has sharply intensified. This unprecedented power cut left millions without electricity and has reignited global interest in nuclear power as an answer to modern energy challenges. With the fallout still dominating headlines, political leaders and energy […]
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Starling Bank Faces Criticism After Fivefold Bonus Increase Despite Regulatory Fine and Loan Issues
Starling Bank has come under intense scrutiny after awarding its staff a significant increase in bonuses, despite facing regulatory penalties and profit challenges. The digital-only challenger bank announced a total bonus payout of £24.6 million for the 2024-25 financial year, nearly five times the £5.3 million distributed the previous year. The sharp rise in bonuses […]
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Billionaire Zuber Issa Eyes MultiBillion Pound Bid for Castrol Oils
British billionaire Zuber Issa, widely recognised for his pivotal role in acquiring Asda, is reported to be exploring a daring multibillion-pound bid to purchase Castrol Oils. The lubricant business, owned by energy giant BP, has been placed on the market with an estimated valuation of up to £7.5 billion ($10 billion). Issa, who sold his […]
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Competitive Socialising Boom in the UK Fueled by Changing Habits in Younger Generations
The trend of competitive socialising is reshaping leisure in the UK, transforming pubs and traditional entertainment venues into immersive hubs catering to the nation s growing appetite for experiences over routine drinking. This shift is driven by Generation Z and millennials who are increasingly veering away from alcohol-centred outings in favour of activities that combine physical […]
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The rise of video podcast consumption reshaping media industry
The podcasting industry is undergoing a transformative shift as video-fuelled consumption increasingly captures the attention of audiences across the globe. Leaders in this space, such as Goalhanger, Spotify, and even YouTube, are redefining the boundaries of how podcasts are created and consumed with far-reaching implications for the media landscape. Goalhanger, co-founded by former BBC […]
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Motability Scheme Criticised Amid Calls for Reform
Motability, the UK scheme providing cars for disability benefit claimants, has come under fire amid allegations of mismanagement and over-generosity. With a growing customer base and increased public scrutiny, the programme faces widespread criticism despite its significant role in supporting disabled individuals. The scheme, founded in 1978, allows those eligible for the enhanced mobility component […]
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British Manufacturers Urge Government to Back SMEs in Defence Deals
British manufacturers have issued a call to action for the government, urging ministers to mandate foreign defence contractors to reinvest a significant portion of their contract value into the UK economy. The plea comes as the Ministry of Defence (MoD) prepares to unveil its latest defence industrial strategy, which could redefine the economic impact of […]
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Defence spending and its economic impact on the UK and Europe
At her last fiscal event in March, Rachel Reeves outlined ambitions to transform the UK into a defence industrial superpower. The chancellor s statement came amidst significant shifts in Europe, where nations like Germany are bypassing traditional fiscal constraints to ramp up defence budgets. Berlin s announcement of unlimited defence spending outside standard fiscal rules is just […]
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South East Water secures £200 million cash injection from foreign investors
South East Water, a key supplier for 2.2 million people across Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire, has announced a £200 million cash injection to stabilise its financial position. The funding comes from its international shareholders, including Australian and Canadian funds, as well as the NatWest Pension Scheme. The water company had previously warned of […]
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Belfast aerospace jobs at risk as government urged to step in and save Spirit AeroSystems
Ministers are considering proposals for a joint venture to safeguard 2,000 aerospace jobs in Belfast following concerns about the future of Spirit AeroSystems. Unite, the trade union, has called upon the UK government to intervene to protect employment at the company s Northern Irish plant. The business employs over 3,500 people in Belfast and is a […]
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City Watchdog Takes Axe to UK Stewardship Code
The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) is set to make significant changes to the UK Stewardship Code, a framework designed to guide how shareholders hold companies to account. Created in the aftermath of the 2008 banking crisis, the code has served as a voluntary tool for fund managers, proxy agencies, and institutional investors to demonstrate their […]
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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 Nvidia s strong financial performance. The Stoxx Europe tech index rose by 0.8% following the company s results, while Nvidia s 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 Britain s 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 Aldi s UK operations has downplayed the notion of a supermarket price war, pointing to record sales and steady growth as evidence of the company s 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. Asda s 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 retailer s 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 green shoots 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 company s 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 UK s 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 Trump s 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 Women s Environmental Network and the Pesticide Collaboration. Glyphosate, classified as probably […]
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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 world s 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 Nvidia s 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 Labour s 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
Britain s 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, Britain s 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 company s 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 buildings equivalent to roughly twelve Gherkin skyscrapers have 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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