Defence stocks across Europe are experiencing an unprecedented boom as geopolitical tensions and increased military spending drive investor confidence to new heights. The sector’s remarkable transformation is perfectly exemplified by Babcock’s journey from crisis to triumph. Five years ago, Babcock was plagued by profit warnings and delayed results, making it a prime target for short-sellers. […]

Clothing prices are beginning to climb in the US market as Donald Trump’s tariffs on imported goods take effect, according to H&M’s chief executive. The Swedish retail giant’s leader, Daniel Ervér, has observed a shifting landscape where various competitors are implementing price adjustments at different rates. Speaking about market dynamics, Ervér noted that whilst some […]

The future of Britain’s premier bioethanol facility hangs in the balance as Associated British Foods (ABF) signals potential closure of its Hull-based Vivergo plant by September, threatening 160 jobs amid fallout from the recent UK-US trade agreement. The food manufacturing giant has initiated formal discussions with the government whilst simultaneously beginning staff consultations for an […]

Growing evidence suggests the UK jobs market is experiencing a notable slowdown as employers adjust to increased national insurance contributions by reducing recruitment and offering lower wage increases, according to Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey. The Bank’s monetary policy committee will weigh the combined impact of reduced employment and slower wage growth during its […]

The UK’s leading pharmacy and retail chain Boots has delivered another robust quarter of growth, marking its 17th consecutive period of market share gains amid an impending £10 billion private equity takeover of its parent company. The retailer, owned by Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), achieved a 5 per cent increase in total sales during the […]

Lord Rothschild’s cable manufacturing enterprise Volex has reported a remarkable 25% increase in profits, driven by soaring demand for its electric vehicle chargers. The company’s financial performance exceeded management’s previous guidance, propelling shares upward by 17.3% to 370p, marking a nine-month peak. The company, which traces its origins to Manchester’s Ward & Goldstone established in […]

The Bank of England’s governor has revealed that the recent increase in employers’ national insurance contributions is having a more severe impact on employment and wage growth than initially projected, suggesting potential further interest rate reductions this year. Speaking at the British Chambers of Commerce, Andrew Bailey disclosed mounting evidence of companies responding to heightened […]

In a significant boost for the City of London, Norwegian software powerhouse Visma has provisionally selected the UK capital for its anticipated public listing, favouring it over Amsterdam. The €19 billion business software group’s decision hinges on the implementation of crucial stock exchange reforms designed to counterbalance Brexit-related complications. The Oslo-based technology firm, which generated […]

Significant changes announced by Companies House have sparked widespread concern among small business owners across the UK. The corporate registry has unveiled mandatory requirements for commercial software usage and enhanced financial disclosure, set to take effect from April 2027. The sweeping reforms will eliminate traditional web and paper-based filing systems, compelling all companies to adopt […]

Selfridges, the iconic Oxford Street department store, is poised to transform its fourth-floor office space into an exclusive members’ club, intensifying the competition for high-net-worth shoppers in London’s luxury retail sector. The prestigious retailer secured approval this week to convert existing staff areas into what it describes as an “exclusive new shopping and social destination” […]

Donald Trump declared on Thursday evening that the United States has secured a trade agreement with China, though he remained characteristically vague about the specifics of the deal. The announcement came during a White House gathering dubbed “One Big, Beautiful Event,” organised to garner support for his signature legislation. The proclamation marks yet another instance […]

Sir Keir Starmer’s government is navigating treacherous political waters as he attempts to quell a significant internal rebellion over proposed welfare reforms. The Labour leader has offered substantial concessions to protect existing disability benefit recipients, marking a strategic retreat from the original reform package. The proposed compromise, costing the Treasury £1.5 billion, would shield 370,000 […]

The UK’s third-largest supermarket chain, Asda, has reported a devastating pre-tax loss of £599 million for the year ending 31 December 2024, marking a dramatic shift from its £180 million profit in 2023. The significant downturn comes as the retailer grapples with mounting debt obligations and operational challenges. Sales at established stores declined by 3.4%, […]

The British government has pledged £500 million in transport infrastructure support to secure Universal’s first European theme park development in Bedford. The deal, which remains under negotiation for its final scope, marks a significant milestone in the UK’s economic growth strategy. Comcast, Universal’s parent company, revealed its selection of a 192-hectare site at the former […]

Leading automotive and cycling retailer Halfords has plunged into the red, reporting a statutory pre-tax loss of £30 million for the 52-week period ending 28 March. The significant downturn stems from restructuring costs and a substantial write-down of its retail business value, attributed to rising UK gilt yields and escalating labour costs. The troubled retailer’s […]

British defence contractor Babcock International has reported a substantial surge in profits, marking what its chief executive calls “a new era for defence”. The company’s shares climbed more than 13 per cent following an upgrade to its earnings forecast, reaching an 11-year high. The FTSE 100 group, now valued at £5.8 billion, has established itself […]

British healthcare property company Assura finds itself amidst an intense bidding war, with American private equity giants KKR and Stonepeak Partners competing against domestic rival Primary Health Properties (PHP) in a deal worth £1.7 billion. The situation has drawn significant attention from parliamentary figures, with former pensions minister Baroness Altmann raising concerns about foreign ownership […]

The British arm of Danish toy manufacturer Lego has achieved a remarkable milestone, surpassing £500 million in sales for the first time, despite challenging market conditions. The Berkshire-based division reported a 12% increase in revenue to £502 million for the year ending December, marking a significant achievement in the face of broader market decline and […]

Sales growth in Marks and Spencer’s food division has experienced a deceleration over the past quarter as the retailer grappled with the aftermath of a devastating cyber attack. The FTSE 100 company reported a 9.1 per cent year-on-year increase in food sales during the 12 weeks leading to 14 June, according to data from NielsenIQ. […]

Oil giant Shell has firmly rejected reports suggesting merger discussions with BP, following speculation about a potential £200 billion-plus energy group formation. The company’s spokesperson emphasised that “no talks are taking place” in response to The Wall Street Journal’s coverage of alleged discussions between the two energy behemoths. The reported negotiations, which Shell dismissed as […]

In a remarkable turn of events, Skoda, once the subject of automotive ridicule, has surpassed Tesla in European electric vehicle sales. The Czech manufacturer, operating under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, delivered 14,920 vehicles in May, outperforming Elon Musk’s Tesla, which managed 14,055 units, according to DataForce market research. The triumph was largely driven by Skoda’s […]

The British government is poised to implement stringent restrictions on alcohol advertising as part of its comprehensive ten-year NHS strategy. Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s department, recently bolstered by a £30 billion annual budget increase from Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s spending review, is spearheading this transformative initiative. Market analysts anticipate significant disruption to the £1.3 billion UK […]

The UK government is poised to designate British steel production as critical to national security, unveiling plans to secure substantial orders for infrastructure projects including wind farms and rail links. This strategic move aims to safeguard domestic production through new regulations enabling public bodies to prioritise British steel, regardless of cheaper international alternatives. The initiative […]

Labour’s ambitious plans to modernise the National Health Service will see patients directed to consult an artificial intelligence-driven ‘AI GP’ as their primary healthcare contact point. The groundbreaking initiative, unveiled by Health Secretary Wes Streeting, represents a £10 billion investment in NHS technology. The revolutionary system, dubbed ‘My Companion’, will function as an intelligent healthcare […]

European regulators are poised to implement sweeping changes to airline pricing structures, potentially prohibiting carriers from charging passengers for cabin baggage and family seating arrangements. The landmark proposal, endorsed by the European Parliament’s transport and tourism committee, aims to streamline booking processes and eliminate controversial drip pricing practices. The proposed legislation mandates that airlines must […]

In a significant development for the UK automotive sector, Chinese manufacturer Chery Auto is evaluating plans to establish its second European manufacturing facility in Britain. The announcement comes as the company seeks to strengthen its position in the European market whilst navigating complex international trade dynamics. The strategic move was revealed by Chery’s UK director, […]

In a landmark development for UK tech regulation, Google faces potential forced alterations to its search business operations under new proposals from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The watchdog’s unprecedented move could require the tech giant to offer users alternative search engine choices, marking a significant shift in the digital marketplace landscape. The CMA’s […]

In a significant move that underscores its commitment to the British market, Amazon has unveiled plans to invest £40 billion in the UK over the next three years. The e-commerce behemoth’s strategic expansion includes the construction of four state-of-the-art robotic fulfilment centres and substantial upgrades to its Berkshire film studios. The ambitious programme will establish […]

Food prices across British supermarkets have surged at their fastest rate in more than a year, intensifying pressure on household budgets nationwide. Fresh data from Kantar reveals grocery prices climbed 4.7 per cent in the four weeks to 15 June compared to the same period last year, marking the highest increase since February 2024. The […]

The electric bike-sharing pioneer Lime is preparing for a stock market flotation, targeting a valuation exceeding $500 million. The San Francisco-headquartered enterprise, established in 2017 and currently managing e-bike and scooter fleets across 280 cities worldwide, has reportedly enlisted Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan to orchestrate an initial public offering slated for next year. The […]

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) has issued a stark warning about the growing influence of stablecoins, suggesting they pose significant risks to global financial stability and countries’ monetary sovereignty. This critique emerges as a direct challenge to US policy supporting these digital assets. The BIS, widely recognised as the central bank of central banks, […]

British supermarkets are experiencing their first decline in grocery sales volumes this year, with experts attributing part of this downturn to the rising popularity of weight-loss medications. Market research firm Kantar reports a 0.4 per cent year-on-year decrease in sales volumes over the past four weeks. Fraser McKevitt, head of retail and consumer insight at […]

British alcohol tariffs are causing significant disruption to Spanish wine exports, with a notable 7.5 per cent decline in value during the first four months of this year. The implementation of alcohol content-based tariffs from the autumn budget has particularly impacted Spanish vineyards, known for their fuller-bodied wines. The Spanish Wine Interprofessional Organisation reports exports […]

The Bank of England’s Governor Andrew Bailey has emphasised that interest rates will see reductions this year, whilst downplaying the significance of global events, including tariffs and Middle Eastern conflicts, in the decision-making process. Speaking to the Lords economic affairs committee, Bailey stated that whilst global events aren’t ignored, their unpredictable nature means they carry […]

London-headquartered recruitment specialist SThree has implemented significant workforce reductions amid persistent challenges in the global hiring landscape. The organisation has trimmed its workforce by 10 per cent, bringing the total headcount down to approximately 2,430 from 2,700 in November. The company, which maintains operations across 11 countries, attributes some staffing reductions to natural attrition whilst […]

Oil prices have witnessed a significant decline following growing confidence in the Iran-Israel ceasefire, dispelling earlier concerns about potential supply disruptions. Brent crude, the global benchmark, dropped 5.9 per cent to $66.39 per barrel on Tuesday evening, marking a substantial retreat from Monday morning’s peak of $81 per barrel. The impact reverberated through financial markets […]

The artificial intelligence sector’s rapid expansion and the declining gas sales in Russia are contributing to the formation of a supply glut. The Russian government is now considering investing in AI data centres as a potential solution. Surprisingly swift ceasefire agreements between Israel and Iran led to a dramatic drop in oil prices, even though […]

The aviation sector is grappling with mounting challenges as geopolitical tensions force carriers to navigate an increasingly complex web of restricted airspace. British Airways’ recent cancellation of flights to Dubai and Doha exemplifies the industry’s predicament, whilst Qatar’s temporary airspace closure following Iranian missile strikes highlights the volatile nature of current operations. The financial implications […]

In a groundbreaking development for the US energy sector, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled plans to construct the first major nuclear power plant in more than 15 years. The strategic initiative aims to generate a minimum of 1GW of nuclear power, marking a significant shift in the state’s energy policy. The New York […]

OpenAI has withdrawn online content related to its £4.8 billion partnership with Sir Jony Ive’s hardware venture, io, amid a trademark dispute. The AI powerhouse removed promotional materials, including a significant nine-minute video featuring Ive and OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman discussing their strategic collaboration. The removal stems from legal action initiated by iyO, an AI-enabled […]

The US Federal Trade Commission has approved Omnicom’s landmark £13.5 billion acquisition of rival Interpublic, paving the way for the creation of the world’s largest advertising agency. The regulatory clearance comes with stringent conditions centred on political content management. Under the terms of the agreement, the merged entity faces strict prohibitions on entering arrangements that […]

A prolonged cyber-attack forcing Marks & Spencer to suspend its online operations for nearly seven weeks has resulted in significant market share gains for its competitors. The retail giant’s clothing sales plummeted by 20% in the four weeks leading to 25 May, compared to the previous year’s figures. The website shutdown, which typically accounts for […]

British energy heavyweight Octopus Energy has joined forces with Ukraine’s largest private energy firm DTEK in a landmark €100 million initiative to bolster Ukraine’s energy security through solar and battery installations. The collaborative venture, dubbed RISE (Resilient Independent Solar Energy), aims to establish 100 solar and battery projects across Ukraine over the next three years, […]

In a significant development that underscores the ongoing exodus from London’s stock market, FTSE 250 company Spectris has endorsed a £3.8 billion takeover bid from American private equity firm Advent International, potentially triggering a bidding war. The precision instrumentation specialist’s board has recommended shareholders accept Advent’s cash offer of £37.63 per share, representing an 85 […]

In a significant shift of strategy, Assura, one of the NHS’s largest property landlords, has chosen to merge with Primary Health Properties (PHP) rather than accept a private equity buyout. The decision comes after mounting pressure from shareholders, leading to the rejection of a £1.64 billion offer from American firms KKR and Stonepeak Partners. PHP’s […]

In a significant policy announcement, Sir Keir Starmer has unveiled Labour’s comprehensive industrial strategy, marking the first such initiative since Theresa May’s government. The 160-page document outlines an ambitious ten-year plan focusing on eight high-growth sectors, collectively representing 32 per cent of the British economy. The strategy, dubbed IS-8, encompasses advanced manufacturing, clean energy industries, […]

The Bank of England’s Governor, Andrew Bailey, has delivered a robust defence of the central bank’s quantitative easing (QE) policies against accusations from Reform UK that the programme represents a “systemic misuse of taxpayers’ money”. In a detailed response to Reform UK’s deputy leader Richard Tice, Bailey emphasised that the UK’s strategic approach to long-term […]

Oil and gas markets face unprecedented volatility as Iran threatens to block the Strait of Hormuz, potentially triggering a catastrophic surge in UK household energy bills to £4,500 annually. The crisis, sparked by recent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, has already caused significant disruption to maritime traffic through this crucial waterway. The narrow 21-mile […]

Thames Water’s bonds have plunged to unprecedented lows following the Environment Secretary’s announcement regarding enhanced contingency preparations for the troubled utility provider. The company’s debt value deteriorated to 67p on Friday, marking a significant decline from 70p at the month’s beginning, as investors retreated amidst mounting nationalisation concerns. The market turbulence primarily stems from Steve […]

Britain has witnessed a dramatic 57 per cent decline in foreign investment for green energy and utility sector projects during the past year, surrendering its position as Europe’s premier destination for foreign direct investment in utilities and energy supply to France. The stark figures, revealed in a comprehensive analysis by professional services firm EY, highlight […]

A British broadband provider, backed by US private equity giant Warburg Pincus and helmed by former EE and Virgin Mobile executives, is poised to enter the UK mobile telecommunications market. Community Fibre plans to introduce e-Sim services this summer, with aims to expand into virtual Sim-only contracts, leveraging its existing customer base of nearly 400,000 […]

Britain’s second-largest supermarket chain is poised to report strong quarterly sales, driven by an early onset of summer weather and shifting consumer behaviour towards seasonal goods. Sainsbury’s, commanding a 15.1 per cent share of the UK grocery market, has witnessed a notable 4.7 per cent sales increase in the 12 weeks leading to May 18, […]

Fresh research from Knight Frank reveals the abolition of the non-dom regime has resulted in significant losses to government property tax revenue. The estate agent’s analysis indicates that declining sales of luxury homes valued at £5 million or above in London between March 2024 and May 2025 have led to a £401 million reduction in […]

Tourist expenditure across Britain is predicted to remain suppressed over the next five years, driven by persistent inflation, a robust pound sterling and the cessation of VAT-free shopping, according to fresh research released today. The Centre for Economics and Business Research’s latest analysis reveals that real spending per overseas visitor is projected to expand at […]

The electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft sector is experiencing significant headwinds as industry heavyweight Rolls-Royce withdraws from the market, citing escalating development costs reaching £3 million per unit. Tufan Erginbilgic, Rolls-Royce’s chief executive, delivered a stark assessment of the flying taxi market at The Wall Street Journal CEO Summit. His decision to redirect […]

The City of London’s financial leaders are mounting fresh pressure on the government to reform the 0.5 per cent stamp duty on share purchases, warning that the levy is severely undermining London’s position as a global financial hub. British investors currently face a 0.5 per cent tax on share purchases, a rate significantly higher than […]

The Office for Budget Responsibility’s forecast of Brexit’s impact on the UK economy has proven remarkably accurate, with public finances suffering a £40 billion shortfall in tax revenue. The organisation’s projection of a 4 per cent decline in long-term productivity has materialised through reduced investment and diminishing trade volumes, according to research by John Springford […]

British companies are hastily moving to renegotiate supplier contracts as they grapple with the looming impact of heightened US tariffs, fresh data reveals. A comprehensive survey examining firms with over 5,000 employees indicates 90 per cent anticipate President Trump’s import duties will negatively affect their revenues and profits, prompting a widespread search for cost-saving measures. […]

Global oil markets face significant volatility as Iran’s parliamentary vote to close the Strait of Hormuz threatens to disrupt one of the world’s most crucial oil transport routes. Market analysts predict crude prices could surge beyond $100 per barrel if Tehran follows through with its threat to block the strategic waterway. The strait, measuring just […]

High earners are facing heightened scrutiny as HM Revenue & Customs has successfully doubled its revenue from investigations into Britain’s wealthiest taxpayers last year. A freedom of information request reveals the taxman’s wealthy and mid-sized business compliance directorate collected more than £1.5 billion in 2024, marking a substantial increase from the previous year. The unit, […]

The total volume of active fuel oil exports from Russia to India and Turkey has seen a significant upturn as prices plummet. This news comes amidst a backdrop of rising political instability and an extension in crude oil prices. CityAM.com, the online version of London’s foremost free daily business newspaper, City A.M., provides comprehensive coverage […]

China is alleviating its stringent regulations on the exportation of rare earth elements by sanctioning “a certain number” of export permits, according to a statement from the nation’s commerce ministry. This move could signal the commencement of a period of easier access to rare earths for global supply chains. While the ministry confirmed the approval […]

Rising political instability and fluctuating global oil prices necessitate the exploration of renewable energy sources. Developing countries are increasingly willing to utilise their natural resources for renewable energy development, which includes wind and solar projects. However, these nations often lack the financial resources for establishing new energy sectors and transitioning from fossil fuels. The Inter-American […]

Renowned for being one of the most recent exploration hotspots globally, Namibia is contemplating offering additional incentives and financing alternatives to international majors preparing plans for offshore oil production in the country. A number of oil and gas supermajors, including Shell, TotalEnergies, and Portugal’s Galp, have already made substantial discoveries off the coast of Namibia. […]

Despite the rising tensions in the region, Japan’s largest city gas supplier, Tokyo Gas, is not affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The company’s supply of super-chilled fuel, or liquefied natural gas (LNG), remains steady, according to a top executive. The reason for this is that Tokyo Gas does not rely on […]

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape our computational systems, economies and energy footprints, the question of who should regulate AI and how has become an extremely complex matter. There is currently a political struggle ongoing in Washington about governance over the sector, with large questions about what limitations should be placed on the rapidly […]

UK government officials have subtly conceded that the cost of renewable and other low-carbon technologies essential for the rapid transition to net zero is higher than that of using fossil fuels. This admission comes as an unwelcome one, as it has indirectly contributed to escalating energy bills for households throughout the nation. Despite this revelation, […]

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has voted to maintain interest rates at 4.25%, with six of its nine members favouring the status quo whilst three pushed for a reduction to 4%. This decision marks a cautious approach amidst growing signs of economic slowdown and labour market softening. Governor Andrew Bailey emphasised that […]

British consumer confidence has demonstrated a slight improvement but remains delicate as mounting tensions in the Middle East threaten to drive petrol prices higher, according to the latest GfK index findings. The respected consumer sentiment measure advanced two points in June, settling at -18, though this figure stands notably below the -12 recorded in the […]

In a significant move towards modernising the UK’s border control systems, more than 9,000 European airline staff are undergoing specialised training to verify visa documentation at departure gates. This strategic initiative, spanning 39 countries including critical transit routes such as Greece, Malta, Italy and Albania, represents a substantial shift in border management protocols. The Foreign […]

The National Health Service faces a mounting crisis as overseas-trained medical professionals increasingly opt for more lucrative positions in the United States, Australia, and Canada, according to new research from the General Medical Council (GMC). The comprehensive study, surveying 3,092 international doctors, reveals a stark reality: 84% of respondents believe other nations offer superior compensation […]

The proposed Chinese “super-embassy” development in London has encountered fresh obstacles following significant US intervention, casting uncertainty over its future. The White House’s expression of deep concern regarding potential Chinese access to sensitive communications infrastructure has complicated what was initially a localised planning dispute. The contentious site, Royal Mint Court, situated on the periphery of […]

Public sector borrowing in the UK reached £17.7 billion in May, marking a concerning increase from £17 billion in the previous year and settling as the second-highest May figure ever recorded. The rise surpassed City economists’ predictions of £17.1 billion, intensifying pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to maintain control over spending limits. The escalation in […]

In a significant shift for the UK’s life sciences sector, Syncona, the Wellcome Trust-backed FTSE 250 investment company, has revealed plans to implement an orderly wind-down of its portfolio assets. The decision comes as the broader biotech sector continues to navigate through turbulent market conditions. The company, which made its market debut a decade ago, […]

Investors in junk bonds are bracing for potentially significant losses as analysts forecast a concerning rise in defaults for the coming year. Deutsche Bank’s latest report suggests the likelihood of a soft landing in the US economy is diminishing, potentially triggering a wave of defaults among heavily leveraged corporations in 2026. Deutsche Bank’s analysis projects […]

The Bank of England stood firm on Thursday, maintaining interest rates at 4.25 per cent whilst other major central banks across Europe opted for rate reductions. The monetary policy committee’s decision revealed growing divisions, with a 6-3 vote favouring the hold position, diverging from analysts’ expectations of a 7-2 split. Deputy Governor Dave Ramsden shifted […]

The UK government has signalled its readiness to place Thames Water into special administration amid mounting concerns over the utility provider’s financial stability and operational performance. Environment Secretary Steve Reed delivered a stark warning to Parliament, emphasising that Thames Water must fulfil its statutory and regulatory obligations. The statement came in response to growing unease […]

The British government has initiated discussions with the Trump administration regarding potential exemptions for UK companies from proposed ‘revenge taxes’, according to Chancellor Rachel Reeves. During recent talks in London with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the focus centred on the White House’s threatening stance towards nations deemed to operate discriminatory tax systems. The controversial […]

The chief executive of Aviva has issued a stark warning to the government regarding pension investment autonomy, emphasising that investment decisions must remain in the hands of savers rather than being dictated by ministerial mandate. Dame Amanda Blanc, speaking at The Times CEO Summit, made it clear that companies providing defined contribution workplace plans base […]

British gas plants are positioned to receive substantial windfall payments this winter, following a pattern of multimillion-pound payouts from the previous cold season. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) reports that the UK’s winter power supplies will reach their highest levels since 2020, partly attributed to an increasing number of gas facilities prepared to generate […]

In a concerning development for Meta’s artificial intelligence capabilities, their WhatsApp AI assistant has demonstrated significant privacy vulnerabilities by inadvertently sharing a private user’s mobile number during a routine customer service enquiry. The incident occurred when Barry Smethurst, 41, attempted to obtain contact details for TransPennine Express whilst experiencing travel disruptions. The AI confidently provided […]

In a landmark transaction finalised on Wednesday, Nippon Steel successfully acquired US Steel for $14.9 billion, marking a significant shift in the global steel manufacturing landscape. The deal’s completion follows an 18-month period of intense negotiations and includes unprecedented provisions granting substantial control to the Trump administration. The acquisition terms establish a purchase price of […]

The European Commission has delivered a scathing assessment of Chinese e-commerce behemoth AliExpress, citing “systemic failure” in preventing the distribution of illegal and hazardous merchandise across its digital marketplace. Brussels’ regulators unveiled their formal investigation findings, initiated in March 2024, highlighting AliExpress’s inadequate measures to curtail the sale of counterfeit apparel and dangerous children’s toys. […]

Britain’s ambitious high-speed rail project, HS2, is set to miss its 2033 completion target amid mounting costs and management challenges, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander revealed in a stark parliamentary address. The announcement marks a significant setback for the UK’s largest infrastructure project. The revelation comes following a critical assessment from newly appointed HS2 Ltd Chief […]

In a significant move that signals the growing impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce, Amazon’s chief executive Andy Jassy has announced plans to reduce the company’s corporate workforce as AI technology increasingly automates white-collar positions. The retail giant, which employs more than 1.5 million full-time and part-time staff, is actively implementing generative AI across […]

British inflation decelerated to 3.4 percent in May, marginally missing economists’ expectations of 3.3 percent, as declining transport costs and petrol prices helped offset rising food inflation. The Office for National Statistics reported that service sector inflation, a crucial metric monitored by the Bank of England, decreased to 4.7 percent from 5.4 percent in April, […]

Two Spanish banking powerhouses are engaged in discussions regarding the potential merger of their UK operations, signalling a significant shift in Britain’s banking landscape. Banco Santander has reportedly approached rival Sabadell with interest in acquiring TSB, as the sector braces for fresh consolidation. Sabadell has confirmed receiving multiple expressions of interest for TSB, its British […]

The co-founder of Raspberry Pi and his finance chief have collectively realised over £2 million from their shareholdings following the expiry of their lock-up agreements. Eben Upton, who serves as chief executive of the pioneering microcomputer manufacturer, alongside Chief Financial Officer Richard Boult, have capitalised on the conclusion of their 365-day post-IPO trading restrictions. Upton, […]

The chief executive of AO World has indicated the company may shut down its loss-making contract mobile phone business within two months if more profitable arrangements with network providers cannot be secured. John Roberts, who established the online retailer following a £1 pub wager in 2000, emphasised that whilst AO isn’t abandoning mobile phones completely, […]

Big Technologies has claimed that its allegations regarding former chief executive Sara Murray’s undisclosed connections to offshore companies have been ‘largely confirmed’ by an international financial services provider. The revelation came during the company’s annual meeting, where it was disclosed that these offshore entities owned 38% of Big before its 2021 flotation, resulting in £124 […]

OpenAI’s chief executive Sam Altman has alleged that Meta Platforms is attempting to lure his organisation’s top artificial intelligence engineers with staggering signing bonuses reaching £100 million, marking a significant escalation in the technology sector’s talent war. Speaking on the Uncapped podcast hosted by his brother, Altman revealed that Meta has begun making “giant offers” […]

The US Federal Reserve has maintained interest rates and signalled two potential cuts this year, amidst mounting pressure from President Trump for monetary easing. The central bank held its benchmark borrowing costs between 4.25 per cent and 4.5 per cent, aligning with market predictions. The Fed’s influential “dot plot” of monetary policy forecasts reinforced expectations […]

Britain’s economic prospects face mounting pressure as the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) warns of a significant slowdown driven by escalating labour costs, persistent inflation, and uncertainties surrounding US trade relations. The influential business organisation has reduced its growth forecast for the current year from 1.6 per cent to 1.2 per cent, aligning with projections […]

Vodafone’s recent strategic manoeuvres under CEO Margherita Della Valle’s leadership have positioned the telecommunications giant for a potential turnaround, despite shares trading near three-decade lows. The centrepiece of this transformation is a £16.5 billion merger with Three in the UK market, complemented by strategic exits from challenging Italian and Spanish operations. The market’s current valuation […]

Nearly 300 savers faced tax bills of £98,000 or more on their retirement pots last year after withdrawing substantial pensions in one go. Data from Standard Life reveals that 292 individuals fully withdrew pension pots of £250,000 or more between October 2023 and March 2024, triggering minimum tax bills of £98,700 each. An additional 1,600 […]

A mounting rebellion against billionaire hedge fund manager Daniel Loeb’s latest deal is gaining momentum as a fifth major shareholder voices stern opposition to the proposed merger. Evelyn Partners, holding a 3% stake in Third Point Investors, has joined the chorus of dissent regarding the £68 million acquisition of Malibu Life Reinsurance. The controversial reverse […]

The Independent Water Commission’s forthcoming report will not advocate for changes to water companies’ ownership structures, according to its chairman Sir Jon Cunliffe, a former Bank of England deputy governor. Speaking before the Commons environment, food and rural affairs committee, Sir Jon clarified that ownership model alterations fall outside the commission’s scope. The revelation comes […]

The Times shadow monetary policy committee has strongly advised the Bank of England to maintain current interest rates, citing ongoing concerns about inflationary pressures stemming from the Israel-Iran conflict. The committee’s recommendation comes ahead of Thursday’s crucial meeting, where rates are expected to remain at 4.25 per cent. Eight of the nine shadow MPC panellists […]

British industrial equipment rental giant Ashtead Group has cautioned investors about slowing rental revenue growth in the current financial year, citing persistent weakness in the US construction market. The FTSE 100 company’s latest financial update reveals a mixed performance, with particular challenges in local non-residential construction projects. The company’s rental revenue growth forecast now stands […]

The contentious relationship between consumer goods giant Unilever and its ice cream subsidiary Ben & Jerry’s appears headed for further deterioration following a controversial leadership appointment. Unilever’s nomination of Peter ter Kulve to lead the soon-to-be-independent Magnum Ice Cream Company has sparked fresh tensions in an already fractured partnership. The proposed appointment, scheduled for board […]