Category: News

Leading economists and policymakers have urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to rebalance the tax system towards wealthier older people, introduce stamp duty reform and boost investment to tackle a £30bn fiscal gap.

BMW’s UK finance arm has boosted provisions to £207m as the FCA prepares a compensation scheme for car loan mis-selling, with lenders facing up to £18bn in payouts.

Matt Clifford, architect of the UK’s AI action plan, warns that British firms risk losing ground to global competitors as AI adoption lags across key sectors.

US tariffs on UK goods have surged sixfold to $1.36bn in four months, with British manufacturers squeezed despite a new trade deal. China remains the top target.

President Donald Trump says TV networks that criticise him should “maybe” have their US broadcast licences revoked, raising concerns over free speech and regulatory overreach.

Blackburn businessman Raja Imtiaz has been jailed for over two years after fraudulently securing two £50k Bounce Back Loans during the Covid pandemic.

Retailers warn staff shortages are worsening as fear of violence and soaring shoplifting incidents deter young people from taking jobs on the high street.

Massive Attack ask Universal to remove their work from Spotify globally and from all streaming platforms in Israel, citing CEO’s investment in drone-defence technology.

Barclays has launched its new Farm Transition Finance scheme, offering discounted loans to UK farmers adopting sustainable and regenerative practices, with eligibility linked to recognised certifications and supply chain programmes.

The Bank of England has kept UK interest rates at 4%, slowing bond sales and warning inflation remains “not out of the woods” as investors expect rates to stay on hold through 2025.

APSCo UK warns that rejecting amendments to the Employment Rights Bill risks creating barriers for employers and recruiters, hindering growth and worsening the UK labour market.

Evelyn Partners research shows female entrepreneurs exit for 25% less than men, averaging £3.9m versus £5.2m. Experts at the No Diversity, No Deal event in Glasgow say structural barriers, funding gaps and negotiation bias hold women back.

Anna Daroy, former Director General of the Institute of Directors, has been banned as a company director for 11 years after abusing Covid Bounce Back Loans. Globepoint Associates Ltd took £100,000 when only £50,000 was allowed.