Labour’s plan to mandate that developers build affordable housing on at least 50% of “grey belt” land could render 80% of small development sites unviable, according to research by tech firm Viability. The study suggests that reducing the requirement to 35% would significantly improve feasibility, making 30% of sites viable for small developers. Viability analysed […]
The proportion of former rental properties entering the sales market has reached a record high, driven by landlords’ concerns over a potential rise in capital gains tax (CGT) in the forthcoming budget, according to property website Rightmove. Currently, 18% of properties for sale were previously rented out, compared to just 8% in 2010. London has […]
Despite a washout summer, high interest rates, and looming tax hikes, Brits are spending more on small luxuries such as pastries and cosmetics, a trend Barclaycard has dubbed the “sweet treat economy.” According to Barclaycard, consumer card spending rose by 1% in August following two months of decline, with nearly half of surveyed individuals (47%) […]
The Post Office handled a record £3.7 billion in cash transactions in July, surpassing previous highs set in May, April, and December, as the closure of bank branches continues at an unrelenting pace. Since 2015, over 6,000 bank branches have closed across the UK, averaging about 50 closures per month. In response, banking hubs have […]
Flight Centre Travel Group has reported a 10% year-over-year increase in total transaction value for its global corporate business in the 2024 fiscal year, ending June 30, driven significantly by wins among SMEs. The company’s corporate business, which includes SME-focused Corporate Traveler and large-market-focused FCM, reported a total transaction value of approximately $8.2 billion, marking […]
The UK Government has launched nine new artificial intelligence (AI) training courses for Civil Servants, aimed at enhancing digital skills and improving efficiency across the public sector. Led by the Cabinet Office and Government Skills, the courses are designed to prepare civil servants for the growing impact of AI in government operations. The training covers […]
Clean energy funds, once a favourite in the investment trust landscape, are poised for a resurgence as lower interest rates reignite investor interest. After years of high premiums and booming demand driven by environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns, the sector has faced headwinds from rising rates and easing power prices. However, with the Bank […]
The much-anticipated Oasis reunion tour is set to deliver more than just nostalgic hits; it’s expected to inject a significant boost into the UK economy, a move that could prove beneficial for the Labour party. According to Paul Haywood-Schiefer, Senior Manager at audit and advisory firm Blick Rothenberg, the fervour surrounding the reunion gigs will […]
To achieve Angela Rayner’s ambitious housebuilding goals, Britain must consider opening its doors to more skilled migrants, according to a new report by the Institute for Government (IfG). The report suggests that to meet the most significant housing targets since the 1960s, the Housing Secretary should relax immigration policies, potentially adopting visa models similar to […]
Small businesses across the UK increasingly recognise the value of supporting women’s health in their workplaces. Embracing this initiative yields numerous benefits, including increased productivity and performance, reduced absenteeism, enhanced employee satisfaction and engagement, attracting and retaining talented workforce, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, and enhancing brand image while creating socially responsible businesses. However, […]