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Allica Bank acquires fintech Kriya to boost SME lending capacity. The acquisition, announced on Wednesday, is Allica’s third, following its purchase of Allied Irish Bank’s SME portfolio and Tuscan Capital. Allica aims for £1bn in working capital finance.
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Labour urged to rethink youth wage policy amid rising Neet numbers. A report warns nearly one million young people are out of education, employment or training, as Labour considers scrapping lower minimum wage rates for young workers.
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Waymo plans to launch self-driving service in London by 2026. The company will introduce its autonomous ride-hailing service using Jaguar Land Rover’s electric I-Pace vehicles, while collaborating with UK regulators to secure necessary approvals.
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The top 1% of UK taxpayers paid a third of taxes. HMRC data shows the top 500,000 taxpayers paid £93.8 billion in 2023/24, comprising 33% of income and capital gains tax receipts. Wealth Club warns against deterring high net worth individuals.
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Pizza Hut will close 68 restaurants across the United Kingdom. The move follows the collapse of its UK franchise operator, placing around 1,210 jobs at risk. Parent company Yum! Brands will acquire part of the estate through a pre-pack deal designed to keep selected sites operating under direct control.
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UK government borrowing has exceeded forecasts by billions of pounds. Higher-than-expected interest costs and inflation-linked spending have tightened fiscal head-room for Chancellor Rachel Reeves ahead of the November Budget, leaving limited room to rebuild the Treasury’s buffer.
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Concerns arise over China’s proposed embassy near London’s financial hub. Senior figures in the City of London Corporation have expressed worries about China’s plan for a new embassy near sensitive data cables. The location is seen as potentially risky, prompting calls for caution in approving the site.
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The UK government has unveiled the “Sterling 20” initiative. It brings together 20 of the country’s largest pension funds to channel capital into domestic infrastructure, affordable housing, and high-growth sectors including AI. The move marks a coordinated effort to boost long-term investment in the British economy.
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Shadow energy secretary criticises Labour’s net zero targets as harmful. Claire Coutinho argues that the UK’s climate targets exacerbate the cost of living crisis, increase electricity costs, and drive jobs overseas, worsening emissions. She calls for a careful approach to China’s role in the energy sector.
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UK fintech industry body criticises banking watchdog over regulation. Innovate Finance’s report criticises the Prudential Regulation Authority for excessive requirements on challenger banks, claiming they hinder competition and innovation, despite government pledges to support financial services growth.