
Nvidia finalised its $5 billion acquisition of Intel stock under a September agreement. The 214 million-share purchase marks a deepening alliance between two of the world’s most influential chipmakers. The transaction strengthens Intel’s financial footing while aligning the pair on future chip design and AI development.

Older millennials are seeking more mental health support than ever. Between 2023 and 2025, Onebright saw a steady rise in referrals from 35–46-year-olds as middle management pressures, childcare, and financial stress converge — marking a growing crisis in workplace wellbeing among senior professionals.

Relocation requests are rising among Israel’s high-tech employees. A new report shows that more than half of multinational tech companies operating in Israel have seen an increase in staff seeking moves overseas, reflecting wider unease amid conflict and shifting confidence in the country’s innovation economy.

2026 will be the year of grown-up innovation. Cyrus Vantoch-Wood, Founder at Insurgent, forecasts a global shift from spectacle to substance — from performative sustainability to pragmatic regeneration — as companies rebuild purpose, value, and continuity in a world demanding competence over conjecture.

China’s ByteDance is preparing to spend $22.7 billion on AI infrastructure in 2026. The TikTok owner’s planned investment underscores Beijing’s determination to stay competitive in artificial intelligence amid US export controls and intensifying Western capital commitments.

Demand for IT professionals rises despite UK labour market concerns. Over half of UK businesses plan to expand their IT teams, highlighting digital skills’ importance as unemployment rises. Cybersecurity roles face critical shortages, stressing the need for skilled professionals.

Business confidence rose slightly at the end of 2025. Lloyds Banking Group’s survey indicated a modest increase in business confidence after the Autumn Budget, despite earlier concerns over potential tax hikes. Optimism reached a four-month high.

AI has become accessible to small businesses almost overnight. Yet as Kelly Salter, Commercial Director at names.co.uk (part of team.blue), explains, many still struggle with skills gaps, confidence, and trust. Bridging this divide requires practical guidance and mindset change — helping small businesses see AI as a partner, not a threat.

HMRC is intensifying its scrutiny of fast growing UK companies. Francesca Titus, barrister and white-collar crime partner at McGuireWoods, warns that expanding enforcement powers, AI-led investigations, and new criminal offences are raising the stakes. For scale-ups, proactive compliance is now essential — before HMRC comes knocking.

Leonardo warns of potential UK helicopter factory closure. The Italian defence group may shut its Yeovil site if it fails to secure a £1 billion Ministry of Defence contract, jeopardising the future of Britain’s last remaining helicopter manufacturing facility.