-
Over 400 UK firms have been recognised for prompt payments. The Fair Payment Code aims to combat late payments costing the UK economy £11 billion annually. Businesses must demonstrate transparent payment practices to qualify for awards under the scheme.
-
Rachel Reeves has admitted both tax rises and spending cuts are being considered. The chancellor told Sky News she was “looking at tax and spending as well,” confirming for the first time that both options are on the table as she works to address the UK’s growing fiscal gap.
-
Zilch CEO promises innovation in fintech as IPO scene heats. Philip Belamant, CEO of Zilch, has expressed excitement over the burgeoning fintech IPO market, highlighting Klarna’s successful debut as a positive indicator. Zilch plans to introduce unique offerings to public markets amid product expansions.
-
Royal Bank of Scotland will launch IP-backed loans in 2026, following new legislation enabling lenders to accept intellectual property as collateral. The move is designed to unlock growth finance for Scotland’s technology and innovation sectors, helping high-growth businesses access capital without relying on physical assets.
-
Investec remains on track despite challenging economic conditions. The bank anticipates adjusted operating profit for the first half to align with last year’s figures, maintaining its strategy amidst market volatility and progressing with its £100m share buyback programme.
-
HMRC loses £836m to tax loophole abuse, exceeding estimates. The practice of ‘phoenixing’ has significantly impacted HMRC’s ability to collect taxes, with losses reaching £836m in the 2022-23 tax year, surpassing previous estimates by 45 per cent.
-
Gartner’s new hype cycle maps AI in finance. The research identifies nine technologies set to reach mainstream adoption within two years, including generative AI, responsible AI and hyperautomation, while cautioning CFOs against the risks of over-inflated expectations.
-
FCA warns firms against excessive compliance with Consumer Duty rules. The financial watchdog aims to simplify compliance, addressing concerns about regulatory burden and cost. The FCA seeks to clarify expectations and improve flexibility, ensuring businesses do not overinterpret requirements.
-
ECB forecasts digital euro will generate returns for payment providers. The European Central Bank says payment service providers stand to profit from distributing the digital euro, which is nearing the end of its preparation phase. A formal decision on issuing the currency is expected by October.
-
UK start-up loan demand rises as PG insurance uptake grows. A growing number of start-ups are securing finance with personal guarantee backed loans, as new data points to increased risk appetite and lender support among early-stage UK businesses.