Finance & Risk
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Airbus, Leonardo and Thales unite in landmark European space merger
Airbus, Leonardo and Thales plan joint European space venture. The new entity will consolidate their satellite, systems and services businesses into a single organisation, strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy in space and enhancing competitiveness against global rivals.
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UK inflation holds at 3.8% for third month in a row
UK inflation held at 3.8% for the third straight month. Annual consumer price inflation remained unchanged in September, according to the Office for National Statistics — extending a run of above-target readings that continues to test monetary and fiscal policy alike.
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Allica Bank acquires firm to boost SME lending
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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Top 1% of UK taxpayers fund a third
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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UK borrowing overshoot keeps the heat on Reeves as budget looms
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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Getty and Shutterstock merger faces CMA scrutiny
Getty Images and Shutterstock merger faces UK competition probe. The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is set to conduct an in-depth investigation into the $3.7bn merger between Getty Images and Shutterstock due to concerns over potential competition reduction.
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UK launches ‘Sterling 20’ club to drum up investment
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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Kering to sell beauty unit to L’Oréal for €4 billion to reduce debt
Kering will sell its beauty division to L’Oréal for €4 billion. The deal marks a strategic shift for the luxury group, which is refocusing on fashion and easing a debt load built up through recent acquisitions and property investments.
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UK M&A deals of the week: 17 October 2025
This week’s M&A activity spanned industrials, logistics, infrastructure, and professional services. From a £1.3 billion carve-out in manufacturing to a landmark logistics portfolio transfer, the UK remained a focal point for global buyers refining strategy, scale, and sector exposure.
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Over 400 UK firms earn fair payment recognition
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.