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Revolut has reached a $115bn valuation during rapid global expansion. The fintech now serves more than 80 million customers as it builds banking operations across an increasing number of markets.
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Germany may grow about twice as fast as previously forecast. Exports and government spending are supporting recovery, although energy costs and weak private investment continue to constrain Europe’s largest economy.
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G7 governments are releasing emergency energy reserves to stabilise markets. The coordinated 100m-barrel intervention includes an early diesel release as disruption pushes fuel prices higher.
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OPEC+ kept November production targets unchanged amid tight oil markets. Disrupted Gulf exports and oil above $100 continue feeding into inflation, transport costs and corporate energy budgets.
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Ministers are considering stronger safeguards for devolved regional spending powers. Expanded fiscal autonomy could give English mayors greater control while increasing demands for audit, scrutiny and financial accountability.
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Eurozone inflation rose sharply in September as energy costs accelerated. Eurostat estimates annual inflation reached 3.8%, increasing pressure on the ECB and businesses already facing higher financing costs.
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UK factories kept expanding as inflation pressures returned in September. Manufacturing remained in growth territory, but input costs strengthened and supply chain disruption increased during the month.
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Northern Ireland is backing pharmaceutical innovation with £11.7m investment funding. Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University will deliver iPHARMA, giving businesses access to specialist facilities and expertise intended to accelerate product development and commercialisation.
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UK business confidence fell sharply as economic optimism weakened nationally. Lloyds’ September Business Barometer dropped 12 points to 41%, with smaller companies, manufacturers and services businesses recording some of the largest declines.
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Britain’s economy grew faster than previously estimated during spring quarter. Revised ONS figures put second-quarter growth at 0.5%, while real household disposable income per head increased by 1.0% and the household saving ratio reached 8.8%.