Markets
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Wood Group backs Sidara’s new 30p offer amid FCA probe. The Aberdeen-based engineering group is “minded to recommend” a revised takeover offer from Dubai’s Sidara, despite suspended trading, delayed accounts, and ongoing scrutiny from the UK’s financial watchdog.
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Trump’s dismissal of Fed governor Lisa Cook raises tensions. President Trump claimed to have sacked Fed governor Lisa Cook, alleging mortgage fraud. The dollar weakened, US borrowing costs rose, and a legal challenge is expected over the unprecedented move.
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UK services confidence fell for fourth consecutive quarter, says CBI. The UK services sector, which represents the bulk of economic output, continues to report declining confidence, investment and employment. The CBI’s latest survey shows demand weakness and cost pressures weighing heavily on firms, prompting calls for government restraint.
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Aalo Atomics raises $100m to build nuclear plant for AI. Aalo Atomics, a US-based nuclear technology firm, has secured $100 million in Series B funding to construct its inaugural nuclear power plant, targeting the growing energy demands of AI and advancing sustainable energy solutions….
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Ofgem raises energy price cap by 2% for October-December. Despite a decline in wholesale prices, typical household energy costs will rise to £1,755 annually. The increase is less than 2024’s inflation-adjusted figure and £625 below the 2023 peak.
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Blackstone to acquire Shermco for $1.6 billion. Shermco, a Texas-based electrical services provider, will be acquired by Blackstone, enhancing its focus on energy transition and electrification opportunities. The acquisition is part of Blackstone’s ongoing strategy in this sector….
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Nearly 70% of UK businesses support mandatory sustainability reporting. A survey of 150 senior sustainability leaders indicates strong backing for mandatory disclosure, with 69% in favour. However, regulatory uncertainty and manual reporting remain significant challenges for many firms.
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Asda partners with Lloyds for sustainability-linked finance scheme. The initiative offers UK suppliers improved financing rates based on sustainability performance, assessed by EcoVadis. It aims to enhance Asda’s supply chain resilience and align with its ESG goals.
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Broadcasting, biotech, and wealth management dominated U.S. M&A this week. Nexstar’s $6.2 billion bid for Tegna led the headlines, while Honeywell added utility platforms, XOMA Royalty expanded in oncology, and wealth managers pursued consolidation. Mubadala’s take-private of CI Financial added sovereign weight to a diverse week of deals.
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UK M&A activity spanned semiconductors, fintech, property, advisory, and aerospace. Five key transactions defined this week, led by Haylo Labs’ security-approved purchase of Plessey, alongside Starling’s acquisition of Ember and Leonard Curtis’s stake sale to Pollen Street Capital, highlighting national-interest sectors and private capital momentum.