Markets
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The European Commission launches a consultation on Circular Economy Act. The initiative aims to reduce resource dependence, enhance competitiveness, and address environmental impacts, focusing on creating a single market for secondary raw materials by 2026….
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UK green energy tariffs decline sharply amid cost of living crisis. Green energy deals have dropped from 85% to 18% of the market due to rising costs, with consumers prioritising affordability over sustainability. Suppliers now focus on balancing green credentials with consumer expectations.
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New powers for the Small Business Commissioner aim to tackle late payments. The average UK SME is owed more than £20,000, according to FSB data. Chronic late payment is now a defining risk, amplifying the impact of high costs, inflation, and energy prices for small businesses.
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Metlen Energy & Metals makes its City debut in London today. The €6.7 billion group, previously Mytilineos, is now trading on the London Stock Exchange after a rare high‑value listing. The move delivers a morale boost for the City as new floats and capital raises remain at multi‑decade lows.
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A fifth rate cut looks likely despite persistent inflation signals. With the labour market cooling and GDP contracting, the Bank appears ready to resume easing. Our read: a divided MPC will vote for a 25bps cut, with caution in its tone but confidence in direction.
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Helion begins construction of its first fusion power plant. The plant, located in Malaga, Washington, aims to supply Microsoft with carbon-free energy by 2028, marking a significant step toward commercial fusion power and supporting Microsoft’s sustainability goals….
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EFRAG revises sustainability reporting standards, simplifying requirements significantly. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has released revised drafts of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards, cutting reporting datapoints by 68% to reduce the burden on companies under the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive….
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Barclays exits the Net-Zero Banking Alliance amid global shifts. Barclays’ departure from the UN-backed coalition follows similar exits by major banks globally, amid political pressure. Despite leaving, Barclays maintains its net-zero commitment and sustainable finance goals….
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The UK’s M&A market saw five major deals this week. Strategic buyers, from Wall Street banks to dairy giants, drove activity across financial services, consumer, and biotech sectors. Global capital, succession, and sector shifts shaped the dealmaking landscape.
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Europe’s AI Act is now entering a pivotal new phase. General-purpose AI system providers must comply with sweeping transparency, risk and documentation requirements, facing fines up to €35 million for non-compliance.