Markets
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UK ETS to include engineered greenhouse gas removals by 2029. The UK Government plans to integrate engineered greenhouse gas removals into the Emissions Trading Scheme by 2029, maintaining market stability with robust standards and a cautious approach to woodland-based removals.
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Compass Group has acquired Vermaat in a €1.5bn cash deal. The acquisition boosts European exposure, lifts guidance, and signals continued sector consolidation in premium food services.
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Sustainability is seen as a key value driver. A Morgan Stanley survey of over 330 companies highlights sustainability as a critical element for value creation, with 88% of executives recognising its impact. Companies are increasingly adept at measuring sustainability ROI, enhancing strategic capital allocation….
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The euro has surged 13% this year, unsettling exporters across Europe. A 10% euro rise can trim corporate profits by as much as 3%. Market watchers warn that further gains may prompt action from the ECB as earnings season begins.
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ONS data shows June’s deficit reached £20.7 bn, outpacing forecasts. The UK’s public-sector borrowing in June 2025 was £20.7 bn, the highest June figure outside the pandemic, and £3.5 bn above the official forecast. Rising debt interest costs drove the overshoot.
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Bank of England officials are reconsidering the digital pound project. Internal memos suggest a pause could redirect funding to modernising the UK’s payment rails, as budget pressure and political priorities mount ahead of the Autumn Budget.
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Retail profit alerts more than doubled in Q2, EY reports. UK-listed firms face challenges from policy changes and geopolitical uncertainty, with a 20% rise in profit warnings year-on-year. Rising wage costs and reduced consumer spending pressure retailers, alongside tariff impacts from global trade tensions.
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INEOS completes £30m investment to switch Hull site to hydrogen. The conversion to hydrogen at the INEOS Hull site reduces carbon emissions by 75%, aiding manufacturers in lowering supply chain emissions. Hydrogen, seen as key for cleaner energy, faces production challenges….
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California clarifies climate disclosure laws requirements for businesses. California’s Air Resources Board (CARB) has issued formal guidance to assist companies in meeting the state’s climate disclosure mandates. The guidance provides flexibility in reporting frameworks and data years, easing compliance for businesses….
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The UK introduces a new AI audit standard. The British Standards Institution has launched the world’s first international certification standard for AI assurance, creating new benchmarks for independence, rigour, and global governance.
