
Corpay moves to acquire UK-based Alpha Group International. The £1.8 billion all-cash agreement will see the London-listed payments and foreign-exchange provider become part of the U.S. financial services group. The deal extends Corpay’s reach into Europe’s institutional markets and highlights renewed overseas appetite for UK-listed fintech businesses.

UK universities plan £500m fossil-free cash investment fund. A coalition of 79 higher education institutions, led by Cambridge, aims to decarbonise short-term investments through a new fund excluding fossil fuel-linked companies, expected to launch by late 2025.

UK grants FCA powers to regulate ESG ratings providers. The legislation aims to ensure transparency and comparability in ESG ratings, enhancing trust in sustainable finance. A public consultation on detailed rules is expected by year-end.

Upright launches a tool for real-time double materiality assessment. The tool, available for free, allows companies to conduct a comprehensive double materiality assessment using just their URL, addressing key impacts, risks, and opportunities in minutes….

Two global giants are reshaping their workforces through AI-driven restructuring. PwC and Amazon have each announced major headcount reductions tied to automation investment and slower growth. Both moves highlight how large employers are shifting from expansion to productivity, using artificial intelligence to redefine roles, structures, and future hiring priorities.

GSK lifted its 2025 sales forecast after a strong third quarter. Specialty medicines drove the increase, with double-digit gains across HIV, oncology, and respiratory treatments boosting overall revenue. The company now expects annual growth of 6–7 per cent, reflecting continued momentum in higher-margin therapies and a robust launch pipeline.

Trump criticised Fed Chair Powell today as the central bank readies another rate cut. The Federal Reserve is preparing to lower rates again this week amid political pressure, a data blackout, and signs of internal division, raising fresh questions over its independence and policy direction.

Japan’s economy strengthened modestly in October, led by corporate investment. The government’s latest monthly report points to rising capital expenditure in equipment, software, and digitalisation, while household consumption remains subdued and export risks persist. Officials maintained their overall view of moderate recovery for the third consecutive month.

UK Government introduces law to regulate ESG ratings providers. The legislation places ESG ratings providers under Financial Conduct Authority supervision, following IOSCO’s 2021 call for improved transparency and oversight. The regulation will apply to both UK-based and foreign providers….

UK businesses delay plans amid looming Budget concerns. A survey reveals 84% of UK business leaders fear further tax increases, with many delaying hiring and investment decisions until after the Chancellor’s Budget announcement on 26 November.