Markets
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This week’s UK M&A activity spanned private equity, healthcare, banking, technology, and retail. From Apax Global’s £794 million delisting to Sainsbury’s collapsed Argos sale, the developments show how global capital is reshaping the UK’s investment landscape and pressing established players to adapt their strategies.
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VoLo Earth Ventures closes $135 million second climate tech fund. The fund, 50% larger than its predecessor, targets investments in decarbonisation across energy, mobility, building, and industry sectors, aiming for resilient systems and strong financial returns….
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Investec remains on track despite challenging economic conditions. The bank anticipates adjusted operating profit for the first half to align with last year’s figures, maintaining its strategy amidst market volatility and progressing with its £100m share buyback programme.
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TikTok’s U.S. ownership deal raises more questions than answers. A framework struck between Washington and Beijing promises to put American investors in charge of the app’s U.S. operations, but control of its algorithm and data remains unresolved.
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Retail sales rose due to good weather and higher incomes. Despite this, the struggling retail sector looks to the festive season for a boost, as sales fell by 0.1% from May to August. Consumer confidence remains cautious.
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US and China reach framework for TikTok ownership shift. A draft agreement would see American investors take control of the app’s US business, extending a deadline for divestment and easing fears of a nationwide ban while leaving key questions unresolved.
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Reeves faces £18bn shortfall if public sector gains fail. The Institute for Fiscal Studies has warned that the government’s budget strategy rests on historically ambitious assumptions for productivity growth, with potential consequences for spending, taxation, and public services if efficiencies do not materialise.
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Exxon seeks US backing against EU’s sustainability directive. The oil major has urged Washington to pressure Brussels over sweeping new rules that mandate supply chain due diligence on human rights and environmental impacts, warning that the penalties could deter investment across Europe.
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MPs and the Government respond after cross-party committee labels system “broken”. The Government has pledged to review all parental leave and pay entitlements, confirming scope across the board and promising day-one rights from 2026. Campaigners say that urgent action is still needed to extend and raise paternity leave.
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UK consumer confidence fell again in September amid tax fears. The GfK index dropped to -19, down from August’s -17, as all five survey measures weakened and expectations for the economy deteriorated sharply compared with mid-2024 levels.
