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A new Government report finds businesses are failing disabled customers. The report highlights persistent barriers in retail, hospitality, and banking, with most disabled consumers lacking confidence in future access. Leading advocates say this is a commercial and moral missed opportunity for UK businesses.
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Consumer confidence in the UK fell sharply this quarter. Deloitte’s latest survey signals the biggest drop since late 2022, as a weaker jobs market, high inflation, and rising employer costs weigh on household sentiment and discretionary spending habits.
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LSEG is considering a 24-hour stock-trading model for London. The exchange has begun early-stage talks on extending SETS and dark-pool equities trading far beyond its current 08:00–16:30 window. Brokers say a discussion paper could emerge by late 2025 — potentially reshaping UK share trading for the first time in over 50 years.
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The UK targets halving sewage pollution by 2030. The Environment Secretary announced a commitment to reduce sewage pollution from water companies by 50% by 2030, addressing public concerns over pollution and governance in the water sector.
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Ofwat faces replacement amid scrutiny of water companies’ performance. A new regulator may be announced following a review by Sir Jon Cunliffe. Pollution incidents have risen sharply, with Thames Water accounting for nearly half of serious cases.
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A major UK–India trade pact will be signed in London next week. The free-trade agreement slashes tariffs on whisky and cars, boosts UK GDP by £4.8 billion, and grants duty-free access for 99% of Indian exports.
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UK government invests £63 million to enhance EV infrastructure. The initiative aims to expand charging access, electrify NHS fleets, and improve signage, providing savings for public sectors and households while boosting public confidence in electric vehicles.
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Jason Dies has been appointed CEO of IRIS Software Group. The former Pitney Bowes leader succeeds Gus Malezis, who remains Chairman. Dies brings over 30 years of experience in global transformation and operational excellence.
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A decisive week for UK M&A activity, marked by global buyers. Four out of five headline deals this week involved foreign acquirers or sponsors, reinforcing perceptions of UK-listed value and highlighting continued regulatory pragmatism.
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AI firms face scrutiny over safety after a new report finds leading developers unprepared for human-level intelligence risks. Major industry players receive failing marks for planning, highlighting gaps in safety strategies as artificial general intelligence moves closer.