UK
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Haylo Labs has acquired UK chipmaker Plessey in China-funded deal. The acquisition cleared national security review and injects new capital into one of Europe’s oldest semiconductor companies, raising questions over foreign funding in critical technologies and promising major expansion for the UK’s micro-LED industry.
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Chancellor considers capital gains tax on house sales over £1.5m. The proposed tax could affect around 120,000 homeowners, raising concerns about market distortions and discouraging downsizing among older homeowners. The move aims to address a significant public finance shortfall.
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Defence stocks in London fell sharply after US-Ukraine talks. Shares in Babcock and BAE Systems dropped significantly, while Rolls-Royce experienced a smaller decline. The market reacted to US commitments in potential peacekeeping efforts and Ukraine’s arms purchase.
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The UK government drops plans to force Apple to share encrypted data. The decision follows negotiations involving US Vice-President JD Vance, easing tensions over data privacy and free speech concerns between the UK and US.
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Wider NHS access to weight-loss drugs could boost productivity. A study of 421 NHS patients using obesity drugs showed a reduction in sick days. Government modelling suggests a rollout could save £5bn annually through productivity gains and lower healthcare costs.
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UK chief executive pay has reached a record high. Median FTSE 100 CEO pay rose 6.8 percent to £4.58 million in the past year, according to the High Pay Centre, widening the gap with average workers as shareholder scrutiny and calls for governance reform intensify.
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UK government borrowing costs have risen sharply, causing concern. The 30-year gilt yield reached 5.57% before settling at 5.54%, while 10-year yields increased to 4.7%. Traders fear persistent inflation, influencing interest rates and impacting fiscal strategy.
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UK consumer confidence in the economy has significantly declined. Over the past year, consumer confidence has fallen by 31 points, with 56% of people believing the economy will worsen. Pensioners remain the most pessimistic group, reflecting ongoing financial challenges.
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UK M&A activity spans bread, LNG, and aerospace this week. Deals include ABF’s planned Hovis acquisition, Centrica’s LNG investment, Evelyn Partners’ sale plans, Boeing’s merger clearance, and EG Group’s international divestments.
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PwC UK unveils traffic-light dashboard to monitor office attendance. The tool uses data from badge swipes and Wi-Fi to flag low attendance, linking it to bonuses and reviews, while allowing exceptions for sickness and personal needs. Employees can view their own compliance levels in real time.