News
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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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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.
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Suma Capital raises €210 million for industrial decarbonisation ventures. The fund, exceeding its €150 million target, supports companies advancing Europe’s energy transition through low-carbon technologies. Backed by diverse investors, it aims to drive significant environmental and competitive impact….
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Australia sets ambitious climate target for 2035 emissions reduction. The government aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 62% to 70% from 2005 levels, alongside $8 billion in climate investments. The strategy includes clean energy, decarbonisation, and EV infrastructure….
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Microsoft secures $6 billion AI deal with Nscale and Aker. The agreement focuses on building a renewable energy-powered AI infrastructure in Northern Norway to meet Europe’s growing demand for sustainable AI computing. This initiative aligns with Microsoft’s ongoing sustainability goals….
