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UK M&A activity spanned semiconductors, fintech, property, advisory, and aerospace. Five key transactions defined this week, led by Haylo Labs’ security-approved purchase of Plessey, alongside Starling’s acquisition of Ember and Leonard Curtis’s stake sale to Pollen Street Capital, highlighting national-interest sectors and private capital momentum.
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UK banks close over a third of branches in five years. Traditional banks have significantly reduced their physical presence, citing increased digital banking adoption. This trend is driven by changing customer preferences, though it has raised concerns about access to cash services.
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The Youth Guarantee trailblazer scheme has been extended by £45m. Ministers say the latest ONS figures — nearly one million young people classified as NEET — underscore the urgency. The extension supports eight regional pilots delivering personalised interventions, though critics warn that stronger action is still needed.
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Eurozone businesses show growth as UK company confidence remains fragile. Fresh data reveals continental factories and services gaining pace, while UK surveys highlight costs, labour pressures, and deep uncertainty. But why is Europe moving forward while Britain struggles to find momentum?
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New trade deal imposes 15% cap on most EU exports. The United States and European Union have signed a tariff framework capping most duties at 15%, exempting select sectors and outlining reciprocal measures in energy, agriculture and investment. The provisional pact leaves several disputes unresolved, with legislative steps still pending.
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Cybercriminals exploit fake BBC pages to install malware. Attackers replicate news sites, leading users to fraudulent verification screens, prompting them to execute harmful commands themselves. This manipulation method, ClickFix, illustrates the ease with which trust can be exploited….
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Government steps in to administer solvent special steelworks after collapse. Ministers are acting to safeguard 1,450 jobs and preserve South Yorkshire’s industrial capacity after Speciality Steel UK, the country’s third-largest steelmaker, was declared hopelessly insolvent and placed under administration.
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Rachel Reeves may extend the freeze on income tax thresholds. Such a move could increase the tax burden on high earners and draw more individuals into higher tax brackets. Analysts predict potential tax rises to address fiscal challenges.
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Marks & Spencer invests £340m in new fully automated hub. The fully automated site, opening in 2029, will span 1.3 million sq ft, create 3,000 jobs across construction and operation, and support the retailer’s ambition to double its food business while meeting top-tier sustainability standards.
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The “One Big, Beautiful Bill Act” impacts energy industry regulations. The act mandates new oil and gas lease sales, introduces prohibited foreign entity rules, and modifies tax credits, affecting energy companies’ strategies and compliance efforts….