• Barclays leaves net zero banking alliance

    Barclays exits the Net-Zero Banking Alliance amid global shifts. Barclays’ departure from the UN-backed coalition follows similar exits by major banks globally, amid political pressure. Despite leaving, Barclays maintains its net-zero commitment and sustainable finance goals….


  • UK M&A deals of the week: 1 August 2025

    The UK’s M&A market saw five major deals this week. Strategic buyers, from Wall Street banks to dairy giants, drove activity across financial services, consumer, and biotech sectors. Global capital, succession, and sector shifts shaped the dealmaking landscape.


  • Landmark AI Act enters force across Europe

    Europe’s AI Act is now entering a pivotal new phase. General-purpose AI system providers must comply with sweeping transparency, risk and documentation requirements, facing fines up to €35 million for non-compliance.


  • UK SMBs invest £1 trillion a year in tech, driving digital transformation

    UK small and medium-sized businesses now invest over £1 trillion annually in technology. New data highlights rapid digital adoption, with 99% of firms now reliant on digital tools and platforms.


  • UK competition watchdog targets Microsoft and Amazon cloud dominance

    A major UK probe has flagged serious concerns over cloud competition. Microsoft and Amazon’s dominance may now trigger tougher regulation and reshape the UK cloud market for years.


  • Barclays leaves net zero banking alliance

    APG commits A$1 billion to Octopus Australia’s energy platform. The partnership will enhance Octopus Australia’s renewable energy projects, marking a significant step in Australia’s clean energy transition with a focus on solar, wind, and battery storage developments….


  • EU reinstates UK steel quota, unlocking exports

    Britain’s steelmakers regain EU tariff-free access for Category 17. From 1 August, UK producers can export up to 27,000 tonnes of structural steel to Europe each quarter, restoring trade volumes and offering vital certainty for the sector after years of Brexit-linked restrictions.


  • Barclays leaves net zero banking alliance

    US state officials warn investment firms against ESG integration. State treasurers and financial officers from 21 US states have cautioned major investment firms against incorporating sustainability and climate considerations into their strategies, expressing concerns about the erosion of traditional fiduciary duty….


  • Barclays leaves net zero banking alliance

    Planted Solar secures $12 million to enhance solar project deployment. The California-based firm aims to accelerate solar development with its integrated software and hardware platform, reducing costs and land use. The funding will enhance digital solutions and expand international market presence….


  • Barclays leaves net zero banking alliance

    Greenvolt secures €150 million investment from KKR for growth. The capital will support Greenvolt’s expansion, focusing on large-scale battery storage. The transaction, occurring in two phases, aligns with KKR’s acquisition strategy to enhance Greenvolt’s utility-scale capabilities….