
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.

1PointFive and Palo Alto Networks sign carbon removal agreement. The five-year deal involves purchasing 10,000 tonnes of carbon credits, advancing Palo Alto’s net-zero goals and supporting 1PointFive’s direct air capture technology….

The US Congress has passed its first federal crypto law. The Genius Act introduces national licensing and strict stablecoin rules. Bitcoin inflows have surged as the legislation triggers a rapid response from global regulators. Industry leaders call this a watershed moment for digital assets and the financial system.

Berlin’s rejection of joint EU debt has deepened division. The German government ruled out new Eurobonds, intensifying the bloc’s budget standoff ahead of a potential US tariff shock.

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.

Microsoft and Vaulted Deep announce a major carbon removal deal. The partnership will see Vaulted Deep sequester up to 4.9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide over 12 years, marking one of the largest carbon removal agreements globally….

Bridgepoint is set to acquire mydentist for up to £800 million. The FTSE-250 investor is poised to re-enter UK dentistry, buying the 600-practice chain from Palamon in a deal valuing the business at nearly £800 million. Market sources expect a formal announcement on Friday, 18 July 2025.

Brussels has proposed a new €6.8 billion corporate tax. Less than 48 hours later, political backlash from major EU economies and industry groups has left the levy — designed to help fund the bloc’s next long-term budget — with almost no chance of survival.

General Motors partners with Redwood Materials for energy storage solutions. The agreement focuses on using second-life and new GM batteries for energy storage, addressing growing electricity demand from data centres and renewable energy sources. Redwood aims to enhance US energy independence and resilience….

Stellantis halts hydrogen fuel cell program amid market challenges. The automotive group abandoned its hydrogen vehicle plans, citing infrastructure limitations and high costs. Stellantis will focus on electric and hybrid technology to meet consumer expectations and regulatory demands….