• UK profit warnings hit near-two-year high

    UK profit warnings climbed during the third quarter of 2026. EY-Parthenon recorded 65 warnings, up from 59, as cost pressure, geopolitical uncertainty and delayed orders affected listed companies.


  • multifi launches tool to screen SME finance applications

    multifi’s new BrokerScope tool screens finance applications against lender criteria. Its launch accompanies analysis estimating 40–65 hours of monthly work on unsuccessful cases, a figure derived from company modelling rather than independently measured broker activity.


  • Keller outlines acquisition-led growth strategy

    Keller is examining acquisitions to expand its specialist engineering operations. The contractor sees opportunities across a large target universe, particularly in North America, but has announced no new transaction.


  • Treasury considers wider small business rates relief

    Small business rates relief may expand following the October Budget. Reports suggest a higher threshold could exempt approximately 75,000 additional properties, although ministers have not confirmed the measure.


  • Barclays prepares £125m UK restructuring charge

    Barclays faces another restructuring charge as its efficiency programme continues. The reported £125m UK expense remains unconfirmed ahead of quarterly results, which investors expect to show strong profitability.


  • Mini-bond collapses expose continuing investor protection risks

    Nearly £1bn remains exposed across collapsed high-risk mini-bond investment schemes. An investigation highlights unresolved investor losses, intermediary commissions and questions about regulatory protections.


  • Government minded to intervene in Sky’s ITV deal

    The Government has signalled potential intervention in Sky’s ITV acquisition. The proposed transaction, worth up to £1.6bn, excludes ITV Studios; ministers have not issued a formal intervention notice or blocked the deal.


  • Oxford biotech OMass secures 0m Series C funding

    Oxford biotechnology company OMass has secured significant new investment funding. The $310m Series C round will support clinical development of an endocrine drug candidate and early clinical work on an immunology programme.


  • British Business Bank commits £180m to technology funds

    The British Business Bank has announced six technology fund commitments. Its £180m allocation to specialist venture and growth investors aims to improve financing access for AI and deeptech businesses at several development stages.


  • ePayments enters special administration as FCA confirms appointments

    Regulators have confirmed special administration proceedings involving ePayments Systems Limited. The FCA says the firm was required to safeguard relevant customer funds, but its payment services are not covered by FSCS protection.