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Balfour Beatty has sold its longstanding stake in Gammon Construction. The £250m disposal gives Jardine Matheson full ownership of the Hong Kong contractor, with consideration paid in three instalments and Balfour Beatty concentrating further on UK and US operations.
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The IMF has raised its forecast for British economic growth. Its October outlook projects 1.3% expansion during 2026 and 1.2% in 2027, while warning about inflation, energy costs and expensive borrowing.
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LSEG has confirmed discussions about acquiring private-credit intelligence specialist Octus. The company is considering a transaction worth approximately $3.5bn, but no agreement has been reached and completion would require regulatory approval.
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British venture funds recorded their strongest fundraising quarter in 2026. HSBC Innovation Banking and Dealroom report $6.9bn raised across 31 funds during Q3, alongside $6.1bn invested in UK startups and scaleups.
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Berlin-based Gaius Capital has completed fundraising for its debut vehicle. A €50m fund close and €6m co-investment commitment will support succession investments in established businesses across German-speaking European markets.
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The IMF identifies emerging risks beneath resilient financial market conditions. Its latest assessment highlights concentrated AI investment, rising sovereign borrowing costs, cyber threats and vulnerabilities within the global banking system.
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Three governance advisers have backed the Baillie Gifford trust board. Their recommendations oppose Saba Capital’s proposed director appointments before shareholders vote at the investment trust’s annual general meeting.
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An independent review finds evidence of progress in regional finance. Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II supported 306 businesses by September 2025, with findings indicating investment would otherwise have been harder to obtain.
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The CMA has opened consultation on remedies offered for Co-op. Its review of the Southern Co-operative acquisition examines whether proposed undertakings can address local competition concerns without a fuller merger investigation.
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HSBC is preparing to change remuneration arrangements for some employees. Fixed-pay allowances will be phased out in 2028 as the bank adjusts compensation after changes to UK bonus restrictions.