Ireland’s Budget 2027 combines tax reform with business investment measures. Changes cover R&D incentives, Capital Gains Tax, AI skills, reporting requirements and infrastructure spending.

CMA remedies have concluded the Vandemoortele and Délifrance merger inquiry. The regulator has accepted final undertakings after an in-depth investigation into competition in frozen laminated dough.

Prediction markets are raising fresh questions about UK financial stability. Contracts linked to possible bank failures have prompted regulatory concern around access, market integrity and the treatment of sensitive financial events.

JD.com is nearing European approval for its Ceconomy acquisition bid. Revised remedies could resolve EU concerns over foreign subsidies and establish an important precedent for overseas investors.

Britain’s new vaping products duty changes costs across supply chains. The £2.20-per-10ml charge is now in force, while retailers have until 31 March 2027 to clear eligible older unstamped stock.

Expanded Iran sanctions now cover wider UK commercial activities directly. New restrictions apply across energy, maritime trade, metals, oil, petrochemicals, software, technology and associated financial services, requiring businesses to reassess transactions and supply-chain exposure.

Property agents face licensing as leasehold fee controls expand nationwide. An independent regulator would set standards and remove licences, while ministers gain powers to cap selected permission and administration charges.

England’s water reforms will widen government options over company ownership. Planned legislation will remove historic shareholding caps while ministers retain private investment as part of the sector’s long-term funding model.