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Zoho data shows UK businesses still squeezed after Spring Statement. A survey finds inflation and rising costs remain top external pressures, with half reporting higher cost per employee. Leaders are turning to cost reduction, standardisation, and selective tech investment, while Xero figures point to slowing sales growth among small businesses.
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Reeves promised stability, but business wants delivery and detail now. The Spring Statement kept major policy changes for the Budget, as the OBR cut 2026 growth to 1.1% and forecast unemployment at 5.3%. Leaders welcomed the tone, yet asked for clearer help on hiring, skills, and AI adoption quickly, nationwide.
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Upright launches AI tool for sustainability due diligence. Upright has introduced a new AI-powered tool to help investors assess company sustainability, risks, and opportunities using a simple company URL. The tool addresses gaps in traditional methods by focusing on external value chain factors….
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UK gas prices nearly double amid US-Iran tensions. Wholesale gas prices in the UK surged by 93% this week due to escalating US-Iran conflict, potentially increasing inflation and affecting household energy bills.
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UK service sector profitability declines for seventeenth quarter. Businesses report continued pressure from rising costs with little improvement expected. Consumer-facing firms experience greater challenges, prompting staff reductions amid higher employment costs.
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Gucci faces backlash for using AI images at Milan show. The Italian luxury brand’s use of AI-generated visuals for Milan fashion week has sparked criticism over concerns about its impact on craftsmanship and heritage.
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Basware is expanding InvoiceAI with agentic tools for accounts payable. The company says new agents in its invoice lifecycle management platform will automate supplier disputes and help AP teams resolve payment queries, as finance leaders report rising pressure to show measurable AI returns.
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UK data watchdog fines Reddit £14.47m for data failings. The ICO found the platform lacked robust age assurance mechanisms and a lawful basis for processing data of children under 13, highlighting a need for stricter age verification measures.
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Meta agrees multi-billion-dollar deal for AMD AI computing power. Meta has committed to a significant investment in AMD’s AI computing capabilities, potentially acquiring a 10% stake in the chipmaker. The agreement highlights Meta’s ambitious AI infrastructure expansion plans.
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Checkout.com defies tech slowdown with increased hiring in 2025. The payments firm expanded its workforce by 15%, integrating AI across operations. This growth coincides with a return to profitability and a valuation adjustment to $12bn.