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Seventeen UK firms adopt four-day week after successful trial. The six-month trial led by the 4 Day Week Foundation showed improvements in staff wellbeing and productivity, prompting 12 companies to adopt a permanent four-day week and five to implement a “nine-day fortnight”.
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UBS’s SDG Outcomes Fund reaches $100 million in commitments. The fund, developed by UBS Optimus Foundation and Bridges Outcomes Partnerships, aims to accelerate progress towards UN Sustainable Development Goals through outcomes-based financing in low- and middle-income countries….
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Frasers Group secures £3.5bn financing for growth and acquisitions. The new package replaces existing loans, enhancing Frasers’ financial strength for future expansion. The facility underscores banking support for its strategy, positioning it well for market opportunities.
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Inflation in the euro area rose to 2% in June. The European Central Bank’s preferred gauge returned to target, led by persistent service-sector pressure even as energy prices fell again.
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The EU has launched a five-pillar quantum plan. The Commission wants Europe to become a “quantum industrial powerhouse” by 2030 — and is drawing up a Quantum Act to boost investment, secure infrastructure, and scale start-ups. Six pilot chip lines and a new quantum academy will launch by 2026.
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GRI releases draft standards for labour issue reporting. The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) has unveiled draft standards for disclosing labour issues, including combating discrimination and protecting workers’ rights. These standards aim to enhance transparency and accountability in organisational strategies and operations….
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Greggs predicts lower profits due to reduced footfall and sales. The bakery chain’s shares fell over 13% after June’s heatwave. Analysts cite slow sales and rising costs as contributing factors to the expected profit decline.
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Allianz Commercial launches platform to tackle climate risk challenges. The Climate Adaptation & Resilience Services (CAReS) platform aids businesses in identifying and mitigating climate risks, offering tools for risk assessment and consultancy services to manage potential threats effectively….
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Terra CO2 raises $124.5 million to expand low-carbon cement. The funding will support the company’s commercial facility development, team growth, and advancement of sustainable cementitious products, aiming to significantly reduce carbon emissions in the construction industry….
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Santander UK acquires TSB in a £2.9bn landmark deal. The acquisition will expand Santander’s market share, adding five million customers and £69bn in assets. The deal, expected to close in early 2026, awaits regulatory approval.