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Fed officials warn supply strains may prolong US inflation pressures. Higher energy, freight, and industrial input costs are deepening concern that inflation will remain stubborn, leaving borrowing costs elevated and corporate margins under renewed pressure.
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4Syte has secured fresh funding to extend UK SME lending. The new GB Bank facility expands the invoice finance provider’s capacity to support smaller businesses seeking faster access to working capital tied up in unpaid invoices.
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Scottish research urges finance providers to redesign services for youth. A study with more than 350 young people says products, support, and education have not kept pace with digital money, online risk, and milestones including first jobs, student loans, and rent.
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NatWest has expanded Praetura’s capacity to fund UK businesses further. The £150 million facility will support the lender’s sales finance division as it continues to back SMEs with invoice discounting, ABL, and cash flow loans.
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Business Disability Forum recognised inclusion work across sectors in London. Its 2026 awards highlighted organisations and individuals improving accessibility in recruitment, procurement, product design, workplace experience, customer service, and communications.
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April’s biggest US deals rewarded scale, infrastructure, and specialist capability. From building-products distribution to satellite networks and biopharma pipelines, acquirers backed assets that could extend moats quickly and hold up in volatile markets.
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April’s UK dealmakers pursued scale, scarcity, and discounted valuations hard. Shell’s $16.4bn ARC deal led the month, while Intertek, Standard Life, Senior, and Advanced Medical Solutions showed buyers backing reserves, retirement assets, defence exposure, specialist healthcare, and undervalued UK-listed businesses.
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April’s European dealmaking favoured scale, adjacency, and sharper balance-sheet discipline. The month’s biggest moves centred on assets with durable revenues, operational moats, or a clear case for portfolio repair.
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VYKO has launched with plans to raise €50 million. The new group aims to acquire and scale Irish premium brands across fashion, beauty, food, and consumer goods.
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City of London reforms to be outlined in King’s Speech. The upcoming King’s Speech will detail reforms, including abolishing the payments watchdog and overhauling the financial ombudsman, as the Prime Minister seeks to bolster leadership confidence and drive economic growth.