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The UK government has unveiled the “Sterling 20” initiative. It brings together 20 of the country’s largest pension funds to channel capital into domestic infrastructure, affordable housing, and high-growth sectors including AI. The move marks a coordinated effort to boost long-term investment in the British economy.
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Shadow energy secretary criticises Labour’s net zero targets as harmful. Claire Coutinho argues that the UK’s climate targets exacerbate the cost of living crisis, increase electricity costs, and drive jobs overseas, worsening emissions. She calls for a careful approach to China’s role in the energy sector.
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UK fintech industry body criticises banking watchdog over regulation. Innovate Finance’s report criticises the Prudential Regulation Authority for excessive requirements on challenger banks, claiming they hinder competition and innovation, despite government pledges to support financial services growth.
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Legal & General plans £2bn UK investment to create jobs. The FTSE 100 company aims to invest in infrastructure and housing, creating approximately 24,000 jobs. The initiative aligns with government efforts to boost regional growth through pension fund investments.
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FTSE 100 faces worst session since April amid bank sell-off. Global equity markets were rattled by a sell-off in US regional banks, leading to significant losses in the UK’s FTSE 100. Barclays shares dropped sharply, contributing to the index’s worst day since April.
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This week’s M&A activity spanned industrials, logistics, infrastructure, and professional services. From a £1.3 billion carve-out in manufacturing to a landmark logistics portfolio transfer, the UK remained a focal point for global buyers refining strategy, scale, and sector exposure.
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More than half of C-suite leaders involve HR too late. New research from LACE Partners finds that delayed engagement risks undermining transformation success, as 53% of executives say HR only joins once implementation begins and 41% admit people workstreams fail through lack of early funding and prioritisation.
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Over 400 UK firms have been recognised for prompt payments. The Fair Payment Code aims to combat late payments costing the UK economy £11 billion annually. Businesses must demonstrate transparent payment practices to qualify for awards under the scheme.
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UK regulators will shorten bonus deferrals for senior bankers. The Prudential Regulation Authority and Financial Conduct Authority will reduce the deferral period from eight to four years, aligning UK rules more closely with international standards.
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UK GDP inched up by 0.1 per cent in August. Modest gains in services and manufacturing helped offset July’s contraction, suggesting a stabilising economy ahead of next month’s Budget. Economists warned, however, that fragile demand and tight credit conditions continue to limit the scope for faster growth.