UK mortgage completions soared in March as homebuyers scrambled to complete before April’s stamp duty threshold cuts. First-time buyers saw a 70% spike, but signs of a slowdown are emerging.
Category: News
The latest news affecting small and medium sized (SME) businesses in the UK
China warned against dumping US bonds as retaliation for Trump tariffs
As tensions escalate over Trump’s 145% tariffs on Chinese exports, analysts warn Beijing against selling US bonds, highlighting risks to China’s currency, portfolio value and economic stability.
London IPO market could thrive as US instability mounts, says Zopa chief
Zopa CEO Jaidev Janardana says London’s political stability could boost its appeal for IPOs as US markets face growing uncertainty. Read more on why Zopa may favour a UK float over New York.
UK classifies trade documents as ‘secret’ to shield from US amid escalating Trump tariff tensions
UK officials have raised the classification of sensitive trade documents to “secret” to prevent US access amid Trump’s tariff war, reflecting strains in the special relationship.
Labour market data highlights urgent need for action on older workers, say leading think tanks
New labour market stats show employment rates for over-50s lagging behind, risking government’s 80% employment pledge. Experts call for targeted policies to support older workers.
InPost acquires struggling Yodel in deal to fast-track UK expansion
Polish delivery giant InPost has taken over struggling parcel firm Yodel by converting £100m of debt into equity, creating the UK’s third-largest logistics operator.
Investors retreat from US stocks and dollar as Trump’s tariff war sparks global market unease
Institutional investors are pulling back from US equities and the dollar in record numbers, as President Trump’s aggressive tariff policies send shockwaves through global markets and push growth expectations to a 30-year low.
Gold price hits record high as investors seek safe havens amid tariff fears
Gold surges to a record $3,326 as investors flee to safe havens amid Trump’s global tariff threats and a weakening dollar. FTSE 100 lifted by rising goldminers.
Strava acquires UK running app Runna in multimillion-pound deal
Strava has acquired UK-based coaching app Runna in a multimillion-pound deal, delivering a major payday for its founders and boosting Strava’s fast-growing running community.
China accuses UK politicians of ‘arrogance’ amid British Steel ownership row
Tensions rise as China defends Jingye’s ownership of British Steel, accusing UK politicians of arrogance and threatening future investment over Scunthorpe blast furnace row.
Google faces £5bn UK lawsuit over claims it shut out rivals and overcharged advertisers
Google is being sued in the UK for £5bn over claims it abused its search dominance to overcharge advertisers and exclude rivals. Competition watchdogs are already investigating.
China’s economy beats forecasts but faces looming tariff shock under Trump
China’s GDP grew 5.4% in Q1 2025, exceeding expectations amid a surge in exports before US tariffs hit. Analysts warn of slower growth ahead as trade tensions with Trump escalate.
UK inflation falls to 2.6% in March as fuel costs drop, easing pressure on Bank of England
UK inflation drops to 2.6% in March, its lowest since October, as petrol prices fall. Analysts expect further rate cuts as Trump tariffs weigh on global trade.
UK business confidence sinks to two-year low amid tax hikes and global trade tensions
UK business confidence hits lowest level since 2022, driven by tax increases and fallout from Trump’s trade war. ICAEW warns outlook could worsen as growth falters.
Carmakers rally as Trump hints at tariff relief for vehicle imports
Global carmakers see share prices rise after President Trump suggests possible exemptions to new US auto tariffs, offering temporary relief to a pressured industry.
