Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey suggests that the Bank may lower interest rates more aggressively if inflation continues to fall, but warns of potential oil price spikes amid Middle East tensions.
Category: News
The latest news affecting small and medium sized (SME) businesses in the UK
One-third of homes for sale now chain-free as tax fears loom ahead of budget
A third of homes on the market are chain-free as landlords and second-homeowners sell amid concerns over potential capital gains tax changes in the upcoming Budget, Zoopla reports.
Uncertainty over tax rises impacting consumer spending, warns Sainsbury’s boss
Sainsbury’s warns that unclear tax proposals from the Chancellor are dampening consumer confidence, with shoppers holding off on big-ticket purchases. The supermarket urges clarity ahead of the Budget.
Tesco accelerates price cuts amid easing inflation and rising profits
Tesco is reducing prices as inflation eases, reinforcing its position as the UK’s largest supermarket. With profits rising and market share growing, Tesco expects a strong performance through the festive season.
Tetley tea owner takes legal action against striking workers over trespass claims
Tetley tea’s owner, Tata Consumer Products, has launched legal action against striking workers, accusing them of trespassing during a pay dispute. GMB Union warns of potential tea shortages amid the ongoing industrial action.
Majority of businesses receiving £23bn in Covid grants could have survived without them, report finds
An official report reveals that most businesses benefiting from £23bn in Covid grants could have survived without the aid, raising concerns over government spending. The report highlights inefficiencies in the allocation of funds and potential lessons for future crisis management.
Bank of England warns UK at risk of credit crunch amid market vulnerabilities
The Bank of England warns that the UK is at risk of a credit crunch, citing global market vulnerabilities and geopolitical tensions. While interest rates have begun to fall, markets remain volatile, with concerns over rising borrowing costs and substantial hedge fund bets against US Treasuries.
Rayner proposes flexible probation periods to reduce long-term sickness leave
UK government considers introducing flexible probation periods for workers returning from long-term sickness to encourage businesses to hire them without legal risk. Unions push back against the proposal, calling for universal day-one rights.
Greggs rules out further price hikes despite slower sales in third quarter
Greggs rules out further price rises in 2023 despite a sales slowdown in the third quarter. CEO Roisin Currie remains optimistic, with plans for expansion and new autumn menu offerings.
Wet weather drives UK retailers to slash prices in September
UK retailers slash prices as wet weather dampens consumer spending in September, pushing shop prices into their sharpest decline in three years. Food inflation edges higher despite falling non-food prices.
Mulberry rejects £83 million takeover bid from Frasers Group
Mulberry rejects an £83 million takeover bid from Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group, citing confidence in its future under new leadership. Frasers has until 28 October to make a firm offer or withdraw.
Apprentice winner Dr Leah Totton and Lord Sugar secure multi-million pound payout after selling majority stake in cosmetic clinics
Dr Leah Totton and Lord Alan Sugar secure a multi-million pound payout after selling a majority stake in their cosmetic clinic chain to private investment group AAP. Learn more about the deal and future plans.
Frasers group launches £83m takeover bid for mulberry amid financial struggles
Frasers Group offers £83m for luxury brand Mulberry after a surprise rights issue. The proposed takeover could see Mike Ashley’s group expand further into the luxury sector. Learn more.
Aston Martin shares slump after profit warning amid supply chain struggles
Aston Martin shares plunge 20% after a profit warning linked to supply chain disruptions and production cuts. The luxury carmaker now expects 2024 volumes to fall short of targets.
Revised 2023 UK economic growth figures show significant improvement, but challenges remain
Revised ONS figures reveal the UK economy grew faster than initially estimated in 2023, though it remains one of the slowest-growing G7 nations. Learn more about the updated economic outlook and its implications.
















