Business confidence has fallen for the first time in a year as fears over potential tax rises in the upcoming budget unsettle companies, according to a survey from the ICAEW.
Category: News
The latest news affecting small and medium sized (SME) businesses in the UK
Cheaper ‘HS2-light’ line beyond Birmingham considered by ministers
The UK government is considering a more affordable ‘HS2-light’ line between Birmingham and Manchester, potentially 40% cheaper than the original HS2 plan, to address capacity issues on the West Coast mainline.
Electric car makers and heat pump firms ‘deserve net zero tax break’
The CBI calls for Rachel Reeves to slash taxes for electric vehicle, heat pump, and biofuel manufacturers to boost investment and accelerate the UK’s net zero drive.
Saudi Arabia acquires 40 per cent stake in Selfridges, partnering with Thailand’s Central Group
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund secures a 40% stake in Selfridges, partnering with Central Group as the retailer strengthens its financial position.
Rachel Reeves warned against ‘anti-enterprise tax rises’ in upcoming budget
The Federation of Small Businesses warns Chancellor Rachel Reeves against raising capital gains tax, stressing the need to support entrepreneurs and small businesses in the upcoming budget.
TGI Fridays rescue leads to 1,000 job losses and 35 closures despite private equity buyout
More than 1,000 jobs have been lost and 35 TGI Fridays branches closed as private equity firms rescue 51 restaurants, leaving remaining staff uncertain about pay and conditions.
KPMG and NatWest return to CBI, boosting recovery efforts for scandal-hit group
KPMG and NatWest rejoin the CBI, offering a significant boost to the lobbying group’s efforts to recover from a sexual misconduct scandal that nearly led to its collapse.
Half a million small businesses disappear since pandemic as UK faces challenging economic conditions
Britain has lost 500,000 small businesses since 2020, with a significant drop in self-employment and one-person companies. The decline underscores the need for economic growth and business reform.
UK house prices rise for third consecutive month, nearing record highs
UK house prices rose for the third straight month in September, bringing them close to record highs as improved market conditions and falling interest rates boost buyer confidence.
Santander calls for government focus on leadership, digital, and sustainability skills to future-proof UK economy
Santander’s new report urges the UK government to prioritise skills development in leadership, digital technologies, and sustainability to boost productivity and address the UK’s skills gap.
GB News faces ‘significant’ fine after losing High Court battle over Ofcom sanctions
GB News is set to receive a substantial fine for breaching Ofcom’s impartiality rules after losing a High Court bid to block sanctions. The channel will now face sanctions over its handling of a live debate with Rishi Sunak.
US dockworkers end strike after securing six-year, 62% pay rise
US dockworkers agree to end their three-day strike, securing a 62% wage increase over six years, following disruptions to ports across the east and Gulf coasts.
Oil prices see biggest weekly surge in a year as middle east tensions escalate
Oil prices recorded a 9% weekly gain amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, with Brent crude nearing $80 per barrel, its highest level since August.
EU votes to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles despite opposition from Germany
The EU will introduce tariffs of up to 35% on Chinese electric vehicles, sparking fears of a trade war. Germany opposed the move, citing concerns for its car industry.
Motor Industry calls for VAT cut on electric cars and charging points to boost EV market
The motor industry urges the UK government to cut VAT on electric vehicles and public charging points to revive the EV market, which is struggling to meet government sales targets despite record registrations.
