Formula 1 is expected to cancel the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to escalating conflict in the Middle East, reducing the 2026 calendar to 22 races.
Category: News
The latest news affecting small and medium sized (SME) businesses in the UK
UK economy stalls in January as hospitality slowdown drags growth to zero
UK GDP showed zero growth in January as households cut spending on restaurants and hospitality, highlighting a fragile economy ahead of potential inflation shocks from the Middle East conflict.
Maersk halts operations at Oman port after drone strike widens Iran conflict disruption
Shipping giant Maersk has suspended operations at Oman’s Port of Salalah after a drone strike on oil storage facilities, highlighting growing disruption to global trade routes amid the escalating Iran conflict.
Savills agrees $1bn deal to buy Eastdil Secured in major US expansion push
Savills has agreed a $921m deal to acquire US property investment bank Eastdil Secured, strengthening its position in the American market as the estate agency posts a 14% rise in annual profits.
Former RBS manager admits taking £600,000 in bribes from struggling business customers
A former Royal Bank of Scotland manager has pleaded guilty to bribery after admitting he took more than £600,000 from struggling business customers while working in the bank’s controversial Global Restructuring Group.
UK economy stalls in January as growth fears mount amid Iran conflict
UK GDP showed zero growth in January, raising fears that rising oil prices and the Iran conflict could slow growth further and push inflation higher in 2026.
Jo Malone sued by Estée Lauder over use of her own name in Zara fragrance collaboration
British perfumier Jo Malone is being sued by Estée Lauder Companies for using her own name in a fragrance collaboration with high street retailer Zara, in a legal dispute that highlights the complexities of brand ownership when a founder sells the rights to their name.
Labour workers’ rights law could hit Gen Z jobs hardest, retailers warn
Retailers warn Labour’s Employment Rights Act could reduce flexible and entry-level jobs, risking higher youth unemployment as Gen Z workers rely heavily on part-time roles.
John Lewis reinstates staff bonus after four-year hiatus
John Lewis staff will receive a 2% bonus for the first time in four years after the retailer reported rising sales and profits despite ongoing economic pressures.
Government launches new programme to help more women and girls enter the UK tech sector
The UK government has unveiled a £4m TechFirst Women’s Programme offering 300 tech placements, returnships for developers and a national girls’ coding competition to boost female participation in the sector.
Green hydrogen plant to be built in Milford Haven with government backing
Trafigura will build a green hydrogen production facility in Milford Haven, Wales, producing 2,000 tonnes a year with government backing as part of the UK’s low-carbon energy strategy.
Churchill to be replaced by wildlife on future Bank of England banknotes
The Bank of England plans to replace historical figures like Winston Churchill and Jane Austen with UK wildlife on future banknotes following a public consultation favouring nature-themed designs.
Oil price climbs above $90 after ship attack in Strait of Hormuz
Oil prices surged back above $90 after a ship attack in the Strait of Hormuz, as the Iran conflict disrupts shipping routes and raises fears over global energy supply and inflation.
Revolut launches UK bank after regulatory approval
Revolut has launched its UK bank after receiving PRA approval, enabling FSCS-protected accounts and paving the way for lending products for its 13 million UK customers.
China exports surge despite Trump tariffs as global demand strengthens
China’s exports jumped more than 20% in the first two months of 2026 despite US tariffs, driven by strong global demand for electronics and manufactured goods.
