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In the race to achieve the UK’s ambitious net-zero goals, pension funds are being called upon to take a more proactive role in financing green infrastructure projects. Ian Brown, head of banking and investments at the National Wealth Fund (NWF), has highlighted that UK pension funds are currently too risk-averse, opting for established energy ventures rather than backing emerging clean energy technologies during their critical construction phases. This reluctance could hinder the country’s progress towards its sustainability targets. The Case for Higher-Risk Investments in Clean Energy While pension funds have shown a willingness to invest in operational wind and solar…
Inflation is more than just a buzzword—it’s a powerful economic force that can erode the value of your hard-earned savings. To protect savings from inflation, it has become a pressing concern for many households in the UK as the cost of living continues to rise. While inflation may seem like an insurmountable challenge, it also presents opportunities to rethink your financial strategy and make smarter decisions about your money. Here’s how you can safeguard your savings and even grow your wealth during inflationary times. The Ripple Effect of Inflation on Borrowing and Loans When inflation rises, so do interest rates.…
The term UK economic growth has become a focal point of discussion following the release of concerning GDP figures. In January 2025, the UK economy contracted by 0.1%, marking an unexpected slowdown after December’s modest 0.4% expansion. This contraction highlights growing concerns about the nation’s economic momentum and its implications for households, businesses, and public finances. Understanding GDP and Its Importance Gross Domestic Product (GDP) serves as the primary indicator of a country’s economic health. It measures the total value of goods and services produced within a specific period, encompassing business activity, government expenditure, and consumer spending. While monthly GDP…
Mirakl, the French SaaS giant renowned for its cutting-edge marketplace solutions, is doubling down on artificial intelligence (AI) as it targets surpassing £155 million in revenue by 2025. The company’s strategic focus on AI underscores its commitment to staying ahead in an increasingly competitive digital commerce landscape. With a valuation of £2.75 billion since 2021, Mirakl has already demonstrated impressive financial performance, reporting an annual recurring revenue (ARR) of £137 million for 2024—a robust 15% year-on-year increase. The transformative power of AI in e-commerce cannot be overstated. From optimising logistics to enhancing customer experiences and streamlining advertising efforts, AI is…
Choosing the right UK property investment partner could be the defining factor in achieving long-term financial success. With forecasts predicting a 21.6% rise in UK property prices over the next five years, now is an ideal time to explore this lucrative market. However, navigating the complexities of UK real estate requires more than just capital—it demands expertise, connections, and strategic insight. The UK continues to shine as one of the most attractive destinations for property investment, drawing interest from both local buyers and international investors. Its robust rental market, ongoing urban regeneration projects, and transparent legal framework make it a…
UK investment in the Middle East has taken centre stage as businesses look beyond traditional markets to fuel their global ambitions. Recent research by Pagefield, a leading advisory firm, reveals a dramatic surge in interest, with 36% of UK business leaders now prioritising the region—a figure that has doubled from just 18% in previous years. This growing appetite for Middle Eastern markets underscores the strategic importance of the region as UK firms navigate an increasingly competitive global economy. The Middle East’s appeal lies in its rapidly diversifying economies, ambitious development projects, and favourable trade conditions. For UK companies seeking new…
The Crispin Odey ban marks a significant moment in the U.K.’s financial sector as Britain’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has officially barred the once-revered hedge-fund manager from operating within the financial services industry. This decision stems from accusations of sexual misconduct and his deliberate attempts to hinder disciplinary processes, which the FCA described as demonstrating a “lack of integrity.” Odey, who founded Odey Asset Management, stepped away from the firm two years ago following a damning report by the Financial Times . The publication alleged that he had engaged in a pattern of abusive and harassing behaviour toward women over…
In light of mounting concerns over high industrial electricity costs, UK Steel has emerged as a vocal advocate for practical solutions aimed at supporting the nation’s steelmakers. As detailed in their latest report, the association underscores the urgent necessity for governmental intervention to mitigate these exorbitant expenses. The primary focus centres on establishing a bilateral contract for difference (CfD) mechanism, which could significantly transform the landscape for British steel producers. Currently, industrial electricity prices in the UK are notably steep, with steelmakers bearing the brunt of this financial burden. Research from UK Steel reveals that domestic producers are shelling out…
In a landmark move, Aggregate Industries has officially transitioned to Holcim UK, marking a new chapter in its storied history. This transformation is far from just a name change; it signifies a strategic realignment with its Swiss parent company, Holcim Group, and underscores a renewed commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration within the construction materials sector. With over 200 operational sites scattered across the United Kingdom and a workforce of 4,000 dedicated employees, Holcim UK is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry. For two decades, Aggregate Industries operated as a UK-based subsidiary of…
The prospect of further Bank of England rate cuts is under scrutiny as rising inflation continues to dominate economic discussions. Despite a recent quarter-point reduction, policymakers are now grappling with mounting inflationary pressures driven by surging energy and food costs. With these challenges intensifying, the central bank faces a delicate balancing act between fostering economic growth and controlling inflation risks. According to reports from Yahoo Finance, the Bank of England’s decision-making process has become increasingly complex. Known for its sometimes unpredictable policy shifts, the institution is now treading cautiously amid growing uncertainties. Higher employer payroll taxes have added another layer…