The latest PwC annual CEO survey states that the UK has emerged as the second most attractive country for investment. This is surpassing Germany, China, and India and is a “vote of confidence in the UK,”. Around 14% of global CEOs believe that the UK will attract significant international investment, trailing only the US at…

Know More

A report by Admiral reveals a significant shift in employment attitudes among workers under 27. Many are showing a strong preference for long-term employment. The study indicates that 75% of 18 to 27-year-olds (Gen Z) are seeking stable, long-term roles, with many prioritising career development over higher salaries. Unlike Millennials, who often switch jobs for…

Know More

The Times reports that the UK Crowdfunding Association has warned that the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) stringent reforms could cost the economy up to £16bn in “lost investment. This could hinder small businesses’ access to finance”. In a letter to City Minister Tulip Siddiq, Bruce Davis, chairman of the association, warns that the UK is…

Know More

The Chancellor has confirmed that the minimum wage for over 21s will increase from April 2025 by 6.7%, from £11.44 to £12.21. This will mean £1,400 over a year. For 18 to 20-year-olds, the minimum wage will rise from £8.60 to £10 – up more than 16% and worth £2,500 per annum. Apprentices will get…

Know More

Despite some recent negative vibes, three in five manufacturers are optimistic about improved  economic growth in 2024. This is  according to a report by Make UK and BDO.Interestingly, only 6% of the 300+ surveyed companies expect a decline. As a result, Make UK has revised its growth forecast for 2025 from 0.8% to 1.8%. A…

Know More

Bots: The Silent Threat to Your Website Anyone who has ever been on the back end of a WordPress website will shudder at the word “bots”.  These little automated programs are designed to perform tasks online, and often to irritate anyone trying to maintain a fully functional CMS system. While many bots are helpful, such…

Know More

It is being reported that Entrepreneurs in the UK are increasingly turning to pawnbrokers for loans. The prime reason appears to be because the traditional banks have been tightening their lending criteria. Chris Gillespie, chief executive of H&T, noted: “The majority of these loans have been used by small business owners or self-employed people.” The…

Know More

According to the policy and advocacy chair at the FSB, small businesses are playing a crucial role in revitalising high streets and local economies. Tina McKenzie says that action is essential to ensure their survival and contribute to the future of town centres. This will include business rates, transport, and parking. One suggested innovative solution…

Know More

The Telegraph reports that the UK manufacturing sector has experienced its fastest production growth since February 2022. The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) registered 52.1 in July, up from 50.9 in June. A reading above 50 indicates growth in the sector. Companies credited the growth to higher demand from new product launches, efforts to clear backlogs…

Know More

Phoenix Group and Schroders have formed a joint venture called Future Growth Capital. Its objective is to invest up to £20bn of pension money in high-growth UK businesses. The investment vehicle aims to deploy the funds into private markets over the next decade. This will give UK long-term savers the potential for higher returns from…

Know More