The Dubai-based engineering giant, Sidara, has withdrawn from its prolonged acquisition attempt of John Wood Group, citing increasing geopolitical risks and economic market instability. Shares of John Wood Group plummeted by 73p, or 37%, closing at 123½p, reaching their lowest point since December 2022. Concerns are mounting that the conflict in Gaza could extend throughout…
The recent interest rate decision by the Bank of England has had a more substantial impact on the government’s fiscal posture than on the economic landscape itself. Over the past year, I have highlighted the rising fiscal implications of monetary policy, with this month’s Bank meeting exemplifying that trend. The monetary policy committee opted to…
Over 500,000 workers at more than 15,000 businesses will see their hourly wage increase to at least £12.60, following a 5% adjustment announced by the Living Wage Foundation. In London, employees will experience an even greater pay boost of 6%, bringing their hourly wage to £13.85, as per the charity’s statement. These new rates stand…
The CEO of Serica Energy has expressed concerns that a “punitive” tax regime may hinder the company’s investment ambitions in the North Sea. Chris Cox revealed that the firm is also exploring acquisition opportunities beyond this region. This statement follows similar remarks made by Amjad Bseisu, the head of Enquest, who highlighted that the Energy…
“Go to work on an egg.” “The mark of a man.” “For mash, get Smash.” “The wonder of Woolies.” These catchy slogans defined an era when brands relied on simple, memorable phrases to engage consumers before the rise of social media influencers and targeted online advertising. The motto of Tesco’s founder, Sir Jack Cohen, captures…
The rise of the B Corp movement in the UK stems from a rainy day in 2012 in a north London flat. The vision behind B Corps is simple: businesses should prioritize societal well-being alongside profit. These companies strive to operate in a way that is considerate of their stakeholders, employees, local communities, and the…
UK stocks experienced a significant uplift in London on Friday morning, fueled by the confirmation of Labour’s overwhelming election triumph overnight. The FTSE 100, the leading index of the London stock market, climbed 31.57 points, or 0.4%, to reach 8,272.83, building on nearly a 1% rise from Thursday. Housebuilders emerged as the top beneficiaries, with…
Q. Over 20 years ago, I borrowed money from my daughter, and I intend to repay her with interest upon my passing. Will this incur any inheritance tax, and should we prepare a formal agreement now? Leslie, 75 Whether or not inheritance tax (IHT) is applicable will depend on the size of your estate at…
Kurt Geiger’s leadership anticipates that the sale of the premium shoe and handbag retailer will finalize before the year’s end. The private equity firm Cinven, which has owned the brand since 2015, has engaged Bank of America as advisers to facilitate a potential sale of around £400 million, a process that has been underway since…