Economy

Economy

UK business activity grows at fastest pace in eight months

The flash composite PMI rose to 53.1 in October, beating forecasts, as new orders grew at their quickest rate in two years ahead of the budget.

24 October 2026 · Source: Business Live

Economy

Consumer confidence falls at fastest rate since Brexit vote

GfK's index fell 11 points to -24 in October as fuel prices and the cost of living squeeze households before the budget.

23 October 2026 · Source: The Guardian

Economy

Barclays to cut 5,000 jobs this year as it turns to AI

The bank says the cuts, about 5 per cent of its workforce, come from years of technology investment, as it reports a 12 per cent rise in profit.

22 October 2026 · Source: Business Live

Economy

Inflation rises to 3.5 per cent as fuel costs surge

Higher petrol and diesel prices drove the increase, and government borrowing was worse than forecast, a week before the budget.

22 October 2026 · Source: The Guardian

Economy

Healey to rule out capital gains tax rise in next week's budget

The chancellor believes a rise could cost the Treasury money, and is expected to raise more from the banks instead.

20 October 2026 · Source: The Guardian

Economy

Profit warnings hit a two-year high as war drives up costs

UK-listed firms issued 65 in three months, and housebuilders have already issued more this year than in 2008.

19 October 2026 · Source: The Guardian

Economy

Drone attacks make the Black Sea the deadliest sea for shipping

Six ships were hit in ten days, insurance costs have soared, and fears are growing for grain exports.

18 October 2026 · Source: The Guardian

Economy

Bank of England governor walks out as Russian minister speaks

Andrew Bailey joined finance leaders from across Europe in leaving an IMF session in Bangkok in protest at the war in Ukraine.

17 October 2026 · Source: The Guardian

Economy

IMF tells Healey to target pensions and welfare, not banks

The fund says Britain's tax burden is already high, as the chancellor considers raising the bank surcharge.

17 October 2026 · Source: The Guardian

Economy

UK economy unexpectedly grows in August

GDP rose 0.1%, beating forecasts of a fall, as manufacturing made up for weaker consumer spending.

15 October 2026 · Source: The Guardian