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Uk Economy

All articles tagged with #uk economy

UK manufacturers warned: energy bills threaten industrial footing
business2 days ago

UK manufacturers warned: energy bills threaten industrial footing

A CBI–Energy UK report warns that surging energy costs—electricity up about 70% and gas around 60% higher since Russia’s invasion—plus rising bills for almost 90% of firms, have led about 40% to cut investment, risking deindustrialisation and a wider trade deficit. It calls for a comprehensive reform of the energy market and stronger grid investment, with a government response that includes more targeted relief for heavy users, while broader reforms are pursued through a joint taskforce.

UK inflation slows to 3% on cheaper food and fuel, fueling rate-cut bets
economy7 days ago

UK inflation slows to 3% on cheaper food and fuel, fueling rate-cut bets

Britain's inflation rate dropped to 3% in January from 3.4%, led by cheaper petrol, food and airfares, though prices are still rising rather than falling. The cooler pace increases the likelihood of a Bank of England rate cut at its March meeting, with energy-bill support expected to ease price pressures further in the coming months. Economists forecast further declines ahead, though policy decisions and wage dynamics could influence how quickly inflation falls toward the 2% target.

UK unemployment climbs to five-year high as vacancies lag and redundancies rise
economy8 days ago

UK unemployment climbs to five-year high as vacancies lag and redundancies rise

Official data show the UK unemployment rate rising to 5.2% in December, the highest since early 2021, with redundancies increasing and the number of unemployed per vacancy at a post-pandemic high. Wage growth remains uneven—faster in the public sector and softer in the private sector—and the ONS cautions about interpreting monthly vacancy data. A CIPD survey links hiring cuts to new workers’ rights and higher employer National Insurance costs, while markets price in potential Bank of England rate cuts later this year.

Starmer’s China visit walks a fine line between growth and U.S. optics
world1 month ago

Starmer’s China visit walks a fine line between growth and U.S. optics

British PM Keir Starmer travels to Beijing for the first UK leader visit since 2018, aiming to unlock growth with a cautious set of deals while avoiding a rift with the U.S. and Donald Trump. Expect low‑risk agreements in health, climate science, financial services, and visas, plus chatter on whisky tariffs, with big energy or EV collaborations likely off the table, reflecting a three‑way balancing act among Washington, Brussels and Beijing amid security and human rights sensitivities.

From a flat to a £6bn juggernaut: Warhammer’s tabletop empire
business1 month ago

From a flat to a £6bn juggernaut: Warhammer’s tabletop empire

Warhammer’s parent company, Games Workshop, has transformed from a mail-order hobby outfit started by three friends into a £6bn FTSE 100 business, posting 10.9% revenue growth as demand for its plastic miniatures soars. The brand leverages a loyal community, a vertically integrated supply chain, and a focus on experiential retail and IP, boosted by celebrity fans and broader pop‑culture trends. Plans for global expansion, including a Warhammer World in the US and potential film/TV projects, aim to convert niche tabletop gaming into a mainstream entertainment powerhouse.

Bank of England Cuts Interest Rates Ahead of Christmas
business2 months ago

Bank of England Cuts Interest Rates Ahead of Christmas

The Bank of England narrowly voted to cut interest rates by 25 basis points to 3.75%, marking the fourth cut in 2025, to support consumers amid softening economic data and inflation easing. The decision was closely contested, with some policymakers concerned about inflation remaining above target. The rate cut is expected to benefit borrowers but may reduce returns for savers, and further easing could occur in early 2026 depending on economic conditions.