Saturday, August 31, 2019

How veganism is taking the step from kitchen to closet

How the vegan trend is moving from kitchen to clothes closet.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Trade war: US set to hit China with new wave of tariffs

The trade war between the world's two largest economies is set to intensify with new tariffs.

Tetra Pak billionaire Hans Rausing dies at 93

The packaging giant's driving force will also be remembered for his philanthropy, his family says.

Investors give Shoe Zone a kicking

Shares in the High Street chain plunge more than 30% as the boss resigns and it warns on profits.

South Western Railway strike: Workers begin four-day walkout

The industrial action will see about half of South Western Railway services cancelled.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Google finds 'indiscriminate iPhone attack lasting years'

Criminals used previously unknown vulnerabilities to implant monitoring software, research shows.

'Costs soar at hotel of mum and dad'

Offspring returning to the parental home increasingly enjoy free meals, laundry and lifts, a survey has found.

Has President Trump's trade war cost China three million jobs?

He said that China has lost at least three million jobs - is this true?

The hidden links between slavery and Wall Street

It is 400 years since slaves were brought to what is now the United States - and to Wall Street.

How the umbrella became a million dollar idea

The BBC’s Aaron Heslehurst explains how the umbrella became a million dollar idea.

Goals Soccer puts itself up for sale amid fraud probe

The five-a-side football pitch operator continues to face the fallout from an accounting scandal.

Huawei's next phone won't have Google apps

Huawei's next flagship phone will not come with Google's popular apps including Maps and YouTube.

Samsung heir faces bribery retrial

The Supreme Court also orders a retrial for Samsung's Lee Jae-yong for bribery in the same scandal.

Micro Focus shares drop 22% on profit warning

The software giant says its sales will be even worse this year than previously indicated.

Climate change: Big lifestyle changes 'needed to cut emissions'

Reaching Net Zero emissions will be a huge challenge, says UK's outgoing chief environment scientist.

Calls for legislation to stop banks closing 'last branch in town'

MPs want the UK government to seek a commitment from banks not to leave communities without banking facilities.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Pinterest to direct vaccine searches to health sites

The firm will direct vaccine-related searches to public health organisations to combat misinformation.

Trade war drives ‘innocent’ Asian nations towards recession

The US-China trade battle is hurting economies in Asia and fuelling anxiety about a global downturn.

Last chance for PPI claims as deadline arrives

Consumers have until 23:59 to make a claim, as the UK's biggest financial mis-selling scandal draws to a close.

'Outside your business niche it can be a minefield'

Step out of your business niche and you could be in a minefield, says entrepreneur PJ Farr.

Apple 'sorry' that workers listened to Siri voice recordings

Workers were paid to check how well Siri transcribed speech - but many users didn't realise this.

US still to grant any Huawei trade licences

More than 130 requests have been made by companies to trade with the blacklisted Chinese firm.

Exchange rates: Why is the pound getting weaker?

A simple guide to how currency is valued and what it means for your finances

Pound falls as Queen asked to suspend Parliament

Sterling loses ground against the dollar and euro after a move that may lead to a no-deal Brexit.

PPI mis-selling claims: Thursday deadline looms

Time is running out to make a claim as Thursday's deadline looms.

Spending review: The game has changed but not the rules

With government spending plans due next week, Sajid Javid is still emphasising fiscal responsibility.

Thomas Cook to sell majority stake to China's Fosun

The troubled travel firm says it has reached agreement with Chinese company Fosun over a takeover.

Javid pledges spending review cash for schools, NHS and police

But the chancellor rules out a "blank cheque", promising to keep within existing spending rules.

Orkney salmon farm plans eco homes to keep workers

The Scottish Sea Farms site in Eday says staff leave because they have nowhere to live.

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Crowds force early closure of first Costco store in China

Costco's first China store comes as other foreign retailers have struggled to compete in the country.

'Stop misleading special offers' supermarkets told

Major chains still offer "dubious" deals despite rules designed to prevent this, says Which?

Vaping advert banned over Mo Farah confusion

Sir Mo had already complained on Twitter about the advert, stressing that he not endorsed the product.

How fire shaped humans, and forged the modern economy

If you rule out everything made by fire, we would not be left with much of an economy at all.

Obituary: Volkswagen's visionary leader Ferdinand Piëch

Volkswagen became a global giant under tough perfectionist Ferdinand Piëch, who has died at 82.

The robo racing cars accelerating driverless tech

What's the point of racing autonomous supercars against each other?

Purdue Pharma 'offers up to $12bn' to settle opioid cases

The firm, owned by the wealthy Sackler family, is facing 2,000 claims over its painkiller OxyContin.

Oil giant BP to pull out of Alaska as sells business for $5bn

The energy giant agrees to sell its Alaskan business to private oil and gas operator Hilcorp.

Ex-Google and Uber engineer charged with theft

Anthony Levandowski is accused by the US Department of Justice of stealing car technology secrets.

Google faces EU investigation over job-search tool

Google is under investigation by the EU, a year after being hit with a record fine

Tobacco giants Philip Morris and Altria in $200bn merger talks

Philip Morris and Marlboro-maker Altria consider merging, more than a decade after the two firms separated.

Could farmed insects be the perfect pet-food ingredient?

Insect-based foods may be better for pets than prime steak, according to the British Veterinary Association.

RBS and NatWest websites' problems unresolved

The banks are advising customers to use other methods to access their accounts.

HS2’s ballooning budget was 'covered up'

A former senior HS2 official tells the BBC he was not allowed to present evidence to Department of Transport.

5G: Rural areas could see bigger and taller masts

A balance has to be struck between the landscape and better connectivity, the digital secretary says.

Huawei: UK to make 5G decision 'by the autumn'

Nicky Morgan told the BBC that the UK would make a decision over Huawei before the end of the year.

Monday, August 26, 2019

KFC to trial plant-based nuggets and wings in US

The fast-food chain's trial in Atlanta will gauge customers demand for meatless chicken.

Ministers and HS2 bosses knew railway over budget years ago

The public were not given the full picture about the true cost of the high speed railway, documents show.

Bank of mum and dad 'one of UK's biggest mortgage lenders'

The average parental contribution for homebuyers this year is £24,100, Legal & General finds.

Why are people in the USA living shorter lives?

White people in the US without degrees are living shorter lives due to drug abuse and alcoholism.

Opioid firm hit with $572m fine in landmark ruling

Johnson & Johnson must pay the fine for its part in America's deadly painkiller addiction crisis.

Facial recognition specialist Megvii plans share sale

The creator of the Face++ system has filed papers to prepare for a Hong Kong flotation.

Dota 2 win makes N0tail the top-awarded e-sports star

The Danish team captain has now won nearly $7m across his career.

British Airways strike: Confusion over cancellations continues

Customers are still struggling to get in touch with BA, as it works through a backlog of 40,000 calls.

Lancashire fracking: 2.9 magnitude tremor recorded

The regulator suspends operations while recent seismic activity in Lancashire is investigated.

Lord Tim Bell: Margaret Thatcher's former spin doctor dies aged 77

Lord Tim Bell, Margaret Thatcher's former spin doctor, dies aged 77 following a prolonged illness.

Melton Mowbray pork pie makers and No 10 clash over Johnson claim

The humble Melton Mowbray pork pie is at the centre of a political dispute about British exports.

Trump says US and China to resume trade talks

The president says talks will start "very shortly" after a weekend of escalating tension with Beijing.

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Asian stocks drop as US-China trade war escalates

The threat of new tariffs and hikes to existing duties by the US and China rattled investors in Asia.

'The bank sent my safe house address to my abusive ex'

Banks are trying to get better at helping victims of economic abuse, where a partner controls access to accounts.

The Mini at 60: Fans share their pictures of the little car

As the classic vehicle reaches 60, enthusiasts share their stories and pictures.

Retirement home for elderly pets

In Tokyo, a growing number of pet homes have opened to give elderly and sick pets the love and attention their human carers no longer can.

Trump's regrets on China trade war 'misunderstood'

The president meant he regretted not raising tariffs on Chinese goods higher, a spokeswoman says.

British Airways strike: Passengers angry at airline 'silence'

Customers say they are unable to get in touch with BA, as the airline says it is fielding 40,000 calls.

Why are retro sweets tasting success?

Retro sweets are making a comeback but what's behind their growing popularity?

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Boris Johnson warns Trump US must compromise to get UK trade deal

Boris Johnson will meet US President Donald Trump at the G7 summit in France on Sunday.

Migrant workers 'exploited' in Japan

International brands accused of 'exploiting' workers in Japan

Airport security: 3D baggage scanners could end liquid restrictions

Airports must introduce 3D baggage screening before the end of 2022, the government announces.

British Airways strike causes five days of flight cancellations

British Airways says there may be "knock-on effects on other days" after pilots announced walk-outs.

Friday, August 23, 2019

US-China trade war: Trump announces new retaliatory tariff hikes

The president hits back at Beijing's plans by hiking tariffs on Chinese imports by another 5%.

High Street: Five ways UK shopping has changed

Many retailers have announced store closures and job losses.

Does a Pride event need Kylie or Ariana Grande?

LGBT Pride events have become big business, but does that distract from their original purpose?

The new mobile phone scam delivering a problem

Why are fraudsters arranging for a brand new phone to unexpectedly be delivered to your door?

British Airways strike: BA pilots announce September dates

British Airways pilots will strike on 9, 10 and 27 September in a dispute over pay, union Balpa says.

Trump responds with fury over Fed chief's speech

The US president asks if the Federal Reserve head is a bigger enemy than China's premier Xi Jinping.

China escalates US trade row with new tariffs

China plans to tax planes and oil in an escalation of the trade battle between the two superpowers.

Costa Coffee franchise workers 'not treated like humans'

An investigation is launched after staff from multiple stores complain of poor working conditions.

David Koch: Billionaire Republican donor dies aged 79

The 11th richest man in the world and his brother Charles had a huge influence on the conservative movement.

Eddie Stobart chief to leave as shares suspended

The transport firm, known for its green lorries, revealed a £2m discrepancy in its accounts last month.

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Hasbro to buy Peppa Pig owner Entertainment One for $4bn

The US toy maker will expand its entertainment portfolio with other preschool brands including PJ Masks.

Ryanair rated 'greedy and arrogant' by customers

Ryanair has been rated worst for customer service out of 100 big British brands, according to Which?.

Universal credit 'forces tenants into rent arrears'

Universal credit is causing tenants to fall behind with rent, warns the Residential Landlords Association.

The future of food: Why farming is moving indoors

Vertical farming is fast-expanding but the costs are high and the food range is limited - for now.

Would you let your child become a 'kid influencer'?

Social media influencers are getting younger and younger, but at what cost to their wellbeing?

How Australia is shaking up the truffle market

Australia maybe a newcomer in growing black truffles but is now the world's fourth-largest producer.

Facial recognition technology aims to cut passport queue times

The UK Home Office is considering a system which would let you walk through immigration without showing your passport.

How bingo became a million dollar idea

The BBC's Aaron Heslehurst explains how bingo became a multi-million dollar idea.

Can Fed chief dig himself out of a (Jackson) Hole?

Jerome Powell, Donald Trump's least favourite banker, is the star turn at the annual event in Wyoming.

Brexit: Northern Ireland farmers warn of no deal risks

Some food producers say a no-deal Brexit could put them out of business within three days.

Royal Mail union to ballot 100,000 workers on strike action

Management are not abiding by an agreement on pensions and pay, says a union.

Cathay Pacific staff speak of climate of fear over protests

Employees tell the BBC they try not to talk politics at work in case colleagues are pro-Beijing.

Ryanair flights take off despite pilot strike

UK pilots at the airline have begun a two-day walkout in a row over pay and conditions.

Lancashire fracking: 1.6 magnitude tremor halts work

Cuadrilla said micro seismicity had been recorded near Blackpool at 20:46 BST on Wednesday.

Qantas to run test flights on world's longest route

The airline will track the health impacts of the 19-hour journeys from Sydney to New York and London.

Banks condemn Hong Kong violence in newspaper adverts

Businesses are coming under increased political pressure after months of protests in Hong Kong.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

UK and South Korea to sign "continuity" trade agreement

The agreement seeks to maintain existing trade arrangements between the countries post-Brexit.

How PPI has changed our financial lives

The UK's biggest financial mis-selling scandal's led to £36bn in payouts. How has it affected us all?

Ditch cars to meet climate change targets, say MPs

MPs say people will have to stop driving if the UK is to meet its Zero Carbon goals by 2050.

#BulletJournal: Seven million beautiful ways to save money

#BulletJournal: The new trend that is helping people to save money.

Federal Reserve policymakers divided over US rate cuts

Some Federal Reserve officials wanted a bigger rate cut last month - something Donald Trump wants.

Argentina minister defends peso amid default risk

Debt ratings agency Fitch says the peso's recent depreciation "suggests a real risk of default".

Supermarket considers rationing small business buyers

The move will prevent firms from using supermarkets as wholesalers.

Don't sacrifice us for trade deal, say UK farmers

A US trade deal could put British farmers out of business, says the head of the National Farmers Union.

Three ways Trump wants to kickstart the US economy

Amid concerns of an economic recession, the White House is considering several emergency measures.

HS2 route: How much will the rail scheme cost?

Part one of the high-speed railway between London, the Midlands and North of England is due to open in 2026.

HS2: How much work has already been done?

With a review announced into the HS2 high speed rail link - how much has already been done?

Government to review tax plan for fuel imports

The plan to remove tariffs on fuel imports after Brexit could make some UK refineries 'uneconomical'.

Amazon in row over plastic packaging

The retail giant has angered customers by introducing a new range of plastic envelopes for deliveries.

Tesla sued by Walmart over solar panel fires

The supermarket chain alleges that Tesla was negligent in the way the solar panels were installed.

EU migration to UK 'underestimated' by ONS

The Office for National Statistics says it may have also overstated migration from non-EU countries.

Ryanair wins court bid to block Irish strike

Dublin High Court approves a bid to stop Irish pilots walking out, as a hearing on a UK-wide strike continues.

HS2: Review to examine costs and benefits of rail project

It will look at the costs and benefits, with a “go or no-go" decision by the end of the year.

Government's budget surplus shrinks in July

The £1.2bn surplus was much lower than the £2.7bn analysts had been expecting.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

The Cold War spy technology which we all use

Radio-frequency identification, famously used to bug the US embassy in Moscow, is a cheap way to track objects and data.

Does the future of farming exist beneath city streets?

In a disused air raid shelter one company is growing crops, but what are the pros and cons of vertical farming?

'If you say you're ethical, you have to back it up'

CEO Secret: "If you call yourself an ethical company, you'll have to back up every claim you make."

Government automatically enrols firms in case of no-deal Brexit

Business groups urged the government to act after many firms failed to get a customs number.

UK bosses earn 117 times average worker despite pay cut

The average salary of the bosses of the UK's largest companies has fallen 13% in the last financial year.

Barclays tops list of banks with most IT shutdowns

British banks experienced more than 10 outages a month in the past year, BBC analysis of new data reveals.

The people policing the internet's most horrific content

Website content moderators have to see some very disturbing material. How do they cope?

'I bought a house thanks to my bullet journal'

Millions of people have shared #bulletjournal or #bujo hashtags on Instagram, so how do they work?

Trump considers new tax cut to boost US economy

The US president confirms that a temporary payroll cut tax could be introduced.

Fracking: UK shale reserves may be smaller than previously estimated

Previous research suggested 50 years of shale gas under the UK, but a new study says it could be less than 10.

Scottish castle goes up for sale for over £8m in East Lothian

Seton Castle was built with stone from a palace said to be Mary Queen of Scots' favourite retreat.

Lightning strike 'partly to blame' for power cut

Regulator Ofgem publishes National Grid report into outage that hit homes and transport in England and Wales.

No-deal Brexit 'could cost farms £850m in profits'

A no-deal Brexit could be a greater challenge than BSE and foot-and-mouth, a researcher suggests.

Student loan overpayments of £28m going unclaimed

Graduates have paid millions in repayments after their loans have been cleared.

Monday, August 19, 2019

Why we lie about being retired

When we retire we often pretend that we're still working according to one Harvard academic.

'The bomb actually landed in the room I had been in'

Laila Pence fled war in Egypt to go on and become a multimillionaire US businesswoman.

Chicken Connoisseur YouTuber criticises knife crime warning

Elijah Quashie tells the BBC knife crime warnings on takeaway boxes

Why investors are making a loss to keep their money safe

Some pension fund investors are paying to hold government bonds due to fears over the global economy.

Juul: Vaping attracts fresh funding despite new lawsuits

Investors pump another $325m into e-cigarette market leader Juul as health concerns increase.

Why US firms are desperate to retain ageing workers

Elderly people are forecast to be the fastest growing sector of the US labour force.

'My Instagram got hacked and I lost my business'

Micro businesses say Instagram hackers are costing them money by compromising their accounts.

Corporate leaders scrap shareholder-first ideology

Companies need a fresh direction because capitalism is "fraying", says a powerful US business group.

School lunch standards warning under no-deal Brexit

Councils' no-deal Brexit plans warn of more expensive school meals and lower nutritional standards.

Greene King pub giant snapped up by Hong Kong firm CKA

The Suffolk-based pub chain and brewer is the latest to be bought in a wave of consolidation in the sector.

US delays Huawei trade ban for another 90 days

The reprieve allows US companies to do business with Huawei for a further 90 days

Costa Coffee: Employees call £200 deductions for training 'unfair'

Thirteen Costa Coffee employees criticise a franchise manager's handling of multiple stores in Essex.

BBC News tries out Three's 5G for the home

The service has launched today in London, but BBC reporter Chris Fox had problems with the signal.

Trump plays down fears of US recession

The US president and his economic adviser Larry Kudlow both say they do not see a recession in the US.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Chancellor: I won't shift stamp duty to sellers

Sajid Javid says he has no plans to make house sellers, rather than buyers, pay stamp duty tax.

The floating farm for cows

Cows are living on a floating farm in the middle of Europe's busiest port of Rotterdam, as part of an experiment to produce food more sustainably, and closer to people.

Lidl lines up suppliers to cover no-deal costs

The supermarket's Irish business reminds British suppliers they are expected to pay EU import tariffs.

Argentina's economy minister resigns as peso sheds value

Nicolas Dujovne quits as the currency plummets following the president's astounding poll defeat.

New board to oversee completion of Ferguson ferries

The new board will try to secure the cheapest delivery of two CalMac ferries at the now nationalised shipyard.

'How I lost £25,000 when my cryptocurrency was stolen'

Investing in digital currencies is fraught with danger, not just because the prices are so volatile.

Didcot power station: Power cut as cooling towers demolished

Thousands of homes are affected after the cooling towers at the Didcot A plant were brought down.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Lime and soda? No thanks, say non-drinkers

Diageo's investment in alcohol-free spirit maker Seedlip shows how big firms want to reach non-drinkers.

Can big investors save the world?

Will the big polluters clean up their acts if the people who actually own them say they must?

Labour promises to tackle 'retail apocalypse'

The party wants to give councils powers to fill empty shops to avoid the creation of "ghost streets".

Friday, August 16, 2019

Sajid Javid will 'simplify' the tax system in first Budget

The chancellor says he is a "low tax guy" and he wants to see "simpler" taxes when he delivers his Budget.

Hong Kong protests: 'We don't want to leave but may have no choice'

Months of political unrest in Hong Kong is prompting firms to question its appeal as a business hub.

'Fake' Amazon ambassadors baited on Twitter

Amazon says its warehouse ambassadors are authentic, but critics accuse them of being "paid to lie".

Ferguson shipyard nationalised by Scottish government

Ownership of the Port Glasgow yard has transferred to the Scottish government in a bid to secure its future.

Harland and Wolff: 'Positive talks' over shipyard future

Administrators for the Belfast shipyard say they are hopeful of a credible offer for the business.

Cathay Pacific boss quits after protest row

Rupert Hogg steps down after "challenging weeks for the airline" over the Hong Kong demonstrations.

Turkish army pension fund to buy British Steel

Turkey's military pension fund reaches a tentative deal to take over the insolvent steelmaker.

Share trading in London delayed by technical issue

Trading in the biggest shares was delayed until 9:40 while a technical problem was investigated.

Ted Baker dumps Debenhams for Next on children's clothing

The brand will start selling its line of children's clothes through Next stores next year.

Huawei gets caught up in China territory controversy

Huawei, at the epicentre of the US-China trade war, is under fire over its representation of Taiwan.

Thursday, August 15, 2019

What has gone wrong with rail franchising?

Calls to reform the system are growing amid anger over rising fares and poor punctuality.

Brexit: 'I don't want to struggle with the mortgage'

A third of people the UK have reined in spending due to Brexit uncertainty, a survey suggests.

The farmers who worry about our phone batteries

Lithium is being mined in Chile to make batteries, but at what cost to the local environment?

Six things that affect your chance of a pay rise

Being a skilled negotiator may help, but other factors play a much bigger part.

The plight of a US dairy farm

It's a family business which has been around since 1942 - but now the last remaining cows are being sold off.

General Electric: US giant hits back over $38bn fraud claim

Shares in General Electric tumble after Harry Markopolos alleges the firm hid huge losses.

Data regulator probes King's Cross facial recognition tech

The UK's data protection watchdog probes how facial recognition is being used at King's Cross.

YouTube: LGBT video-makers sue claiming discrimination

YouTube denies it discriminates on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Capital One accused 'breached 30 other organisations'

US prosecutors claim other companies were hit by a software developer accused of stealing Capital One customer data.

Asda cites 'Brexit uncertainty' as sales fall

First-half sales fell 0.3% but were boosted in the second half by the later timing of Easter.

Cuadrilla resumes fracking in Lancashire

Cuadrilla's site in Lancashire has been the focus of repeated protests by those opposed to fracking.

Metro top and RBS bottom in banks' customer ratings

Metro Bank retains top spot among customers, despite its difficulties as a business.

Department store sales rise for first time in 2019

Department store sales reversed six months of decline by showing a 1.6% rise in July, figures show.

Hong Kong protests: Brand 'witch hunt' takes over Chinese internet

Versace and Swarovski are among the firms caught up in a wave of Chinese cyber-nationalism.

Markets recover after recession fears sparked sell-off

Stock exchanges in Europe open higher following a turbulent day of trading on Wednesday.

Olympics power firm Aggreko challenged to cut carbon

The Glasgow-based company, which also powers Glastonbury, is increasing its use of solar technology and storage batteries.

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

UK must accept US food standards in trade deal, says farm chief

Fears over practices like chlorine-washing chicken are unfounded, says the head of America's farm lobby.

Germany steels itself to face recession threat

Europe's largest economy has seen one quarter of contraction and further shrinkage is feared.

Do we need to worry about banana blight?

A fungal banana disease that experts describe as a serious threat to production has reached Colombia.

'Fall in love with the problem not the solution'

"Love the problem", advises Sean Petterson whose firm makes monitors to curb workplace injuries.

Share markets tumble as recession fears grow

Wall Street slides 3% on trade war fears, as president Trump calls US central bank chief "clueless".

Argentina's Macri unveils economic 'relief' measures after poll shock

The Argentine leader tries to shore up support after a poll defeat triggered economic turmoil.

Brexit: No chance of US trade deal if Irish accord hit - Pelosi

Congress will block a UK trade deal if Brexit harms the Good Friday Agreement, key US Democrat says.

Meet the top flight footballers' tailor

Mo Adass is a master tailor whose clients include footballers from Liverpool FC.

Are the markets signalling that a recession is due?

Financial markets have taken fright after the appearance of a trusted signal of an upcoming recession.

WeWork posts $900m loss as it plots stock market listing

It plans to list its shares next month, but it has not yet indicated where the listing will take place.

Hong Kong protests: Flights resume amid new security measures

Hong Kong's airport, one of the world's busiest, has been the main site of protests for days.

Could the 50p in your pocket really make you a fortune?

British coins celebrate everything from the Olympics to Sherlock Holmes - and many end up on eBay.

Turkish army pension fund set to buy British Steel

Ataer is to be named the preferred bidder for the Scunthorpe works by the Official Receiver.

Asda staff in Leeds protest over new working contract

Hundreds of Asda workers are marching in Leeds city centre against the details in a new staff contract.

Heathrow says next week's strikes postponed

The airport says walkouts on 23 and 24 August are postponed while union members consider a pay offer.

Drugs firm to pay NHS £8m after competition probe

Aspen will make the payment after a competition probe into a life-saving treatment for thousands of patients.

FirstGroup replaces Virgin to run West Coast route

FirstGroup and Trenitalia will take over the running of the London-to-Glasgow route in December.

German economy slips back into negative growth

A decline in exports dampened growth, causing the economy to shrink 0.1%, according to official data.

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Rail fares set to rise again in January

The rail fare increase for 2020 is set to be announced by the Department of Transport on Wednesday.

'My dad thought he was a criminal - he wasn't'

More than 200 MPs have called for a suspension and independent review of a controversial tax policy.

Philadelphia and VW ads banned for gender stereotyping

Ads for cheese and an electric car fall foul of new rules banning the showing of gender stereotypes.

New 50% off 16-17 railcard on sale next week

The Department for Transport says the 16-17 Saver card will cost £30 and will be valid from 2 September.

The Penny Post revolutionary who transformed how we send letters

Despite having no direct experience of the postal service, Rowland Hill invented the Penny Post.

What is the UK's inflation rate?

A guide to what inflation is and why it matters for household finances

Libra: Could Facebook’s new currency be stopped in its tracks?

How Facebook’s Libra could be stopped in its tracks

Brexit: Hammond demands 'genuine' negotiations with EU

Leaving the EU without a deal would "break up the UK", former chancellor warns.

Media giants Viacom and CBS to merge in latest mega-deal

The deal between CBS and Viacom combines Paramount Pictures and some of TV's most-watched shows.

Norwegian cuts routes over 737 Max grounding

The airline says the routes between Ireland and the US are no longer "commercially viable".

Trump delays some tariffs on Chinese imports

Apple shares soar as the US delays imposing tariffs on mobile phones and other items from China.

Why Cathay Pacific changed its tune on Hong Kong protests

The flagship airline finds itself in a storm over continuing anti-government protests in the territory.

Online shopping anti-fraud scheme delayed

The new verification system was supposed to introduce a new layer of security from mid-September.

Amazon quizzed over 'Choice' ratings

US politicians want to know how Amazon picks the products that get the coveted Choice label.

New Paddington Bear 50p coins enter circulation

They won't buy a decent jar of marmalade, but new 50p coins featuring the famous bear have entered circulation.

UK wage growth picks up to 11-year high

Earnings growth continues to accelerate but the unemployment rate edges up, official figures show.

Swarovski apologises to China for describing Hong Kong as country

The jewellery firm is the latest company to be hit by controversy over the description of Hong Kong.

School uniform: Can it be bought more cheaply?

Parents recalled spending more than £200 per child on uniform when surveyed by the government.

Next boss: The UK is a long way from gridlock and chaos

Government contingency planning means the UK is becoming prepared for a no-deal Brexit, says Lord Wolfson.

Monday, August 12, 2019

Asda and Boots urge chancellor to reform 'broken' rates system

The industry says a no-deal Brexit would "place a considerable strain" on the retail sector.

Is this the end of Macri's vision for Argentina?

President Macri has pledged to revive the south American country's economy, but are his hopes now over?

Zumba: How a missing tape launched a global craze

Colombian dancer Beto Perez first came up with the idea behind Zumba when he was 16.

UK 'first in line' for US trade deal, says John Bolton

The US would consider negotiating deals on "sector-by-sector" basis, says a senior Trump aide.

KPMG ousts head of financial services unit

The consultancy firm said "conduct issues" had been raised concerning Tim Howarth.

Argentine peso and markets plunge after shock vote

Some of the country's most traded stocks have lost one third of their value in just two hours.

Hotel Chocolat 'in mourning' after van found burnt out

The firm's founder says he will visit the van, which was destroyed by thieves, for "emotional closure".

Argentine leader Mauricio Macri trounced in primary vote

The primaries are a good indicator of who may win the presidential elections later this year.

Former Goals Soccer Centres executives under investigation

East Kilbride-based firm Goals says its two founders are part of a probe into historic financial irregularities.

South Korea to take Japan off trusted export list

The tit-for-tat move deepens the rift between the nations, inflamed by a row over wartime compensation.

Burford says its shares have been 'illegally' manipulated

Burford, which saw its shares halve last week, says traders sought to deliberately depress the price.

Tech firms face fines for harmful videos from regulator Ofcom

The UK plans to give new powers to the media regulator in order to comply with EU law.

Cathay threatens to fire staff over 'illegal' HK protests

The airline has already sacked two employees for conduct tied to demonstrations in Hong Kong.

Student side-hustles to help pay for university

Young entrepreneurs move beyond bar work to earn enough to enjoy university life.

The town battling the High Street blues

Stockton-on-Tees has made great efforts to regenerate its town centre, but with mixed results.

Sunday, August 11, 2019

Tesla motors make classic Ferraris go faster

Electric cars have to be as cool as petrol ones to really take off, and these engineers think they can be

Versace apologises after T-shirt draws China ire

The luxury label is the latest firm to face backlash for not adhering to China's territorial claims.

High Streets hit as shop vacancy rate worst since 2015

Empty shops rise in July, while visitor numbers continue to fall, the latest industry figures show.

Gambling companies see huge rise in complaints

Complaints about UK betting companies have increased almost 5,000% in the past five years.

UK power cut: Andrea Leadsom launches government investigation

A committee will look at whether National Grid's procedures are fit for purpose.

RBS 'set to appoint Rose as next boss'

Royal Bank of Scotland is poised to name Alison Rose as its first female chief executive, reports say.

SSE in talks with Ovo over sale of UK energy business

If a deal is reached, Ovo would become the UK's second largest energy firm.

Public ownership an option for Ferguson shipyard

The Scottish government says it is considering nationalising the beleaguered Ferguson shipyard.

Saturday, August 10, 2019

Why smartphones are no longer driving the search for 'blue gold'

Despite mine closures, human rights abuses and price crashes, cobalt may still have an electrifying future.

Friday, August 9, 2019

Real pay cut for millions since 2010, TUC study suggests

Lower and middle-income jobs saw pay falls in the last decade, research suggests.

Are you able to switch off when on holiday?

Many feel pressured to check work emails when on annual leave, but it may be counter-productive.

Amazon Alexa devices made by Chinese teens 'working through night' - reports

Chinese students are being paid low wages and pressured into illegal work hours, activists say.

Strike backed by Ryanair pilots based in Ireland

Industrial action was voted for by union members ,who say they are in frustrated about pay talks.

UK economy shrinks for the first time since 2012

The UK economy contracted by 0.2% between April and June, its worst performance more than six years.

Goldman bosses charged in Malaysia bond scandal

Malaysia charges 17 current and former Goldman Sachs executives over the 1MDB corruption scandal.

Thursday, August 8, 2019

Brexit panic not justified, says ex-Trump adviser Stephen Vaughn

A former US trade representative tells the BBC the UK has "enormous leverage" in any deal with Washington.

Premier League clubs 'should pay living wage' to staff

A charity says staff members such as cleaners are not paid enough by England's top football clubs.

What's going on with my holiday flights?

A breakdown of the possible strike action affecting UK holidaymakers, and the disputes that have caused the travel upheaval.

Transfer deadline day signings take Premier League spending to £1.41bn

A late flurry of deadline-day signings takes Premier League spending for the summer up to £1.41bn, just short of the £1.43bn record set in 2017.

What is the UK's GDP?

A basic guide to how the economy is measured and what that calculation is used for.

What's wrong with buying a dinosaur?

There's a growing fashion for fossils, but some argue it is undermining scientific research.

How the plastic bag became a million dollar idea

The BBC's Aaron Heslehurst explains how the plastic bag became a million dollar idea.

Brexit: Chancellor announces 'fast tracked' spending review

Sajid Javid said an accelerated one-year spending review would help departments to prepare for Brexit.

Uber shares tumble as profit figures disappoint Wall Street

Investors take flight as the taxi-hailing company reports its biggest quarterly loss.

Fitness chains SoulCycle and Equinox in Trump storm

SoulCycle and Equinox, famous for celebrity clients, in storm over owner's support for the president.

Black Hat: GDPR privacy law exploited to reveal personal data

One in four firms holding a test subject's data released it to her partner without her permission.

UK to stay in Interrail scheme after U-turn

UK train companies will stay part of the Interrail scheme, reversing Wednesday's decision.

Should we worry about a currency war?

Donald Trump's administration has accused China of "currency manipulation", sparking fears of a currency war.

Brexit and Labour 'drive out' super-rich non-doms

The drop in the number of super-rich UK non-domiciled taxpayers has dented tax revenues.

Nationwide customers to be refunded £6m in overdraft charges

The refunds, for a text alert failure, come as it also faces anger over a separate technical error.

Ex-soldiers call on MOD to return pensions

The group were persuaded to transfer dormant pensions into another scheme by unregulated salesmen.

Three Ireland wrongly bills customers for data roaming fees

Subscribers complain of being charged large sums and in some cases of having their service cut off.

Essex chicken factory 2 Sisters ends production

Food group 2 Sisters says 100 jobs have been relocated to Norfolk and Suffolk.

Royal Mint: No new 1p coins made for first time in decades

The Treasury said there were already enough in circulation so no new ones were needed.

No-deal Brexit: 'Big unanswered questions' for UK music

Touring will be "chaos" and copyright is "up in the air" after a no-deal Brexit, warn music bosses.

Corporate raider speaks out on targeting UK firms

Shares in Burford fell 66% on Wednesday after the firm was criticised by Carson Block's Muddy Waters.

Wednesday, August 7, 2019

China exports rise despite simmering US trade row

The surprise rise in exports in July comes as Beijing braces for a fresh round of US tariffs.

Microsoft workers 'listen' to some translated Skype calls

Workers occasionally listen to calls that have been translated to check the quality of translations.

New cars can be broken into in 10 seconds

What Car? magazine's experts prove latest car models with keyless entry systems can easily be hijacked.

UK house prices and sales 'losing momentum'

Surveyors say the market is "pretty much flatlining" - although parts of the UK are still seeing prices rise.

Zara uncovered: Inside the brand that changed fashion

How is the Spanish clothing giant able to buck the trend of many of its struggling High Street competitors?

Ryanair pilots vote for strike action

Ryanair pilots vote to strike in row over pay and conditions with their union announcing plans for two walkouts.

US shares tumble as Trump renews Federal Reserve attack

Fears about global growth spark Wall Street slide as the president hits out at the central bank.

UK pushed out of Interrail scheme after dispute

The move is not related to Brexit, but means UK rail journeys will no longer be covered by Interrail passes.

Fresh food traders brace for Brexit

At one of the UK's biggest wholesale markets the potential for delays at ports are the biggest concern.

Energy prices to fall for millions as Ofgem lowers cap

A new price cap could see households on default energy tariffs typically pay £75 less from October.

Bid to run Southeastern rail route scrapped

Go-Ahead has been an extension to April 2020 to keep running the service.

British Airways passengers facing delays after IT failures

Holidaymakers at some UK airports are facing long queues and issues with the online check-in system.

Tuesday, August 6, 2019

Brexit: Food industry seeks no-deal competition waiver

UK firms urge the government to relax rules to allow them to work together to supply food after Brexit.

Japan's FamilyMart convenience chain apologises for rats in store

FamilyMart shut a store and said it was sorry if the "unsanitary" footage had made customers feel "uneasy".

No-deal Brexit: How might it affect the EU?

The BBC's Adam Fleming explains what a no-deal Brexit might mean for the 27 EU countries.

The real price of buying cheap clothes

Globalisation has led to the rise of fast fashion but at what cost to the workers in developing nations?

If one drone isn't enough, try a drone swarm

Co-operating flying drones could survey crops very quickly, but at what cost?

'Treat your customers as all-knowing'

Treat your customers as "all knowing", says beauty and fashion firm boss Michael Broukhim.

Disney disappoints despite a string of movie hits

Shares in the company behind the blockbuster Avengers: Endgame fall as profits miss forecasts.

Brexit: 'Low take-up of no-deal fund concerning'

Just 741 firms have applied for a grant to help prepare for a no-deal Brexit, BBC Newsnight learns.

Walmart faces backlash over gun sales after shootings

The retailer must use its corporate power to help limit weapons sales, campaigners say.

Hyundai releases car with solar panel roof

The solar power system is available on the hybrid versions of the Korean car maker's Sonata vehicle.

Katharine Hamnett: Fashion tax is 'stupid'

Designer Katharine Hamnett says legislation is needed to force fashion brands to stop fast fashion.

Barneys New York store chain files for bankruptcy

The US luxury department store chain also puts itself up for sale after being hit by a steep rent rise.

McDonald's paper straws 'fully recyclable' makers say

The manufacturer of the straws says the UK's recycling infrastructure needs more investment.

Tencent set to buy 10% stake in Universal Music

UMG's parent company Vivendi is in talks with the Chinese tech group over the deal.

Capita seeks to reverse 'reputational damage' after death of claimant

Assessor Capita is seeking to overturn a ruling and £10,000 damages award after a claimant died.

Monday, August 5, 2019

Boohoo makes offer to buy Karen Millen and Coast

The online fashion firm makes an offer to buy the online business of the two High Street brands.

Facebook urged to shut groups seeking fake Amazon reviews

Which? claimed to have uncovered several active groups that recruited people to write fake testimonies.

Yuan fall: Why is China's currency getting weaker?

A drop in the value the yuan poses far-reaching consequences for markets and the US-China trade war.

US officially labels China a 'currency manipulator'

Washington accuses Beijing of devaluing the yuan, a statement likely to intensify trade tensions.

Home buyers 'move faster in Scotland but slower in London'

Scotland has replaced London as the area of Britain to find a property buyer the fastest, figures suggest.

UK consumer spending falls to record low

Brexit uncertainty and slow real wage growth weigh on the High Street and online sales in July.

Engineered in Africa: 'We knew the talent was there'

Christina Sass of software engineer recruitment firm Andela says that talent can be found anywhere.

How Brexit could change the taste of whisky

A future trade deal between the UK and US could alter current regulations of whisky.

Facebook: UK privacy chief joins warning about cryptocurrency

The Information Commissioner's Office joins chorus of criticism over Facebook's digital currency.

HTC smartphones pulled from UK sale in patent row

The Taiwanese handset-maker has been in a long-running dispute with a German company.

Union calls off Tuesday's strike at Heathrow Airport

The UK's busiest airport and union representatives have agreed to suspend industrial action.

Sports Direct wins race to buy Jack Wills

Mike Ashley has added another struggling retailer to his empire; deal includes 110 shops.

Why young Indians are live streaming on social media

Hoping to be social media stars, young Indians are joining a live streaming app called Bigo Live.

Tesco to cut 4,500 jobs across 153 Metro stores

The supermarket giant says the move will allow it to serve shoppers better and be more sustainable.

China's yuan drops through seven-per-dollar level

Beijing had been expected to stop the yuan hitting the psychologically important level.

Heathrow in last-ditch talks to avert Tuesday's strike

Flights were cancelled by some airlines even after Monday's strike was suspended to allow time for talks.

McDonald's paper straws cannot be recycled

The firm says because of the thickness of the materials, the straws should be put into general waste.

Harland and Wolff: Administrators expected on Monday

Attempts to find a buyer for the Norwegian-owned Belfast shipyard have failed.

Sunday, August 4, 2019

Japan car sales slump in South Korea as trade row escalates

South Koreans have been boycotting Japanese goods as a bitter trade row between the countries builds.

Farm theft claims at 'seven-year high'

British farmers faced losses worth £50m in 2018 as criminals targeted tractors and animals.

Hong Kong hit by transport chaos ahead of city-wide strike

Hundreds of flights are cancelled and train services disrupted ahead of a city-wide strike.

HSBC chief executive out in top level reshuffle

The bank says it needs a change in leadership to tackle a "challenging global environment".

Letting fees ban: Renters confused after change in law

Laws around one-off letting fees charged by landlords and letting agents in England changed in June.

'I get so much recognition from YouTube'

In India farmers are taking to social media to share innovative farming practices and techniques.

Heathrow in last-minute talks to avert strikes

Many passengers still do not know whether their flight has been cancelled or not.

Saturday, August 3, 2019

China tariffs devastating, says soybean farmer

The trade war between the US and China has escalated, and US farmer John Boyd Jr says he is feeling the pain.

Friday, August 2, 2019

Broadband chiefs fire back at PM's full-fibre internet pledge

Leaders say a 2025 full-fibre deadline can only be met if four problems are resolved in 12 months.

Weak pound boosting UK tourism industry

Visitors from China, India and the US surge as sterling falls against most major currencies.

The 'microworkers' making your digital life possible

Who are the world's "microworkers" who make everybody's digital lives possible?

Heathrow pre-emptively cancels flights as support staff strike looms

The London airport has been in negotiations with the Unite union over staff pay.

Google to let rival search firms bid to be Android's default in EEA

Android users in most of Europe will have a choice of default search providers based on highest bids.

Pentagon: Major Amazon or Microsoft Jedi deal delayed

The Department of Defense had been expected to award the contract to Amazon or Microsoft this month.

Apple and Google stop workers playing back voice recordings

The tech giants say they will temporarily stop using humans to monitor smart speaker recordings.

Mark Carney warns of instant shock from no-deal Brexit

The Bank of England governor says prices will rise if the UK leaves the EU without an agreement.

Stock markets drop on new Trump China tariffs

Europe's main indexes fell more than 2% after the US President announced taxes on $300bn of Chinese goods.

BA pilots' pay deal is fair, says airline's boss

Talks to avert a summer airline strike will resume after BA lost a bid to avert industrial action.

Carers bullied by government, MPs say

Carers mistakenly paid too much benefit must repay the cash and some face court action.

Goals Soccer Centres says accounts crisis stretches back to 2010

The firm's shares are set to be kicked off the stock exchange after it discovers "improper behaviour".

Thursday, August 1, 2019

Japan to strike South Korea off trusted export list as rift deepens

South Korea is fiercely opposed to the move, which Japan says is due to national security concerns.

Exchange rates: Why is the pound getting weaker?

A simple guide to how currency is valued and what it means for your finances

Super Break and Late Rooms holiday firms go into administration

The holiday plans of more than 50,000 holidaymakers face disruption as package firms cease trading.

US-China trade war: 'We're all paying for this'

The US-China trade war is costing jobs and pushing up prices, say firms on both sides of the Pacific.

Would you take time out to watch someone eat on YouTube?

American 'Meokbang' YouTuber Blove became a millionaire by having people watch her eat.

How sliced bread became a million dollar idea

The BBC's Aaron Heslehurst explains how sliced bread became a million dollar idea.

Post-Brexit plans unveiled for 10 free ports

Boris Johnson believes that the zones could create jobs in "left-behind areas" across the UK.

Trump imposing more tariffs on Chinese goods

The US president announces fresh tariffs of 10% on another $300bn of Chinese products from 1 September.

US Congress reaches deal to avert budget showdown

The US Senate follows the House of Representatives in approving big rises in federal spending.

University pensions deficit could be £23bn

The figures will stoke debate about the Universities Superannuation Scheme's financial position.

Boris Johnson must listen to business, says BMW boss

The German carmaker, which builds the Mini in the UK, says a no-deal Brexit is a "lose-lose" situation.

Bank of England cuts UK growth forecast

The Bank holds interest rates steady, but warns about the impact of a no-deal Brexit.

Hotel Chocolat in plea to find missing 'Chocmobile'

One of the firm's vans has been stolen from Hotel Chocolat's headquarters in Royston, Hertfordshire.

Lego movie falls flat for Merlin Entertainment

The theme park operator blamed a lack of momentum from the film sequel for 'disappointing' sales.

Shell profits plunge on lower oil prices

Royal Dutch Shell saw its profits fall to their lowest since 2016 and short of market expectations.

Waitrose extends 'bring your own containers' anti-plastic scheme

The chain says it received a positive response after removing packaging from its Oxford store.