Monday, August 31, 2020

Lee Jae-yong: Samsung heir indicted for fraud in 2015 merger

South Korean prosecutors indict Lee Jae-yong on alleged stock and accounting fraud over a 2015 merger.

Bella Thorne, OnlyFans and the battle over monetising content

Content creators say OnlyFans has slashed incomes by placing caps on prices charged on the platform.

Facebook threatens news sharing ban in Australia

The social media giant is preparing for a new law that would force it to pay publishers for news articles.

Coronavirus: Portugal return to quarantine list would cause 'chaos and hardship'

The head of BA's parent company warns against new measures, as coronavirus cases in Portugal rise.

M&S food goes fully online with Ocado launch

The grocer is making its entire range available for delivery but experts are divided on the move.

Child Trust Funds: Teenagers get first chance to access cash

Savings pots could now be worth more than £1,000 but many teenagers are unaware they exist.

How this African restaurant adapted to the pandemic

Molly Malone's Restaurant in Johannesburg has converted its carpark into an outdoor 'roadhouse'.

Zoom revenues skyrocket as profits double

The popular video conferencing app has seen a 458% jump in customer growth compared to last year.

TikTok owner to 'strictly' obey China's tech takeover law

New rules mean Beijing could block the sale of the app's video recommendation engine.

India GDP shows worst quarterly slump in decades

It contracted by 23.9% in the quarter from April to June, according to official data.

Coronavirus: 'Covidiots' criticised on Tui quarantine flight

Mask rules were ignored on a Zante flight where everyone was told to self-isolate, a passenger says.

Sunday, August 30, 2020

The airline founder building Asia’s next super app

AirAsia’s Tony Fernandes is expanding into banking, music and e-payments to help tackle the travel slump.

The search engine boss who wants to help us all plant trees

Christian Kroll is the boss of Ecosia, which donates 80% of its profits to tree-planting projects.

Price of plastic carrier bags to double to 10p next year

The fee for single-use bags will rise to 10p and be extended to all shops from April 2021.

Government paid influencers to promote Test and Trace

Taxpayer money was used to pay influencers to promote Test and Trace.

Eat Out to Help Out discount comes to an end

The government's dining discount scheme ends on Monday, but there are calls for it to be extended.

'We need Eat Out To Help Out to run in the autumn'

A group of restaurateurs wants the Eat Out To Help Out scheme to be brought back in the autumn.

Capita to close over a third of offices permanently

Outsourcing firm Capita is looking to close offices as the trend for flexible working accelerates.

Moss Bros considering closing stores in rescue deal

The suit maker has been hit by Covid-19 restrictions on events such as Royal Ascot and large weddings.

Saturday, August 29, 2020

One in four BHS stores remain vacant four years after collapse

Department store chain closed its last stores in 2016 but finding new uses is a lengthy process.

Friday, August 28, 2020

Why parcel delivery courier company DPD is in court

Most DPD drivers are on self-employed franchise contracts without sick pay and holiday pay.

Learner drivers park manual cars in shift to automatic

The number of people taking lessons in automatic vehicles has risen every year since 2012.

Coronavirus unemployment: 'I felt worthless'

Julie changed jobs a week before lockdown - then found herself out of work and ineligible for help.

Waitrose signs up Deliveroo for rapid food delivery

Deliveroo customers could have goods from Waitrose delivered to their homes within 30 minutes.

Santander hit by online banking outage ahead of holiday weekend

The hitch comes ahead of the August bank holiday and the day millions receive their monthly salary.

Coronavirus: What do we know about the Banham Poultry outbreak?

The 80 positive coronavirus cases at a factory in Norfolk is regarded as a "significant" outbreak.

Coronavirus: Fitness industry 'devastated' by lockdown

Gym owners call for government support similar to the Eat Out to Help Out scheme.

Coronavirus: Gatwick passenger numbers collapse by 14.7 million

The airport says it will take four to five years for air traffic to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Mobile users still 'ripped off' by operators says Which?

Some customers are still paying full price for contracts even after they paid off expensive phones.

Scrapping 213 local councils could save £3bn says report

It comes as the government prepares to publish plans on overhauling the local government system.

Seaweed: The food and fuel of the future?

The farming of seaweed is accelerating as firms exploit its fast growth and green credentials.

Coronavirus: Campaign to encourage workers back to offices

A government push will launch next week as most schools in England and Wales reopen.

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Coronavirus: Renters need financial help, campaigners warn

A charity says families are behind with rent after being "punched unexpectedly into debt" due to the pandemic.

Benefits claimants face landlord discrimination despite ruling

Thousands of listings on a property website are not available to people on benefits.

NZ takes action over stock market cyber attacks

The comments from New Zealand's finance minister come after trading was hit for the fourth day in a row.

Tough times to continue for Chinese firms in the US

It doesn't matter if Trump or Biden wins, the anti-Chinese sentiment will remain on the White House agenda.

Five things to focus on in your CV

When it comes to CV-writing, maximise your chances of a job by focusing on these five things.

Blueberry farmers warn of 'disaster' crop

Wild blueberry farmers in the US state of Maine are now facing numerous challenges.

Pret A Manger to cut over a third of UK workforce

The sandwich chain will slash 3,000 roles as part of a rescue plan for the business.

Walmart joins Microsoft in bid for TikTok's US operations

US retail giant Walmart is the latest firm to bid for the Chinese video sharing app's US operations.

Fed relaxes inflation target in major policy shift

It will give the central bank more flexibility in how it aids the US recovery, says Chair Jerome Powell.

Europe to start Boeing 737 Max test flights

EU aviation regulators say clearance by their US counterparts will not automatically apply in Europe.

British Gas sorry for winter prepayment top-up switch failure

The firm will pay £1.73m after prepayment meter customers were not told about a new provider.

Mike Pompeo steps up criticism of HSBC over Hong Kong

The US secretary of state accuses the banking giant of aiding China's "political repression".

Lookfantastic owner The Hut Group plans £4.5bn listing

A stock market float by the firm, which owns Myprotein, could land its founder a £700m windfall.

Coronavirus: Payment for people on low incomes who must self-isolate

The benefit will be trialled in some parts of north-west England where coronavirus cases have risen.

Coronavirus: Payment for people on low incomes who must self-isolate

The benefit will be trialled in some parts of north-west England where coronavirus cases have risen.

Coronavirus: Rolls-Royce reports record loss as travel slumps

The company, which makes engines for planes, is cutting jobs and selling assets to bolster its finances.

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Warnings of 'ghost towns' if staff do not return to the office

Local businesses and jobs will suffer if workers do not return to the office, says the head of the CBI.

TikTok boss quits as Trump's ban looms

Kevin Mayer is leaving the video-sharing app at the centre of controversy amid US-China tensions.

Coronavirus: Pent-up demand 'leading to quicker home sales'

Property deals are racing though compared to last year, as the market recovers after the lockdown freeze.

Selling a new tea: 'Get the liquid on the lips'

Selling kombucha tea: “Getting the liquid on the lips was the most important challenge”.

'During lockdown my son was super stuck to me'

In Singapore, single mum Coco says Covid-19 has been hard for her and five-year-old son Jacob.

Coronavirus: Some restaurants extend Eat Out to September

Some eateries have decided to extend the discount scheme for another month to draw in more customers.

Gatwick Airport plans to cut 600 jobs due to coronavirus

The job losses follow an 80% drop in passenger numbers due to coronavirus, the airport says.

Coronavirus: UK 'could lose £60m a day' as tourism slumps

Foreign visitors are "staying away from the UK in droves" because of Covid-19, an industry body says.

Coronavirus: UK economy worst hit in OECD

The OECD says the UK economy was the worst affected among major economies between April and June.

BMW Mini Oxford car plant set for hundreds of job losses

The number of shifts are to be reduced because of a "substantial" fall in customer demand.

Coronavirus: Rail passengers to be warned when trains are busy

Rail companies plan to share capacity information with passengers so they can avoid crowded trains.

Germany extends coronavirus pay top-up scheme

Short-time work subsidies had been due to expire next March, but will now run until the end of 2021.

Tuesday, August 25, 2020

China's mighty Ant heads for a mega market debut

Little known in the west, China's dominate mobile payment firm is tipped for the world's biggest IPO.

No plan for a return to the office for millions of staff

Fifty of the biggest UK employers say they have no plans to return all their staff full time in the near future.

'I took a pay cut but at least I kept my job’

Companies across the UK have asked staff to accept lower pay in order to avoid lay-offs.

Coronavirus: Can I work from home overseas?

Thinking about setting up a home office abroad? Here's what you need to know.

Financial firms 'must do more' amid coronavirus complaints

More than 3,500 complaints about coronavirus-related financial issues have been made to the ombudsman.

'We're giving up our office forever to work from home'

Why one Birmingham-based company has decided to give up its office and let its staff permanently work from home.

Why are clothing sizes so erratic and can they be fixed?

New apps use your phone to record your dimensions and recommend what size to buy at shops.

Eat Out discount used 64m times in three weeks

The Treasury says its scheme, which gives diners 50% off in August, is helping protect 1.8 million jobs.

American Airlines to cut 19,000 jobs as travel falls

The airline said it will have 30% fewer staff working in October than it did before the pandemic.

Fraudsters target years of pension savings

Men in their 50s are the most likely targets of criminals, with losses totalling millions of pounds.

Virgin Atlantic wins backing for £1.2bn rescue deal

An agreement with creditors will secure the airline's future for the next 18 months.

DFS reports jump in sofa sales as shoppers sit it out

DFS reports a £100m rise in sales as people splash out after spending more time at home.

Apple can block Epic's Fortnite but not Unreal Engine

The ruling, which protects Epic's Unreal Engine tool, holds until a full hearing on 28 September.

Appledore Shipyard to reopen after £7m InfraStrata deal

Appledore Shipyard in Devon closed in March 2019 but has now been bought by InfraStrata.

Co-op Bank to shed 350 jobs and close branches

Economic uncertainty and the shift to online banking have prompted the cuts, the bank says.

Virgin Atlantic awaits key vote on survival deal

The airline agreed the £1.2bn rescue deal in July to secure its future beyond the coronavirus crisis.

KFC drops Finger Lickin' Good slogan amid coronavirus

The fast food giant says the slogan will be paused as it "doesn't quite fit" during the pandemic.

Climate change: New UK law to curb deforestation in supply chains

UK businesses will have to show that products and supply lines are free from illegal deforestation.

Monday, August 24, 2020

Trump: US and China hold 'constructive' trade talks after delay

President Trump had previously postponed the trade meeting as he didn't "want to talk to China right now."

The Iranian immigrant who conquered online video tech

Shahrzad Rafati is the boss of internet video technology firm BroadbandTV.

Carmakers urge FTC to fight Qualcomm ruling

Carmakers and tech firms warn prices of 5G devices and connected cars will rise if action isn't taken.

Facebook agrees to pay France €106m in back taxes

The social networking giant has also agreed to pay France 50% more tax for 2020.

TikTok calls Trump ban ‘political’ in lawsuit

President Donald Trump ordered Americans to stop doing business with the popular Chinese video app.

Microsoft backs Epic Games in legal row with Apple

The Xbox company has declared support for the Fortnite-maker as it battles Apple's "monopoly".

'Creepy men' message women on Scrabble Go app

Men, believed to be romance scammers, are approaching women via the chat function of the game.

Tesco's 16,000 jobs drive to reward lockdown temps

The supermarket says more pickers and drivers are needed to meet a surge in demand for deliveries.

Coronavirus: Bailiffs return to chase pre-lockdown unpaid debts

Bailiffs are resuming operations after a five-month suspension due to coronavirus.

Mike Ashley buys long-time rival's business out of administration

The Sports Direct owner will buy gyms and shops from Dave Whelan after they went bust.

Sunday, August 23, 2020

Rio Tinto bosses lose bonuses over Aboriginal cave destruction

Executives at the mining giant Rio Tinto have had their payouts cut over the culturally important site.

Coronavirus job losses may deepen regional inequality - Labour

Areas with a high proportion of workers in struggling sectors will be hardest hit by the pandemic, the party says.

Travel firms 'desperately need' government help

The industry is asking government for a new rescue plan as jobs are being lost at an "alarming" rate.

Stress, burnout and redundancy: Tough times in IT

More staff working from home means more work for IT staff, but many face uncertainty over their jobs.

John Lewis to pull 'Never knowingly undersold' pledge

The new boss says the slogan could be replaced with "Fair value for all" as the chain modernises.

Saturday, August 22, 2020

TikTok launches legal action against Trump over ban

President Donald Trump ordered Americans to stop doing business with the popular Chinese video app.

Friday, August 21, 2020

Pandemic 'biggest knock to live music in my life'

The business of selling music is looking healthier, but those who perform it are still suffering.

Coronavirus forces STA Travel out of business

The firm which focused on the youth tourism market has 50 outlets in the UK.

US wins end of EU lobster tariffs in mini trade deal

Trade officials said the move to roll back some tariffs was part of "improving EU-US relations".

Coronavirus: What are the rules around evictions?

The ban on evictions has been extended, but how do they work?

Turkey's Erdogan hails huge natural gas find

President Erdogan says a Turkish drilling ship has made a major gas discovery in the Black Sea.

Coronavirus: UK tourists face new quarantine deadline race

Travellers from Croatia, Austria and Trinidad and Tobago must self-isolate for two weeks from Saturday.

Crossrail needs extra £450m and delayed until 2022

The project's CEO Mark Wild says the project is in its "complex final stages".

Norwich Jarrold job losses: Boss Minnie Moll among 90 to lose jobs 'due to coronavirus'

The chief executive is made redundant as the group axes jobs in "Covid-related" cuts.

Why is Croatia on the quarantine list? And other questions

People returning to the UK from Croatia must self-isolate from Saturday. We answer your travel questions.

Brexit: UK-EU trade deal 'seems unlikely' says Michel Barnier

The bloc's negotiator says talks are "going backwards" as the UK says "little progress" has been made.

UK government debt hits £2tn for first time

The government now owes more than 100% of GDP for the first time in 60 years.

UK retail sales climb back to pre-pandemic levels

Sales rose by 3.6% in July as demand for clothing recovered and people spent more on fuel.

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Coronavirus: Job shortage sees 1,000 people chase one position

Data reveals vacancy adverts are down by 59% compared with last summer, with some areas down 80%.

News publishers fight tech giants for better deals

Apple and Google face pressure from news providers who want a greater share of revenue for their content.

China's Alibaba offers olive branch to Trump

The comments from the online retail giant's boss come as the firm saw sales jump in the wake of the pandemic.

Rugby League World Cup 2021 in England aims for high impact

The 2021 Rugby League World Cup wants to use the sport's northern roots to spread its wings overseas.

Coronavirus: Eviction day fears for worried tenants in England and Wales

Eviction cases resume on Monday - but with new restrictions - in contrast to elsewhere in the UK.

'We have had parents crying for us to open'

The children's activities sector says it has been hit hard by the coronavirus lockdown.

Coronavirus: Portugal added to UK's safe travel list as Croatia is removed

Portugal is added to UK's safe travel list but Croatia, Austria and Trinidad and Tobago are removed.

Lyft suspends service in California over employment row

Both Uber and Lyft face a Friday deadline to change business practices in California.

US jobless claims rise back above one million

The number of Americans on benefits surpassed economists' forecasts of 925,000 claimants.

Croatia could be next on UK quarantine list, say sources

If confirmed, anyone travelling to the UK from the country would have to quarantine for 14 days.

Mothercare finalises deal to sell products in Boots

The agreement is part of a restructure of the baby goods firm, which closed its UK stores in January.

Sports Direct owner Frasers Group sees signs of 'normality' returning

Despite the recovery Frasers Group says profits fell during "the most challenging year" in its history.

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Airbnb puts stock market launch back on the table

The online booking firm had plans to publicly list before the coronavirus struck earlier this year.

Coronavirus-hit Qantas posts £1bn annual loss

The Australian airline expects around 4,000 of its planned job cuts to be finalised by the end of September.

Coronavirus: 'My dad built me a beauty salon in the garden'

Some parents have gone to great lengths in order to help their children start a career in a pandemic.

Real 'Wolf of Wall Street' offers investor knowhow

Jordan Belfort, who inspired the Martin Scorsese movie, is offering amateur traders tips online.

'Three quarters of UK does grocery shopping online'

The coronavirus crisis has speeded up the shift to online shopping, says Waitrose

Boeing wins first 737 order since 2019 after crashes

Polish charter airline Enter Air said it has confidence in the review the aircraft has faced since the crashes.

Trump attacks Goodyear for campaign clothes ban

The tyre company says it asks staff to refrain from "political campaigning".

Apple first US company to be valued at $2tn

The tech giant reaches the milestone just two years after achieving a $1tn stock market valuation.

Makeup: The eyes have it for post-lockdown sales

Masks and the ongoing use of video calls means eye makeup is taking a greater share of sales, analysts say.

Coronavirus in Northampton: 'I wake up and hope we have no lockdown'

How do businesses feel in the town with the highest number of new Covid-19 cases in England?

Coronavirus: Lockdown budgeting exploited by fraudsters

Investment scams rise during the summer as con-artists take advantage of coronavirus uncertainty.

PPE costs add to surprise jump in UK inflation in July

Extra cost of personal protection equipment for dentists and hairdressers helped send UK inflation to 1%.

Coronavirus: Care homes ask for insurance cost help

One care operator in Scarborough had an insurance quote at 880% more than their current premium.

UK inflation rises to 1% in July as lockdown eases

The rate of Consumer Price Index inflation jumped from 0.6% in June to 1% in July, official figures show.

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

Trump gives nod to Oracle buyout of TikTok in US

Oracle's chairman Larry Ellison is a supporter of the US president and held a fundraiser for him this year.

Can Harry Potter magic tourists back to Japan?

Film studio Warner Bros hopes its new tourist attraction based on the boy wizard will be ready for 2023.

Iconic British music brand NME launches in Asia

The announcement comes as much of the global media industry is being forced to make significant cuts.

Pizza Express to close 73 outlets hitting 1,100 jobs

The chain says it has cut a deal to stay afloat as coronavirus continues to buffet the economy.

'I'm very anxious about getting back to work'

Charities say thousands who have been shielding may have to choose between a job and their health.

Tracking down three billion litres of lost water

Pinpointing a leaky pipe is difficult, so water firms are deploying thousands of sophisticated sensors.

US stocks hit new high after coronavirus crash

Wall Street's S&P 500 index is now higher than it was in February before a historic 34% collapse.

Camping gear sales jump amid staycation boom

Asda, John Lewis and Halfords have all seen surging demand for equipment as pitch bookings rise.

Sajid Javid: Why has the ex-chancellor been allowed to work for JP Morgan?

The ex-chancellor has taken a job with the US bank, six months after resigning from government.

Housebuilder Persimmon reports weekly sales jump as house prices rise

The shares rose 5% despite a drop in profit and fewer homes being built than the year before.

Southend Airport: 'Disappointment' at Easyjet flight cuts

Flights to 21 destinations from the Essex airport are being scrapped by the low-cost airline.

Eat Out to Help Out dishes out 35m meals in two weeks

The government set aside £500m for Eat Out to Help Out in order to support the hospitality sector.

Fortnite: Epic files new injunction against Apple

Fortnite-maker Epic Games now says it faces a total ban from Apple.

M&S to cut 7,000 jobs over next three months

The High Street retailer says the coronavirus pandemic has meant a "material shift in trade".

Former Chancellor Javid returns to JP Morgan

Mr Javid quit as chancellor in February after refusing to sack his advisers.

Monday, August 17, 2020

Citibank sues for $176m payment made in error

Citigroup says the over-payment to hedge fund Brigade was due to an "operational mistake".

Trump dangles cash for US firms moving from China

The US president is enticing companies to move factories back to America while punishing those who don’t.

Thousands of migrants denied help in the pandemic

Migrants in casual roles have lost work under lockdown - but they are unable to access benefits.

Auctioneers see surge in Covid-19 bankruptcy sales

Auction firm reports "busiest month in 52 years" as stock is sold from businesses going bankrupt.

The two students who took on Coke and Pepsi

German friends Mirco Wiegert and Lorenz Hampl launched best-selling Fritz-Kola in 2003.

Ryan Reynolds-backed gin bought in $610m deal

Aviation American gin, in which the Hollywood actor holds a major stake, has been sold to Diageo.

McDonald's ex-boss fights sexual liaison claims

Steve Easterbrook has asked for a case alleging that he lied about relationships with staff to be dismissed.

Huawei: US tightens restrictions on Chinese giant

The actions will stop the firm buying computer chips made using US tech, even if made abroad.

Ryanair cuts flights as EU virus rates hit bookings

The airline said activity for September and October "notably weakened" over the past 10 days.

Selfridges to offer clothing rental in environmental push

Customers are demanding that businesses take environmental concerns seriously, says boss.

Morrisons considers ditching all 'bags for life' for paper

The grocer says customers are ready to stop using plastic bags and promises sturdy paper replacements.

Sunday, August 16, 2020

Coronavirus: Japan suffers its biggest economic slump on record

The world’s third largest economy saw growth contract by a record 27.8% amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus: Claims open for second self-employed support grant

HM Revenue and Customs admits some people were paid too much when the first grants were distributed.

Turkey Twizzlers set for healthier comeback

Bernard Matthews is relaunching the controversial product, once condemned as unhealthy by Jamie Oliver.

China and trade: Breaking up is hard to do

Coronavirus has forced firms to rethink supply lines, but can they reduce their reliance on China?

MSC Grandiosa: First Mediterranean cruise launches after five-month pause

Operator MSC Cruises says everyone aboard has been tested for coronavirus amid safety concerns.

Debenhams hires liquidator in contingency plan

The department store chain appoints specialist firm Hilco Capital but says it is "trading strongly".

Dropshipping: The hustlers making millions from goods they never handle

Dropshippers buy cheap products from China and then pay internet celebrities to promote them.

Saturday, August 15, 2020

Coronavirus: How music played on in lockdown

The music industry nearly ground to a halt as the pandemic gripped the UK, so how have companies coped?

Tea at the Ritz soured by credit card scammers

Scammers posed as hotel staff to trick customers into handing over payment information.

Friday, August 14, 2020

'Blackmailers stole our Instagram account'

What happens when a small company is extorted after losing control of its Instagram account?

My Money: 'My mum's advice saved me from lockdown anxiety'

Lexy Oliver from Cheshire takes us through her week during the coronavirus pandemic.

Robots go their own way deep in the ocean

Firms are building robots that can survey the seabed and underwater structures without human help.

Coronavirus: Yo! Sushi to shut restaurants and cut 250 jobs

The company, known for its conveyor belt service, has launched a company voluntary arrangement.

Ex-pizza delivery boy's gym firm worth over £1bn

Ben Francis, the founder of sportswear company Gymshark, has sold a 21% stake to a US investor.

Just Eat to stop using gig economy workers

Boss Jitse Groen says he would rather have staff who get benefits and more workplace protection.

Coronavirus: Can I get travel insurance and what are my travel rights?

France and the Netherlands have been added to the list of UK quarantine countries.

Eurotunnel warns travellers not to turn up without a booking

The firm says customers trying to return early from France must have a booking to travel.

Thursday, August 13, 2020

What to expect as China-US trade talks resume

The two economic superpowers have seen tensions rise considerably since their last negotiations.

Amazon launches online pharmacy in India

The internet retail giant's move comes as US tech firms are investing billions of dollars in India.

France to be added to UK quarantine countries

People returning from the Netherlands and Malta from Saturday will also have to self-isolate.

‘Raise sick pay’ to lower virus health and economic risk

It would manage a "crude" trade-off between lives and jobs as the UK economy reopens, a report says.

'We were all packed, then they cancelled our holiday'

Hundreds of would-be holidaymakers are finding their bookings have been cancelled at the last minute.

The millions being made from cardboard theft

With the global market for recycled cardboard worth billions of dollars, it is attracting criminals.

Fortnite removed from iPhone App Store as Epic Games sues

Epic Games said it was taking Apple to court over monopolistic policies.

New Look in new bid to turn fortunes around

The fashion chain wants landlords to accept rents based on the sales stores generate.

US jobless claims below 1m for first time since March

The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits falls to 963,000.

Jobs: Demand for workers picks up in early August

Recruiters say the number of new job ads suggests that a slow recovery could be underway.

Michael Jordan: Rare trainers to fetch at least $500,000 at auction

Christies is selling 11 pairs of the basketball legend's shoes, including the "rarest of the rare".

National Express to use jobs bonus to cut bus fares

The government's job retention bonus scheme will be used to cut fares in the West Midlands and Dundee.

Coronavirus: Price cap plan for funerals shelved by CMA

A long-running investigation finds the sector is not working well for grieving families.

Tui: Holiday bookings for next summer jump 145%

The travel giant makes a £1bn loss in three months - but says summer bookings for 2021 are up 145%.

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

China's Tencent downplays Trump's WeChat app ban

The ban on Tencent's messaging app could end up being be more damaging to iPhone maker Apple.

Coronavirus: Netflix to stream Diana musical before Broadway debut

The life story of the princess will become the first Broadway show to premiere on the small screen.

'Don't take knockbacks as insults, l learn from them'

Ready meals maker: "don't take knockbacks as insults. Learn from them."

Livestreaming in Asia: Meet the stars of 'shoppertainment'

As Covid-19 keeps millions of people at home, the popularity of "shoppertainment" has skyrocketed in Asia.

What will fashion shows look like post Covid-19?

CGI models allow patterns to be tested virtually and fewer garments, if any, need to be made.

First-time buyers: Four ways the property market 'will be tougher'

UK house prices are predicted to fall but a report spells out why property may remain out of reach.

US holds off on threatened tariff hike in EU Airbus fight

The US will maintain import duties on $7.5bn worth of items including French cheese and single malt whiskies.

Getting creative and going viral in lockdown

During lockdown many families have turned to creating online videos as a way of having fun.

Recession is unprecedented, says Chancellor Rishi Sunak

Rishi Sunak says it is a "difficult and uncertain time" as the UK suffers its biggest slump on record.

Natwest to cut 550 jobs in branches and close one office

The lender is seeking to cut costs as more people bank online during the pandemic.

Cardiff-based Admiral car insurer reveals profits jump

Covid-19 lockdown restrictions saw customers staying at home and fewer miles driven, says Admiral.

Sumner Redstone: US media mogul dies aged 97

His influential entertainment empire included ViacomCBS and Paramount Pictures.

Coronavirus: How can I find a new job?

Jobseekers are having a tough time at the moment but some sectors are hiring and support is available.

Sports Direct owner Frasers delays annual accounts again

Profit and sales figures at Mike Ashley's Frasers Group are delayed while figures are finalised.

Asos ups forecasts amid lockdown sports gear boom

The fashion retailer says "stronger than anticipated" demand has continued even as lockdown has eased.

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

UK in recession for first time in 11 years

UK has officially fallen into recession for first time in 11 years due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic

Disney ends the historic 20th Century Fox brand

The move comes after the firm paid more than $71bn for most of Rupert Murdoch's film and TV business.

Coronavirus: World's biggest gambling hub reopens for business

The "Las Vegas of Asia" is hoping to bring back the high-rollers after its virus-driven visitor slump.

Coronavirus: What is a recession?

The coronavirus pandemic has thrown many countries into recession - but what exactly is it and how could it affect you?

Coronavirus: Airline refunds ‘still too slow’ despite warning

Which? says the Civil Aviation Authority needs more powers to punish airlines over refund delays.

The headphones that even a DJ can't break?

A new way to produce tiny speakers promises more robust headphones with high quality sound.

Coronavirus: How could a recession affect me?

The world faces the worst recession for 80 years. But what does that mean?

Priti Patel: Home Secretary takes on Ben and Jerry's over migrant boats

A Home Office source brands the ice cream "overpriced junk food" after comments on Channel crossings.

'Bullying' Apple fights couple over pear logo

The owners of the Prepear recipe app are speaking out after Apple tried to block their pear logo.

Coronavirus: Lockdown cash deposited in post offices

Businesses and individuals have returned to post offices to deposit money saved during lockdown.

Uber and Lyft drivers are employees, says US judge

The California court gives the two ride-hailing firms 10 days to challenge the ruling.

Missing Cryptoqueen: Why did the FCA drop its warning about the OneCoin scam?

A decision to delete an online alert was exploited by those promoting the multi-billion-pound crime.

Stilton drives wedge between UK-Japan Brexit deal

Stil-tons to do as talks over blue cheese become an unlikely obstacle to a post-Brexit trade agreement.

Debenhams to cut 2,500 jobs amid pandemic

The chain says current trading environment for retailers is still "a long way from returning to normal."

Heathrow: Coronavirus quarantine 'strangling UK economy'

Britain is being cut off from critical markets, says the airport, which saw traffic plunge in July.

UK employment falls by biggest amount in over a decade

Employment decreased by 220,000 between April and June, said the Office for National Statistics.

Monday, August 10, 2020

Trump: Tech giants challenge US foreign worker crackdown

Amazon, Apple and Facebook are among the firms backing the legal case against the temporary visa ban.

Apple boss Tim Cook reaches billionaire status

The company's share price has soared, helping to boost the personal wealth of its chief executive.

Jobless in the pandemic: 'It's hard to stay positive'

The government's furlough scheme has stopped unemployment surging, but that may be changing.

Retail sales rise despite fewer High Street visits

Sales grew again in July, but some retailers are 'hanging by a thread', the industry body says.

Unemployment and coronavirus: Older workers feel 'forgotten'

Julie Morris explains what it is like to be job hunting in your late fifties during coronavirus.

'People told me my plans for a skincare firm were crazy'

When Tata Harper was setting up her US cosmetics brand, she was told it would never work.

Eat out to help out: More than 10.5 million meals claimed in first week

The government has set aside £500m to cover the cost of the scheme for restaurants, bars and cafes.

McDonald's sues ex-boss Easterbrook over sexual relationships

The fast food giant says former boss Steve Easterbrook lied about his behaviour.

Toshiba shuts the lid on laptops after 35 years

Toshiba has sold its remaining shares in its former personal computing division.

Lockdown home worker: 'Artificial office noise helps me concentrate'

People are turning to artificial office noise to help them while working from home during lockdown.

Jimmy Lai: Hong Kong media tycoon arrested under security law

The prominent pro-democracy supporter is accused of foreign collusion under controversial new laws.

Sunday, August 9, 2020

Twitter 'looking' at a possible TikTok tie-up

The messaging platform has approached under-fire TikTok about a possible deal, according to sources.

'It will break my heart to have to walk away'

Why has the number of self-employed people started to fall?

One in three UK firms 'expect to make redundancies'

Research suggests a third of UK organisations plan job cuts, a 50% increase on three months ago.

Black Lives Matter: Campaign for black businesses has been 'extraordinary'

A campaign to support businesses run by black people has had an "extraordinary effect" on sales.

Coronavirus: Pret a Manger to cut staff hours

The sandwich chain has asked staff to work 20% fewer contracted hours due to the pandemic.

CEO Secrets: ‘What I learned from leaders’ behaviour off-camera’

A look at what business leaders' behaviour off-camera reveals about their real personalities.

Saturday, August 8, 2020

Beirut explosion: World leaders to hold aid summit

French President Emmanuel Macron has organised Sunday's online talks to generate aid for Lebanon.

Coronavirus: How fishing trade transformed to survive lockdown

The coronavirus pandemic is forcing the fishing industry to diversify to stay in business.

Tate boss defends plan to cut 200 jobs in art gallery shops and cafes

"Sadly at the moment the trading business is too big," Maria Balshaw told Desert Island Discs.

Coronavirus: Redundancies rise fivefold as pandemic hits jobs

A BBC Freedom of Information request shows there has rapid rise in firms planning to cut staff.

Friday, August 7, 2020

Coronavirus: Millions for small business 'sitting in council accounts'

Government grants for small firms have to be claimed by the end of August.

'We've had 15,000 booked for Eat Out to Help Out'

Restaurants are cautiously optimistic about their trading prospects as eateries reopen for business.

I won a holiday but it turned out to be a big scam

Sammie Richardson was nearly duped by a fake competition on Instagram but there are more scams out there.

The coldest computers in the world

New computers promise to cruise through old problems, but involve mind-boggling low temperatures.

What is Tencent?

The Chinese firm's investments include Fortnite, Tesla and Universal Music - but it's under fire in the US.

US jobs growth slows in July as pandemic takes toll

American employers added 1.8 million jobs last month, down from 4.8 million in June.

Mini house-buying boom leads to highest ever monthly price

The housing market is showing a 'surprising spike' as people return to buying property after the lockdown.

BA staff facing redundancy or pay cuts speak out

British Airways staff facing possible redundancy or pay cuts wore masks of airline bosses Willie Walsh and Alex Cruz as they vented their anger.

Coronavirus: UK 'will not hesitate' to add nations to quarantine list

Belgium, the Bahamas and Andorra are the latest additions, meaning travellers from there have to isolate.

Energy bills: Millions set to see 'big savings' as price cap lowered

The price cap for gas and electricity bills is lowered by energy watchdog Ofgem as wholesale costs fall.

Thursday, August 6, 2020

Facebook's Zuckerberg sees wealth soar after TikTok rival launch

The social media giant's shares rose on Thursday after the launch of its new TikTok rival Instagram Reels.

TikTok: Trump signs order to address 'threat' of Chinese app

Beginning in 45 days, any US transaction with parent company ByteDance will be banned.

Anger rises as British Airways cuts start to bite

Cabin crew who are not made redundant on Friday will still face steep pay cuts.

Cosplay and Covid: Video gamers defy the virus

Video game meet-up ChinaJoy was one of the first big shows staged in China since the pandemic began.

Is the US about the split the internet?

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says he wants a "clean" internet free of "untrusted" Chinese apps.

UK's winter athletes aim for a record Olympic medal haul

British winter sports boss Vicky Gosling explains why Team GB is aiming for a record Olympic medal haul.

The islands that want tourists as well as fish

The Faroe Islands are trying to reduce their dependence on fishing industries.

Coronavirus: Uber customer activity falls sharply

The firm said its customer activity had almost halved despite a food delivery boom.

US slaps 10% levy on some Canadian aluminium

The US reimposes a 10% tariff on some Canadian aluminium products.

Coronavirus: Travellers from Belgium, Andorra, and the Bahamas must quarantine in UK

The changes start from 04:00 BST on Saturday apart from in Wales, where it starts midnight Thursday.

Travelex enters administration with 1,300 UK jobs cut

A cyber-attack followed by the Covid-19 crisis "acutely" hit the firm, administrators said.

JD Wetherspoon: A third of head office jobs 'at risk'

Chief executive John Hutson says 110 to 130 staff are at risk of redundancy at its Watford base.

Animal Crossing boosts Nintendo sales

The Japanese firm sold roughly 10 times as many copies of the game in the quarter as any of its other titles.

Uber to expand across UK with Autocab takeover

The move will see Uber made available in about 170 towns and cities.

Coronavirus: Serco defends Test & Trace despite low contact rate

Rupert Soames says it is difficult to immediately get contact details from people infected by Covid-19.

Audi: More former car executives face 'dieselgate' charges

German prosecutors charge four more over claims the carmaker misled consumers about pollution levels.

High-cost lenders using 'exotic holidays' to encourage debt

Pictures of holidays and "nudge" tactics are being used to persuade people to get into greater debt.

ITV profits wiped out as pandemic hits ad revenue

Boss Dame Carolyn McCall says the broadcaster has been through "one of the most challenging times".

Downturn less severe than feared - Bank of England

UK economy is still set for worst performance in 100 years according to the UK's central bank.

Wednesday, August 5, 2020

TikTok: Trump administration plans Chinese tech crackdown

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo wants a “clean network” free of "untrusted" apps like TikTok and WeChat.

Why stock markets are defying a shrinking economy

Some of the reasons shares are disconnected from the real economy.

TikTok to open $500m data centre in Ireland

The firm says the move represents its "long-term commitment to Europe".

LinkedIn co-founder reveals key secret to success

Allen Blue, who co-founded professional network LinkedIn, reveals how start-ups can achieve growth.

Coronavirus: Interest in country living surges

Estate agents have seen a surge in interest in moving to the country from people in cities.

Planning law overhaul for England takes next step

Critics fear the system could lead to "bad-quality" homes and loss of local control over development.

Majority of staff jobs at risk, hotel firm warns

About 1,500 staff at hotels managed by LGH have been told they are at risk of redundancy.

Mulan: UK cinemas hit out at 'disappointing' Disney+ release

A plan to release the film on Disney+ instead of in cinemas is described as "hugely disappointing".

Holiday shock: 'We were stopped from boarding our Greece flight'

Airlines are turning away holidaymakers at UK airports because of new rules on flying to Greece.

Blondie song catalogue sold in 'Atomic' deal

Hipgnosis Songs Fund, which allows people to invest in popular hits, snaps up 197 of the band's songs.

Lebanon: Why the country is in crisis

What has caused such anger across Lebanon - and why it is not going away.

Samsung unveils Galaxy Z Fold 2 and Note 20 smartphones

The Galaxy Z Fold 2 now has a much bigger display on its outside for use when closed.

WH Smith may cut 1,500 jobs after sales plummet

High Street chain joins fellows in drastic job cutting after lockdown stalls business activity.

Sweden's economy less hard-hit by coronavirus

After avoiding a Covid-19 lockdown, the country sees its economy shrink less than in other EU nations.

William Hill to close 119 betting shops

The betting chain says it does not expect customers to return in the numbers seen before the pandemic.

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

Gold price hits record high above $2,000 an ounce

Precious metal values have been pushed up as investors look for havens amid the coronavirus crisis.

New car registrations to see first rise this year

Figures due for July are expected to show an 11% post-lockdown increase in new vehicles registered.

Cornonavirus: Crisis-hit Virgin Atlantic files for bankruptcy

At the same time Virgin Australia's new owner Bain Capital is cutting around 3,000 jobs at the airline.

Anthony Levandowski: Ex-Google engineer sentenced for theft

A judge says Anthony Levandowski carried out the "biggest trade secret crime I have ever seen".

Redundancy advice calls triple as furlough scheme winds down

Conciliation service Acas says thousands more people are calling for redundancy advice.

Bosses' pandemic pay cuts 'superficial' says report

The UK's largest companies have failed to address a culture of excessive bonuses, a report says.

Architects urge refurbishment tax breaks

Knocking down old buildings sends a wrecking ball through carbon targets, architects say.

My Money: 'I eat biscuits like a naughty schoolboy'

Mark Bauwens from France takes us through his week during the coronavirus pandemic.

Virtual house hunting gets a pandemic boost

Estate agents say demand has soared for tours of houses using virtual reality headsets.

Disney focuses on streaming as it falls to a loss

The giant firm will launch a new streaming site as it battles the effects of the coronavirus crisis.

TikTok founder defends potential Microsoft sale

The social media company has been caught between the tensions between the US and China.

Google-Fitbit takeover: EU expands launches full-scale probe

The European Commission's move has the potential to derail the $2.1bn takeover.

Audi drops 'insensitive' girl with banana ad

The German carmaker apologises for a tweeted car ad that sparked a furore.

Dixons Carphone to cut 800 store management jobs

The Currys PC World owner said it was "not an easy decision" but it must respond to rising online sales.

Pizza Express may close 67 outlets and cut 1,100 jobs

High Street chain the latest to look to restructure and refinance as virus deals extra blow to trade.

EasyJet increases flights to cope with holidaymaker demand

The airline adds more flights to cope with increasing demand from holidaymakers.

BP cuts dividend as losses swell on poor oil demand

The oil giant warns the coronavirus pandemic could weigh on demand for a "sustained period".

AA motoring group in takeover talks with three suitors

The veteran motoring organisation is considering approaches from private equity firms

Monday, August 3, 2020

Boeing's 737 Max moves closer to flying again

US regulators have put forward a list of changes needed before the ill-fated planes can restart flights.

Donald Trump: US Treasury should get cut of TikTok deal

The president's comments come after Microsoft said it is in talks to buy the app's US business.

The boss who bounced her way to £3m from just £200

How Kimberlee Perry grew trampoline fitness company Bounce, which is aimed at women.

‘We wanted to create a label for young people'

Def Jam Africa tells the BBC how the record label is expanding to discover more talent in wider genres.

Call for TikTok security check before HQ decision

The owner of the short-form video app has London on a shortlist of possible locations.

Government urges post-Brexit drug stockpiles

Firms should have six weeks' worth of post-Brexit drug stockpiles by the end of 2020, the government says.

Beyond TikTok: Who else might President Trump ban?

Other Chinese-owned software could face difficulties in the US, if TikTok ban goes ahead.

Hays Travel 'devastated' as announces 878 job cuts

The firm says new travel restrictions have triggered hundreds of thousands of holiday cancellations.

DW Sports gym chain collapse threatens 1,700 jobs

The company operated 73 gyms and 75 stores across the UK, and the move puts 1.700 jobs at risk.

Can 'Eat out to help out' save the restaurant industry?

The scheme is the chancellor’s latest move to try to help the struggling hospitality sector.

Coronavirus holiday claims push Hiscox into a loss

The insurer says cancelled travel and events means it has set aside $232m to cover claims.

Eat out to help out: Coronavirus scheme offering UK diners 50% off begins

The offer is valid at more than 72,000 eateries on Mondays to Wednesdays throughout August.

Sunday, August 2, 2020

HSBC's profits slump 65% amid coronavirus downturn

The UK's biggest bank saw a larger-than-expected drop in earnings as it feels the effects of the pandemic.

Nasa SpaceX crew return: Dragon capsule splashes down

The SpaceX capsule touches down off Florida, in the first crewed US water landing in 45 years.

Wealth inequality rises even as wage gap narrows

Although the gap in wages is narrowing, inequalities in wealth across the UK are rising.

Ban ads for polluting large cars, report says

A new campaign says the government should ban adverts for large cars like sports utility vehicles.

TikTok: Pompeo says Trump to crack down on Chinese software in coming days

The US state secretary says Chinese-owned software poses a "broad array" of security risks.

Coronavirus: How the travel downturn is sending jet planes to 'boneyards'

Amid the pandemic, commercial air fleets are grounded in some of the world's most remote locations.

TikTok: Microsoft pauses talks on buying US arm - reports

The tech giant's possible purchase of the China-owned app's US arm were put in doubt by Donald Trump.

Saturday, August 1, 2020

'Automatic' permission for new homes in England planning shake-up

The housing secretary says “unlocking land” for development will create thousands of jobs.

Can summer survive America's coronavirus spike?

Visitors have returned to US vacation spots like Cape Cod, but the virus casts a shadow.

My Money: 'My daughter's therapy costs £5,490 each month'

Matt Hitchcock from Singapore takes us through his week during the coronavirus pandemic.