Saturday, October 31, 2020

'My parents had hearts of gold, they didn't deserve it'

How people are dealing with the effects of coronavirus in one New York neighbourhood.

'A new lockdown will be far worse for businesses'

Several entrepreneurs tell the BBC what is at stake, for their industry and wider society.

Friday, October 30, 2020

Chip wars: The US v China

Chips that power nearly all electronic devices are at the heart of the battle for global dominance.

Why the humble text message is a key campaign tool

Every election campaign uses more sophisticated tech, but the text message still cuts through.

'Millions face hardship' as government support ends

Renters and the self employed could be among those facing tough times this winter, charities warn.

Marriott Hotels fined £18.4m for data breach that hit millions

Up to 339 million people may have been hit in a cyber-attack on a chain later bought by Marriott.

Eurozone bounces back to economic growth

The region saw 12.7% growth from July to September but GDP is still smaller than before the pandemic.

Eco-friendly diamonds made from the sky

Eco-friendly diamonds made from carbon sucked out of the air have been created in the UK.

House prices climb to record high, says Nationwide

House prices rise at their fastest rate for five years as buyers race to avoid paying stamp duty.

NatWest warns of 'challenging times' amid surprise profit

Bank posted a £355m profit before tax for July to September even though analysts expected a loss.

Covid: The 400,000 seafarers who can't go home

Unions say Covid has in effect trapped thousands of seafarers on ships - waiting to go home.

Japan's first passenger jet in decades put on hold

Plans for the Mitsubishi SpaceJet have been frozen due to budget cuts amid the virus downturn.

Thursday, October 29, 2020

SpiceJet: Indian airline turns to seaplanes to boost travel

SpiceJet will fly the aircraft to the site of the world's tallest statue among its new routes.

CEO Secrets: The aviation workers starting new businesses

We hear from three people who have started their own companies during the downturn in aviation.

Covid: What impact has the furlough scheme had?

As the furlough scheme draws to a close, how much did it cost and did it achieve its aims?

Furlough: ‘In limbo’ or ‘one long garden party'?

Furlough was a welcome holiday for some but for others it was a long and anxious waiting game.

Job Support Scheme: How do new post-furlough changes work?

The government has expanded its Job Support Scheme, which replaces furlough from November.

‘It’s all about survival now'

How are Tottenham residents coping after the area had one of the highest furlough rates in London?

How do I find a new job during Covid and which sectors are hiring?

Jobseekers are having a tough time at the moment, but support is available.

For Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Google business is booming

Latest sales and profit figures from America's big tech companies exceed Wall Street expectations.

United Airlines to trial airport Covid testing

The airline's boss Scott Kirby tells the BBC passenger testing is "key to reopening the world economy".

Government support 'essential' for UK economy, says IMF

The International Monetary Fund also says the UK's recession will be more severe than it predicted.

Pizza Express cuts 1,300 more jobs

The announcement comes weeks after the firm said it would cut 1,100 jobs and close 73 restaurants.

US growth surged in summer but recovery is slowing

The US economy grew at a record 33% annual rate, but output remains lower than last year.

UK car production has worst September since 1995

The drop is concerning as the end of the Brexit transition period looms, says industry body.

LVMH and Tiffany kiss and make up over takeover dispute

The French luxury brand will pay less to buy the US jeweller, ending a bitter dispute over the deal.

Hornby: Model train maker steams ahead in lockdown

The company says sales increased by 33% in the first half of 2020, moving it back into profitability.

Utilita: Energy firm to pay £500,000 for overcharging customers

Utilita overcharged almost 40,000 of its prepayment customers by over £125,000.

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Samsung sees sales surge from rival Huawei's ban

The tech giant's business was likely boosted by US sanctions against its Chinese rival Huawei.

Covid: 1,700 employers planned redundancies in September

Redundancies on the rise again after August lull, according to BBC Freedom of Information Request

Halloween firms face up to a pandemic fright

Covid-19 has created extra problems this Halloween, so how are firms fighting back?

'Furlough pay should be kept at 80% of our salaries'

Workers facing new lockdowns: "We need furlough pay to be kept at 80% of our salaries."

US tries to block Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as first African WTO head

The World Trade Organisation's nominations team says member countries should back Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

Facebook sued over Cambridge Analytica data scandal

The company is accused of misusing almost one million users' data in England and Wales.

Opening a new barbershop during the pandemic

Sheldon Tatchell of Legends Barbershop is preparing a new store to open in Midrand, South Africa.

Facebook, Twitter and Google face questions from US senators

Heads of Facebook, Google and Twitter defend a key piece of internet law, in front of senators.

Stock markets sink amid alarm at Covid surge

Financial markets in the US and Europe fall as concerns rise about the coronavirus impact on economic growth.

Soy sauce: Will it be cheaper next year?

The Department for International Trade slips up in a tweet about Bake Off.

GSK and Sanofi make global Covid vaccine supply deal

The companies are to supply 200 million doses of Covid vaccine to a global scheme.

Boeing to cut 20% of workforce by end of 2021

The planemaker is extending previously announced cuts as it faces slumping demand in the pandemic.

BT signs 5G deal with Ericsson to help ditch Huawei

The move means its EE mobile network will be powered by both Ericsson and Nokia's products.

Meat plant to see disruption after 144 Covid cases

Some 144 members of staff test positive for the virus, and all 1,000 staff will get checked.

Next sees online lift but store sales drop by half

Next says future lockdowns of non-essential stores would cost it millions of pounds before Christmas.

Heathrow overtaken as Europe's busiest airport amid pandemic

Paris Charles de Gaulle is now busier after passenger numbers at Heathrow fall 84% because of Covid.

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

TikTok shrugs off Trump attack with expansion plans

The Chinese-owned app is tying up with Shopify to create video ads and hiring thousands of engineers.

Covid: Post-furlough unemployment 'hits young and ethnic minorities'

These groups were more likely to be made unemployed after being placed on furlough, a report suggests.

‘Shops refusing cash left me unable to buy basics’

The cash system is being threatened by some shops not accepting cash, says Consumer group Which?

Fluffy animals gambling ad was irresponsible, says watchdog

The advertising watchdog bans an advert for Gala Spins as it was likely to "appeal to under-18s".

Mum, Dad, money and me

Many people find talking about money awkward, particularly with their parents - so how do their views differ?

The inventor inspired by wanting to keep his daughter safe

Kim Kyeong Yeon developed his virus-destroying machine after his child injured herself.

Aston Martin: Mercedes to take 20% stake in luxury brand

The German company will also provide the struggling British luxury marque with electric car technology.

UK farmers to need 'thousands of foreign workers' next summer

Despite trying to recruit domestic workers, foreign labour will be vital for next year's harvest, farmers say.

Experian: Credit agency told to stop sharing data without consent

The millions of people whose data it is selling on must now be informed, says the UK watchdog.

Row over social media ad attacking Rishi Sunak's 'celebrity lifestyle'

Tory MPs say the chancellor is being unfairly singled out in a video by a new pro-Labour campaign group.

Woolworths High-Street 'relaunch' proves a hoax

The Twitter account @UKWoolworths, which now has more than 4,000 followers, misspelled the shop's name.

Turkish lira sinks amid Erdogan fury with allies

The lira hits a record low against the dollar amid jitters over Turkish regional ambitions.

Home working reduces creative thought, says Bank economist

The Bank of England's Andy Haldane says people are less exposed to new experiences when working at home.

Surge in book sales amid lockdown boosts Bloomsbury profits

The publisher best known for the Harry Potter titles says trading in recent months has been excellent.

BP returns to profit but pandemic weighs on demand

Despite a "challenging environment", the oil giant says it is "performing while transforming".

Mobile networks banned from selling locked phones

The watchdog Ofcom says the move should encourage more people to switch and save money.

Monday, October 26, 2020

HSBC to accelerate restructure plan to slash costs

The bank is yet to say if it will shed more jobs beyond the 35,000 it flagged earlier this year.

Coronavirus: Disabled workers could 'face jobs crisis'

Firms are reportedly hiring fewer disabled applicants amid concerns about supporting them properly.

Uber sued by drivers over ‘automated robo-firing'

Uber drivers claim they were wrongly dismissed by an algorithm without a right to appeal.

Stock markets slide as Covid-19 cases rise

The Dow falls 2.5% and the S&P 500 drops more than 2%, on track for its sharpest decline in weeks.

Toymakers expect strong holiday sales despite coronavirus

Hasbro and Mattel are benefitting as parents spend on stay-at-home activities during the pandemic.

Jack Ma's Ant Group set for record $34bn stock market listing

The Chinese financial firm backed by the billionaire behind Alibaba aims to raise more than $34bn.

Future of UK aerospace 'in doubt' without EU deal

UK aerospace will lose out to rivals without a deal on the mutual recognition of parts, says industry body.

Wales lockdown: Tesco 'wrong' to say period products 'not essential'

It had cordoned off the aisle after a break-in, but told a customer it was due to lockdown rules.

Facebook, Google and Microsoft 'not paying enough tax in developing world'

Facebook, Google and Microsoft should pay a global minimum rate of corporate tax, an aid charity says.

Rolls-Royce: Barnoldswick workers to strike over Singapore jobs move

Moving some jobs to the Far East will "destroy the viability" of a Lancashire site, a union says.

Post Office says a third of its cash machines will close

The move raises concerns that rural and deprived communities face being cut off from access to cash.

Hopes of shake-up at Samsung after death of chairman

There is speculation that the heirs of chairman Lee Kun-hee might sell assets to meet a huge tax bill.

The explosive problem of 'zombie' batteries

Batteries that power mobile phones and other devices are causing fires because they are not disposed of properly.

Climate change: Technology no silver bullet, experts tell PM

Boris Johnson's techno-optimism ignores the need for big societal changes, experts warn.

'It feels so good to be back dancing'

The world of ballroom dancing went online to cope with the pandemic restrictions, but what does the future hold?

Boots to offer 12-minute Covid nasal swab test

The £120 nasal swab test will be available to people not showing any symptoms.

Sunday, October 25, 2020

Coronavirus: Local lockdowns 'stifling jobs recovery'

Job vacancies fail to return to pre-pandemic levels in many towns, according to new research.

BHS collapse: 'I was in charge of millions, then I had nothing'

Four years on from BHS's collapse, has the audit industry, criticised for not spotting problems, changed?

'Generation Covid' hit hard by the pandemic, research reveals

People aged 16-25 were more than twice as likely as older workers to have lost their job.

My Money: 'We haven't got Covid here yet'

Sian Williams from Indonesia takes us through her week during the coronavirus pandemic.

Royal Mail seeks record number of Christmas temps

A surge in demand from online shoppers means the company is looking for 33,000 temporary workers.

Covid-19: Lloyds staff to work from home until spring

Staff currently working from home because of the pandemic will be asked to do so until spring 2021.

‘I owe £180,000 in tax and I haven’t told my wife’

How tax avoidance left one man struggling with debt and with secrets.

Saturday, October 24, 2020

Samsung Group titan Lee Kun-hee dies aged 78

Mr Lee helped to grow his father's small trading business into a global industrial powerhouse.

Brexit: Cost of everyday goods 'could rise' without a deal, hauliers warn

Freight industry body warns the lack of an agreement on tariffs could make things more expensive.

Covid: The 'impossible' businesses stuck in Tier 2 'zombie land'

The latest changes for Covid job support are not enough for some stuck in England's tier system.

British-bred Royal Enfield speeding ahead in Asia

One of the world's oldest motorbike brands is expanding in Asia, the biggest market for two-wheelers.

The man who taught Uber how to say sorry

Economist John List had a bad ride with Uber and never got an apology, so he showed them the best way to do it.

Friday, October 23, 2020

The apps promising to improve your sex life

There are a growing number of apps that promise to help with sexual wellbeing, but are they effective?

Covid: Virgin Holidays 'must pay refunds or face court'

The regulator sets deadlines for refunds to be paid, but the company says it is "98% through the queue".

KFC to create 5,400 jobs in the UK and Ireland

The chain says some jobs will be partly funded by the UK's Kickstart scheme, which aims to help young people.

Covid-19 app users can't get isolation payment

An alert issued via the app will not mean the recipient can claim a payment for self-isolating.

Dangerous products sold online prompt call for change in law

Experts from charity Electrical Safety First found potentially dangerous items listed on online marketplaces.

Gap considers closing all its UK stores

Thousands of jobs could be at risk as the US clothing chain mulls closing its company-owned shops.

Britain and Japan sign post-Brexit trade deal

The countries formally sign a deal described by the UK's international trade secretary as "ground-breaking".

Shoppers defy economic gloom in September

The amount of retail sales saw a 1.5% rise last month, boosted by DIY and garden items.

Thursday, October 22, 2020

Huawei 'forging forward' despite Trump sanctions

The phone maker is at the centre of the Trump administration's crackdown on Chinese tech firms.

'A big supermarket shop feels frivolous now'

Families from both ends of the income spectrum have had to tighten their belts in the last six months.

Will cruise ships return to Venice?

Pressure is mounting on the Italian authorities to decide on the future of cruise ships in Venice.

Nearly one in ten furloughed staff were asked to work

A National Audit Office survey found employers fraudulently asked staff to work while collecting furlough pay.

Huawei Mate 40 phones launch despite chip freeze

Chinese firm says its new phones are powered by the world's fastest mobile processor.

Coronavirus: Canary Islands added to UK's safe travel list

UK tourists will also no longer need to quarantine after visiting Mykonos, the Maldives and Denmark.

Goldman Sachs to pay $3bn over 1MDB Malaysia scandal

The investment bank reaches a record settlement with the US government for its role in the 1MDB corruption affair.

Facebook and Twitter chiefs ordered to testify over Biden article

The social networks have been accused of censoring a news article about Joe Biden's son Hunter.

Viagogo may have to sell all or part of StubHub, regulator says

The UK's competition watchdog says the merger between the ticketing firms could lead to higher fees.

New government Covid scheme to pay up to half of wages

Chancellor Rishi Sunak increases support for firms and workers as lockdown restrictions spread.

Quibi: 'Snackable' video app to close after six months

The mobile-focused streaming service says it failed to attract subscribers during the pandemic.

Brexit: Michel Barnier heads to UK as trade talks restart

The UK invited the EU chief negotiator back to the table after he said compromises were needed to get a deal.

British Airways owner IAG cuts flight numbers again

Airline group IAG is reducing capacity further as it reports a hefty loss for the past three months.

Transport for Wales rail services 'set to be nationalised'

Opposition politicians demand answers over the future of rail services in Wales.

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Asia suffering "worst recession in living memory"

Economic growth for the region has been downgraded - despite China's emerging recovery.

Payment holidays: 'I can't afford to be out of work'

People needing a break from paying bills owing to coronavirus pressures will be judged differently from 31 October.

More pollution expected from stay-home workers

Climate change: More pollution expected from stay-home workers

Rogue website sells 'dodgy wigs' to cancer patients

Cancer patients are being targeted by a rogue website selling poor quality wigs which do not match the ones pictured in its adverts.

Covid: 'Perfect storm' causing employment tribunal backlog

Concerns are being raised over Covid-related delays for those who claim they lost jobs unfairly.

CEO Secrets: Juggling kids and a new lockdown business

Meet the new mums who have started businesses in lockdown.

Chancellor expected to increase tier 2 jobs support

The chancellor is expected to give more help to workers in areas under tier two rules.

Tesla shrugs off pandemic as sales hit new record

The electric carmaker has recorded its fifth quarter of profit in a row.

Purdue Pharma to plead guilty in $8bn opioid settlement

The landmark deal with the US Department of Justice settles the most serious claims against the OxyContin-maker.

Shortage of poultry workers could hit Christmas dinner

There are not enough EU workers to process the meat due to quarantine rules, says British Poultry Council.

Waitrose and Co-op cut prices for 'tough times'

The supermarkets are dropping prices in time for Christmas as many shoppers count their pennies.

Manchester United financial statement shows £70m loss during coronavirus pandemic

Manchester United lose £70m in the period to 30 June 2020 as a direct result of the coronavirus pandemic.

UK inflation rises after Eat Out to Help Out ends

The inflation rate increased to 0.5% in September after the discount meals scheme ended, figures show.

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

UK borrowing in September rises to £36bn

The figure was £28.4bn more than last year, and the third-highest in any month since records began.

Trump maintains a Chinese bank account, says NYT

Mr Trump, who sparked a trade war with Beijing, is critical of US firms doing business in China.

Cathay Pacific axes regional carrier and 8,500 jobs

Hong Kong’s flag carrier is closing Cathay Dragon and cutting jobs as part of a restructuring plan.

Amazon parcel scam targets woman eight months after her death

David Henderson found an Amazon account had been opened using his late wife's name and address.

Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao swaps punching for payments

The legendary fighter is launching PacPay to help streamline online payments for social media influencers.

Royal Mail launches parcel pick-up service

The postal service launches a home collection service as online shopping booms.

Machines to 'do half of all work tasks by 2025'

Millions more jobs will be lost to robots with Covid accelerating the trend, says the World Economic Forum.

The forklift truck drivers who never leave their desks

Remote-controlled vehicles are becoming increasingly common in the workplace.

‘Thousands’ of people unable to get an NI number due to

'Thousands' of people have been unable to get a National Insurance number because of the pandemic.

Five ways the virus has changed Netflix

The firm added just 2.2 million new subscribers after a surge of sign-ups earlier in the year.

'Cost of removing cladding is ripping our lives apart'

Leaseholders of flats with flammable cladding are angry that they may have to pay towards the cost of replacing it themselves.

US election 2020: Deadline looms for crucial US coronavirus relief

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi has set a Tuesday deadline for a deal to be reached before the election.

Google sued by US government over search dominance

The US Justice Department accuses Google of disadvantaging its rivals in search and advertising.

Working lunch 'loophole' hope for pubs and restaurants

Hospitality chiefs are seeking clarity over whether business lunches are exempt from Covid restrictions.

UK job losses 'could be larger than forecast'

The unemployment rate could rise above current predictions, a Bank of England policymaker warns.

Exxon clarifies Trump phone call: 'It never happened'

The oil giant distances itself from the President's "hypothetical" funds-for-contracts phone call.

Durex sales recover after virus rules relaxed

The maker of Dettol and Cillit Bang previously reported a big drop in demand for condoms across Europe.

Monday, October 19, 2020

Mysterious 'Robin Hood' hackers donating stolen money

Experts and charities are puzzled by hackers who've started donating stolen money.

Visa and Mastercard accused of charging 'excessive fees'

Retail groups say the fees charged by credit card firms have almost doubled in two years.

First UK airport Covid testing begins

Three airlines now allow some passengers flying from Heathrow to pay for a test before check-in.

'The fake reporter wanted to know about our software'

As image recognition software is increasingly used, one firm had to deal with subterfuge.

Coronavirus: Shapps 'hopeful' of airport testing by early December

UK transport secretary aims for a new air traveller testing regime, but BA's boss is sceptical.

How to save money working from home this winter

Some experts say energy bills could double - here's how to stop that happening.

Geek Retreat: Retailer of 'all things geeky' to open 100 new shops

Games and entertainment retailer Geek Retreat says loyal customers helped it thrive in lockdown.

Flybe to fly again after brand bought by shareholder

The deal could see the regional carrier restart operations as soon as next year.

Sir James Dyson to sell his Singapore penthouse

The British tycoon has reportedly accepted a $62m offer for the massive penthouse one year after buying it.

Sunday, October 18, 2020

Alibaba increases stranglehold on Chinese shoppers

The tech giant is increasing its offline footprint by acquiring leading supermarket chain Sun Art.

China's economy continues to bounce back from virus slump

The world's second biggest economy saw growth of almost 5% in the third quarter of the year.

EU investigates Instagram over handling of children's data

Facebook could face a large fine if Instagram is found to have broken European Union privacy laws.

Coronavirus: People to get emergency help to pay energy bills

Ofgem will require suppliers to offer emergency credit and put people on 'realistic' repayment plans.

Bank of England boss warns of more economic uncertainty

BoE governor Andrew Bailey said aggression rather than caution is best in the face of uncertainty.

My Money: 'Most of our spending is on our son'

Ned Vincent from Norfolk takes us through his week during the coronavirus pandemic.

Firms urged to get ready for new EU relationship

The government campaign says "Time is running out" but firms say there are still many unanswered questions.

Covid-19: Firms warn of 'catastrophic' impact of new coronavirus rules

More financial support is needed to avoid mass redundancies and closures, businesses say.

Saturday, October 17, 2020

Coronavirus drives shop closures to new record

More than 11,000 stores shut between January and June in the UK, according to research.

Friday, October 16, 2020

Drivers to be banned from picking up mobile phones

People will be banned from using hand-held devices to take photos under government proposals.

US election 2020: The young people struggling in the 2020 economy

How the pandemic is changing the economic prospects and politics of America's young people.

Are UK companies strong enough for coronavirus?

Financial experts advise people to set aside money for a rainy day. Have firms followed suit?

Coronavirus: Is there a future for street fundraising?

Face-to-face fundraising is vital for charities' cash income - but does it have a post-Covid future?

New jets promise to revive supersonic travel

Almost 20 years after Concorde was retired, new supersonic passenger aircraft are finally emerging.

Israel-UAE peace deal 'big' for trade in Middle East

Israel's UAE and Bahrain peace deals are "going to be big" for business, says DP World boss.

Instagram targets rule-breaking influencers

The Facebook-owned platform says it is committed to stamping out hidden advertising.

Test-and-trace: Higher profits expected by Serco

News that Serco will see better than expected profits comes amid claims it is failing to reach enough people.

Pret A Manger and Edinburgh Woollen Mills to cut 1,000 jobs

The pandemic has claimed the jobs of another 1,000 shop workers as more stores shut across the country.

Brexit: UK must 'get ready' for no EU trade deal, says PM

Boris Johnson has not walked away from trade talks - but says the EU must change direction to save them.

John Lewis chairman Sharon White targets new services to deliver growth

Boss Sharon White says the partnership is looking to online and a new range of services to revive sales.

British Airways fined £20m over data breach

The fine is the largest ever issued by the Information Commissioner's Office.

Man denied £1.7m payout by Betfred takes fight to High Court

Andy Green is suing bookmaker Betfred after it refused to pay up, citing a software error.

Pub chain JD Wetherspoon reveals first loss since 1984

Chairman Tim Martin criticises the government's "confusing" Covid restrictions as sales tumble.

Thursday, October 15, 2020

Brexit: EU leaders call for UK trade talks to continue

The UK's negotiator accused the EU of expecting the UK to make "all future moves" towards a deal.

Covid: One-way 'travel bubble' opens between Australia and NZ

Passengers from New Zealand will not quarantine in Sydney but must do so if they return.

'I'm sick of influencers asking for free cake'

Some small businesses are resisting calls from social media influencers for free gifts.

'I've gone months with no information about the future'

Workers at Edinburgh Woollen Mill on how they feel about plans for the firm to into administration.

'Hasty' furlough scheme 'left room for fraud' say MPs

'Hastily drawn up' furlough scheme may have lost billions to fraud and error, MPs say

Why Africa's animation scene is booming

While the film sector struggles to produce new content, the global demand for animation has soared.

Photographer 'devastated' by government-backed 'Fatima' dancer advert

The ad was criticised for encouraging "Fatima" to give up on dancing and "reskill" in cyber security.

Italy and Vatican City added to UK quarantine list

Travellers from Italy must self-isolate for 14 days as of Sunday, the government says.

Coronavirus: US poverty rises as aid winds down

Poverty rates and jobless claims in the US are rising, amid disagreement over further pandemic aid.

Coronavirus: Gym owner fined for refusing to close in Covid shutdown

The Merseyside gym stayed open despite the area facing the highest level of coronavirus restrictions.

Brexit: PM 'disappointed' with progress ahead of EU summit

Boris Johnson has previously set Thursday's EU meeting as the deadline for a post-Brexit trade deal.

High charges for rural broadband investigated by Ofcom

Homes are entitled to broadband connections of 10Mbps under government rules but at what cost?

Franco Manca owner Fulham Shore lambasts ailing rivals

Fulham Shore says too many restaurants thought they could "swim like Mark Spitz" but were barely afloat.

Marstons to cut up to 2,150 jobs amid new rules

The pub group says restrictions such as the Tier 3 measures in Liverpool will mean redundancies.

Ryanair cuts back winter flight schedule

The airline says it is responding to increased flight restrictions imposed because of the pandemic.

Heineken fined for forcing pubs to stock too many of its beers

The regulator fines the firm's pubs division £2m for "seriously and repeatedly" breaching rules.

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Virgin Australia boss quits ahead of new ownership

Paul Scurrah had reportedly clashed with Bain Capital over plans to make it a low cost-carrier.

A hit share market debut for BTS's music label

Big Hit Entertainment's shares more than doubled on debut on South Korea's Kospi exchange.

Asos adds three million customers as profits soar amid pandemic

The online retailer now has 23.4 million customers, helping sales and profits to jump.

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

'On my first day I was confused for a security guard'

As racism persists, firms face growing calls to make their senior leadership teams more diverse.

Trump taxes: A 'fundamentally unfair' system?

What do Donald Trump's tiny tax bills say about the taxes of the wealthy?

The BTS fans investing in their favourite K-pop band

BTS, one of K-pop's biggest groups, are offering fans a chance to buy shares in a $822m market launch.

Creating fuel from thin air with artificial leaves

Plants derive energy from carbon dioxide in the air and scientists are trying to mimic that process.

Job Support Scheme: What is changing after furlough?

The government has expanded its Job Support Scheme for people who can't work due to local restrictions.

Shenzhen residents embrace digital currency

The People's Bank of China is expected to officially launch its digital currency later this year.

Monday, October 12, 2020

UK economy cannot be fully protected, says IFS

High borrowing and low growth after Covid will leave the economy stretched for years, says a think tank.

Leicester textile firms 'involved in money laundering'

Some of the companies involved have supplied Boohoo and Select Fashion, a BBC investigation finds.

Coronavirus: How do I find a new job and which sectors are hiring?

Jobseekers are having a tough time at the moment but support is available.

Pregnant and looking for work: 'It's really difficult'

Sophia Royle found she was pregnant two weeks after being furloughed. Now finding a new job is hard.

How to get promoted when working from home

If you are still not going back to the office, what's the best way to stand out from colleagues?

Bars and restaurants 'reaching point of no return'

Hospitality venues across the UK say they will struggle under the new restrictions.

Harvester owner consulting on job cuts

Mitchells & Butlers, the pubs and restaurants group, has not disclosed how many jobs are at risk.

Covid: 'I don't want them to take my cab'

Taxi drivers with new electric cabs are struggling to meet loan payments and say they need more help.

Royal Mint coin celebrates own millennium-long history

The coin shows an image of a penny struck at the Tower of London after the mint moved there in 1279.

Nobel: US auction theorists win Economics Prize

The work of Paul Milgrom and Robert Wilson is used in the sale of airport slots and radio spectrums.

Culture secretary disowns 'crass' dancer advert

Oliver Dowden says an advert suggesting that a ballerina retrain to work in "cyber" did not come from him.

Australians sign Kevin Rudd's call for inquiry into Murdoch influence

More than 100,000 people support Kevin Rudd's call for a probe into Rupert Murdoch's media influence.

Bank of England questions banks over negative rates

The UK would be following in the footsteps of countries like Japan if it cuts the cost of borrowing.

Hospitality sector in legal action over lockdowns

Industry leaders will challenge new local restrictions that could force pubs and other venues to close.

British Airways' boss replaced amid industry's 'worst crisis'

Alex Cruz is leaving after more than four years with the airline, replaced by Aer Lingus' Sean Doyle.

Sunday, October 11, 2020

UK economy: Shoppers aid growth but slowdown ahead, says report

The UK economy may have grown by as much as 17% in the three months to September, says a forecaster.

Why Covid could remove barriers for women in the car industry

Bentley's Astrid Fontaine explains why Covid could remove barriers for women in the car industry.

'I focus on earning money and then leaving Hong Kong'

How are protests and a new security law imposed by Beijing affecting Hong Kong's residents?

Covid in Scotland: Pub valuations hit by restrictions

Pubs are now being given lower valuations because the calculations are based on profits affected by the coronavirus rules.

Textile workers 'denied tens of millions in unpaid wages'

The retail industry says there has been inaction over the "injustice" of low paid textile workers.

Job Support Scheme: Concern mounts at Covid shutdown 'ripple effect'

The Labour Party and business groups fear workers will fall through gaps in the expanded support scheme.

Friday, October 9, 2020

Peacocks owner on brink putting 24,000 jobs at risk

Edinburgh Woollen Mill says it plans to appoint an administrator amid "brutal" trading conditions.

Covid-19: Rishi Sunak to announce help for shut down businesses

The chancellor will outline the next stage of the Job Support Scheme later.

Papa John's investigating claims of £250,000 Eat Out to Help Out fraud

The Daily Mail has accused a Papa John's UK franchisee of a suspected fraud by claiming cash from HMRC.

Ryanair expects Boeing 737 Max jet clearance soon

The airline says it hopes to start taking delivery of the controversial planes early next year.

Iran sanctions: US moves to isolate 'major' banks

Iran accuses the US of "economic terrorism" for blacklisting 18 banks and those trading with them.

Green entrepreneurs: Coffee for your face, bees for your booze

Sir David Attenborough and Prince William want people to come up with ideas to help the environment.

First women-only tailor’s shopfront opens on Savile Row

Savile Row has been known for delivering high quality men’s tailoring for more than 200 years. But things are now changing.

Thursday, October 8, 2020

UK economy grows 2.1% in August

The UK economy expanded by 2.1% in August, below expectations, despite the government's Eat Out to Help Out scheme

Coronavirus: 'My bank account request disappeared down a hole'

Start-up firms are being "stifled" as they find it almost impossible to open a business bank account.

Tim Hortons' UK expansion to create 2,000 jobs

The Canadian chain plans to open drive-thru outlets in every major UK city in the next two years.

UK chefs campaign for more political clout

The chefs want a minister for hospitality to fight for them during the pandemic.

IBM to split into two as it reinvents itself

The world's first big computing giant wants to focus on higher-margin businesses like the cloud and AI.

Local lockdowns: 'Our business has fallen off a cliff'

Liverpool entrepreneurs on their local lockdown: "Our business has fallen off a cliff".

Hong Kong's last authentic junk in troubled waters

The image of a Chinese junk boat is a popular symbol of Hong Kong and recognised around the world.

WTO to name first female boss as shortlist narrows

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Yoo Myung-hee are the final two candidates vying to lead the organisation.

Final flight for British Airways' last two Heathrow-based Boeing 747 planes

British Airways' last two Heathrow-based Boeing 747 planes have departed from the airport on their final flight.

Asda launches 'first of its kind' flu jab service

The supermarket is offering free jabs to eligible people and an £8 charge for everyone else,

Covid: City firms look to cut office space amid pandemic

Nearly three quarters of financial services firms are reviewing their office needs, a survey says.

Liam Fox: Tory MP out of WTO leader race as field narrows

The ex-cabinet minister has not made the final two in the contest to lead the global trading body.

EasyJet to make first annual loss in its history

The airline will fly at 25% capacity into next year, with losses in 2020 possibly topping £800m.

TalkTalk share price surges 16% on takeover offer by Toscafund

The bid offer from investment firm Toscafund values the telecoms firm at £1.1bn.

Covid in Scotland: Hospitality 'death knell' fears over new rules

Industry leaders warn the latest Covid restrictions could be the final straw for many businesses.

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Movie-going could 'become extinct' warns director

Wonder Woman director Patty Jenkins gives a stark warning about the film industry as more movies are delayed.

Four years and counting: The epic China-US takeover

The deadline for a Chinese firm's buyout of an American rival has already been extended 16 times.

Government to pay £2m to settle coronavirus testing case

The UK has settled a lawsuit brought by a tech firm over the government's contract bidding process.

Coronavirus: Up to £258m self-employment grants 'error or fraud' - HMRC

HMRC says hundreds of millions of pounds in grants for the self-employed may have been fraudulent or paid in error.

Homebuyers look to country and coast to escape cities

Searches for homes in villages and seaside resorts have doubled, says property website Rightmove.

Covid: Taskforce to look at virus testing for UK arrivals

Travellers to the UK may soon be able to get a Covid-19 test to end their 14-day quarantine early.

Coronavirus: Almost 900 Manchester Airports Group job cuts

Passenger numbers at Manchester, London Stansted and East Midlands airports have fallen by 27m.

Covid: Pubs and restaurants in central Scotland to close

The new rules will apply to all licensed premises in the central belt of the country - including Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Extreme poverty set for first rise since 1998, World Bank warns

Covid-19 is expected to cause a big rise in those living on less than $1.90 a day, says the World Bank.

Should your accelerator pedal curb your speeding?

The EU proposes fitting all new cars with technology that makes it harder to exceed the speed limit.

Greene King to close dozens of pubs and cut 800 jobs

The pub giant blames tighter coronavirus restrictions and the winding down of the furlough scheme.

Billionaires see fortunes rise by 27% during the pandemic

Billionaires have grown their wealth by 27% during the crisis, with industrial and tech bosses earning most.

Pure Gym personal trainer sorry for 'very ill-judged' slavery post

Matt Simpson's post on PureGym's Facebook account said the workout was to mark Black History Month.

Tuesday, October 6, 2020

Cineworld: 'My job doesn't feel like work'

With the chain set to temporarily shut its doors and Odeon cutting back too, how do the staff feel?

Monday, October 5, 2020

Hong Kong will stay key financial hub say experts

It is unlikely to lose its prized position as Asia's main financial hub despite protests and security law.

Singapore offers 'pandemic baby bonus' to boost births

The country, which has one of the lowest birth rates in the world, is paying parents to have babies.

Coronavirus: Can China's Golden Week boost Asia's economies?

The annual holiday normally sees millions of tourists travelling across the region and boosting economies.

Covid: Nearly 500,000 redundancies planned since crisis began

A Freedom of Information request shows job cuts down from July but more than double last year.

Small firms suffer as banks make it harder to get a bounce-back loan

With the bounce-back loan deadline looming, small firms are getting desperate for help to survive

State pension age hits 66 and set to rise further

Men and women are now receiving their state pension from 66, with younger people urged to make plans.

What is the cost of 'cancel culture'?

Activists can be fierce in attacking perceived racism or sexism by people or firms - with serious consequences.

The woman who wants everyone to get a pension

Romi Savova is the founder and chief executive of pension firm PensionBee.

L&G demands non-white board members at FTSE firms

It will vote against companies that still have an all-white board by the deadline of 2022.

PureGym sorry for 'unacceptable' slavery post

The gym said the workout routine was to mark Black History Month.

H&M fined for breaking GDPR over employee surveillance

Records were kept on several hundred employees, including on family issues and religion.

Worst September for UK car sales this century

New UK car registrations fell 4.4% last month from a year earlier, the motor industry says.

Cineworld closures 'not a decision we made lightly'

The cinema chain is suspending operations in the UK and the US, putting thousands of jobs at risk.

Hovis receives takeover bid from Italy's Newlat Food

Italy's Newlat Food has made a non-binding offer to buy the 134-year-old baking business.

Sunday, October 4, 2020

'I'm angry they think our business isn't important'

Soft play and indoor sports centres still can't reopen - with some weeks away from financial collapse.

Kenzo Takada: Japanese designer dies from Covid-19

Kenzo Takada was the first Japanese designer to gain prominence on the Paris fashion scene.

Coronavirus: 'World's best airport' warns of prolonged crisis

Singapore's Changi Airport says “battle with Covid-19 has just begun” as it paints bleak picture.

Home working here to stay, study of businesses suggests

A survey of nearly 1,000 firms shows that 74% plan on maintaining the increase in home working.

Covid-19: Government launches £238m scheme for jobseekers

Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey says it will give unemployed people a "helping hand".

McDonald's among food firms urging tougher deforestation rules

Unilever and Tesco also say a new law should apply to all deforestation, whether legal or illegal.

US election 2020: 'Trump's done what he said he would for business'

The US is facing its sharpest economic downturn in decades - but it's not hurting President Trump.

'Shopping around is impossible when you don't have a computer'

Loyal insurance, phone and savings customers see costs rise each year, and some have no access to cheaper deals.

Ola: London bans Uber rival over safety concerns

Transport for London said the firm made more than 1,000 trips made by unlicensed drivers.

Cineworld set to close UK cinema doors after Bond movie delay

The cinema chain is poised to shut its British theatres after the latest delay to the new 007 movie.

Cruise refunds: 'Will we ever see our £5,000 again?'

Cruise passengers say they have been waiting months for refunds.

Lowestoft fishing industry 'needs new apprenticeships to grow'

Fishing is now "high-tech" and needs a higher profile to inspire youngsters, says a college boss.

Shuttered by Covid: The end of Dagenham Sunday Market

Thousands of people flocked to Dagenham Sunday Market every weekend until coronavirus shut it down.

Saturday, October 3, 2020

Covid: NME owner says pandemic impact wasn't all negative

Singaporean digital music company BandLab says it sees opportunities and challenges in the Covid-19 crisis.

Coronavirus: 'Lockdown was madness but saved us financially'

Americans saved at record rates when the pandemic started - but circumstances are changing.

Friday, October 2, 2020

Covid-19 left me jobless - but what happened next?

These people lost their jobs early in the coronavirus crisis. How have these past months been?

The 'remarkable entrepreneur' brothers who bought Asda

Zuber and Mohsin Issa started their business with a single petrol forecourt in Bury in 2001.

Meet the teens who developed a dementia app which uses music

A group of Nigerian-Irish teens have developed the Memory Haven app to help people with dementia.

US jobs growth slower than expected in September

The unemployment rate ticks down for a fifth month, but the pace of job gains continued to slow.

Asda bought by billionaire Issa brothers in £6.8bn deal

Zuber and Mohsin Issa and TDR Capital are buying a majority stake in the UK supermarket from Walmart.

Covid-19: Bernard Matthews outbreak plant offers free bus travel

Bernard Matthews scraps fares after a union said a price-hike discouraged workers from using buses.

Cambridge University to cut fossil fuel investments by 2030

The university says it is responding to the "urgent existential threat" of climate change.

Post Office scandal: Postmasters celebrate huge victory against convictions

Dozens of postmasters should get a clear path in quashing convictions following years of campaigning.

US shares set to drop after Trump tests positive

The US president confirms he and his wife have contracted Covid-19 weeks ahead of the election.

Telford: The town needing a Brexit deal more than most

Telford exports the UK's highest proportion of goods to the EU, a study suggests.

Thursday, October 1, 2020

Playboy goes from private to public in new venture

The adult entertainment empire is to go public again nine years after founder Hugh Hefner took it private

Nearly 20,000 Covid-19 cases among Amazon workers

The tech giant said the rate is lower than in the wider population and defended its control measures.

Singapore firm pushes ahead with Newcastle United bid

Bellagraph Nova says it's still pursuing the Premier League club despite recent criticism.

Should you be buying a second-hand smartphone?

Selling refurbished electronics is a fast-growing business where customers can make big savings.

Driverless taxis now for hire in Shanghai

Driverless taxis are now available in China’s biggest city, Shanghai. The BBC took a ride.

Rwanda's clothing spat with the US helps China

As the African nation continues to ban the import of used US clothes, China takes advantage.

Coronavirus: 'Our ray of hope turned into an oncoming train'

UK firms are seeing sales decrease, as new national and local Covid restrictions bite, says the BCC.

P&O cuts ferry services as demand falls

The decision to close the route and reduce other services has been prompted by the pandemic.

TSB: What does it mean for a town when a bank closes?

How the closure of a Suffolk town's only bank will affect its inhabitants and surrounding area.

Covid: Poland and Turkey added to UK's quarantine list as fines rise

There will also be tougher fines of up to £10,000 for those who fail to self-isolate as required.

Government's own figures at odds with PM's PPE claim

Boris Johnson says 70% of personal protective equipment in UK made, but official data says it is much lower.

Blackbaud: Bank details and passwords at risk in giant charities hack

Millions of people were affected by breach, which firm previously said did not involve bank details.

Subway rolls ruled too sugary to be bread in Ireland

A court says the bread used in the firm's hot sandwiches must be taxed because of its sugar content.

KitKat: Petition delivered to Nestle opposing Fairtrade removal

The manufacturers of KitKat bars announced in June it would no longer be linked to Fairtrade.

Company boards 'need at least one BAME member'

Industry group the CBI urges tougher targets to improve racial diversity at big companies.

Coronavirus: H&M to close 250 stores worldwide

The move by the world's second largest fashion retailer comes as more people shop online.

Coronavirus: How to survive a pandemic as a young entrepreneur

'We've learnt to be agile': Emily, Keaton and Zoe share their tips

Covid in Wales: Lockdown tourism businesses fear closure

Wrexham, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Conwy face lockdown restrictions from 18:00 on Thursday.

Covid: Rolls-Royce announces plan to raise £3bn

After weeks of speculation, the plane engine maker will tap investors for money and issue new bonds.