Wall Street to kick out three Chinese telecom firms

The New York Stock Exchange will delist the Chinese companies based on claimed links with the military.

Activists cheer as 'sexist' tampon tax is scrapped

Campaigners say cutting of the 5% VAT rate on tampons and sanitary towels ends a 'sexist' tax.

'Worst year for High Street job losses in 25 years'

Nearly 180,000 retail jobs were last year, up by almost a quarter on the previous year, analysts say.

Scotsman owner JPI Media sold to National World for £10.2m

National World, a media takeover vehicle led by industry veteran David Montgomery, buys JPI.

FTSE 100 suffers worst year since financial crisis

Investors nest-eggs have been savaged as the UK's leading share index falls 14.3% in 2020.

Spent less, saved more: How we used our money this year

Consumer spending fell 7.1%, says Barclaycard, which tracks half of all credit and debit card spending.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai ordered back to jail

The 73-year-old is the city's highest profile person charged under a controversial security law.

Brexit: New EU trade arrangements to begin after Parliament vote

The UK's hard-fought agreement with the EU is set to come into force at 23:00 GMT on Thursday.

Why have global stock markets gone up this year?

Jobs around the world are being lost, but the global stock market is rising. What's going on?

US-EU trade dispute: US slaps tariffs on wine and cognac

It is the latest twist in a long battle over subsidies for US-based Boeing and European rival Airbus.

Vaccine and water unseats Mukesh Ambani as Asia's richest person

Nicknamed the lone wolf, China's Zhong Shanshan has unseated India's Mukesh Ambani.

Brexit: Dover-Calais route 'will work well on 1 January'

Channel Tunnel operator Getlink says there will not be congestion when new trading rules begin later.

Tesco, Pizza Hut and Superdrug in minimum wage fail

Almost 140 companies investigated between 2016-18 failed to pay £6.7 million to over 95,000 workers.

New Year Honours 2021: Hays Travel boss Irene Hays made a dame

Irene Hays ran the travel agency with her husband John and in 2019 they took on Thomas Cook staff.

Firms moving into tier four: Devastated and disappointed

Thousands more businesses will now have to close or extend closures as restrictions escalate.

Four-day week is affordable for most firms, reckons new study

A new study claims a four-day working week could be introduced immediately and be affordable for most firms.

UK house prices see highest growth in six years in 2020

UK house prices bucked the pandemic and climbed 7.5% in 2020, according to building society Nationwide.

Snapchat boss: 'User behaviour protected by free speech'

Founder Evan Spiegel has questioned whether platforms are responsible for user behaviour in a BBC interview.

Boeing 737 Max returns to the skies in the US

The plane was grounded in March 2019 after two separate deadly crashes within five months.

Tata grabs bigger slice of AirAsia and India's airline industry

The Jaguar Land Rover owner has taken a bigger stake in AirAsia India following its bid for Air India.

Eight things we learned about new businesses in lockdown

Eight lessons from our CEO Secrets series looking at start-ups created during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Is the Ant Group shake-up a sign of things to come?

The wind has changed for China's financial technology giants who now face increased scutiny.

Brexit: UK sausage makers face EU export ban

Meat producers seek clarity over rules that mean some products cannot be exported to the EU under the trade deal.

Billionaire UK beauty boss continues expansion with US deal

The Hut Group's rapid growth has earned Matthew Moulding one of the biggest paydays in UK corporate history.

Ryanair and Wizz Air deny votes to UK investors after EU exit

The airlines say they need to protect their status as majority EU-owned companies after Brexit.

Fashion industry giant Pierre Cardin dies aged 98

He helped revolutionise fashion with his futuristic and stylish designs in the 1950s and 60s.

Tesla: Soaring share price creates army of 'Teslanaires'

Many people have become millionaires from Tesla's share price rocketing more than 700% this year.

Admiral sells Confused.com in £508m deal

RVU will buy its Penguin Portals and Preminen businesses, which includes online portal Confused.com.

Shares jump as markets react to Brexit deal

The FTSE 100 gains, but bank shares fall, as stock markets get their first chance to react to the trade deal.

China and EU 'on verge' of major investment deal

Brussels wants to make it easier for European companies operating in a number of Chinese industries.

Japan developing wooden satellites to cut space junk

A Japanese forestry firm has partnered with Kyoto University in what would be a world first.

Covid, furlough and Topshop collapse: 2020 in business stories

Which BBC Business stories were the most widely read in the year the coronavirus pandemic spread?

Mobile roaming: What will happen to charges after Brexit?

Will Britons be able to use their mobile phones in Europe after Brexit transition, without paying extra?

Covid: Trump signs relief and spending package into law

The measure restores unemployment benefits and averts a partial US government shutdown.™

Brexit: Britons warned to prepare for 'some disruption'

Ministers warn of "practical and procedural changes" when the Brexit transition period ends this week.

KFC launches gaming console with chicken warmer

The fast food chain said many people thought the concept was a spoof but wants to start production soon.

Chinese games billionaire dies after poisoning

39-year-old Lin Qi was the founder of Yoozoo which developed a popular Game of Thrones online game.

Brexit impact on food prices 'very modest' - Tesco

The deal means any changes would "hardly be felt" by shoppers, says the supermarket's chairman.

Covid: Boxing Day sales expected to plummet amid pandemic

Many city centres were left bare as coronavirus restrictions prevented shops from opening.

Chinese economy to overtake US 'by 2028' due to Covid

A UK-based think tank says the pandemic has caused economic momentum to shift further in favour of Asia.

Business review of 2020: Covid-19 and Trump

2020 saw countries grapple with coronavirus, balancing both public health and economic concerns.

Brexit: EU diplomats to get trade deal briefing

MPs are waiting to see the full text of the agreement ahead of a vote in Parliament on 30 December.

Michael Jackson: Neverland Ranch 'sold to billionaire for $22m'

Billionaire Ron Burkle reportedly buys the estate for a quarter of its initial asking price.

Christmas: The mail order pioneer who started a billion-pound industry

How a 19th Century draper "set up a company similar to Amazon" and created a billion pound industry.

What Brexit deal means for me: Six bosses tell all

Saving thousands or anxious they need more time, six bosses explain how the Brexit deal affects them.

Brexit deal: Firms ‘need guidance’ to keep goods moving

Businesses give a relieved welcome to the Brexit trade deal, but warn there is more work to be done.

Brexit: UK and EU reach trade deal ending months of arguments

UK and EU reach post-Brexit trade deal ending months of arguments over business rules and fishing rights.

Customers furious as E.On takes payments too early

About 1.5 million customers are hit as direct debits are taken on Christmas Eve owing to an IT error.

Nuro set to be California's first driverless delivery service

Nuro's autonomous vehicles will take to the streets as early as 2021.

Universal Credit: 'It is embarrassing having to rely on family again'

People on Universal Credit say they worry about the end of a £20-a-week boost to the benefit.

Asian markets push higher on hopes of Brexit deal

The pound and Asian markets have made gains ahead of an expected Christmas eve UK-EU trade deal.

Alibaba being investigated by China over monopoly tactics

The Chinese tech giant is face a probe by regulators into locking merchants into its platform.

EU to allow post-Brexit UK farm produce exports

While this is a "critical step forward" seed potatoes are not included due to EU regulatory fears.

'I had zero plans beyond my parents' kitchen'

Hannah Chapman wishes she'd planned ahead after her business almost ran out of cash within months of launching.

SolarWinds Sunburst: UK data watchdog issues hack alert

President-elect Joe Biden has also vowed that the US will respond to the attack.

Crypto-currency firm Ripple charged by US watchdog

If the lawsuit is successful, it could set a precedent for the regulation of crypto-currencies.

Pound gains after France reopens its borders

Sterling climbs after a UK travel ban was lifted but some fear testing truck drivers will delay supplies.

Brazen fraudsters offer crime subscription service

Criminal organisations are teaching other fraudsters a scam, prompting fresh warnings for shoppers.

Covid: Marston's take over Brains pubs to save 1,300 jobs

The Welsh brewery chain says the coronavirus pandemic has put the business under "financial pressure".

Lufthansa airlifts food to the UK amid lorry chaos

The German airline is to fly in fresh fruit and vegetables as firms try to beat chaos at sea ports

Whitbread: Premier Inn owner asks landlords for rent cut

Trading at Whitbread, which also owns the Beefeater chain, has been hit by pandemic restrictions.

Covid-19: 'Losing Christmas is irreparable damage'

Foppolo ski resort in the Italian Alps is shut and will miss the all-important Christmas ski season.

Shopify stores riddled with fakes and fraudsters

E-commerce authentication service Fakespot says 21% of Shopify stores pose a risk to customers.

Macau gambles on tech for its Covid-19 recovery

The gaming hotspot has been hit hard by travel bans as its economy is heavily reliant on gambling.

Elon Musk says Apple's boss snubbed takeover deal

Tesla's founder claims Apple CEO Tim Cook refused talks during the car company's "darkest days".

Redundancy plans fall after furlough extension

36,700 redundancies were planned in Britain in November, the lowest figure since March

How dependent is the UK on the EU for food?

France's ban on freight from Britain caused havoc for lorry drivers, but will it affect shoppers?

Tech trends in 2021: Fast planes and homeworking

From a potentially record-breaking electric plane, to new homeworking tech, what to watch out for in 2021.

US sues Walmart for alleged role in opioid crisis

In a lawsuit, the US government says the major retailer "knowingly" violated prescription rules.

Tesco puts buying caps on several products

The move by Britain's biggest supermarket comes amid shortage fears due to border restrictions at UK ports.

Royal Mail ends two-year dispute with union in 'landmark' deal

The postal service agrees a deal with unions to end a bitter dispute over pay and conditions.

Ports chaos 'bad for trust and post-Brexit trade'

The food industry says port disruption makes it hard for foreign firms to trust UK exporters post-Brexit.

Air charter firms see demand surge as companies bid to beat blockages

One air charter company says it has received more than 800 enquiries from those looking to move goods.

Post Office scandal: 'Light at end of tunnel'

Tracy Felstead is among Post Office workers fighting convictions linked to a faulty computer system.

Carpet shops 'having 10 Christmases at once'

Business has boomed during the coronavirus pandemic, an industry body says.

NS&I: Answers demanded by MPs for customers' anxiety and complaints

The Premium Bonds operator has apologised to customers for poor service levels in recent months.

UK borrowing hits highest November level on record

The government borrowed £31.6bn last month as it continued to support the economy during the pandemic.

Covid-19: UK and France aim to restart freight as queues grow

Hundreds of lorries are held up in Kent as politicians thrash out a plan to reopen the border.

US blacklists companies with possible military ties

The move is part of a wider push to increase pressure on China before Donald Trump leaves office.

Lorna Jane: Activewear brand in court for 'anti-virus' claims

Australian women's sportswear firm Lorna Jane said its clothes could stop the spread of Covid-19.

'Yes, people have Zoom fatigue but it's not our fault'

Zoom director Aparna Bawa says video conferencing can tire people out, but her firm isn't to blame.

UK government 'likely to miss' broadband and 5G targets

More must be done if the UK is to be future-proofed rather than playing catch-up, say MPs.

Life on the road for truckers amid ports chaos

The French ban on hauliers travelling from the UK has added to disruption in ports such as Dover.

Offices share £481m rebate after interim business rates ruling

An interim ruling is set to cut business rates for offices after they lay empty during the pandemic.

How tech can just about save Christmas Day

Thanks to technology, a remote Christmas doesn't have to feel like an isolated one.

DHL and Royal Mail warn on parcel disruption

Delivery chaos comes days before Christmas and follows fears about a new strain of the coronavirus in the UK.

Welsh budget: Tax hike on second homes announced

A tax hike on second homes to raise cash for social housing is part of the Welsh Government budget.

Coronavirus: Center Parcs shuts UK sites due to restrictions

Continuing to accept visitors would go against the government's "strong advice", the firm said.

Amigo Loans: Bid for survival with plan to cap compensation

The sub-prime lender is facing a deluge of complaints from people who say their loans were unaffordable.

Supermarkets try to calm food shortage fears amid border chaos

But Sainsbury's could see "gaps" in supply if the French ban on hauliers travelling from the UK continues.

Refunds pledge for scrapped Christmas travel plans

All cancelled rail or coach journeys over Christmas in England will be refunded, the government says.

Pound slides lower as European borders close to UK

Renewed concern over Britain's Covid-19 cases and a missed EU deadline take their toll on the currency.

Creating animal food from a greenhouse gas

Animal feed is often transported thousands of miles so scientists are looking at new production methods.

European regulator says Boeing's 737 Max is safe

Executive Director Patrick Ky said his organisation had "left no stone unturned" in its review.

Four ways Covid changed how we live - and shop

We couldn't go out in 2020, so we brought the world into our homes, says John Lewis's lifestyle survey.

Covid: US reaches long awaited deal for coronavirus aid

The deal on the $900bn package comes as millions are jobless or in poverty due to the pandemic.

Covid-19: Dover port halts exports to France for 48 hours

France is to stop lorries arriving from the UK amid concern over a new variant of coronavirus.

Covid: Tui cancels flights out of Luton Airport

The holiday firm says Luton is now in tier four, but flights will continue from Stansted and Gatwick.

Covid: Belgium and Netherlands ban flights from UK over variant

Italy is set to join the Netherlands and Belgium in suspending flights from the UK.

'Stop-start' Covid rules cost shops £2bn a week, says industry

Retailers warn more jobs and businesses are at risk as non-essential shops are forced to close.

Covid: Furlough companies list should be published, MPs urge

Staff could be continuing to work as companies claim grants, the government is told.

'We're having a sustainable Christmas'

How can you have green, yet affordable, festivities?

Brexit: How to prepare for changes in 2021

Here are some of the things you can do to get prepared for the Brexit changes.

737 Max: Boeing 'inappropriately coached' pilots in test after crashes

US Senate investigators find problems with tests conducted in the wake of two deadly crashes.

Climate change: Law used as stick to beat government

Plans for airports, energy and roads are facing multiple legal challenges over climate commitments.

Shell shocked: 'Lobster capital' braces for Brexit

Live shellfish exporters in East Yorkshire and Devon say new certification requirements are 'unworkable'

Tesla to join key share index as it defies critics

Tesla's addition to the S&P 500 means millions more investors will own a stake in the high-valued carmaker.

My Money: 'I'm a 33-weeks' pregnant doctor'

Helen Edwards, an NHS doctor from the West Midlands in the UK takes us through her week's spending.

Covid tests offered to John Lewis and Waitrose staff

Department store chain John Lewis is offering free Covid tests to up to 16,000 workers a week

Lloyds Banking Group cancels bonuses after profit drop

Bankers were told in a memo on Thursday first reported by the Financial Times.

'Exceptionally high demand' fuels Christmas post fears

Fears remain over Christmas deliveries as online shopping balloons amid Covid restrictions.

Workers 'sleeping on mattresses' inside Leicester factory

The investigation comes after concerns were raised about practices in Leicester's textile industry.

'Serious concerns' remain over funeral pricing

The UK's competition watchdog rules out price controls but says it is keeping a close eye on the sector.

Covid lockdown restrictions hit retail sales

Sales fell by 3.8% last month, bringing to an end a six-month streak of rising trade.

Sony pulls Cyberpunk 2077 from PlayStation store

Players say the game is riddled with bugs and glitches and is prone to crashes so will offer refunds.

Brexit: Trade talks to resume as sides warn 'differences' remain

Negotiators will continue discussions after the latest call between the PM and the EU Commission head.

Trump trade chief wants WTO leadership race reopened

Picking a new leader for the WTO will be a challenge for Joe Biden as the global economy struggles with coronavirus.

Electric cars will leave hole in tax revenues, says Treasury

The Treasury says taxes must rise or services cut to compensate for the loss of fuel tax income.

'Appalling' safety at Asda buyers' former company

Packaging firm co-owned by Mohsin and Zuber Issa was prosecuted after a series of injuries

Openreach creating 5,300 new jobs to speed fibre rollout

The wholesale internet division of BT has been told to speed up the rollout of ultra-fast connections.

'I became a full-time dad for my wife's career'

Take-up of shared parental leave has been slow, but some men are putting their wives' careers first.

Alibaba says its technology won't target Uighurs

A recent report said China's Alibaba's facial recognition technology can pick out Uighur minorities.

China's drinkers develop taste for home-grown wines

Chinese drinkers are increasingly choosing to buy and drink wines from their own country.

Covid in India: How do you vaccinate 1.3 billion people?

The BBC looks at how India plans to vaccinate its vast population against Covid-19.

Google sued again over anti-competitive search practices

US states accuse Google of unfairly abusing monopolies to dominate new tech like voice assistants.

Coronavirus: Coca-Cola restructuring cuts 2,200 jobs worldwide

The soft drinks giant says it has had to speed up its restructuring plan due to the coronavirus.

Port of Dover facing 'unnecessary holdups' on 1 January

The company managing the port says lack of government support will make the transition "more challenging".

Backlash over Japan cosmetics boss 'racist' comments

Make-up brand DHC's chief executive used a derogatory term for Koreans in his company's blog.

Rishi Sunak extends furlough scheme for another month

Chancellor Rishi Sunak extends the furlough scheme for one month until the end of April 2021.

London Capital and Finance: Compensation for scandal victims

The Financial Conduct Authority "did not effectively regulate" London Capital and Finance, a review says.

UK economy's future unusually uncertain, says Bank of England

The Bank of England says trying to predict economic progress is hampered by a lack of a Brexit deal.

Sherry makes a comeback as Christmas sales surge

Sales of sherry are booming in the run-up to Christmas, fuelled by lockdown and the "tapas effect".

BA drops 15 long-haul routes including Seoul and Seychelles

The news comes as many airlines cut staff and drop routes as passengers cut travel amid the pandemic.

Serco: Test-and-trace firm hands £5m bonus to workers

The company will award £100 each to 50,000 worldwide staff and plans to return UK furlough payments.

Covid curbs scandalous, says Revolution Bars chief

Chief executive Rob Pitcher says the government is "sacrificing businesses and people's livelihoods".

Boeing hires its own pilots to smooth return of 737

The 737 Max plane was grounded worldwide last year following two deadly crashes that killed 346 people.

Bitcoin hits all-time high rising above $20,000

The virtual currency has gained more than 170% this year amid stock market turmoil during the pandemic.

Google ad practices under fire in new lawsuit

Ten US states accuse the tech firm of illegally trying to preserve its online advertising monopoly.

Toy deliveries to miss Christmas amid port delays

With Christmas fast approaching, popular lines including Lego, dolls and puzzles are out of stock at some toy stores.

Fraud victims' pay deducted for money they don't owe

Thousands sent letters from the DWP demanding repayment of benefits they've never claimed or received.

'Fear is the only thing that stops you. I had to give it a try’

Three stories of people working in retail who set up new businesses during Covid-19.

UK and US in talks over mini trade deal

US trade chief Robert Lighthizer says he is working with Liz Truss on a deal to reduce trade tariffs.

Fed: Brighter forecast but challenging months still ahead

Despite optimism over coronavirus vaccine distribution, other economic signals have worsened.

Boohoo boss promises 'to make Leicester right'

The online fashion firm says it is 'fixing' things after a review that found failings over wages and working practices.

Facebook pours fuel on Apple privacy row

A long-running row over tracking user data for ads escalates as Facebook goes on the offensive.

US labels Switzerland a currency manipulator

Swiss officials rejected the finding, which came out of a period of pandemic-related turmoil in financial markets.

Bentley v Bentley: Car firm loses appeal against trademark ruling

Judges at the court of appeal upheld a ruling which favoured Bentley Clothing over Bentley Motors.

Bosses earn 100 times lowest paid staff

Data shows huge gaps in earnings from the top to the bottom of the UK's largest firms.

Uber fined over withholding sexual assault records

The taxi app firm argues releasing the information would be a violation of victims' privacy.

Supreme Court lifts ban on Heathrow third runway

In a blow to campaigners, judges say ministers' decision to approve the runway was legitimate.

Hornby halts non-UK orders amid Brexit uncertainty

The model train maker says it's in a difficult position and has paused all international orders until January 2021.

Airlines investigated over lockdown refund cases

The competition authority will study the refusal to pay cash refunds during England's second lockdown.

UK inflation rate falls sharply in November

The UK's inflation rate fell dramatically to 0.3% in November from 0.7% in October, official figures show.

Struggling Air India could be taken over by workers

A group representing employees is one of a number of bidders for India's loss-making national carrier.

Facebook to move all UK users onto US agreements

The move could allow the social media giant to avoid strict EU privacy laws being introduced.

MacKenzie Scott gives away $4.2bn in four months

The ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has been focusing on women, people of colour and food banks.

Australia launches WTO appeal against China's barley tariff

In a trade row escalation, Australia says it will challenge China's tariff on its barley exports.

Covid: Shops 'hammered' by level four restrictions

The Scottish Retail Consortium says sales were hit last month by the country's toughest Covid rules.

Rail fares to rise more than expected next year

January's planned rise is delayed until March - when prices will increase by an inflation-busting 2.6%.

'Tier 3 has ruined our dream restaurant opening'

With sit-down dining now off the menu in much of England, restaurant owners say they're facing a difficult Christmas.

'A delivery, then a fire that left us homeless'

The Firth family are sure the blaze began with a battery pack bought on eBay, but the cause is not yet clear.

MPs slam 'woeful' plans to recover Covid-19 loans

The Public Accounts Committee say taxpayers will lose out because billions of pounds may never be recovered.

A palm oil alternative could help save rainforests

Plantations for palm oil are blamed for rainforest destruction, but an artificial palm oil is close.

UK business 'must wake up' to China's Uighur cotton slaves

MPs say clothes retailers must act after the BBC disclosed the plight of China's Uighurs and other minorities.

Covid: Chaotic start for travellers' Covid testing system

The Test to Release programme is supposed to cut quarantine times for people arriving in England.

Beware Christmas parcel delivery scams, banks warn

Criminals are looking to steal financial details by posing as well-known delivery companies.

Barclays fined £26m for poor treatment of customers

Among those not treated fairly were bereaved people whose financial issues should have been better assessed.

Prioritise northern rail network over HS2, says report

Linking close-by cities with an upgraded line will have a higher economic impact, a report says.

'We'd just begun our careers - and then the pandemic hit'

The sudden lockdown in March turned the world of work upside down for millions, including the very newest, apprentices.

LoveHolidays to refund £18m for cancelled holidays

The firm changes its stance on refunds for trips cancelled by Covid after action by the regulator.

UK loses 819,000 paid jobs since start of pandemic

Hospitality has been worst hit as the coronavirus crisis continues to batter the UK economy.

Online harms law to let regulator block apps in UK

Ofcom would be able to fine tech giants huge sums if it believed they had failed to protect users.

Covid-19: Safety concerns over planes returning to service

Pilot rustiness, maintenance errors and even insect nests could endanger safety warn airline experts.

EU Digital Services Act set to bring in new rules for tech giants

Europe is set to announce two new acts in the biggest shake-up of digital laws in 20 years.

How clean is the air in your office?

Due to Covid, and many of us hoping to return to the office in 2021, workplace air quality is a growing concern.

Universal Credit: 'I felt guilty claiming benefits for the first time'

Women under the age of 30 have seen the sharpest increase in unemployment benefit claims since March.

Low-paid workers face pandemic 'double whammy'

The Commission on Workers and Technology says the pandemic has accelerated the automation of low paid work.

Pinterest in $22.5m gender discrimination payout

The $22.5m payout by Pinterest to a former top executive is the largest of its kind to be publicly disclosed.

US regulators open privacy probes into tech giants

The data collection review into firms including Facebook and TikTok comes as regulators step up investigations.

Covid: GPs complain of delays in receiving virus vaccine

Doctors are having to cancel vaccination appointments because the doses haven't arrived as planned.

Asda beefs up anti-Covid security for Christmas

The supermarket is taking extra measures to prevent overcrowding and stop the virus spreading.

Adidas considers selling off its Reebok brand

German sportswear ponders how to get the best out of its Reebok brand, which might mean selling it.

Google outage: YouTube, Docs and Gmail knocked offline

Users around the world were unable to access applications including YouTube, Gmail and Docs.

Billionaire Issa brothers in £440m German petrol chain bid

The firm owned by Zuber and Mohsin Issa, which is also buying Asda, extends its petrol station empire.

EA to buy Dirt-Rally-maker Codemasters for £1bn

Games giant Electronic Arts is set to acquire the British game-maker, beating an earlier rival offer.

Brexit: Pound gains after EU trade talks extended

Sterling regains some of Friday's losses after the UK and EU continue talks over a Brexit deal.

Brexit trade talks: Process 'still has legs', UK source says

UK and EU negotiators to continue talks after both sides agreed to "go the extra mile" to reach a deal.

Sizewell C: Government in talks to fund £20bn nuclear plant

Officials will hold discussions with France's EDF about funding the Sizewell C project in Suffolk.

'External source' causes oil tanker explosion in Saudi Arabia

The Singapore-flagged ship was hit by an unidentified "external source" while it was discharging.

Indonesia courts SpaceX as new rocket launch site

The South East Asian country is already in talks with Elon Musk about a possible partnership.

Ridley Scott inspires Network Rail’s cave-exploring drone

Scenes from the movie Prometheus inspired Network Rail to develop a drone that can explore caves.

Brexit: 'It's utter confusion' over trade talks delay

Business across Britain tell BBC News of their frustration at post-Brexit trade talks being extended.

Inside a vaccine cold storage room

The BBC's Karishma Vaswani takes a look around a vaccine cold storage facility in Singapore.

Honda to resume UK output after problems at ports

The Japanese carmaker says it will restart production on Monday after it struggled to import components.

Britons told not to stockpile food ahead of January

Retailers tell shoppers they have enough supplies as uncertainty remains over the terms of Brexit.

Ikea sorry after port disruption causes stock shortage

Customers have been venting their anger after congestion at ports led to stock shortages.

Brexit trade talks: UK and EU to 'go the extra mile' in effort to agree deal

Negotiations will continue beyond Sunday's deadline in an effort to reach a deal, say the leaders.

Energy bills: Automatic switching plan for fairer tariffs

Consumers could be automatically switched to cheaper deals when their contracts end.

Covid vaccines: Will drug companies make bumper profits?

Governments and charities have invested billions in vaccines developed by private firms.

The women inspiring others in a male-dominated industry

Women who have risen to the top in the banking world share the challenges they have faced.

Banks 'too often blaming customers' for fraud

The financial watchdog says there is a 36% rise in complaints about how banks have dealt with fraud.

Klarna plans to tell credit agencies if repayments fail

The Buy Now, Pay Later firm Klarna tells Money Box it plans to start reporting missed payments to credit referencing agencies.

Has Covid made used clothes an 'amazing business'?

Resale clothing and accessories sites like Depop, Poshmark and ThredUp say activity is up due to the pandemic.

Odeon cinema owner warns of 'unsustainable' path

AMC Entertainment Holdings, owner of Odeon Cinemas, is burning through $125m a month.

Pound falls on the prospect of a no-deal Brexit

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said it is 'very, very likely' the UK will not secure terms with the EU.

Post Office scandal: Postmasters have convictions quashed

Six former sub-postmasters have their convictions for fraud linked to a new computer system dismissed.

Ferrari boss steps down for personal reasons

Louis Camilleri is leaving the luxury carmaker on the eve of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Court gives green light to £14bn Mastercard claim

The claim alleges 46 million people paid higher prices in shops than they should have.

Black workers at Lloyds Bank earn a fifth less than other colleagues

The banking group says it will "take action" to resolve the discrepancy among its staff.

Electric car battery plant for Blyth power station site

Britishvolt says the £2.6bn plant will be the largest industrial investment in the North East for years.

Heathrow to shut Terminal 4 until end of next year

The airport operator says passenger numbers fell sharply following a second lockdown.

UK banks can weather pandemic, says Bank of England

Most risks to financial stability posed by Covid and a no-deal Brexit have been mitigated, the Bank says.

US telcos ordered to 'rip and replace' Huawei components

The order is the latest US move against Chinese communications firm Huawei on security grounds

Pop Mart: China's mystery toymaker becomes multi-billionaire

The founder of Pop Mart has seen his wealth surge as millions of Chinese buy collectible toys.

Brexit stockpiling: 'I can't get my wine out of the EU'

Merchant Simon Taylor says delays at ports and Brexit stockpiling is making wine imports impossible.

Disney ramps up Star Wars and Marvel franchises

The move marks another industry shift away from cinema to streaming.

Beauty professionals hope for prettier picture in 2021

After a challenging year, beauty salon workers hope the Covid vaccines will prove a game changer.

Covid-19: Canary Islands added to UK quarantine list

UK tourists travelling from the islands will have to self-isolate for two weeks.

Airbnb value predicted to surge after share sale

The shares are set to surge, giving a much higher valuation than planned, according to trading data.

Banks can re-start dividend payments, regulator says

The Prudential Regulation Authority regulator says banks are strong enough to do so.

Royal Mail delays blamed on 'exceptional' volumes of post

Despite "exhaustive planning", some customers may experience delayed deliveries, the postal group says.

Britons could be barred from EU entry on 1 January

EU pandemic rules and Brexit may restrict travellers from entering the European Union.

Google fined £91m over ad-tracking cookies

France's data privacy watchdog said it was the largest fine it had ever issued.

Frasers Group confirms interest in Arcadia brands

Mike Ashley's retail group says it is looking at buying Arcadia brands such as Topshop.

UK growth slows again in October as rebound stalls

The UK economy grew by just 0.4% in October as the recovery continued to slow.

Brexit: UK and Singapore sign free trade agreement

The deal is one of many aimed at replicating trade pacts that will cease when the UK leaves the EU.

Treasury eyes VAT charges for gig economy firms

The "shared economy" has grown rapidly thanks to technology platforms like Uber and Airbnb.

UK has 'no authority' to impose tariffs in Boeing row says US

The US says the UK has 'no authority' on its own to impose tariffs related to a Boeing subsidies row.

Rio Tinto ordered to rebuild ancient Aboriginal caves

Rio Tinto is told to compensate owners of the 46,000-year-old site, which it blew up in May.

Demand for property 'losing a bit of steam'

Sales of homes and house prices are rising, but surveyors are expecting a slowdown early next year.

Supermarket Boxing Day closures pressure mounts

Asda is to close on Boxing Day, and unions repeat calls for other major chains to follow suit.

Facebook sued in US for 'illegally' crushing rivals

Regulators have asked the court to consider the breaking up the company, which owns Instagram and WhatsApp.

Brompton bikes: Production delay after UK port problems

The company famous for its folding bikes says its production is being delayed by UK ports congestion.

Twitter boss Jack Dorsey donates $15m for income support

Jack Dorsey's support for universal basic income programmes comes as US government aid has faltered.

Brexit: Tesco stockpiles food in case of 'worst-case scenario' no-deal

The supermarket warns prices could rise by up to 5% in January in the event of no deal.

Elon Musk moves Tesla to Texas in Silicon Valley snub

The billionaire tech entrepreneur said the state of California had become "complacent" with innovators.

Boeing 737 Max: Brazilian airline to resume passenger flights

The jet has been overhauled after it was grounded for 20 months following two deadly crashes.

UK to drop US goods tariffs in bid for trade deal

The move breaks ranks with the EU in a dispute with the US over subsidies for Boeing and Airbus.

Uber sells off flying taxi unit

Elevate is the second business Uber has sold off this week as the company seeks profitability.

'Tax the wealthy to pay for coronavirus'

The government should consider a wealth tax to patch up the public finances, tax experts say.

Scam alert: 'I was desperate for a job'

One victim's tells of "pushy" fraudsters as a charity says mental health issues leave people exposed to scams.

Currys PC World asked to honour cancelled Black Friday sales

Shoppers say they are being charged full price to re-order products cancelled because of a fault.

PayPal 'reward' email rapped for misleading

The message must not be sent again in the same form, rules the Advertising Standards Authority.

Could Brexit make my food more expensive?

The UK is negotiating a new trade deal with the EU - how might the result affect food prices?

So you want a career in computer games tournaments?

The first e-sports graduates are about to hit the jobs market, so was it worth the time and expense?

Cost of goods 'set to rise' from shipping mayhem

Businesses say importing goods to the UK is now so difficult, higher costs will be passed on to consumers.

US cybersecurity firm FireEye hit by 'state-sponsored' attack

FireEye says tools used for testing clients' security have been stolen, without naming the culprits.

Tesla: German court halts factory plan over snake and lizard habitats

The electric carmaker has been clearing forest to make way for a 'Gigafactory' close to Berlin.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe confirms new car to be made in France

The confirmation by the Ineos billionaire ends slim hopes it would be made in Wales.

Unions squabble over Santa membership claims

Debate rages over whether he's a postie, an actor, a bureaucrat, a musician or an honorary firefighter.

Honda warns of parts shortage due to UK port woes

The Japanese carmaker says congestion at UK ports could hamper production at its Swindon plant.

Brexit: Fears of food supply disruption growing, MPs told

MPs are told the industry has had little time to prepare for the end of the Brexit transition period.

China bans 105 apps including TripAdvisor

It is unclear why the travel app is included on the list.

Brexit: PM says 'sweet reason' can get UK and EU to trade deal

Boris Johnson says "hope springs eternal" ahead of a meeting with the European Commission president.

Covid: Grocery sales in November 'hit record high' amid lockdown

Spending surged as eating out was restricted by England's national lockdown, figures suggest.

Competition and Markets Authority plans tailored rules for tech giants

The Competition and Markets Authority wants to "shape the behaviour" of Google, Facebook and others.

Brexit: PM to meet EU chief in bid to save trade deal

The UK and EU say "significant differences" still remain as the leaders prepare to talk face-to-face.

Japan announces new Covid-19 stimulus for economy

The $708bn (£530bn) package includes subsidies for green investment and spending on digitalisation.

JD Health soars on stock market debut

Shares in the Chinese health giant surged by 34% on debut in Hong Kong's biggest listing of the year.

'Looking for part-time jobs was soul-destroying'

With employers cutting hundreds of thousands of jobs, competition for work is fierce.

Lottery player age to rise amid gambling crackdown

There will be 'a major review' of gambling laws in a bid to protect children and vulnerable people.

Hydrogen power: Firms join forces in bid to lower costs

The possibility of a future powered significantly by clean hydrogen takes a small step closer.

Would you trust a 'virtual nanny' with your kids?

As parents have struggled with childcare this year, a number of tech firms are offering solutions.

Uber sheds self-driving cars to prioritise profits

Driverless cars were one seen as core to the company's future but lately it's focused on rides and food.

Covid forces Davos forum to move to Singapore

The World Economic Forum says the pandemic makes it hard to guarantee participants would stay safe in Europe.

Pound sinks as UK-EU trade talks enter 'critical stage'

Sterling at a six week low against the euro amid worries at the prospect of a no-deal Brexit.

Ikea scraps traditional catalogue after 70 years

The end of the catalogue is “emotional but rational” as fewer people are reading it, the company says.

Brexit: Toyota says no-deal outcome will be 'very negative'

The carmaker's European boss tells the BBC its UK plants could become uncompetitive if no deal is struck.

David Bowie coin launched into space by Royal Mint

The coin featuring the Starman singer was sent to an altitude of more than 35,000m.

Bob Dylan sells rights to all his songs to Universal Music Group

The US singer-songwriter has given his entire back catalogue over to the Universal Music Group.

Nando's 'not in crisis talks over debt'

The chicken chain says it faces no imminent debt issues despite spending £20m on pandemic-proofing.

B&Q owner Kingfisher to return £130m in Covid rates relief

DIY specialist Kingfisher becomes the latest retailer to hand back support, taking the total to £2bn.

Mike Ashley's Frasers Group in talks to rescue Debenhams

The ailing department store chain went into liquidation last week, putting 12,000 jobs at risk.

Brexit: UK-EU talks to resume in final push for trade deal

Talks continue after a tense weekend - as No 10 disputes EU claims an agreement on post-Brexit fishing is close.

Beer and crisps used to help tackle climate change

Walkers will make fertiliser by mixing potato waste with CO2 captured from beer fermentation.

Zalando boss to quit 'to prioritise wife's career'

The co-chief executive of Europe's largest online fashion platform is cutting short his contract.

What's it like moving back home (as an adult)?

The coronavirus pandemic has led millions of young Americans to move back in with their parents.

Coronavirus: Weekend shopping returns but numbers disappoint

Christmas shoppers returned to stores in England this weekend, but footfall was down 25% on last year.

Nottingham's Christmas market 'temporarily' closes after one day

The decision is made following "unprecedented high footfall" in Nottingham city centre.

Climate change: Lower Thames Crossing CO2 impact figures revealed

Campaigners accuse Boris Johnson of mocking his own promises on climate change and emissions.

Brexit: 'Final throw of the dice' as trade talks resume

There are still "significant differences" to be resolved by Lord Frost and Michel Barnier.

Bird flu: All captive birds in Britain to be kept indoors amid outbreak

The virus - said to be "low risk" to humans - has been identified at sites across Great Britain.

US turns up heat on China's biggest chip-maker

The US adds China's biggest computer chip-maker SMIC to a list of "Chinese military companies".

Maradona: Why the football icon's inheritance could be messy

Lawyers expect a process fraught with family rows, DNA tests and opportunistic claims.

Brexit: Will the borders be ready?

With one month to go until the end of transition, we look at the challenges to come on the UK's borders.

Quibi: Why did the video app go so wrong?

The BBC speaks to three Quibi content creators on the rapid rise and fall of the Netflix rival.

Brexit: Boris Johnson and EU chief seek to break trade deal deadlock

EU and UK negotiators call in leaders in last ditch effort to secure a trade deal.

Austria: Former finance minister Grasser jailed for corruption

The court said Karl-Heinz Grasser received kickbacks in return for information on property sales.

Climate change: UK aim of 68% emissions cut a 'colossal challenge'

The "ambitious" target for 2030 would see the UK move faster than any major economy, the PM says.

Coronavirus: Defiant ski nations bid to save winter season

Many of Europe's ski slopes will be closed, but the Swiss and Austrians have made their own plans.

Brexit: What trade deals has the UK done so far?

Securing a UK-EU trade deal is a top priority in the weeks ahead.

Why Covid may mean more facial recognition tech

Facial recognition software is getting better at dealing with masks, making the tech more versatile.

How a blow to Australian wine shows tensions with China

The once successful trade story now represents a worst case scenario of the bilateral tensions.

What will happen to closed High Street shops?

As retail chains fade, town centres may have to find other ways to attract custom.

British Airways' memorabilia sale hits snag as demand soars

The airline's sale of surplus stock - crockery, blankets, slippers - sparked delight and disappointment.

Covid Christmas: Are gift cards wise or wasteful?

With High Street retailers such as Topshop in trouble, will we give gift cards and vouchers this Christmas?

Welsh pubs count cost as alcohol ban takes effect

The new restrictions have been described as "a devastating hammer blow" to the hospitality industry.

Post-Brexit trade talks at a very difficult point - No 10

UK and EU negotiators are trying to reach agreement in time to get it approved by 31 December.

Timnit Gebru: Google staff rally behind fired AI researcher

Timnit Gebru, a critic of some of the firm's policies, says she was dismissed over an internal email.

Job growth slows in US as virus cases surge

The US economy added just 245,000 jobs in November - far less than expected.

Denmark set to end all new oil and gas exploration

The European Union's largest oil producer plans to stop extracting fossil fuels by 2050.

Primark says autumn shut down cost it £430m in sales

Despite the disruption, the fashion chain still expects to see sales and profits increase this year.

Pets at Home to hand back Covid rates relief

The retailer follows several supermarkets' lead and will repay £28.9m in business rates relief.

Brexit: ‘Breakthrough still possible’ as UK-EU trade talks resume

Brexit talks are to resume on Friday as compromises over issues such as fishing rights are sought.

Brexit: ‘Breakthrough still possible’ as UK-EU trade talks resume

Brexit talks are to resume on Friday as compromises over issues such as fishing rights are sought.

Cyber-warning for festive shoppers

Online shoppers are being warned of the risks of cyber-fraud during the festive season.

Possible deal for arrested Huawei finance chief

The deal would let Meng Wanzhou return to China from Canada, where she was arrested in 2018.

Nasa to pay company $1 to collect moon rocks

The US space agency has awarded two American and one Japanese firm contracts to pick up lunar soil.

Unemployed in the USA: 'I don’t know what to do'

Millions of Americans are due to lose jobless benefits as a rise in cases hinders economic recovery.

'China is a hard rock. It won't be beaten by virus'

China's economic recovery has been quick according to its official figures but also lopsided.

Call for probe into 'missing' £50bn of UK cash

The money has disappeared from circulation and is unaccounted for, say MPs and auditors.

Government to cut £1bn from rail budget

The cut comes at a time when the industry is suffering from low passenger numbers due to the pandemic.

Will Santa have enough bikes for Christmas Day?

Millions of bicycles were sold this year, with fears there won't be enough for the festive period.

Facebook sued for 'denying opportunities to US workers'

The Trump administration accuses the tech firm of favouring foreign workers in its hiring policy.

Warner Bros' films set for simultaneous cinema and US streaming

Warner Bros says its 2021 films will be available to stream in US at same time as they hit cinemas.

Quarantine rules to be relaxed for business travellers

The business trips must result in a deal which secures 50 jobs or leads to a £100,000 investment.

Ryanair orders 75 more Boeing 737 Max planes

The Irish airline's deal is a boost for the Max, which was grounded after two deadly crashes.

Brexit: UK-EU trade talks down to the wire

The UK and EU teams are under pressure to finalise an agreement, as talks continue in London.

Topshop owner Arcadia leaves gift card holders 50% short

People with vouchers will only be able to use them for half of their order, the company says.

Sainsbury's to hand back £440m of business rates relief

It follows supermarket rivals Morrisons and Tesco, which gave back £850m between them on Wednesday.

US pushes ahead with new rules for Chinese firms

The move to delist non-compliant companies coincides with a wider push to ramp up pressure on China.

HSBC share price rockets 50% since its 25-year low

Investors feel the UK's biggest bank's outlook has improved after slumping in September.

'Direct debit fraud cost my mum £1,000'

Phil Lind says his mother, Ursula, had money stolen from her bank account after criminals beat security.

Covid brainwave: 'I turned my office into a cyclists' cafe'

Three stories of people working in hospitality who have set up new businesses during Covid-19.

Amazon's Panorama box lets firms check if staff follow coronavirus rules

AWS Panorama adds a range of employee monitoring powers to existing workplace camera systems.

'Wild Wednesday' delivers damp squib for reopened retailers

There's been little sign of pent-up demand as shops reopen on Wednesday after a month of lockdown.

Calls for better deal for Arcadia pension holders

Labour says pension scheme members "should not pay the price of Sir Philip Green's greed".

Will vaccine save the UK economy?

Vaccines could give businesses the confidence to invest, stopping job cuts and closures.

EasyJet to charge for overhead luggage lockers

Customers who want to use overhead storage must buy more expensive tickets, the airline says.

Brexit: HMRC to take 'sympathetic' customs approach from 1 January

HMRC is "aware" many businesses are not yet clear about forthcoming Brexit rules on Irish Sea trade.

A brief history of Topshop: From basement to high-street empire

Topshop owner Arcadia could collapse, here's a look back at some of the shop's key moments.

Bonmarché falls into administration

More than 1,500 jobs are at risk following the collapse of the women's fashion chain.

The rollercoaster ride of Scotland's first gold mine

Production is now under way at Cononish in the west of Scotland after decades of setbacks for prospectors.

Covid-19: Traders hope shoppers return for Christmas after lockdown

Businesses hope for a positive few weeks before Christmas as they reopen after lockdown.

Tesco to repay £585m in business rates relief

The supermarket giant received the money as support to help it get through the coronavirus pandemic.

Singapore approves lab-grown 'chicken' meat

The city state is the world's first country to approve Eat Just's "breakthrough" chicken nuggets.

Nike's diversity advert causing a backlash in Japan

The sportswear giant is facing criticism online, but it could work in its favour with more sales.

Debenhams website overwhelmed as shoppers swoop on sales

The 242-year-old department store is offering huge discounts after it collapsed on Tuesday.

Shop workers crisis: 'I wake up worried about my job'

Young people working in retail have been hard hit by the collapse of some of the UK's biggest chains.

Christmas: Shops offer early festive discounts in battle for survival

Shop prices are falling in the run-up to Christmas as retailers race to clear stock, a report says.

Debenhams: Over 200 years of history

The ailing department store chain is set to close, marking its final chapter after nearly 250 years.

Brexit: Dairy giant Arla warns of price rise if no deal

The dairy farmers' co-operative, which owns Cravdendale and Lurpak, imports about 15% of its products.

Slack sold to business software giant for $27.7bn

The workplace messaging app's sale comes as the pandemic has increased the focus on remote work.

England lockdown end date confusion: 'We've lost a day of trade'

Business owners say contradictory government guidance means they did not know when they could reopen.

Why shops are going over to the 'dark' side

Some retailers are converting stores into mini-distribution hubs in response to Covid-19.

Shoppers on Debenhams' demise: I'll miss it

Shoppers in Leeds react to the news that the 242-year-old retailer will close.

Price of first class stamps to rise 9p to 85p

The price rise will take effect on 1 January when the cost of a second class stamp will rise 1p to 66p.

Brexit: Is Northern Ireland ready for 1 January?

BBC News NI Business Editor John Campbell examines the questions that are still to be answered.

What went wrong at Debenhams?

The pandemic pushed the retailer into liquidation, but its problems go back much further.

UK among hardest hit nations by pandemic, says OECD

Research by leading international agency suggests only Argentina will be worst hit by the pandemic.

Bitcoin peaks at record high close to $20,000

The digital currency has traded as high as $19,920.53, beating a record set in December 2017.

UK house price growth 'fastest for almost six years'

Property price rises accelerated last month, the Nationwide says. but growth is set to slow next year.

Lastminute.com to pay £7m in holiday refunds

More than 9,000 customers have yet to be repaid for cancelled package holidays amid the Covid crisis.

Debenhams set to close putting 12,000 jobs at risk

The move comes after the failure of last-ditch efforts to rescue the ailing department store chain.

Covid-19: ‘Our business model has been made illegal’

What happens to your business when Covid takes your customers away?

Brushing: When Amazon packages arrive that you didn't order

Zoe Kleinman looks at the sneaky way some sellers are trying to boost their products on Amazon.