Sunday, February 28, 2021
Topshop: What happened after the shutters closed?
The pandemic is changing the jobs market. What happens to young and old trying to find work?
Chinese investment in Australia plummets 61%
The drop reflects tougher foreign investment laws and the effects of Covid-19.
'Farms are going to need different kinds of robots'
A growing number of tech firms are helping farmers better look after their animals and crops.
Budget 2021: 'Now is not the time for tax rises', say MPs
The Treasury Committee says "now is not the time" for rises, but they may be needed in the future.
Jobless rate around UK airports above average, say MPs
A report by MPs found the number of people claiming jobless benefits was much higher near the top 20 UK airports.
Apprenticeships levy 'has failed on every measure', says HR body
The professional body for HR said apprenticeship starts have fallen and far fewer have gone to young people.
Waste food: What do you do with 86 tonnes of celeriac?
With hospitality closed during lockdown, charities and apps are stepping in to help cut food waste.
Budget 2021: Northern Tory MPs call for business rates cut to 'save High Streets'
Writing ahead of the Budget, the MPs say the tax should be cut now and reformed in the long term.
Budget 2021: Extra £1.6bn for UK's Covid vaccination rollout
The chancellor is to provide more funding for the programme, which has now given 20m first doses.
Budget: Rishi Sunak promises help as Covid restrictions ease
But Rishi Sunak says he wants "to be honest" with the public about the shock suffered by the economy.
Saturday, February 27, 2021
Budget 2021: £5bn fund to help High Street recover from Covid
Grants for 700,000 firms come as Rishi Sunak warns public finances face a challenge ahead of the Budget.
Budget 2021: The challenge facing Rishi Sunak
The BBC looks at the state of the UK economy ahead of the spring Budget.
The influencer effect: 'Love Island star transformed my business'
Influencers can have a bad reputation but for some people they have proved to be a business lifeline.
Six million accidental savers 'created by Covid crisis'
Lower commuting costs, cancelled holidays and fewer meals out boost some bank accounts, a report says.
Covid: How this Indian firm is vaccinating the world
The Serum Institute of India isn't a household name, but it's the world's largest vaccine maker.
Cryptocurrencies: Why Nigeria is a global leader in Bitcoin trade
A devaluing currency and hard economic conditions make cryptocurrencies attractive despite the risks.
Friday, February 26, 2021
Budget 2021: Mortgage guarantee to help buyers with 5% deposit
Boris Johnson says "generation rent" can become "generation buy" through new government-backed loans.
Bitcoin energy use 'bigger than most countries'
Could the cryptocurrency's huge electricity consumption also sink it?
Ros Atkins on... Is Facebook too powerful?
Ros Atkins looks at the consequences of Facebook's power on events in Myanmar, Washington DC and Australia.
Budget 2021: Stamp duty holiday deadline 'may cost us £12,000'
Homebuyers facing high costs and delays want the tax break to be extended at the Budget.
Loan shark fears as fewer investigations begin during Covid crisis
Illegal money lenders have been shaming non-payers on social media during the pandemic.
Vintage technology: 'It sounds so much cleaner'
Why do people like to use ancient personal organisers and music players?
Budget 2021: Rishi Sunak to inject £126m to boost traineeship scheme
Rishi Sunak to also launch a 'flexi-job' scheme so people can work for several firms at once.
Covid: 'Our 10 days of hotel quarantine are finally over'
South African Wiehann Meyer, who recently travelled to London, kept a video diary of his experience in hotel quarantine.
Amanda Staveley loses High Court fight with Barclays over damages
A businesswoman who sued Barclays for hundreds of millions has lost her case.
Freeports: What are they and will they make the UK money?
Rishi Sunak thinks the low-tax zones will boost struggling parts of the UK - but not everyone agrees.
Budget 2021: BBC editors on what to expect
BBC editors Faisal Islam and Simon Jack tell us what Chancellor Rishi Sunak might have in store.
Pets at Home says lockdown pet bonanza will bring even higher profits
The retailer raises its profits forecast yet again as demand for pet products continues to soar.
Blyth 'gigafactory': Ex-offenders offered chance at car battery plant
The electric car battery plant will be the biggest industrial investment in the North East for years.
British Airways owner IAG calls for digital health passes
Airline group IAG's call comes as it posts a huge annual loss after the pandemic grounded many flights.
Thursday, February 25, 2021
Pokémon at 25: Rare cards trade for big money
Rare cards based on the popular Japanese video game and cartoons are regularly fetching six figures.
Nightclubs eye June reopening but can they survive?
Clubs have been closed for almost a year but what will the clubbing experience be like when they reopen?
Mr Potato Head to lose "Mr" title in gender-neutral rebrand
The toy's maker, Hasbro, says it will drop the "Mr" to "promote gender equality and inclusion".
The disabled influencers making their mark on social media
Brands are starting to embrace social media influencers with disabilities to target the "purple pound".
UK car production slumps by a quarter in January
The UK produced 27% fewer cars than a year ago, the worst January figure for over a decade.
Budget 2021: Support pubs by cutting beer duty, say Conservative MPs
Cheaper beer could support struggling pubs MPs argue, but alcohol awareness campaigners are opposed.
Budget 2021: 'My £20 is a lifeline - don't take it away'
A benefits top-up to help the poor survive lockdown is due to end - unless it is extended at the Budget.
Airbnb predicts 'significant' travel rebound
But the booking platform warns it is still too early to predict how many travellers will return in 2021.
Coronavirus: EU urged to adopt 'vaccine passports'
Greece and Austria want coronavirus-free tourists this summer, but other EU states have concerns.
HMRC letters question Covid self-employment support grant claims
About 11,000 people will receive letters questioning whether they should have claimed the money.
Vauxhall: Talks over fate of Ellesmere Port plant 'productive'
The owner of the Ellesmere Port factory, which employs about 1,000 workers, is in talks with the government.
Get used to fewer trains, says rail body
Around one in ten rail services should be cut while passenger numbers remain low, says Network Rail.
Furlough numbers climb sharply in January to 4.7 million
The number of people on furlough rises by 700,000 to 4.7 million after fresh lockdown measures imposed.
Asda says 5,000 jobs at risk in new business plan
The supermarket says it has begun consulting with workers over a major restructuring of its business.
Primark bets on last year's fashion for April reopening
The High Street-only retailer says it has lost £1.1bn in sales due to the recent lockdown.
Serco: Test and trace firm's boss defends scheme
The boss of outsourcer Serco says there are now as many people being tested per week as vaccinated.
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
UK 4G smartphone owners may be due £480m pay-out
Some 29 million people in the UK could be entitled to up to £30 back on Apple or Samsung smartphones.
Coronavirus: Public need 'home truths' on economy - Hammond
The ex-chancellor says Boris Johnson must "do the right thing", even if it means risking unpopularity.
Goldman Sachs: Bank boss rejects work from home as the 'new normal'
Remote working is "an aberration" that will be corrected as soon as possible says Goldman Sachs chief.
Chinese £3,200 budget electric car takes on Tesla
The mini electric vehicle being made by China's biggest carmaker is now outselling Tesla two to one.
Budget 2021: 'If I have to pay £13,000, it will destroy my shop'
Struggling shops warn they may have to shut if business rates are brought back at the Budget.
Ikea aims to launch delayed 'Buy Back' scheme in UK
UK consumers will soon be able to sell back used items with the aim of reducing waste.
The colourful fridges popping up on American streets
Local communities in the US have come up with a novel way to help feed those going hungry.
Have Australians fallen out of love with Sydney and Melbourne?
Figures show Australians are moving out of the large cities in search of a better quality of life.
CEO Secrets: 'My billion pound company has no HR department'
Greg Jackson, founder and CEO of Octopus Energy, explains why he doesn't need a human resources team.
GameStop surges again as Reddit crashes temporarily
Trading in GameStop shares halted minutes before markets closed but jumped again in late trading.
US central bank payment system down for 'hours'
The crash came as the bank faces pressure to keep pace with changes fuelled by Bitcoin and other digital currencies.
Vauxhall: Crunch talks to save Ellesmere Port plant continue
Vauxhall's parent company has previously said its fate depends on the government's commitment to the car industry.
Palantir: NHS faces legal action over data firm contract
Controversial data-crunching firm Palantir's deal with the UK health service is under the spotlight.
Biden orders 100-day review amid supply chain strains
The United States has grappled with shortages of medical gear and computer chips, among other items.
Nissan: Hundreds furloughed over parts shortage
Late-shift work on one assembly line in Sunderland will be suspended for one week, the firm says.
Hays Travel boss 'shocked' by husband's sudden death
Dame Irene Hays says tributes to her husband John have given her "determination" to carry on.
Fraudsters stepped up efforts in new year, HMRC figures show
Con-artists claimed people could receive a tax rebate or a grant, as they tried to steal financial details.
Cladding: Fire safety bill could leave leaseholders 'bankrupt'
Campaigners are backing a rebellion by Tory MPs to ensure leaseholders are protected from extra costs.
Covid lockdown: 'My closed hair salons cost me £1,000 a day'
The hair and beauty industry is calling for a cut in VAT to help mend the sector's finances.
Heathrow in £2bn loss as Covid 'devastates' air travel
Passenger numbers in 2020 dropped to levels last seen in the 1970s, the UK's largest airport says.
Tuesday, February 23, 2021
Apple buys a company every three to four weeks
The technology giant has bought around 100 companies in six years, chief executive Tim Cook has revealed.
Budget 2021: 'I've been furloughed twice in one year'
More support for jobs is expected in Chancellor Rishi Sunak's Budget, but will it be enough?
Budget 2021: Chancellor must 'make finance green', say campaigners
Campaigners call for Chancellor Rishi Sunak to make system changes including a carbon emissions tax.
Women boardroom roles make 'dramatic' jump in five years
Boards of big companies have 50% more women present than in 2015, a government review has found.
Oatly looks to raise money in stock market float
The Swedish plant-based milk company said it is planning to sell its first public shares in a US stock exchange listing.
Facebook and Google 'too powerful' says CMA boss
The boss of the UK's competition watchdog says tech giants have too much share of the online ad market.
Bitcoin: Elon Musk loses world's richest title as Tesla falters
The Tesla chief's wealth has taken a hit as investors sour on Bitcoin and the electric carmaker.
MWC Shanghai: Gadget companies gather for rare pandemic tech expo
New products include a phone that fully charges in 20 minutes and an under-screen selfie camera.
Coronavirus: Gender pay gap enforcement delayed by a further six months
The equalities watchdog says it is the right move amidst the pandemic, but Labour calls it "unacceptable".
Covid-19: Businesses 'throwing in towel' over uncertainty
Labour says the Budget must extend the VAT cut, furlough and the business rates holiday.
Jailed Libor banker Tom Hayes: 'My life was destroyed'
Tom Hayes says he believes fresh evidence will show his Libor conviction was unsafe.
UK unemployment rate rises to 5.1%
The rate of unemployment in the UK rose 5.1% in the three months to December, figures show.
Covid: Airline industry travel pass ready 'within weeks'
Industry body IATA says it sees its pass as essential for reopening quarantine-free travel.
Monday, February 22, 2021
HSBC shifts focus from west to east as profits dive
The UK-based bank has signalled its "pivot to Asia" as annual profits slump during the pandemic.
Facebook reverses ban on news pages in Australia
Facebook will reverse a decision to block access to news content, Australia's government says.
Boeing 777: Signs of 'metal fatigue' found on Denver plane engine
The aircraft had to make an emergency landing after its engine failed, scattering debris over homes below.
Clubhouse confirms data spillage of its audio streams
A user has been banned for streaming audio from multiple Clubhouse chatrooms onto their website.
Spotify to expand into more than 80 new markets
The audio streaming company wants to extend its global reach to include more than a billion extra people.
China regains slot as India's top trade partner despite tensions
Trade flows remained strong between the two Asian neighbours despite growing tensions and deadly clashes.
The video call apps linking home workers with strangers
A number of tech firms are connecting people working from home with strangers via video calls.
Jeep pushed to retire Cherokee name from SUVs
The chief of the Cherokee Nation says 'it's time' for corporations to stop using native American names.
Holiday bookings surge following lockdown exit plans
Travel agencies and airlines say website traffic jumped following Boris Johnson's announcement.
Epic's bid to sue Apple over Fortnite in UK rejected
A UK tribunal denied Epic Games permission to go after Apple - but a case versus Google can proceed.
Roadmap: 'We're delighted to have dates to work towards'
Boris Johnson’s route out of lockdown is a relief for businesses, including pubs, restaurants, gyms and retail.
Huawei Mate X2 folding phone unveiled despite chip supply worries
The firm claims the edge against rival Samsung, but faces a dwindling stockpile of smartphone chips.
Jay-Z sells stake in champagne brand to luxury giant LVMH
LVMH said it was interested in the brand for its appeal to a 'global and diverse' customer.
Brexit: 1,000 EU finance firms 'set to open UK offices'
Applications to operate via a UK base suggest London will remain a key financial centre, a consultancy says.
Covid-19: Boris Johnson plans to reopen shops and gyms in England on 12 April
Boris Johnson hopes all legal limits on social contact could be lifted in England from 21 June.
John Lewis considers closing more stores
The department store giant may close another eight stores in a further blow for the High Street.
Covid lockdown: 'We are burning through about £500,000 a day'
The owner of PureGym says lockdown has been costing his business hundreds of thousands of pounds a day.
Sunday, February 21, 2021
Airlines ground Boeing 777s after Denver engine failure
United Airlines grounds 24 of its 777s, while Japan's two main airlines suspend 32 jets from use.
Bitcoin keeps hitting new highs after Tesla backing
Having broken through the $50,000 level last week the cryptocurrency has extended its rally this year.
More than half of UK employers planning to recruit staff
The number of firms planning to make staff redundant in the first quarter of 2021 is also falling.
'They wanted to jail a banker - I was that banker'
Tom Hayes, jailed for rigging interest rates, tells the BBC fresh evidence will show his conviction was unsafe.
'Coins can inspire people to look into the past'
BBC News website readers share their old coin collections and the stories behind them.
The search widens for hot rocks that provide power
Geothermal power projects have seen a surge of investment as countries encourage renewable energy.
Lloyd's seeks archivist to investigate slave trade links
The specialist insurance market has previously apologised for historical links to the slave trade.
Hospitality suppliers: 'It’s not just a case of turning on a switch'
Firms across the supply chain say notice and certainty are key to a full menu being available post-lockdown.
Saturday, February 20, 2021
Covid-19: Fewest firms planning job cuts since pandemic began
The figures suggest the decision to extend the furlough scheme has helped to prevent wider job losses.
Leon boss warns longer lockdown 'will cost lives'
John Vincent says extending lockdowns, even by a number of weeks, "matters hugely".
Singapore vending machines now dispense salmon, crab and even cacti
The city state has a dizzying array of vending machines, dispensing everything from cacti to pizza.
Friday, February 19, 2021
HSBC fraud helpline's 20-hour wait 'disgraceful'
The daughter of a fraud victim says it took hours to speak to staff after thousands were stolen from her father's bank account.
Holidays: Travel industry begs for 'route out of crisis'
Industry figures have urged the prime minister to provide a "roadmap" to get people travelling again.
Maersk: Consumers can foot shipping's climate change bill
From footwear to medical equipment, shipping can be a big part of any product's carbon emissions.
Is business the 'path to peace' in the Middle East?
How peace between Israel and the UAE and Bahrain is reshaping business and the region's alliances.
Covid: Matt Hancock acted unlawfully over pandemic contracts
The health secretary breached his "legal obligation" to publish details of deals, the High Court rules.
Covid-19: Johnson still working on 'roadmap' to ease lockdown
Ministers will "crunch the numbers" over the weekend, amid pressure to reduce Covid restrictions.
UK Supreme Court rules Uber drivers are workers
The ride hailing app's drivers are workers rather than self-employed, the court says.
NatWest sets aside £3.2bn to cover bad loans
The bank sinks to a loss but will resume dividend payments to shareholders
UK government borrowing hits highest January level since records began
It is the first time in 10 years that more have been borrowed than collected as tax and other income.
Retail sales slump in January amid lockdown
Sales fell sharply last month with much of the High Street closed amid the latest Covid restrictions.
Thursday, February 18, 2021
Huawei turns to pig farming during US sanctions
The Chinese smartphone giant is also pivoting into coal mining technology in its search for new revenues.
'Clothes should float in and out of our lives'
The companies that are adopting a "circular economy" model to doing business.
UK to launch 'high risk' science agency
The new agency will help "cement the UK's position as a science superpower", the government says.
'We can't get a refund for our £980 flights'
More than two million people have not received refunds for flights they were unable to board in the pandemic.
Texas freeze shuts chip factories amid shortages
A power crisis in Texas forces computer-chip-makers to halt production amid a chip shortage.
Slash business rates to save High Street, says Next boss
Boss Lord Wolfson says that unless rates are lowered, many shops will have to close unnecessarily.
Robinhood boss says GameStop episode 'unacceptable'
Lawmakers grill key players in the GameStop trading frenzy at a hearing in Washington.
Norfolk Vanguard: Ministers wrong over wind farm go-ahead, says judge
The resident who brought legal action says a High Court judge's decision is a "very good start".
McDonald's looks for 'gender parity' by 2030
The fast-food chain has been under fire over racial discrimination and handling of sexual harassment claims.
Crispin Odey indecent assault case: Hedge fund boss 'groped like an octopus'
Crispin Odey put his hand down a young colleague's shirt and up her skirt, a court hears.
Sir Keir Starmer: Savings scheme would boost UK's recovery post-Covid
The Labour leader says there can be "no return to business as usual" as he sets out post-Covid policies.
Coronavirus: 'No jab, no job' policies may be legal for new staff
It may be legal to insist on vaccinations in new staff contracts, the justice secretary suggests.
Covid: How work life changed for a home-schooler and a supermarket manager
How the pandemic has changed work life for a home-schooling parent and a supermarket manager.
Facebook Australia: PM Scott Morrison 'will not be intimidated' by tech giant
Scott Morrison says Facebook's decision to block news feeds to users is "arrogant and disappointing".
Brexit charges: Why is my online shopping more expensive?
Some UK customers have been hit by extra charges since Brexit but why?
Barclays profits hit by £4.8bn bad loan provisions
The bank reports a 30% drop in profits to £3.1bn for last year, having set aside huge sums for bad loans.
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
BTS label Big Hit and Universal seek next boy band
The two record labels have teamed up to find a new K-pop boy group through a joint venture.
'Roaring Kitty' GameStop investor hit with lawsuit
Keith Gill faces a lawsuit claiming he hid his his financial background from other investors.
Trustpilot removed 2.2 million bogus reviews in 2020
The review website publishes its first transparency report as its own sector comes under scrutiny.
'I'm paying £3,400 for student housing I can't use'
Maya Cooper is one of the students collectively charged £1bn for accommodation they can't use.
Broadband credit score mistake 'cost me thousands'
Omar Khalid says a mistake by broadband provider Virgin Media damaged his credit score for years.
Rent debt crisis 'could lead to homelessness'
Half a million renters could lose their home without financial help, warn debt charities, lenders and landlords.
Phase out furlough gradually, Chancellor urged
The government employee support scheme needs to be wound down gently, think tank says.
Iceland director sacked after Welsh language jibes
Director of corporate affairs Keith Hann made comments on social media and a personal blog.
Facebook to block Australian users from viewing or sharing news
It comes in response to a proposed law that would force the company to pay publishers for content.
Jaguar Land Rover: Car maker confirms plans to axe 2,000 jobs
The proposed job losses will not affect manufacturing staff, the car maker says.
US charges three North Koreans over $1.3bn theft
They are accused of attempting to steal from some of the world's biggest corporations.
Google to pay Murdoch's News Corporation for stories
Rupert Murdoch has championed the idea that internet platforms should pay media companies for material.
Lord Frost: Brexit negotiator becomes Cabinet Office minister
Downing Street says the UK's Brexit negotiator will help forge trade ties with the European Union.
Amazon sued by New York over 'deficient' Covid-19 response
The state's top prosecutor says Amazon showed "flagrant disregard" for health and safety at its warehouses.
Crispin Odey: Hedge fund manager denies indecent assault
Multimillionaire Crispin Odey allegedly put his hand down a woman's shirt and up her skirt, a court hears.
Quarantine hotel rooms are 'like a prison'
Two days into the new hotel quarantine system and arrivals complain of poor planning and conditions.
Covid: Court rejects self-employed mothers' sexual discrimination case
Campaigners from Pregnant Then Screwed argued the government's Covid support discriminated against mothers.
Ryanair loses fight to block rivals' state aid
Bailouts granted to rivals Air France and Swedish carrier SAS were within the rules, court says.
House price rises climbing at highest rate in six years
Official figures show house prices rose 8.5% in 2020, the fastest annual growth since October 2014.
Ford to go all-electric in Europe by 2030
By the middle of 2026, all its cars will be available as electric or hybrid models, it said.
Inflation: Cost of living up in January amid coronavirus curbs
Prices rose by 0.7% in the 12 months to January in the UK, up from 0.6% to December.
Tuesday, February 16, 2021
China overtakes US as EU's biggest trading partner
China's demand for cars and luxury goods from Europe bounced back in 2020 as its economy recovered.
Climate change: Don't raid home insulation scheme, MPs urge ministers
The government hopes to claw back money from a £1.5bn fund to promote home insulation.
Brexit: NI Protocol is 'only solution' despite challenges
EC vice president Maros Sefcovic says the NI deal is "administratively extremely challenging".
Spy pixels in emails 'have become endemic'
Email app Hey reveals that two-thirds of the messages it handles contain the hidden trackers.
Medical cannabis: 'Convince people that you're serious'
Cannabis farmer turned medical research boss says you need to “convince people you are serious”.
The hypercar maker who was told to give up his dream
Mate Rimac struggled to get anyone to believe that cutting edge sportscars could be made in Croatia.
Citi loses fight to recoup mistaken payments
The bank had hoped to recover some of the nearly $900m it erroneously wired in August.
Black McDonald's owner sues for racial discrimination
Herb Washington says the firm has retaliated after he raised concerns about the firm's treatment of black franchisees.
Neil Woodford relaunch plans spark call for inquiry
Activist Gina Miller calls for investigation into Woodford funds collapse and response.
Marriott Hotels 'exceptional' chief Arne Sorenson dies aged 62
Arne Sorenson transformed the previously family run JW Marriott hotel chain into the world's biggest.
Covid: Rapid tests and vaccines 'will allow venues to reopen' - minister
Those measures will "get our economy back on its feet", vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi says.
Asda: How to buy a £6.8bn supermarket for £780m
Asda has new owners - but they are borrowing £4bn to finance the deal. Will the debt burden be too great?
What happened to Anthem? The blockbuster game that failed to find a community
BBC Sounds podcast Press X to Continue looks at what went wrong with the gaming flop Anthem.
Gumtree Shpock tie-up could raise fees and reduce choice warns watchdog
The competition watchdog fears the sale of Gumtree by eBay to the owner of Shpock could lead to higher prices.
Monday, February 15, 2021
New WTO boss warns against vaccine nationalism
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala says rich countries should not be allowed to vaccinate their people as poorer countries wait.
Amazon vs Reliance: Why are two of the world's richest men in court?
A tussle over an Indian grocery store pits Amazon and Reliance against each other in court.
Mobile loan apps in India: 'They try to mentally break you'
We hear from people in India who say some mobile loan apps harass and intimidate those who use them.
Computer says go: Taking orders from an AI boss
As artificial intelligence systems get more prevalent, some of us already have computers as managers.
450,000 families ‘behind on rent because of Covid’
One in 20 private renters say they have been refused rent reductions, a report says.
Covid: Rapid tests could help reopen nightclubs, PM suggests
Boris Johnson suggests testing clubbers and theatregoers to reopen venues that have been closed since March.
Fake Amazon reviews 'being sold in bulk' online
A Which? investigation found 10 sites offering fake Amazon Marketplace reviews from as little as £5 each.
Jaguar car brand to be all-electric by 2025
JLR will launch electric models of its entire Jaguar and Land Rover line-up by 2030.
Fallen fund manager Woodford’s return 'is a kick in the guts’
Not everyone has welcomed the public return of the star fund manager who fell from grace.
Pound hits three-year high on vaccination hopes
Sterling rises above $1.39 as the vaccine programme raises hopes that lockdown can be eased.
Mercedes emergency call bug: Carmaker recalls vehicles
Carmaker recalls more than a million vehicles after finding a bug in its emergency call software.
Hotel quarantine: 'It'll cost us thousands and we'll be miles from home'
Travellers planning their return to the UK say the rules are confusing and sometimes "bizarre".
HS2: Aerial footage shows what London to Birmingham route looks like now
Take a flight along phase one of the high-speed rail network – from London to Birmingham.
Wetherspoons calls for pubs to reopen 'to save jobs'
The chairman of the chain is calling for pubs to reopen at the same time as non-essential shops.
Bill Gates: Solving Covid easy compared with climate
Solving global warming would be “the most amazing thing humanity has done”, says the billionaire.
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Japan's economy shrinks 4.8% in 2020 due to Covid
The disappointing figure comes despite surging growth in the second half of the year.
Crown Resorts chief Ken Barton resigns amid money laundering scandal
Ken Barton steps down in the wake of allegations of money laundering within the Australian casino chain.
At-home food selling concerning, says Food Standards Agency
Food sales through social media puts further pressure on a hygiene inspection system already under strain.
Social businesses shut out of government support
Most 'ethical' banks don't offer bounce back loans, forcing hundreds of community-run businesses to close.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala set to be first African boss of WTO
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is set to be the first African and female boss of the World Trade Organization.
Decimalisation and the coin you really want to find in your change
To mark 50 years since decimalisation in the UK, an expert from The Royal Mint highlights recent coins of interest.
Deliveroo: Run Eat Out to Help Out again, says takeaway giant
The takeaway firm and 300 restaurant groups say it would boost the sector when restrictions ease.
Neil Woodford says 'sorry' as he announces new investment fund
The star fund manager who fell from grace vows not to repeat mistakes after investors saw big losses.
Saturday, February 13, 2021
Fine dining at home: 'It means I'm looking forward to Valentine's day'
The restaurants bringing their food to homes during lockdown
Treasury scraps £95,000 cap on public sector pay-offs
Unions fought the move, saying it would have hit workers on salaries of £25,000 a year.
Leeds Bradford Airport expansion plans approved
The £150m scheme to redevelop the airport has come under fire from climate change campaigners.
Friday, February 12, 2021
Brexit lorry chaos avoided as freight flows 'back to normal'
Internal government data says lorries are moving again, but some were empty as trade dropped.
Post-Brexit trade: 'If you don't speak French, you're stuffed'
Three traders, three sets of problems, weeks into the UK-EU deal company complaints continue rising.
'I saved £5,000 by charging my electric car for free'
Drivers of electric vehicles are able to charge their batteries with free electricity, so how long might that last?
Amazon sues NY amid threat of virus labour lawsuit
The retailer is seeking to block a lawsuit over its response to Covid-19 safety concerns.
Climate Change: Government may review road-building policy
It follows a legal challenge from campaigners, who argue the policy does not fit with climate targets.
Help to Buy deadline extended amid Covid delays
A deadline to buy a home under the current Help to Buy scheme in England has been extended to the end of May.
Coca-Cola company trials first paper bottle
The test is first step towards all-paper bottle that can withstand pressure from fizzy drinks.
Shell in Nigeria: Polluted communities 'can sue in English courts'
The UK Supreme Court's ruling is a victory for communities severely hit by pollution in the Niger Delta.
O2 fined £10m for overcharging customers
The regulator has hit O2 with the fine for years of overcharging on customers' final bills.
KPMG boss Bill Michael quits after 'stop moaning' row
Bill Michael resigns from the audit giant saying he is "truly sorry" his words "caused hurt".
Cumbria coal mine: What is the controversy about?
Cumbrian councillors are reviewing their support for a controversial coal mine near Whitehaven.
Lastminute.com faces legal action over holiday refunds
The online travel agent could be taken to court unless it pays £1m of refunds, the regulator says.
UK economy suffered record annual slump in 2020
The size of the economy shrank by 9.9% in 2020, the largest annual fall on record, official figures show.
Thursday, February 11, 2021
KPMG UK appoints first female leaders in 150 years
The accounting giant's current UK chairman was forced to step aside over alleged "stop moaning" remarks.
Biden warns China will "eat our lunch" on infrastructure spending
The US President's warning came after he had his first phone call with China’s President Xi Jinping.
UK economy poised like a coiled spring, says Bank economist
Andy Haldane says the economy will surge back this spring thanks to the vaccine programme rollout.
Unemployment: 'I've had 200 interviews and don't have a job'
Workers aged under 24 are struggling to get jobs and are more likely to be laid off, research shows.
Huawei takes HSBC to court as it tries to stop extradition
The Chinese giant is trying to stop the extradition of its chief financial officer from Canada to the US.
Covid: 'My business could close because of insurance payout delays'
Small firms are still waiting for payouts for Covid-insurance claims, despite a court ruling that insurers must pay.
The cinemas now hiring out their screens to gamers
With cinemas badly hit by Covid-19 restrictions they are looking for new revenue streams.
Bumble: Female-founded dating app tops $13bn in market debut
The listing of Bumble, which also owns Badoo, makes a billionaire of 31-year-old founder Whitney Wolfe Herd.
HS2: Next phase of controversial rail network gets green light
Legislation needed to clear the next stage of the controversial project has passed through Parliament.
Holiday bookings jump despite 'confusion over rules'
The government is sending "a confusing message" on summer holidays, travel industry chiefs say.
Financial pain of Covid 'not shared equally'
Young people and those from black and minority ethnic backgrounds have been harder hit, a regulator says.
GameStop investors on a wild ride: 'It was a rollercoaster of emotion'
Now that the dust has settled, who are the winners and losers in the GameStop saga?
Shell boosts 2050 net zero emissions targets
The oil giant has said its operations and emissions from its products will be net zero by 2050.
Royal Mail to retain 10,000 temporary workers
The postal service plans to retain many staff taken on over Christmas after deliveries hit record highs.
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
GameStop: Share buying mistakes 'on the rise'
Trigger-happy traders increasingly getting confused by stock market codes, say researchers.
US Treasury: Yellen warns of 'explosion' of cybercrime risk
The US Treasury Secretary said the pandemic had made the situation worse as more criminals move online.
US airline set to buy flying electric taxis for airport runs
United Airlines plans to buy 200 of the aircraft to fly passengers to airports within the next five years.
Stamp duty holiday deadline 'is making us nervous'
A rush to complete sales before tax breaks end on 31 March is causing delays and calls for government help.
Shift to green energy 'could cost oil states $13 trillion' by 2040
Some countries could lose 40% of government revenue as the world cuts back on fossil fuels, says report.
Hustler founder and free-speech activist Larry Flynt dies aged 78
Flynt was also known for his legal battles that reinforced free speech rights in the United States.
EU could cut UK out of financial markets - Andrew Bailey
The Bank of England governor says Brussels wants to "dictate" financial rules to the City of London.
KPMG boss steps aside after 'stop moaning' comments
Bill Michael will step back as the audit giant investigates alleged comments that offended staff.
Trustpilot condemns legal action against reviewer
The website says it opposes any attempts to ‘silence consumers' freedom of speech’.
TikTok's Oracle-Walmart deal could be off
The Biden administration may be taking a softer line on Chinese tech giants say industry watchers.
Travel chief scorns 'puerile' holiday plan warning
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps' call for people to pause summer holiday plans gets a rough reception.
'Appoint staff that have experience'
Banking CEO David Velez says it is vital that bosses appoint staff who have experience of working in that industry.
Bitcoin consumes 'more electricity than Argentina'
The rising value of Bitcoin leads to ever-higher energy consumption, researchers say.
Birmingham Airport to get £18.5m emergency loan
Birmingham Airport says it welcomes support after passenger numbers fall by 91% due to Covid.
Extra £3.5bn promised to tackle unsafe cladding
The funding will be used to remove material from high-rise buildings "at no cost to residents".
Rihanna's Fenty fashion label to close down
The move comes less than two years after she and luxury goods group LVMH launched the brand.
Sainsbury’s takes on Aldi in supermarket price war
The UK's second-largest supermarket joins Tesco in promising to price-match German discounter Aldi.
Heineken cuts 8,000 jobs after Covid hits sales
The brewing giant said 2020 had been a year of "unprecedented disruption".
Cladding: Extra cash to deal with crisis expected to be announced
The housing secretary will make a statement later, as thousands face huge bills for safety renovations.
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
Twitter's 'extraordinary year' sees record revenues
The messaging platform saw healthy growth for earnings and user numbers as online activity boomed.
Huawei boss hopes for better relations with US
The US currently blocks the sale of key technical components to Huawei on national security grounds.
Crown Resorts: Australian casino firm 'not suitable' for Sydney gaming licence
A "damning" inquiry finds James Packer's Crown Resorts is not suitable to operate a casino in Sydney.
Universal Music jumps on the K-pop bandwagon
The world's biggest record label will invest in a livestreaming platform set up by company behind BTS.
Beer and pub leaders plead for reopening date after sales halve in 2020
The industry shows the government a "roadmap to recovery" as it waits for a reopening date.
Amazon worker fight: 'You're a cog in the machine'
Activists are trying to unionise Amazon workers in Bessemer, Alabama, which would be a first for the US - if they succeed.
Hyundai: The carmaker aiming to become a tech firm
Hyundai is making a name for itself as an innovator, even though talks with Apple have fizzled out.
Barbie has best sales in more than five years in lockdown boost
The pandemic has been good for the toy industry.
Investor group calls for Tesco healthy food plan
The UK has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world.
KPMG boss apologises for 'stop moaning' outburst
In a meeting with members of his consulting team, Bill Michael was told about concerns over pay.
Bitcoin investors: From buying a Bentley to losing it all
People who have invested in Bitcoin share their stories.
Whitehaven coal mine plan to be re-examined by council
Councillors will reconsider the planning application in the light of climate change advice.
Data watchdog probes £6,200 chocolate splurge
The Information Commissioner's Office says it believes the purchase broke its rules.
Brexit worse than feared, says JD Sports boss
Chairman Peter Cowgill says the new EU trade deal has meant "double-digit millions" in extra costs.
I'm freezing - can I get a cold weather payment?
Cold weather payments are available to some as temperatures stay low.
Covid-19: UK arrivals face jail and large fines for breaking travel rules
Arrivals from Covid hotspots face fines of up to £10,000 and prison terms if they abuse the system.
Bitcoin hits fresh highs after Tesla investment
The cryptocurrency makes more gains after Tesla's $1.5bn vote of confidence.
Holiday firm Tui set to run at 80% capacity this summer
The travel firm says 2.8 million customers have already booked holidays, 44% down on last year.
Grocery shopping has changed for good, says Ocado
The online supermarket says the Covid pandemic has permanently changed the grocery landscape worldwide.
Monday, February 8, 2021
Universal Credit: Extend £20 benefit top-up for a year, say MPs
Ministers are urged not to replace weekly Universal Credit increase with a one-off payment next month.
Chinese regulators throw spanner in Tesla's works
Elon Musk's electric vehicle firm has been summoned over quality and safety issues with its cars.
Jack Ma swaps drawings with fellow tech billionaire
The Alibaba founder and Japanese technology entrepreneur Masayoshi Son are close friends and share sketches.
Ho Ching: Head of Singapore's $230bn state fund Temasek steps down
Ho Ching has been at the helm of one of world's biggest investment funds, Temasek, for 17 years.
Robinhood: US family sue trading app over son's suicide
The parents of Alex Kearns, 20, say he thought he had lost $730,000 when he took his own life.
Covid: Support 'repeatedly skewed towards men', say MPs
Gender inequalities in the economy have been ignored during the pandemic, a Commons committee says.
Brexit effect: No custard creams for Brits in Europe
A British supermarket chain in Belgium is on the verge of closure with no deliveries since December.
The computers rejecting your job application
A growing number of firms are using artificial intelligence to pass or fail jobseekers.
Travellers to UK set to be tested after arrival
The new testing regime, to be announced soon, is aimed at tracking cases and detecting new variants.
Bank Governor Bailey 'angry' at criticism over regulatory role
The Bank of England boss has rejected claims that reforms were too slow when he was head of the City watchdog.
Brexit: What trade deals has the UK done so far?
The UK-EU agreement came into force on 1 January 2021, but what other trade deals has the UK done?
Covid: 'Clean up' awarding of contracts, says Labour
The party says the pandemic shows more transparency is needed for work given to private companies.
Elon Musk's Tesla buys $1.5bn of Bitcoin causing currency to spike
The cryptocurrency surges 14% as Tesla also said it could start accepting Bitcoin as payment.
High-risk gamblers generate 4% of Kindred revenue
The betting giant opens up on how much money it makes from customers showing signs of harmful gambling.
Dorothy Perkins? Why would Boohoo want that?
Online fashion giant Boohoo has mopped up the last of Arcadia's retail empire - did it need them?
Boohoo buys Dorothy Perkins, Wallis and Burton brands
The online fashion retailer takes over the brands but not the shops from failed retail group Arcadia.
Sunday, February 7, 2021
China’s tech giants face new anti-monopoly rules
Chinese e-commerce giants Alibaba and JD.com could face greater scrutiny from state regulators.
Oil prices climb back to pre-pandemic levels
Having hit an all-time low last year, oil has recovered on the hopes of a quicker economic turnaround.
Tesco tells Chancellor to hit online rivals with sales tax
Boss Ken Murphy has asked Chancellor Rishi Sunak for a "level playing field" when it comes to tax.
Puppy training a robotic dog points to the future
A robotic dog that can cope with new scenarios is an important stop in artificial intelligence.
Boohoo tells suppliers not to subcontract, raising job fears
The demand has caused concern among some suppliers about how they will pay to hire new workers.
Chinese users flock to Clubhouse amid soaring popularity
Chinese users have been joining Clubhouse to discuss Uighurs and Taiwan without being censored.
Rolls Royce plans summer shutdown to help cut losses
The plans are tentative because the company aims to thrash out an agreement with unions.
Amazon 'paying less business rates than retailers'
Amazon has been accused of paying less business rates tax than British bricks and mortar retailers.
Covid testing expanded to more workplaces in England
Businesses with more than 50 staff are now able to access lateral flow tests, which give rapid results.
Saturday, February 6, 2021
Amazon after Bezos: The company that Jeff built
As Jeff Bezos prepares to step aside from the e-commerce juggernaut, we look at Amazon's success in charts.
Lastminute.com failed to meet Covid refund deadline
Online travel agent Lastminute.com failed to refund Covid-hit holidays by January deadline.
Friday, February 5, 2021
How will we heat homes in zero carbon Britain?
Will hydrogen or heat pumps be able to replace gas central heating?
Rishi Sunak offers more help to 1.4m firms repaying Covid loans
Chancellor Rishi Sunak offers "pay-as-you-grow" option to 1.4 million firms repaying Covid loans.
Biden ends deadlock over first African and first woman to lead WTO
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala had been frontrunner for the role but was opposed by the Trump administration.
Mark Carney: Climate crisis deaths 'will be worse than Covid'
Former Bank of England governor Mark Carney calls for more investment to tackle the climate crisis.
'I harvest 70 million daffodils a year but £1 a bunch can't last'
Daffodils are cheap and cheerful but while prices never rise, production costs do, says one farmer.
Bounce back loans: Hunting down the Covid loan fraudsters
The BBC's been given exclusive access to the unit tracking down Covid loan fraudsters.
US job growth sluggish as virus hampers recovery
The US economy added just 49,000 jobs in January, with the hospitality sector still shedding workers.
House price rises 'could be running out of steam’
The Halifax says prices fell last month and are likely to come under pressure in the months ahead.
Peloton deliveries hit by Brexit and port delays
The company is struggling to keep up with surging demand for its exercise machines during the pandemic.
Brexit leaves a bitter taste and a mountain of clothes
North East firms say they have hit hurdles since the Brexit trade agreement came into force.
French Connection gets two takeover approaches
The struggling fashion retailer says the talks with two suitors are at an early stage.
Energy prices to rise for millions of households
The average customer on a default tariff is likely to see their annual bill increase by £96 in April.
Thursday, February 4, 2021
Covid-19: Pub closures will 'waste 87 million pints of beer'
The hospitality industry asks the government for more post-lockdown help in the March Budget.
Myanmar coup: Beer giant Kirin pulls out of partnership
One of the world's largest brewers Kirin has repeatedly faced pressure from human rights groups.
Kuaishou share price nearly doubles on market launch
The Chinese streaming app is one of the most hotly-anticipated stock market debuts this year.
Forget Frankfurt and Paris, says Barclays boss
Brexit gives one of the UK's most important sectors the chance to define its own agenda, he said.
Brexit: 71 pages of paperwork for 1 lorry of fish
How new rules on exporting to the European Union have affected a British fishing firm.
Coronavirus: 'I quit my job to home school my son'
Mothers say they are struggling to juggle work and school closures, and employers don't understand.
The race to create the world's next super-app
Chinese companies lead the way in super-apps but where is the next one coming from?
Is high-speed rail travel on a track to nowhere?
The recently scrapped Singapore-Kuala Lumpur train link isn't the only such project to struggle.
How will 'chipageddon' affect you?
Carmakers and consumer-gadget companies are struggling to source enough computer chips.
Rare black Fortune 500 chief Ken Frazier to retire
Merck chief executive Ken Frazier is just one of four black executives leading a major US company.
Covid hotel quarantine 'to start on 15 February'
Accommodation for more than 1,000 new people every day will be required, the BBC learns.
More Cadbury Dairy Milk production to return to Bournville
It means a £15m investment in Cadbury's Birmingham plant by owners Mondelez International.
McKinsey agrees $573m opioid settlement in US
The consultancy said it still believed its past work advising opioid manufacturers was legal.
Heathrow workers to launch February strike action
Workers will start a wave of action on Friday, but Heathrow says the airport will keep operating.
Vale dam disaster: $7bn compensation for 270 killed
The money will go to survivors and families of 270 people killed in the Brumadinho disaster in 2019.
Bank of England: Economy to rebound strongly due to vaccine
Policy makers expect a rebound in the spring as people become more confident about spending.
Teletext Holidays investigated over missing Covid refunds
The competition watchdog is looking into complaints the firm failed to refund trips cancelled by Covid.
So what is Jeff Bezos going to do now?
After stepping down as CEO of Amazon, Bezos says he will focus on his 'other passions'.
Compass apologises for school meal parcels that 'fell short’
The owner of the firm that sparked January’s school meals outcry has apologised again
Royal Dutch Shell sees huge loss as pandemic hits oil demand
The oil giant reported a net loss of £16bn for 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic caused demand to slump.
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
UK and EU in 'constructive discussions' over NI trade row
Both sides have vowed to "work intensively" to solve post-Brexit trade problems in Northern Ireland.
Capitol riots: Parler boss says he has been fired by the board
The "free speech-driven" social media platform has been largely offline since Capitol riots.
Brits snap up Australian wine that didn't go to China
The UK is now the top destination for Australian wine as it looks to overcome crippling Chinese taxes.
Chip shortage hits General Motors production
Multiple plants will be affected next week due to backlogs affecting the whole car industry.
Amazon: Five things we know about new boss Andy Jassy
The executive will take over from Jeff Bezos later this year, but what's he like?
White boys' club? New tales from the City
Hedonistic, ruthless and elitist. That's how the financial industry has usually been portrayed on screen, but how true to life is this?
CEO Secrets: 'Mums at work don't take any nonsense, there's no time'
Louise O'Shea, head of Confused.com, shares her business advice for the CEO Secrets series.
eBay boosted by Christmas surge in online orders
eBay saw sales jump as shoppers turned to online shopping for Christmas presents during lockdown.
Beckham-backed cannabis skincare firm to sell shares
Cellular Goods sold a stake to DB Ventures, the footballer's investment firm, Sky News reported.
Black bosses 'shut out' by 'vanilla boys' club'
There are no black people in the top three jobs at any FTSE 100 firm, research shows.
Tuesday, February 2, 2021
Sergey Brin: Google co-founder sets up family firm in Singapore
The world's ninth-richest person, Sergey Brin, is setting up a company in the city-state to manage his wealth.
Alibaba revenues soar but Ant Group float uncertain
The e-commerce giant's revenues were up 37% thanks largely to a strong economic recovery in China.
Ryanair rapped over 'misleading' Covid adverts
The Advertising Standards Authority got 2,370 complaints - the third most of any advert.
Brexit: UK to set up new state aid rules for business
Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng wants local and regional authorities to have more power over subsidies.
Bebo chief reveals plan to take on Facebook and Twitter
Michael Birch sold Bebo for $850m in 2008, but now plans to revive it with a focus on profiles.
The tough little bottles crucial to fighting Covid
Vials made of extremely tough glass are being made by the million to hold Covid vaccines.
Google owner Alphabet sees record growth as ad spend soars
Alphabet's revenues jump as advertisers unleash spending on Google during the pandemic.
'Dive through the window of opportunity'
Technology boss Steve Killelea says entrepreneurs must act fast when a business opportunity arises.
Big tech: I kept a data video diary
Technology reporter Zoe Kleinman keeps a video diary of the times she shares data with tech companies.
Jeff Bezos to step down as Amazon chief executive
The Amazon founder becomes executive chairman, a move he says will allow him to focus on other ventures.
Amazon settles claims it pocketed delivery drivers' tips
The e-commerce giant will pay $61.7m after an investigation by US regulators.
Exxon plunges to first loss in decades as pandemic chokes off demand
The firm is in the midst of drastic cuts as it bows to economic and activist pressure for change.
EU shellfish import ban permanent, UK fishing industry told
The government promises to push Brussels to change its transport rules on scallops, clams and mussels.
GameStop: Real Wolf of Wall Street warns 'you could lose it all'
Jordan Belfort says amateurs should "take their chips off the table" after stocks surge on speculation.
Pfizer expects $15bn sales of Covid-19 vaccine
Drugs giant raises 2021 profit forecast as many countries scramble to vaccinate their populations.
Tesla recalls US vehicles over failing touchscreens
It follows demands from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Centrica boss 'was posted excrement' amid pay row
Boss of British Gas owner defends fire and rehire plans amid protest from staff.
Viagogo must sell StubHub's non-US business
The UK's competition watchdog says the merger between the ticketing firms could lead to higher fees.
Buy now, pay later firms such as Klarna face stricter controls
The financial regulator says it would be easy for customers to build up unseen debts of £1,000.
Online gambling faces fresh restrictions
A new package of measures is designed to make online casino games less intensive and safer.
Scrap interest on student loans, say vice-chancellors
Call to wipe interest on student loans in England for 15 months, as ministers offer £50m support fund.
Brexit bureaucracy: 'These are not just teething problems'
A seafood firm describes the multiple checks, form filling and severe delays in getting their products to the EU post-Brexit.
Monday, February 1, 2021
Brexit: UK fashion industry warns it faces threat to survival
More than 400 industry figures tell Boris Johnson post-Brexit trade rules risk destroying the sector.
Military coup likely to damage Myanmar's economy
Businesses say the army's takeover has already put billions worth of foreign investment at risk.
Wealthy home workers retreat to their sheds
Those who want to put some space between the home and the office are taking the garden path.
Home working increases cyber-security fears
IT experts say that with people working from home the risk of hacking has increased.
Topshop: 'I haven't bought clothes in a shop for years'
Some of us won't be rushing back to the High Street even when it's allowed again.
Electric cars: Rollout of charge-points still to slow
The charge-point infrastructure may not be ready for when new petrol and diesel cars are banned.
George Osborne departs newspaper role for investment bank
The former chancellor is leaving his job as the Standard's editor-in-chief for a boutique bank with 13 staff.
Cladding: Safety improvement costs 'are taking over our lives'
Labour calls for extra help for homeowners hit by large bills, as ministers promise more action.
Nintendo Switch sales surge past those of the 3DS
The Japanese firm's latest console has sold about four million more units than its predecessor.
Three takeaways from India's 'pandemic budget'
Spending has more than doubled on healthcare as the economy reels from the effects of coronavirus.
Ryanair forecasts 'strong return' of beach holidays this summer
Boss Michael O'Leary thinks travel restrictions will be dropped once high risk groups are vaccinated.
Airbus staff in Flintshire vote on work-hours cut plan to save jobs
Staff at the Flintshire wingmaker will find out later if their working week will be reduced by 10%.
Asos buys Topshop, Topman and Miss Selfridge brands
The online retailer buys the brands, not their shops, suggesting the £295m deal will cost jobs.
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