Sunday, December 31, 2023

Household energy price rise of 5% comes into force

A higher cap for the next three months adds £94 to the typical annual domestic energy bill.

US Navy helicopters destroy Houthi boats in Red Sea after attempted hijack

The US military says it was responding to a second attack on the same vessel near Yemen in 24 hours.

Venice to ban large tourist groups and loudspeakers

The new rules will come into effect in June and are part of an effort to ease the impact of tourism.

Saturday, December 30, 2023

How will the UK economy compare to other countries in 2024?

After a tough 2023, will things improve for the UK and other economies in the new year?

Eurostar services to resume after major disruption

Many passengers are still stranded in London and Paris after flooding cancelled all Eurostar trains.

Friday, December 29, 2023

Tim Martin: Wetherspoon boss knighted in New Year Honours

The pub chain founder and Brexit campaigner is recognised for services to hospitality and culture.

House prices end the year 1.8% lower, says Nationwide

The housing market is set to be subdued in 2024 despite hopes of an interest rate cut.

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Françoise Bettencourt Meyer: L'Oréal heiress first woman to amass $100bn fortune

The French beauty empire is on track for its best stock market performance in decades.

Boeing urges 737 Max inspections for possible loose bolt

The airplane maker is urging airlines to inspect rudder control systems on the planes.

Google settles $5bn lawsuit for 'private mode' tracking

Large technology firms have faced increased scrutiny of their practices in the US and beyond.

Tata Steel: Port Talbot staff fear year of uncertainty

Welder says Tata's Port Talbot plant is gripped by fears of job losses.

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

UK vinyl sales at highest level since 1990

Sales of vinyl LPs rose for a 16th consecutive year in 2023, hitting 5.9 million units.

Gaston Glock: Inventor of popular handgun dies aged 94

The Glock has been the weapon of choice for armed forces, gun owners and criminals around the world.

Architect of modern EU Jacques Delors dies aged 98

Delors helped create the single market, but his dreams of integration faced stiff UK opposition.

Wolfgang Schäuble: Merkel's no-nonsense finance minister dies aged 81

Although never chancellor, Wolfgang Schäuble was one of Germany's most influential politicians.

Firm develops jet fuel made entirely from human poo

Scientists have found a way to make jet fuel from human sewage and cut carbon emissions.

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Apple seeks appeal after US allows smart watch import ban

Imports and sales of Apple's Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches in the US have halted over a patent dispute.

Daihatsu pauses production over safety scandal

The Japanese carmaker admitted it had falsified safety tests for many of its vehicles.

Maersk preparing to resume shipping through Red Sea

The announcement follows the deployment of an international military operation to prevent attacks on ships.

Tanker hit off India coast by drone from Iran, says US

Saturday's attack caused a fire on board the chemical tanker in the Indian Ocean, the US military says.

Monday, December 25, 2023

House prices to fall and rents to rise in 2024, forecasts suggest

While first-time buyers would welcome price falls, the other costs they face are likely to be higher.

Sunday, December 24, 2023

Jim Ratcliffe: Who is the man buying Man Utd stake?

One of the UK's richest men, Sir Jim has built a multi-billion pound business by snapping up unloved assets.

Manchester United: Sir Jim Ratcliffe agrees deal to buy 25% stake for about £1.25bn

British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe agrees a deal to buy a 25% stake in Manchester United from the Glazer family.

High winds likely to add to Christmas Eve travel disruption

Weather warnings cover parts of the UK, with rail disruption expected from engineering works and staff shortages.

Saturday, December 23, 2023

Smithfield Market pre-Christmas meat auction returns

The traditional meat market returned on Saturday for the first time since before the Covid pandemic.

UK travel: Millions take to roads and rail ahead of Christmas

The AA warns of "lengthy jams" on the roads, while many rail services are starting to wind down.

Friday, December 22, 2023

Tech Trends 2024: AI and electric vehicle deals

From an AI slowdown to humanoid robots doing real work - tech trends to watch out for in 2024.

Airbus Atlantic: 700 staff sick after Christmas dinner

It is unclear what was on the menu for the festive feast turned nightmare before Christmas.

Vet prices need to be made clearer, says Which?

The consumer body says it has found evidence of unclear fees and potential overtreatment by vets.

Rail fares in England to rise by up to 4.9% in March

The rise is below inflation but comes after a year of disruption for passengers.

UK economy at risk of recession after growth slows

Revised figures show the economy shrank between July and September this year.

Thursday, December 21, 2023

US Steel sale to Nippon must be probed on 'national security' grounds - Biden

Japanese steel giant Nippon this week announced plans to buy US Steel in a deal worth nearly $15bn.

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Temu shoppers risk buying items made by forced labour, MP warns

The Chinese online retailer with the slogan 'shop like a billionaire' faces questions over its ultra low prices.

Starbucks blames 'misrepresentation' after Israel Gaza protests

Facing global boycott calls, boss Laxman Narasimhan says: "I pray for peace - immediately'.

Public pay must reflect rises, ministers say

Government letters to pay review bodies say pay rises should be reflected when setting pay in 2024

Energy bills predicted to fall in April to £1,660

Analysts at Cornwall Insight say lower wholesale energy prices will reduce bills by £268.

Inflation down more than expected as fuel prices drop

Latest figures show the prices rose 3.9% in the year to November, down from 4.6% the month before.

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

End of an era for electronics giant Toshiba

Scandal, near-bankruptcy and uncertainty have plagued the 148-year-old company for almost a decade.

Christmas dinner: How much will it cost this year?

The rising price of turkey has slowed, while the cost of mince pies are up by 25%.

Monday, December 18, 2023

Wasted wind power adds £40 to household energy bills, says think tank

When it is very windy the grid cannot handle the extra power generated, says Carbon Tracker.

Amazon to make Warhammer 40,000 shows and movies

The streaming platform will have exclusive rights to make content based on Game Workshop's popular brand.

Green shipping corridors gaining momentum

Ports around the world are investing in green fuels to allow cargo ships to sail carbon-free.

Apple halts some Watch sales in the US

The move comes after the US found it violated patent rights of a smaller firm.

Sunday, December 17, 2023

Sellafield boss hits back at safety failure claims

Speaking to the BBC, the nuclear site's boss rejects hacking claims and accusations of safety failings.

Nasdaq on the hunt for more UK firms to list in US

The US stock exchange wants to lure more companies from London to raise investor cash in New York instead.

The secret sauce for Taiwan's chip superstardom

How an island that exported t-shirts and sugar turned into the world's largest silicon chip factory.

Network Rail manager for stranded passenger line quits

Passengers were stuck in cold and dark carriages for hours recently after overhead electric cables were damaged.

Saturday, December 16, 2023

Netflix: What the viewing figures actually tell us about viewing habits

The Night Agent and The Mother were among the streamer's biggest hits in the first half of 2023.

More big shipping firms stop Red Sea routes after attacks

MSC, the world's largest shipping group, becomes the fourth company to divert ships following attacks.

Friday, December 15, 2023

Petrol prices fall to lowest level in two years

The RAC motoring group says its data shows the average price of a litre of unleaded is £1.43.

Tata Steel: Unions infighting grows ahead of jobs meeting

Community and the GMB are at loggerheads with Unite over a battle to save up to 3,000 jobs at Tata.

Thursday, December 14, 2023

Name that whale! How AI aces animal spotting

Artificial intelligence helps people identify what animals they are looking at and aids conservation.

Driverless car firm Cruise to cut 900 jobs

The move comes as the company faces an investigation by regulators into the safety of its cars.

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Etsy: Online marketplace lays off 11% of staff to cut costs

CEO Josh Silverman tells staff the cuts are needed as sales have been "essentially flat" for two years.

Energy firms must help struggling customers under new rules

New Ofgem rules mean affordable payment plans and even repayment holidays will now be available.

Federal Reserve signals interest rate cuts next year

The US central bank hints of lower rates in the future as it kept its key interest rate unchanged.

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Could there be a gold rush for buried hydrogen?

Many see hydrogen as the green fuel of the future so underground deposits of the gas could be valuable.

Thames Water says it can't pay back £190m loan

Thames Water boss tells MPs it doesn't have enough money to pay back a loan due in April next year.

Monday, December 11, 2023

Fortnite maker Epic Games wins case against Google Play Store

The ruling on anti-competitive practices deals a blow to a key part of Google's technology empire.

The pro gamer who has to rely upon sound alone

How video games are continuing to become more accessible for people with impaired vision.

Renting: Pace of rising costs has peaked, says Zoopla

Rents on new lets in UK are up nearly 10% a year, but the pace of the increase is slowing, it says.

Heather Mills' vegan food company goes into administration

The vegan food company founded by Sir Paul McCartney's ex-wife struggled with rising costs.

Sunday, December 10, 2023

Alex Jones: Conspiracy theorist returns to X with Andrew Tate repost

The conspiracy theorist was banned from Twitter - now X - but its owner has now reinstated him.

Javier Milei: New president tells Argentina 'shock treatment' looms

The country's new far-right president vows to launch a radical economic programme as he is sworn in.

Smile Direct Club dentistry aligners firm shuts down

Best known for selling clear aligners remotely, it has shut down months after filing for bankruptcy.

Gap between haves and have-nots widening, report warns

Report mentions stagnant wages and mental health issues, and says the gap widened in the pandemic.

Saturday, December 9, 2023

How Shohei Ohtani became Japan's biggest baseball export

His impact in the US surpasses that of all Japanese stars before him - and he now has a record $700m contract.

Friday, December 8, 2023

CosMc's: Curious customers flock to McDonald's new retro drinks brand

CosMc's, named after an obscure company mascot, is a bid for the speciality drinks market.

Thursday, December 7, 2023

Elon Musk calls for firing of Disney chief Bob Iger in ad spat

It comes a week after the multi-billionaire launched a profane attack on advertisers that left X.

The people creating digital clones of themselves

Business leaders and experts are making online copies of themselves to answer the questions they get.

Oxfam shop and office workers strike for first time in 81 years

The walkout is over pay with some staff at the anti-poverty charity reporting having to use foodbanks, a union says.

Mobile firms face £3bn claim for overcharging

Lawsuit alleges Vodafone, EE, Three and O2 overcharged existing customers for their mobiles.

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

ChatGPT builder helps create scam and hack campaigns

A cutting-edge tool from Open AI appears to be poorly moderated, allowing it to be abused by cyber-criminals.

Tobacco giant sees sunset for US cigarette business

British American Tobacco said it could no longer value the business as if it had an infinite life.

Meta is child abuse 'breeding ground', lawsuit claims

Facebook and Instagram are rife with child abuse, the New Mexico attorney general alleges.

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Investors cheer as Blackpink renew group contract

The K-pop girl band have been negotiating terms with YG Entertainment for months.

What do employers expect staff to know about AI?

More and more jobs require employees to work with generative AI - but what does that mean?

Abercrombie & Fitch sued by ex-CEO facing sex trafficking claims

Mike Jeffries has taken legal action against the US retailer for refusing to cover his legal costs to defend the allegations.

Monday, December 4, 2023

Grand Theft Auto VI trailer finally revealed

Rockstar Games releases the trailer 15 hours earlier than expected after it is leaked online.

Tesla whistleblower casts doubt on car safety

A former Tesla worker turned whistleblower has spoken to the BBC's technology editor Zoe Kleinman.

Young-looking porn users may face extra age-checks

New draft guidance sets out how porn websites and apps should stop children viewing their content.

Renting: Can bidding wars be stopped?

Intense competition for places to live is driving rents up and up, but is there hope for change?

Spotify to axe 17% of staff to save costs

The music-streaming company says it is cutting its workforce to "rightsize" the firm.

Sunday, December 3, 2023

Smart meters: Almost three million still not working

Customers face incorrect bills as 2.7 million smart meters fail to send automatic readings.

Water firm wrongly downgraded pollution events, documents suggest

Leaked papers suggest United Utilities logged dozens of incidents as less serious than they had been.

'Labour won't turn on spending taps' says Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer will say in a speech there will be "huge constraints" if Labour win power.

Bankruptcy 'opportunity' after student loan crisis

Changes in the US are enticing more people to file bankruptcy to clear their student loans.

Saturday, December 2, 2023

Baby formula soaring costs: 'I struggle, but I won’t buy a cheaper brand'

Why struggling parents aren't choosing cheaper brands when it comes to infant formula milk.

Friday, December 1, 2023

The job-sharing apps that feel like online dating

New website platforms are working like matchmakers to connect potential job sharers.

Slick videos or more 'authentic' content? The Israel-Gaza battles raging on TikTok and X

Pro-Palestinian TikTok posts gain traction with Gen Z, while slicker Israeli content is popular on X.

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Meta takes down China-based network of thousands of fake accounts

The company says accounts posted about divisive issues ahead of the 2024 presidential election.

Amazon, Google and other tech giants pledge action on fraud

Companies commit to working with the government to tackle online scams, fake adverts and romance fraud.

Cristiano Ronaldo faces $1bn lawsuit over Binance ads

US class action lawsuit seeks huge damages for his promotion of the world's largest crypto exchange.

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Elon Musk says advertising boycott will kill X

In a profanity-laced outburst, the billionaire accuses firms of trying to blackmail him with ad dollars.

Elfbar: Top vape firm drops sweet flavours over appeal to kids

Leading vape brands Elfbar and Lost Mary call for tighter restrictions on vape sales ahead of government clampdown.

Gulf investors close in on Telegraph takeover

An Abu Dhabi-backed investment fund is poised to take control in coming days.

New parents could save £500 on baby formula, CMA says

Families could make significant savings on baby formula by shopping around, watchdog says.

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Tributes pour in for investment guru Charlie Munger

Business chiefs pay tribute to finance guru who helped Warren Buffett build Berkshire Hathaway.

Saudi investment fund to buy 10% stake in Heathrow airport

Spanish infrastructure giant Ferrovial agreed to sell its 25% stake, held since 2006, for £2.4bn.

Renting: Rising cost and lack of choice forcing families to smaller homes

Older tenants are also struggling with essential bills as rents rise and the choice for tenants narrows.

Wilko rescue deal failed because of greed, claims HMV boss

Doug Putman says a bid to save Wilko was stymied as the former chair faces MPs over the collapse.

Monday, November 27, 2023

Vaping: Australia to ban disposable vape products from January

The move is part of a crackdown aimed at protecting children from becoming addicted to nicotine.

First transatlantic flight using 100% green fuels to take off

The plane will fly from London to New York using 100% alternative sustainable aviation fuel.

Sunday, November 26, 2023

Zhongzhi Enterprise Group: China investigates major shadow bank for 'crimes'

Zhongzhi Enterprise, one of China's biggest shadow banks, has lent billions to real estate firms.

Metro Bank shareholders to vote on rescue deal

A deal to raise extra funds was struck last month after speculation about Metro's financial position.

Tobacco firm calls for tougher rules on vapes

BAT wants sellers to be licensed, and sweet flavours banned

Sunak welcomes foreign firms' £29.5bn 'vote of confidence'

The prime minister says foreign investors' plans to invest £29.5bn is a "huge vote of confidence".

Labour hopes to cut net migration to around 200,000

The party says it wants migration to return to "normal levels", depending on the needs of the economy.

Only shop on Lismore saved after community buyout

Over 200 people backed the campaign to secure the Lismore's closure-threatened store for the future

Saturday, November 25, 2023

Interest rates: Why there is more pain still to come

Inflation may be easing but the impact of high interest rates is still to kick in for many people.

Thursday, November 23, 2023

Could airports make hydrogen work as a fuel?

Hydrogen is being touted as a fuel for aircrafts, but handling it at airports will be challenging.

The electronic noses designed to prevent food poisoning

Tech firms have developed AI-powered sensors that can detect bacteria in food.

Cruise giant Carnival UK accused of plan to fire and rehire 900 crew

Union says plan by Carnival UK, owner of P&O Cruises and Cunard, amounts to a wage cut for staff.

Nvidia sued after video call mistake showed 'stolen' data

Car firm Valeo alleges the theft of its data was inadvertently revealed during a Microsoft Teams call.

Autumn Statement: Jeremy Hunt cuts National Insurance but tax burden still rises

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt says tax cuts will boost growth - but official forecasts paint a gloomy picture.

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

The hidden tax rise in the Autumn Statement

Tax cuts were the theme of Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement, but one major rise was hidden.

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

Richard Teng: Who is the new boss of Binance?

Richard Teng rapidly climbed the ranks after joining the world's largest crypto-exchange two years ago.

Sam Altman in talks to rejoin OpenAI board, say reports

Reports say negotiations aimed at his possible reinstatement are ongoing, as pressure from staff grows.

NI and business tax cuts expected in Autumn Statement

National Insurance cuts are set to be among plans Jeremy Hunt hopes will boost the economy.

Binance chief Changpeng Zhao pleads guilty to money laundering

Changpeng Zhao will also step down as chief executive of the world's largest crypto-exchange.

Monday, November 20, 2023

Elon Musk's X sues Media Matters over antisemitism analysis

The lawsuit says Media Matters "manipulated" data in an attempt to "destroy" the social media site.

How OpenAI created the perfect conditions for chaos

The company's idiosyncratic structure may be behind the sweeping changes seen in recent days.

What's going on in the battle for the Telegraph?

When trying to understand a complex business situation, focusing on motivation can simplify things.

Abu Dhabi-backed fund poised to take over Telegraph

The fund, run by former CNN boss Jeff Zucker, says it has the money it needs to rescue the newspaper.

OpenAI to name new boss after firing co-founder

The tech firm will reportedly appoint Emmett Shear after the chaotic ousting of former chief Sam Altman.

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Optus: Telecom boss Kelly Bayer Rosmarin resigns after nationwide outage

Kelly Bayer Rosmarin has been under pressure to quit after overseeing a tumultuous period for the firm.

‘I was addicted to social media - now I'm suing Big Tech’

The lawsuit says four of the largest social media firms knowingly expose children to harmful products.

Former OpenAI boss Sam Altman pictured at firm's HQ amid reports of return

Sam Altman posts a selfie from the firm's US head office 48 hours after his shock ouster from the company.

Heathrow passengers facing delays after staff shortages and strong winds

Some travellers are waiting for hours after Air Traffic Control restricts take-offs and landings.

Hunt does not rule out tax cuts in Autumn Statement

The chancellor tells Laura Kuenssberg economic growth is his priority ahead of Wednesday's statement.

X ad boycott gathers pace amid antisemitism storm

US firms, including Apple and Disney, are reportedly suspending ads on the Elon Musk-owned site.

Friday, November 17, 2023

AI boss Sam Altman ousted by OpenAI board

OpenAI said it 'no longer had confidence' in his ability to lead the artificial intelligence firm.

White House criticises Elon Musk over 'hideous' antisemitic lie

Controversies over antisemitism have engulfed the billionaire and his social network, X.

Thursday, November 16, 2023

Shop owners hope that tech can deter thieves

Retailers are investing in high-tech and low-tech measures to tackle an increase in theft.

IBM suspends ads on X after they appeared next to Nazi posts

The decision came a day after owner Elon Musk endorsed an apparent antisemitic conspiracy theory.

What the Chancellor really means when he says tax cuts are 'impossible'

How to make sense of what politicians mean when they say there is no scope for tax cuts.

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

PepsiCo sued by New York state for plastic pollution

The lawsuit against the world's second biggest food company is the latest in greenwashing cases against big firms.

Energy standing charges review after anger at rises

Standing charges are the cost of having a home connected to gas and electricity but rises have caused public anger.

Starbucks faces walkout at hundreds of US stores

The action comes amid a bitter labour fight between at the coffee giant.

UK inflation falls sharply to 4.6%

Prices are rising at their slowest rate in two years, official figures show.

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Xi Jinping arrives in the US as his Chinese Dream sputters

Economic woes put the Chinese leader in a more vulnerable negotiating position on this visit.

Weak currencies force up cost of living in Sub-Saharan Africa

As the price of basics soars, African governments are intervening to support local currencies.

Could triple glazing become a UK standard?

Triple glazed windows are becoming more common in the UK and some say they could become standard.

Monday, November 13, 2023

'Tourists are rethinking their relationship with Earth'

An increasing number of holidaymakers are picking more environmentally-friendly trips.

Nepal to ban TikTok citing disruption to social harmony

TikTok is under scrutiny over concerns that data could be passed to the Chinese government.

Cost-of-living payments: What are they, who gets them and are they fair?

Millions of low-income households are receiving the latest cost-of-living payment between by 19 November.

Sunday, November 12, 2023

DP World: Australia ports remain closed after cyber-attack

Operations at DP World sites in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth have been suspended since Friday.

Welfare cuts worth billions planned by ministers

The changes, affecting hundreds of thousands of people from 2025, would save £4bn in welfare payments.

Peter Nygard: Fashion mogul guilty of sex assaults

The 82-year-old is still facing a trial in Montreal and extradition to the US.

Saturday, November 11, 2023

Whitney Wolfe Herd: How the Bumble boss changed the dating scene

Whitney Wolfe Herd is stepping down as chief executive at the end of the year after nearly a decade.

Friday, November 10, 2023

Ryanair: How a budget airline took off on TikTok

Through comedy TikToks about its extra fees, Ryanair has attracted millions of likes and followers.

UK economy stagnates between July and September

Official figures show the economy failed to grow but it was better than downbeat expectations.

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Lancashire supermarket chain Booths ditches self-service tills

Booths says removing its self-service checkouts is the right thing to do and what customers want.

Thai transgender owner of Miss Universe files for bankruptcy

Thailand's JKN Global Group bought the firm which runs the Miss Universe pageant a year ago for $20m (£16.4m).

Banks accused of dragging their feet over fraud refunds, says MP

The accusation comes as new figures name individual banks and show how much money they refund to victims.

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Can AI cut humans out of contract negotiations?

Tech firms are testing artificial intelligence that can negotiate contracts without the need for humans.

Airbnb boss 'listening' to cities' housing concerns

Brian Chesky denies the platform creates housing shortages but said Airbnb was listening to concerns.

Disney boss declares new "era" after job cuts

The entertainment giant has been under pressure as its traditional movie and film businesses decline.

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

What are the new rules for fitting energy pre-payment meters?

Energy regulator Ofgem say companies can fit pre-payment meters in customer's homes under new rules.

How WeWork’s founder flew too close to the sun

The story of Adam Neumann and the rise and fall of WeWork reads more like a parable than a business story.

Delay to law on e-scooters criticised

No mention of legislation on e-scooters in the King's Speech but trials will be extended to 2026.

Monday, November 6, 2023

Italy to seize $835m from Airbnb in tax evasion inquiry

Prosecutors say the firm failed to collect a 21% tax from landlords on rental income.

Post Office to send and receive Evri and DPD parcels

The service is expected to start in selected stores ahead of the peak Christmas delivery season.

The floating desalination machines powered by the waves

Desalination usually requires a lot of heat and power, but a new system just needs wave energy.

Plan for 40% of train services to run during strikes

Ministers hope minimum service levels for trains, ambulances and border security will start by Christmas.

Sunday, November 5, 2023

Tyson Foods recalls US nuggets after metal pieces found

Tyson Foods has taken dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets off the shelves in nine US states.

Football Manager 2024: How the franchise made millions

As the studio celebrates its 20th edition, the people that make it tell the BBC how it has changed.

Annual oil and gas licences planned with net zero commitment required

Projects will have to meet net zero targets, under the proposals to be outlined in the King's Speech.

Musk says his new AI chatbot has 'a little humour'

The AI tool, designed to have a cheeky tone to its writing, is not yet widely available.

One in 10 mothers with under-fours quit work over childcare, says charity

A quarter of a million mothers with children under four have left their jobs, the Fawcett Society says.

Saturday, November 4, 2023

Wilko workers on life after the retailer's collapse

More than 12,000 staff were made redundant when Wilko closed - for some, finding a job has been tough.

Friday, November 3, 2023

How does your pay compare with other jobs?

Use our interactive lookup tool to find out how pay has changed in your job.

China and Australia: Frenemies who need each other

Australia's Anthony Albanese is in Beijing this weekend for the first such trip in seven years.

Thursday, November 2, 2023

'Crypto King' Sam Bankman-Fried guilty of FTX fraud

The verdict concludes a stunning fall from grace for the 31-year-old former billionaire.

Apple sales dip again despite iPhone boost

Apple says that sales have dropped for the fourth quarter in a row despite a boost from iPhones.

Killer robots and work-free lives - Sunak quizzes Musk on AI future

The prime minister and the tech billionaire sat down together to talk tech, education - and killer robots.

AI summit: Education will blunt AI risk to jobs, says Rishi Sunak

The prime minster says the technology can help rather than replace workers, as the UK's AI summit ends.

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

WeWork to start closing some offices around the world

The BBC understands the firm is to start closing some of its buildings, including one in central London.

Disney to buy remaining 33% stake in streaming service Hulu

In a widely expected move, Disney says it will buy the remaining 33% stake from TV giant Comcast.

Rishi Sunak: AI firms cannot 'mark their own homework'

Governments must act to protect citizens from potential AI risks, prime minister tells the BBC.

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

CEO Secrets: ‘Pumpkins saved my business but almost squashed me’

Kim Innes founded Humble Crumble, a crumble bakery that’s sold more than half a million sweet treats.

Monday, October 30, 2023

Would you drink genetically modified beer?

A growing number of US brewers are now using GM yeast to make their beers.

World Bank warns oil prices could reach $150 a barrel

A prolonged conflict in the Middle East would lead to much higher energy prices, the global institution predicts

Sunday, October 29, 2023

Court gives Evergrande one last chance to agree debt deal

A judge said the company faces being wound up if it does not come up with a plan by 4 December.

Petrol retailers should cut price by 5p a litre, RAC says

The motoring body says major fuel retailers should reduce prices to reflect lower wholesale costs.

Leasehold law will be in King's Speech, says housing minister

Rachel MacLean says the bill would restore "true homeownership" but Labour says it is "thin gruel".

Fewer trains to run from London to Manchester

Avanti is to run a reduced service between London to Manchester on Saturdays until the end of the year.

Sale of NHS data up to government, says tech boss

The head of Palantir, which is in the running for an NHS contract, says it would not have access to data.

UAW strike: Stellantis and union agree pay rise in tentative deal

Stellantis becomes the second US car giant to strike a tentative deal with the United Auto Workers union.

Thursday, October 26, 2023

China economic reformer Li Keqiang dies at 68

Li Keqiang, once the second most powerful man in China, suffered a sudden heart attack, state media said.

After a year of Elon Musk, what's next for X?

How the billionaire's purchase of Twitter has changed the platform and what the future may hold.

How does China fix the Evergrande mess?

The heavily indebted company has become the poster child of the country's flailing property sector.

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Student maintenance loans almost entirely used up by rent, report warns

The average cost of university accommodation in England is almost level with the average maintenance loan.

AI could worsen cyber-threats, report warns

By 2025 AI could increase cyber-attack risk, and help plan physical attacks, report warns.

Barbie movie reverses Mattel's toy sales slump

Toymaker Mattel reports a jump Barbie sales after the success of this summer's Barbie film.

Watchdog: Ex-NatWest boss breached Nigel Farage's privacy

Former Natwest boss Alison Rose should not have shared information on Nigel Farage, watchdog says.

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

US orders immediate halt to some AI chip exports to China, Nvidia says

The new export rules were due to start in November, but Nvidia says the US sped up their introduction.

Rural buses: Councils opt for 'on-demand' services in face of cuts

Councils said they could not offer a like-for-like replacement for commercial services that have faced cuts.

Big banks linked to products with pangolin parts

The companies include UK multinationals such as HSBC, Prudential, and Legal & General.

Job figures show signs of labour market weakening

Unemployment rose marginally in the three months to August, official figures show.

Monday, October 23, 2023

World shift to clean energy is unstoppable, IEA report says

The world is shifting rapidly to clean energy but still investing too much in fossil fuels, the IEA says.

Short selling: Don’t be the 'Dumb Money'

Short selling can be risky, but more and more amateur investors are taking it up.

Workers on voluntary Real Living Wage see 10% pay rise

The increase in the voluntary pay scheme will benefit more than 460,000 UK workers.

Tax cuts will be considered if inflation falls, cabinet minister says

Robert Jenrick says PM Rishi Sunak has the "right priorities" despite his party's by-election losses.

Sunday, October 22, 2023

Does the paper industry need to cut its water usage?

Firms in the sector are using new technologies to reduce the amount of water they require.

Foxconn: iPhone-maker investigated by Chinese authorities

Chinese state media reports some of the Taiwan-based firm's mainland operations are being investigated.

Autumn statement: Government considers help for first-time buyers

The Treasury is understood to be considering extending a low deposit mortgage scheme for a year.

Saturday, October 21, 2023

'My business had £1.6m stolen in 20 minutes'

An employee at Steve Wright's firm was tricked into giving thieves access to the company account.

Friday, October 20, 2023

Moody's boosts view of UK after mini-Budget chaos

Ratings agency says "predictability has been restored" following last year's mini-Budget.

Government borrows less than expected in September

Public borrowing was £14.3bn last month, lower than most economists had anticipated.

Thursday, October 19, 2023

Is AI about to transform the legal profession?

Law firms are increasingly using artificial intelligence systems, but it comes with risks.

Amazon launches humanoid robots to 'free up' staff

The US tech giant is looking at ways it can automate more of its operations.

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

BYD: The top electric car maker that is not Tesla

Chinese auto giant BYD is now ahead of Tesla in quarterly production - and second to it in global sales.

Britishvolt aims to supply batteries to Australian military

New owner, Recharge, hopes to close a deal on the Northumberland site, paving the way to make batteries for export.

Netflix's sharing crackdown is paying off but prices are still rising

The streaming giant said it was putting up prices in the UK and other markets even after introducing tougher rules.

Irish baby milk factory to close as China birth rate drops

The closure of the plant in Askeaton, County Limerick, will mean more than 500 job losses.

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

The incredible power of blue LEDs

LEDs dominate lighting systems but their efficiency rests on the tricky production of blue light.

Twitter glitch allows CIA informant channel to be hijacked

US spies and informants could have been directed to hostile nations through a CIA mistake made on X.

AirAsia boss Tony Fernandes criticised for half-naked massage photo

Tony Fernandes shared a picture of himself attending a meeting while getting a massage.

Monday, October 16, 2023

No room for tax cuts or spending rises, IFS think tank warns

The think tank warns that "ill-timed" pre election tax cuts could prove "unsustainable".

German chancellor Olaf Scholz could snub British AI summit

The BBC understands the German chancellor may turn down his invitation to the event on 1 November.

Will Sam Bankman-Fried take the stand to save himself?

A long prison sentence hangs over him so the former crypto tycoon may take a gamble and testify.

Ten former Tuffnells depots reopen after rescue deal

A total of 12 former Tuffnells delivery depots are back up and running.

Sunday, October 15, 2023

Former Bank of China boss arrested on bribery charges

He is the latest banker to be prosecuted under Chinese President Xi's anti-corruption crackdown.

Australia fines X for failing to crack down on child abuse content

It comes as X's owner Elon Musk had earlier called child safety his number one priority.

Charities 'concerned' over lack of progress with Renters Reform Bill

Thirty charities have warned Rishi Sunak not to abandon the bill banning no-fault evictions.

TikTok says action taken on Israel conflict videos

The social media firm lists what it is doing to tackle misinformation after a warning by the EU.

Electric cars drive UK MG sales to more than £1bn

The car maker, owned by a Chinese state-controlled company, says it is in a "very strong position".

Manchester United: Qatar's Sheikh Jassim withdraws from process to buy club

Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani withdraws from the process to buy Manchester United.

Saturday, October 14, 2023

What does TikTok's EGX sponsorship mean for the games industry?

The app's hoping to take on Twitch and YouTube to become the main stop for online video games content.

Friday, October 13, 2023

Brexit: 'Call us' on trade, says German finance minister Christian Lindner

In a BBC interview, Christian Lindner invites the UK to discuss a closer relationship with the EU.

Microsoft Activision: What does deal mean for gamers?

Call of Duty might be an Xbox exclusive one day, but not for at least 15 years.

Next confirms takeover of Fatface in £115m deal

The retailer has added the clothing chain to the growing list of High Street names it has bought.

UK explores using frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine defence

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt says "we need to do everything we can" to disrupt Russia's ability to fund the war.

Call of Duty maker Activision to be bought by Microsoft

The takeover, the biggest of its kind in the history of gaming, has been approved by UK regulators.

Thursday, October 12, 2023

EU opens investigation into X over alleged disinformation

X, formerly Twitter, is being investigated over the possible spread of terrorist and violent content.

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

UAW auto strike: 8,700 Ford workers in Kentucky down tools

The move is a sharp escalation of the union's ongoing strike against Ford, General Motors and Stellantis.

Schools and NHS caterers ‘must stop’ antibiotic overuse

Health and animal welfare campaigners say the overuse of antibiotics by UK farmers should be banned.

World Bank criticises UK for cutting aid to poorest

The World Bank says cuts to foreign aid are being felt at a time of higher poverty levels.

Nearly half a billion small tech items thrown away

Electrical items such as vapes, fans, cables and USB sticks can all be recycled

Jewish parents told to delete social media apps

Some schools have suggested parents delete apps such as TikTok and Instagram due to the violent content circulating.

Next set to buy rival brand Fat Face in latest High Street buy

High Street chain Next is understood to be close to buying rival fashion chain Fat Face.

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

Luton Airport flights suspended after large car park fire

A multi-storey car park partially collapses and up to 1,200 vehicles may have been damaged.

EU warns Elon Musk 'disinformation' is spreading on X after Hamas attack

The EU has written to Elon Musk warning him that the platform is being used to spread illegal content.

Clubs promoting NFTs pose 'risk' to fans, MPs warn

A committee of MPs say artists and sport clubs' reputations are at risk if they promote NFTs.

Warm weather delays early Christmas food sales

The unusually mild weather has led to fewer people buying Christmas puddings and seasonal biscuits.

Technology festival's sock that detect Alzheimer's signs

The socks, which can detect the early signs of the condition, are among innovations on show in Bristol.

Unity boss resigns after game engine pricing backlash

The firm powers hit games including Pokemon Go, and had wanted to charge developers extra fees.

IMF says UK faces five more years of high interest rates

The UK is expected to have the highest inflation of the US, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and Japan.

Metro Bank has a limited future, claims co-founder

Anthony Thomson says the bank's strategy of continuing to focus on High Street branches is "flawed".

Monday, October 9, 2023

'I pawned my wedding rings for £200 to pay my bills'

The use of pawnbrokers went up by 25% in a year during the cost of living crisis, figures suggest.

Man trains home cameras to help repel badgers and foxes

James Milward went high tech in his quest to stop the animals fouling in his Surrey garden.

California requires companies to report carbon emissions

Big companies like Apple will have to state how much climate-warming carbon they put in the air.

The hunt for a new way to tackle clothing waste

Scientists in the US are trying to find enzymes or bacteria that will decompose manmade fibres.

Nobel economics prize awarded to Claudia Goldin for work on gender pay gap

American Claudia Goldin is only the third woman to receive the prestigious economics prize.

My landlord wanted to put the rent up 35% despite cap

Catherine Sheldon says she is now having to leave the property, with nowhere else to go that she can afford.

Sunday, October 8, 2023

Oil prices rally on fear of Middle East supply disruptions

West Texas Intermediate and Brent crude prices jumped by 4% in Asian trading.

Metro Bank strikes deal to shore up balance sheet

A £325m cash injection, as well as refinancing £600m of debt, will enable it to keep expanding, it says.

Labour's Rachel Reeves to set out plan to recover Covid fraud billions

An anti-corruption commissioner would target £7.2bn lost to fraud, the shadow chancellor will say.

Nevada lithium mine leads to 'green colonialism' accusations

The rush to mine lithium for car batteries is dividing environmental and native American communities.

Saturday, October 7, 2023

Wilko: End of a fabulous ride for shop that sold it all

Workers and shoppers tell us what they'll miss about the brand as the final stores close.

Friday, October 6, 2023

Energy firms holding £8.1bn of customers' money

A father-of-three reveals that it took six weeks to have £800 refunded by his energy supplier.

US jobs growth much faster than expected

The number of jobs added to the US economy last month was almost double the amount forecast.

What's going on at Metro Bank?

Bosses say there are no concerns about its finances after reports it was looking to raise millions.

House price falls expected into new year, Halifax says

The UK's biggest mortgage lender says prices are still falling, but the rate of reduction has slowed.

Evergrande: The rise and fall of the property giant's billionaire founder

Hui Ka Yan, the founder of a crisis-hit Chinese property giant, is under police surveillance.

How Ghana's central bank lost $5bn in one year

The country's economic crisis has sparked protests and led to calls for the bank's boss to resign.

Thursday, October 5, 2023

Taylor Swift tour film tops $100m in advance ticket sales

The film of the Eras tour is due to be released in cinemas in more than 100 countries next Friday.

HS2 will not go to Euston without private funds

The government has scaled back plans for Euston station and is hoping for private investment.

South East water firms have highest complaint rates - report

Southern Water is the most complained about provider in the country, with Thames Water second.

Electric car sales to private buyers fall sharply

No incentives for consumers to buy electric has affected sales, but overall the car market is growing.

Metro Bank shares plunge on reports of urgent fund raising

The bank's shares plunged 23% in early trading, after several newspapers reported it needed to raise £600m.

Amazon and Microsoft to face cloud computing competition probe

The competition watchdog is investigating the tech giants' cloud computing dominance.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Right to own a car in Singapore can cost £87,000

The city-state introduced a 10-year certificate of entitlement system in 1990 as an anti-congestion measure.

Sam Bankman-Fried: FTX crypto empire 'built on lies' - prosecutors

The former crypto billionaire is accused of "one of the biggest financial frauds in US history".

HS2 scaled back as Rishi Sunak makes new transport pledges

It comes after the section of the HS2 high-speed train line between Birmingham and Manchester was scrapped.

MrBeast and BBC stars used in deepfake scam videos

Fraudsters have manipulated images of the popular YouTuber and two journalists to dupe viewers.

HS2 West Midlands-Manchester line to be scrapped

Rishi Sunak is expected to set out alternative projects in his Conservative Party conference speech.

Food price inflation will keep slowing, says Tesco boss

The pace of price rises will continue to ease this year, says boss of UK's biggest supermarket.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

TikTok: Social media app halts online shopping service in Indonesia

The country's government banned social media platforms from selling goods to protect physical stores.

US sanctions Chinese firms in crackdown on fentanyl supply chain

The move is part of efforts to target the supply chain of the drug amid the opioid crisis in the US.

Cost of national debt hits 20-year high

The interest rate on government debt has hit a 20-year high, leaving little room for tax-cuts.

Sam Bankman-Fried: Trial of 'Crypto King' begins

The former crypto billionaire is accused of "one of the biggest financial frauds in US history".

Easy life: Band say easyJet owner suing over name

Easy life say they are "certain" it has never affected the easyGroup's business.

Greggs says sales up by more than fifth in latest quarter

The chain, which opened its first shop in 1951, has opened 144 new stores in the last year.

Monday, October 2, 2023

Evergrande: Shares in crisis-hit property giant jump in market return

The embattled Chinese property giant's shares were suspended from trading on Thursday.

Burger King still open in Russia despite pledge to exit

The owner of the fast-food brand says there are "no new updates" on its pledge to leave Russia.

Food prices see first fall for two years as stores compete

Competition among supermarkets led to the first monthly drop in food prices since 2021, an industry body says.

Oil cartel leader warns of prolonged high prices

The Secretary General says further investment in oil is needed to meet rising global energy demand.

Why your new Apple iPhone 15 is overheating

The firm says a bug in its operating system and updates to apps like Instagram are behind the issue.

House buyers look to adapt to higher mortgage rates

House prices fall but some young buyers are considering smaller homes and longer-term loans, surveys suggest.

John Lewis boss Dame Sharon White to step down next year

Dame Sharon White will leave after five years, making her the shortest-serving chair in the retailer's history.

China Belt and Road: Indonesia opens Whoosh high-speed railway

The project under Belt and Road links the capital Jakarta with the economic hub of Bandung.

Sunday, October 1, 2023

Jeremy Hunt to confirm national living wage to rise to £11 an hour

The move will affect two million of the lowest-paid workers, the chancellor will tell the Tory conference.

Golden Week: China's economic woes fail to dampen holiday fever

A sluggish economy forces young Chinese to travel cheaply for this year's holiday.

Aukus: UK defence giant BAE Systems wins £3.95bn submarine contract

The deal will provide decades of work at BAE Systems' shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria.

Water bills may rise if Ofwat approves new plans

Water companies want to invest £96bn in ambitious project that will see bills rise for customers

First class stamp price rises to £1.25

The price rise comes as Royal Mail seeks to cover higher delivery costs while letter numbers fall.

Rishi Sunak refuses to commit to pre-election tax cuts

The PM says his focus is easing living costs, amid Tory unrest on day one of the party's conference.

HS2: Rishi Sunak refuses to commit to Manchester link

The prime minister again refuses to say if high speed rail link will run from Birmingham to Manchester.

Iceland boss quits Tories labelling party 'out of touch'

Richard Walker had tried to become a Tory MP but has quit the party on the eve of the annual conference.

Saturday, September 30, 2023

Shoplifter: Police need to stop people like me

A persistent shoplifter says stealing is easy and that police could do more to stop people like her.

Ban on single-use plastic cutlery comes into force bin England

Polystyrene cups and balloon sticks are also banned in England as part of efforts to cut waste.

Winter warning as new energy price cap comes in

The annual energy bill for a typical household falls on Sunday but is high by historical standards.

Friday, September 29, 2023

The slow and delicate aircraft taking on spy missions

Light aircraft that can fly and loiter at very high altitudes could provide back-up for spy satellites.

Train strikes set to cause travel disruption

Aslef union members will walk out in a long-running dispute over pay and conditions.

UK on track for record tax levels, IFS think tank says

A study says taxes will reach 37% of national income by next election - the highest since 1948.

Evergrande: Anxious Chinese home buyers reel from crisis

As China's housing crisis grows, so have fears that dreams of home ownership have been bulldozed.

HS2: Unions call for emergency summit on rail line's future

The TUC says stakeholders in the high-speed rail line must be brought together "urgently".

Thursday, September 28, 2023

England's single use plastics ban does not tackle takeaway boxes, warns Greenpeace

Plastic cutlery is banned under new rules but plastic containers for takeaway and shop bought meals are not.

The self-driving trucks that are deliberately crashed

A maker of autonomous lorries is using AI software to prang computerised versions of the vehicles.

UAW strike: Why are US car workers walking out?

Nearly 13,000 workers for Ford, General Motors and Stellantis have gone on a historic, co-ordinated strike.

Rishi Sunak repeatedly dodges questions over future of HS2 rail

Speculation is mounting the government could delay or scrap the second leg of the line to Manchester.

Average five-year mortgage drops below 6%

The typical rate for a five-year mortgage has fallen to 5.99% after interest rates were held.

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Evergrande: China property giant suspends shares amid reports of detained leaders

The stricken Chinese property giant suspends trading as reports emerge of its chairman being taken.

Rosebank oil field: Will it mean cheaper energy bills?

Regulators have approved the development of a controversial oil field in the North Sea.

H&M admits it needs to improve sizing consistency

The retailer admits sizing needs to be more consistent after its new returns fee sparks a backlash.

HS2 firm 'cautious' over taking future UK projects

Speculation the project could be scrapped raises doubts about future projects, says construction firm boss.

Rosebank oil field given go-ahead by regulator

Development and production consents have been given to the offshore development west of Shetland.

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Hollywood writers agree to end five-month strike after studio deal

They can return to work while they vote on whether to approve a three-year deal that offers pay rises.

Trump liable for fraud, judge finds in New York civil case

Donald Trump exaggerated his net worth and asset values to get better loans, a New York judge rules.

HS2: Scrapping Manchester link would be very stupid, says ex-rail chief

Former Strategic Rail Authority boss says cancelling the leg to Manchester would hurt other projects.

Water firms forced to pay back customers for poor performance

Regulator Ofwat orders companies to return £114m to households by cutting bills after missing targets.

Monday, September 25, 2023

Evergrande shares slide as mainland unit misses debt payment

Several current and former executives have been detained says Chinese business wire Caixin.

US-China rivalry spurs investment in space tech

The race to get back to the moon is fuelling US investment in private sector space firms.

Farmers turn to tech as bees struggle to pollinate

With bee populations struggling, mechanical pollination may be increasingly needed as a back-up.

Warning sick days at highest level for decade

Workers are taking more days off due to stress, Covid and the cost-of living crisis, research suggests.

Sunday, September 24, 2023

The shadowy Chinese firm that owns chunks of Cambodia

It secured a deal to control a fifth of Cambodia's coastline - 15 years on, it has barely got started.

NME: The high-end magazines making a vinyl-style comeback

The once-mass market UK music bible NME returns as a premium product with scarcity as a selling point.

Electric car rules could cost carmakers billions

New Brexit trade rules could push up the price of electric cars, manufacturers warn.

CBI: Scandal-hit organisation secures emergency funding

The business group has secured emergency funding from banks after a series of misconduct allegations.

Locally controlled buses return to Manchester after 37 years

Greater Manchester's mayor Andy Burnham hails the "coming-of-age moment" for English devolution.

HS2: 'Crazy' not to review project due to soaring costs - Shapps

Grant Shapps cites Ukraine war costs and a spike in inflation as reasons to weigh up the rail project.

Saturday, September 23, 2023

How to save money even when the budget is tight

The interest paid on savings is better than anything seen for years, so how can you save when bills are rising?

Rishi Sunak scraps home energy efficiency taskforce

The group set up to drive home insulation and boiler upgrades is a casualty of the PM's green rethink.

Friday, September 22, 2023

MPs call for energy bill help to stave off winter crisis

Urgent action is needed to help households cope with higher bills, MPs say.

HS2: Johnson warns against 'mutilated' version of HS2

The former PM airs concerns as firms seek clarity over the government's commitment to the rail link.

Net zero: Will Rishi Sunak's changes to climate policies save money?

Decarbonising will cost money but some argue in the long run it will boost the economy.

Despite risks fish farms are booming in Africa

Farming fish has seen rapid growth in Africa but it can be an expensive, high-risk operation.

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Labour pledges more watchdog power after Truss mini-budget

The changes could prevent a repeat of the mistakes made in Liz Truss's mini-budget, the party says.

Warner Bros to expand Barbie movie studios in UK

The project will see capacity at the Leavesden facility near London expanding by more than 50%.

NatWest confirms cash deposit glitch as customers say cash missing

The bank confirmed issues with its deposit machines after people reported difficulty accessing funds.

JPEX: Hong Kong investigates influencer-backed crypto exchange

About 2,000 investors lost money on the JPEX platform which was advertised on Hong Kong's metro.

Warning cost-of-living payments fail to last

The UK's biggest food bank provider says the payments provide only temporary respite before demand returns.

Firms forced to sell more electric cars despite petrol ban delay

Car makers will still have to ensure 22% of cars sold are electric from 2024, industry sources say.

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Bankrupted Post Office Horizon victim demands answers after 17 years

An ongoing inquiry into the Horizon IT scandal examines the case of Lee Castleton.

Less rentals homes due to energy policy uncertainty

Landlords say the uncertain directions of travel from the government is impacting investment choices

Fed holds interest rates steady - for now

The US central bank signals it could raise its key interest rate again this year

UK interest rate rise bets slashed after inflation fall

Interest rates were widely expected to rise to 5.5%, but half of investors now think they may not change.

Parents in US offered refunds for Fortnite purchases

Parents in the US whose children made unintended in-game purchases will be offered $245m (£198m) in refunds.

Warning petrol ban delay could stop people buying electric cars

Plans to push back the ban on new petrol and diesel cars could delay shift to electric, the SMMT says.

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Fukushima: China's seafood imports from Japan down 67% in August

The fall came as Japan started to release treated waste water from the damaged nuclear power plant.

Government row with Facebook over private messages

The government has launched a campaign criticising Meta for planned encryption of Facebook messages.

Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry given new contracts

The rail operators have been awarded the long-term contract renewals by the Department for Transport.

UK inflation set to be highest of advanced economies

Prices will rise faster in the UK than in any other G7 economy this year, a forecast suggests.

H&M starts charging shoppers for online returns

Customers must now pay £1.99 when they return items either in store or online, although members are exempt.

Bank accounts not being closed over views - watchdog

The City watchdog's findings follow a row over the closure of Nigel Farage's bank account.

Global oil prices surge to 10-month high

The price of a barrel of oil rose above $95 on Tuesday, stoking fears it could impact inflation.

Monday, September 18, 2023

Elon Musk: Social media platform X could go behind paywall

The billionaire suggested the social media platform, now called X, could charge for use of "the system".

New tax divides India's booming computer games sector

The Indian government's forthcoming tax on the industry doesn't apply to all types of games.

IMF pledges to stay in 'our lane' on climate

The US, a major backer of the IMF, has been pushing to refine the mission of the global lender.

Post Office: Horizon scandal victims offered £600,000 compensation

The sum is for postmasters whose wrongful convictions for theft and false accounting have now been overturned.

Disability benefits cost could rocket, report says

The study says action needs to be taken to improve the health of people who are about to retire.

Two pubs a day disappearing in England and Wales

Some 383 pubs were demolished or converted for other uses between January and June, government figures show.

Sunday, September 17, 2023

Pace of rising rental costs at nine-year high, figures show

Estate agent Hamptons says the cost has risen more in the last year than it did in the four years to 2019.

Ryanair and family locked in £165 check-in row

Damian Lloyd says his family had checked in for a flight in advance but Ryanair says they had "unchecked" themselves.

No final HS2 decision until revised costs known, say Labour

Shadow minister Pat McFadden says its policy on high speed rail will be set out in the party's manifesto.

Shein in talks to buy Missguided from Mike Ashley's Frasers Group

Retail group Frasers is looking to sell the online clothing brand to the global fast fashion giant.

Port Talbot: Tata Steel would have left UK without aid - Welsh secretary

A £500m UK government pledge saved Port Talbot's steelworks from closure, Welsh secretary says.

UAW strike: Biden says striking car workers deserve 'fair share'

The president urges Ford, General Motors and Stellantis to "go further" to meet the union demands.

Saturday, September 16, 2023

First grain ships arrive in Ukraine using new route

Officials say the vessels will deliver 200,000 tonnes of wheat to world markets.

Friday, September 15, 2023

Marks & Spencer scraps plastic for paper bags

Marks & Spencer said the move should cut plastics use.

Everton takeover news: Farhad Moshiri agrees to sell club to American investment fund

Premier League Everton are set to have new owners after Farhad Moshiri agrees to sell his 94% stake in the club to 777 Partners.

Gatwick flights cancelled after air traffic control staff shortages

Some 22 flights from the airport were cancelled and more delayed due to an air control staff shortage.

Taiwan tells Elon Musk it is 'not for sale'

Mr Musk draws anger from Taipei again for his comments saying the island belongs to China.

Thursday, September 14, 2023

Port Talbot: Steelworkers frightened by Tata job loss reports

Steelworkers say they have been kept in the dark amid reports of 3,000 job losses.

AI and sound - helping firms build their own 'sonic identity'

Artificial intelligence is assisting companies in developing their own signature sounds.

Chick-fil-A to try again in UK four years after LGBT backlash

The US fast food chain closed its initial store in 2019 following protests by campaigners.

Deloitte: Belfast jobs at risk as firm to make redundancies

Jobs will be lost in Belfast as the firm plans to cut 3% of its 27,000-person UK workforce.

France's Carrefour puts up 'shrinkflation' warning signs

Carrefour is telling its customers which products are smaller than they used to be.

Eurozone interest rates raised to all-time high

The European Central Bank increases rates for the 10th time in a row to a record high.

French iPhone 12 warning: European regulators examine alert on radiation levels

European regulators assess possible health risks after France's decision to temporarily halt sales.

'I wasn't heard at meetings, so did something about it'

Pamela Maynard, CEO of Avanade, shares her advice to get ahead at work.

John Lewis recovery plan to take two years longer

The retailer says inflation and investments mean its plan to return to profit will be pushed back to 2028.

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Tim Gurner: Australian tycoon calls for layoffs to fix worker attitudes

Tim Gurner says "we need to see pain in the economy" to remind people they are lucky to have jobs.

Arm share sale values UK chip designer at more than $54bn

The shares were priced at the top of the range that had been indicated to prospective investors.

Cash payments rise for first time in 10 years

Payments made with notes and coins rose as the cost of living started to bite, but debit card use was higher.

Major jobs announcement kicks off Belfast investment summit

The 1,000 new jobs at professional services firm EY will be based in Belfast and in the north west.

France halts iPhone 12 sales over radiation levels

Apple has been told it must recall every iPhone 12 sold in the country if it cannot fix the problem.

Strikes and wet weather cause UK economy to shrink

Official figures show the UK economy contracted by 0.5% in July, more than economists predicted.

Tuesday, September 12, 2023

Google antitrust trial: Tech giant denies abusing power to gain monopoly

In a landmark trial brought by the US government, the tech giant denies using illegal practices to gain a monopoly.

BP boss resigns amid review of 'personal relationships'

The oil giant said Bernard Looney had not been "fully transparent" in disclosures about past relationships with colleagues.

Value of UK mortgage arrears jumps by a third

The value of mortgage arrears jumped by almost 30% as interest rates increase.

Pensions: Women get 35% less than men due to care responsibilities

Taking time off or working part-time means less money can be saved in pensions for retirement.

Triple lock means state pension set to rise by 8.5% in April

It will be the second significant rise in the state pension in two years, but could pull more into paying tax.

Pay growth catches up with price rises

Regular pay rose by 7.8% in May to July compared with the same period last year, official figures show.

Monday, September 11, 2023

Can new Apple iPhone 15 thunder without lightning?

Apple is set to unveil the iPhone 15 later on today without its traditional lightning cable charger.

Spotify denies 30-second trick could make you rich

The streaming giant quashes a theory that listening to a song on repeat will rake in the royalties.

What went wrong at Wilko?

The beloved discount retailer was founded in 1930 but now all 400 stores are set to close within weeks.

Wilko rescue deal fails sparking huge job loss fears

Canadian billionaire Doug Putman's rescue efforts were dashed by rising costs and a complicated deal.

Farmers 'struggling' to recruit harvest workers

Tessa Elliot says "potatoes aren't going to be on the table" if seasonal workers are not found.

Sunday, September 10, 2023

BMW investment secures future of Mini factories

BMW expected to invest £600m in preparing its Oxfordshire plant to build the next generation of electric cars.

UK government to be reported to UN over strike law by TUC

The Trade Union Congress says it will make the report because the law does not meet global standards.

Urban oases combine roof gardens and solar panels

Combining solar panels and a roof garden is a tricky and costly engineering task.

Saturday, September 9, 2023

Stopping the scammers who target online jobseekers

Fraudsters are using fake job ads to try to get people to give them money or their personal data.

Friday, September 8, 2023

Heathrow and Gatwick airports have Raac on sites

Heathrow has means to keep it safe, while Gatwick has found no cause for concern.

State pension and triple lock: What is it worth and when do you get it?

Figures being published will be critical to setting the annual increase in the state pension.

Thodex cryptocurrency boss jailed for 11,196 years in Turkey for fraud

Faruk Fatih Ozer was found guilty of defrauding millions of dollars from investors in his collapsed Thodex platform.

One Chip Challenge: Amazon and eBay pull spicy tortilla from UK shop

The novelty spicy tortilla has been recalled in the US after it was linked to the death of a teenager.

Offshore wind auction fails to attract any bids

There will be no new offshore wind projects after firms said the price for electricity was too low.

Thursday, September 7, 2023

Apple shares slide after China government iPhone ban reports

The technology giant's stock market valuation has fallen by almost $200bn in the last two days.

Fourth FTX executive Ryan Salame pleads guilty

The pleading comes ahead of the October trial of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried.

How AI may be a powerful tool in treating male infertility

Fertility experts are now using artificial intelligence to help find sperm in medical samples.

Vet prices: 'I spent £12,000 on my pug'

Pet owners reveal how much their vet bills set them back, as a review of the industry is launched.

Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary hit with cream pies by climate protesters

Michael O'Leary declared the cream pies delicious after wiping himself down in Brussels.

Price of average home falls by £14,000 in a year

House prices fell at their fastest annual rate in 14 years in August, according to the Halifax building society.

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Electric vehicle production begins at unique plant

The Stellantis factory in Cheshire is the UK's only factory dedicated to only electric vehicles.

Heating on prescription trial suggests fewer NHS visits

A trial by a UK university suggests patients prescribed free heating were hospitalised less often.

Deezer and Universal to launch 'artist-centric' streaming model

The new streaming model will generate bigger royalties for artists that people choose to listen to.

Students cut back on food as cost of living soars

Some had to skip meals, take on debt or dip into savings last year as costs soared, research shows.

Wilko shops set to close next week named

Staff being made redundant were told of the news this morning, with shops closing next week.

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Disability and illness benefit changes proposed

The government says it hopes new work capability assessments reforms will come into force by 2025.

Chevron and unions in talks to avert Australia LNG strike

Workers are scheduled to begin a series of stoppages from Thursday in the dispute over pay and conditions.

Long wave radio fans mourn fading frequencies

Now disappearing, long wave radio broadcasts once gave a taste of far flung countries and cultures.

Champneys founder Dorothy Purdew dies aged 91

Born to a working class family, Ms Purdew launched one of the UK's most successful spa chains.

TikTok opens Dublin data centre to ease China spying fears

There is concern over the video-sharing app's links with China and who accesses its users' data.

Schools struggle over RAAC crumbling concrete measures

A governor tells the BBC her school is struggling to find engineers to provide remedial work.

Wilko rival B&M saves up to 51 stores from closure

B&M has struck a deal to take on up to 51 of Wilko's 400 shops after it collapsed into administration.

Monday, September 4, 2023

Port of Dover plans to reclaim land to prevent queues

The Port of Dover is planning to reclaim land from the sea to avoid long delays when new EU biometric checks come in.

Health and beauty spending boosts August shop sales

Retail sales increased by 4.1% last month, according to the British Retail Consortium and KPMG.

New tech boosts Dutch drive for sustainable farming

In the Netherlands, experiments are underway to ensure future food supply and cut carbon emissions.

Fuel price rises push up cost of full tank by around £4

The rises in August were among the steepest in 20 years but retailers did not bump up profits, says RAC.

Are spending cuts to blame for the schools concrete crisis?

Capital spending on education has been squeezed since 2010 as money has been redirected to healthcare.

New iPhone, new charger: Apple bends to EU rules

A European Union law will require portable devices to have a common charger by 2024.

Barbie overtakes Super Mario Bros to be 2023's biggest box office hit

Margot Robbie's hit movie becomes the year's most successful film at box offices around the world.

Airlines could face crackdown on hidden fees

Consumers should have accurate information upfront before making a purchase, the government says.

Asda owners probed over action to curb price rises

MPs ask Asda's co-owner, Mohsin Issa, whether issues over its finances are preventing more being done.

Country Garden: Property shares jump on debt reprieve

The Chinese developer reportedly secured an extension to a key debt payment deadline at the weekend.

Sunday, September 3, 2023

Rail disruption: Train cancellations as high as 13% in 2023

One station, managed by TransPennine Express, has had 13% of its trains cancelled.

Five ways to save money on your packed lunch

The lunchbox is back after the summer holidays so here are some top tips on making savings at lunchtime.

Saturday, September 2, 2023

Tesco staff offered body cameras over crime fears

It follows similar moves by other retailers and daily incidents rising from 450 a day, up to 850.

Friday, September 1, 2023

Will post-Brexit food checks ever happen?

The UK government this week delayed changes to arrangements for EU food imports for the fifth time.

Mohamed Al Fayed: Former Harrods owner dies at 94

The high-profile Egyptian businessman lost his son Dodi in the car crash that killed Princess Diana.

UK economy makes stronger recovery during Covid

Revised official figures reveal that the UK grew at the end of 2021 rather than shrinking.

Octopus to buy Shell's household energy firm

About 1.4 million households will see their accounts switched to a new provider.

X, formerly Twitter, to collect biometric and employment data

The social media firm, formerly Twitter, will gather facial information if premium users give consent.

House prices see biggest yearly decline since 2009

Nationwide says higher borrowing costs have led to a slowdown in activity in the housing market.

Thursday, August 31, 2023

Ukraine war: UK defence giant BAE Systems sets up local base

The firm says the move may allow it ultimately to produce light artillery inside Ukraine.

Storm power cuts: Maximum compensation nearly triples to £2,000

The energy watchdog has hiked the amount households and businesses can receive from £700 to £2,000.

Wilko deal to buy firm and save jobs falls through

M2 Capital claimed its £90m offer would retain employees for two years but it failed to file paperwork.

India's Adani Group stung by fresh controversy

A new report has alleged that the conglomerate used "opaque" funds in Mauritius to manipulate stock prices.

Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Country Garden: Debt crisis-hit China property giant in record loss

Country Garden reported a record $6.7bn loss for the first six months of the year.

Pass AI law soon or risk falling behind, MPs warn

The commons technology committee urges new legislation for the UK to take lead on AI regulation.

How long until a robot is doing your chores?

Advances in AI are accelerating the development of humanoid robots.

Mark Thompson: CNN appoints former BBC director general as chief executive

The British executive must rebuild the US news network after a series of crises and falling ratings.

Families worry over cancelled flight expense costs

Passengers are having to fork out for food, travel and accommodation, but are worried about costs.

Brexit: EU-derived equal pay protections to be brought back

Women will keep the right to the same pay as men doing similar jobs in what Labour says is a government U-turn.

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Netflix: Streamers expansion into gaming is 'natural extension'

Streaming hits such as the Queen's Gambit are being adapted as games as the streamer looks to expand.

Scams impersonating financial regulator double

The Financial Conduct Authority says reports of scammers impersonating it have doubled.

Network Rail axes bonuses for staff who went on strike

Network Rail has withheld bonuses from union members who took part in strike action during a pay dispute.

Ryanair says air traffic failure is not acceptable

Airline boss Michael O'Leary asks why there was no back-up system after glitch causes travel chaos.

Wilko: GMB union seeks government meeting over administrators

The GMB union said bidders had reported "difficulties" engaging with administrators PwC.

Price rises in shops at lowest for nearly a year

The retail trade body, British Retail Consortium, says price rises are slowing but remain high.

Monday, August 28, 2023

Ulez expanded to include whole of outer London

Drivers must pay a £12.50 charge per day for driving a non-compliant vehicle in the zone

Toyota halts all Japan assembly plants due to glitch

The world's largest car maker is investigating a system fault but says a cyber attack is unlikely.

Why empty lorries are a problem and how to fix it

With one third of lorries in the UK driving empty, some hauliers are turning to technology for help.

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?

Technical glitches may cause disruption at airports but passengers do have rights.

Air traffic control: Airlines warn of flight delays over technical fault

Many Bank Holiday passengers face disruption as they travel on one of the busiest travel days of the year.

How robotaxis are dividing San Francisco

The city has become the crucible of an experiment - are robotaxis ready for the streets?

Help to buy homes from 'Bank of Family' rises

The so-called Bank of Mum and Dad has grown, with more than 300,000 home purchases set for 2023.

Sunday, August 27, 2023

Morley's: The family-run chicken shop with cult status

Founded in 1985, Morley's has featured in music videos and counts the likes of Stormzy as loyal customers.

Evergrande: Shares in the crisis-hit Chinese developer plunge by 80%

The heavily-indebted firm's shares had been suspended from trading in Hong Kong since March last year.

Labour rules out wealth tax if party wins next election

Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves says extra money for public services must come from economic growth.

Wilko: New bid emerges for stricken retail chain

A private equity firm makes a £90m bid for the business and pledges to retain all jobs for two years.

The elusive man at the top of the OnlyFans empire

Leonid Radvinsky, a 41-year-old entrepreneur based in Florida, owns all the shares of the company.

John Lewis joins M&S and Tesco in cutting price of period pants

The price of the garments will fall by the current rate of VAT at John Lewis and Waitrose next week.

Friday, August 25, 2023

Rail services across England hit as 20,000 staff begin strike

RMT members walk out over pay and working conditions, disrupting many people's bank holiday travel plans.

Former Co-operative Bank chairman Paul Flowers charged with fraud

Paul Flowers is due to face a charge of fraud by abuse of position between June 2016 and October 2017.

US faces more interest rate rises to cool inflation

Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell said the pace of price increases remained "too high".

Heineken sells off Russian beer business for €1

The lager-maker will take a huge loss on the division which, it said, had taken longer to jettison.

Renters' rights violations to be investigated

The UK's competition authority said some landlords may not be following consumer protection rules.

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Donald Trump breaks silence on Musk's X after Georgia arrest

Mr Trump's first post on the platform formerly called Twitter since January 2021 includes his mugshot.

OnlyFans owner gets $338m payout

The platform says it now hosts more than three million creators, serving almost 240 million users.

Energy price cap to fall but bills will stay high

A new cap on the price of each unit of energy will be announced later by regulator Ofgem.

Train strikes to hit major events like Reading and Leeds festivals

Visitors to the Reading and Leeds festivals and Notting Hill Carnival face disruption as rail workers walk out.

Subway agrees sale to Dunkin' and Baskin-Robbins owner Roark Capital

The sandwich maker has been bought by Roark Capital, ending six decades of family ownership.

What's next for Wilko and its 12,500 workers?

The retailer is in administration but that doesn't necessarily mean it will disappear from the High Street.

Gatwick Airport: Bank holiday strike threat off after pay deal agreed

The Unite union calls off industrial action by ground handlers after securing improved pay deals.

Gas prices fall as fears over Australian strike recede

A strike at a major Australian gas plant had threatened to disrupt global supplies.

Paddington Bear stamps released by Royal Mail for 65th anniversary

The Peruvian bear was first seen in 1958 after featuring in the book A Bear Called Paddington.

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Nvidia: artificial intelligence chip giant sees sales more than double

The California-based company dominates the market for chips used in artificial intelligence systems.

Rising numbers seek help for energy bill debts, warns Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice says it has seen a 17% rise the number of people asking for help with gas and electricity bills.

NatWest: Former boss to get £2.4m pay package after Farage row

It comes a month after Dame Alison Rose quit the bank over the closure of former Ukip leader Nigel Farage's account.

Bank fined £5.4m after energy traders used WhatsApp

Morgan Stanley is punished by the energy regulator in the first fine under transparency rules.

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Parcel delivery giant UPS avoids first strike in 25 years

The union representing its workers said a new five-year contract has been approved.

FTX founder Bankman-Fried living on bread and water, lawyer says

A vegan diet requested by the FTX founder while he is in prison is not being provided, a judge was told.

UK-India trade talks enter 'final, trickier' stage - government sources

A deal could be struck within months - but sources say difficult areas of negotiation remain.

French airport to be renamed after Queen Elizabeth II in tribute

Le Touquet says it has blessing from King to rename its airport after his late mother.

Grant Shapps visits Kyiv as UK backs Ukraine nuclear power

The government says a loan guarantee will help improve Ukraine's energy security.

Boots infant formula adverts broke rules - watchdog

Advertising watchdog found Boots promoted infant milk formula in adverts, which is prohibited.