Sunday, April 30, 2023

UK chip giant Arm files for blockbuster US share listing

In a blow to the London stock market, the firm said in March that it would not list shares in the UK.

The Israeli plan to fit a fusion reactor into a container

Israel's NT-Tao wants to build a compact fusion reactor and has won investment from Honda.

Adidas sued by investors over Kanye West deal

Shareholders claim the sportswear giant knew about the rapper's behaviour before it cut ties in 2022.

First Republic makes last ditch bid to find rescue deal

Regulators are racing to find a buyer for First Republic after the recent collapse of two US banks.

Rail strikes cynically targeting Eurovision, transport minister says

Transport Secretary Mark Harper says a "fair and reasonable pay offer" has been made to rail workers.

Saturday, April 29, 2023

How taking it slow could help protect our money

A culture of instant buying, paying, and delivery brings convenience but could expose our finances to harm.

Friday, April 28, 2023

Oil company ExxonMobil reports record profits of $11.4bn.

The energy giant says the profits came despite paying about $200m (£160m) in windfall taxes in Europe.

UK games sector wanted Microsoft deal, says Sir Ian Livingstone

Sir Ian Livingstone says he hopes a settlement can be reached for Microsoft's takeover of Activision.

Katy Perry v Katie Perry: Singer loses trademark battle

The US singer was sued by an Australian fashion designer over her use of the name on tour clothing.

Rents hit fresh high as lack of homes available continues

Despite some signs of more properties coming on to the market, asking rents are still rising, Rightmove says.

HMV's flagship Oxford Street store to reopen

The music retailer is to move back into 363 Oxford Street after a "dramatic" return to profit.

Thursday, April 27, 2023

Sri Lanka crisis: Central bank lays out extent of economic problems

The central bank's annual report highlighted the "unprecedented" increases in food and fuel prices.

Amazon cloud and ads units offset e-commerce woes

Amazon has been hit as shoppers return to in-store spending after the pandemic.

Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Gambling white paper: Gamblers losing £1,000 a day to face checks in shake-up

The government is preparing to unveil the biggest shake-up of gambling laws in nearly two decades.

BP faces rebel shareholders over new climate goals

The UK's major pension firms vote against BP's chair after the company cut its climate ambitions.

China police question staff at US consultancy giant Bain

It comes as relations between Washington and Beijing have deteriorated in recent months.

US denies trying to unfairly attract overseas firms

Deputy treasury secretary tells the BBC the US wants other countries to invest in clean energy as well.

Pernod Ricard resumes Beefeater and Jameson exports to Russia

French drinks giant says the move is to keep its Russia operations viable but campaigners are 'disgusted'.

Bank chief's comments on pay rises 'out of touch'

Unions and small businesses react with outrage to comments that people need to accept they are poorer.

Pret A Manger hikes price of its subscription service to £30

The sandwich and coffee chain says the new deal will entitle customers to 10% off everything in store.

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Who wins and who loses from new Australia trade deal?

Small firms are weighing up the benefits of the UK's new trade deal with Australia.

Amazon UK could be forced to recognise first union

A majority of staff at its Coventry warehouse have signed up to a union, the GMB says.

New rules ban subscription traps and fake reviews

The government's Digital Markets Bill aims to help consumers and increase competition.

KitKat maker Nestle hikes prices but sales still sweet

Nestle says it has raised the prices by nearly 10% over the past year due to "significant" cost inflation.

Ocado warehouse closure puts 2,300 jobs at risk

Its Hatfield fulfilment centre will stop trading as the online grocer relies on more efficient sites.

Energy bill help drives up March borrowing

The government borrowed £21.5bn last month, the second-highest March figure since records began in 1993.

Monday, April 24, 2023

Netflix to invest $2.5bn in new South Korea films and TV shows

The firm's Co-CEO said the money will be spent on making TV shows and movies in the Asian country.

First Republic Bank: More than $100bn of withdrawals this year

The US-based bank said its deposits fell by over 40% amid fears of a crisis in the financial sector.

Disney cuts more jobs as restructuring continues

The firm announces another round of layoffs as part of the plan to reduce its workforce by about 7,000.

Prezzo to close more a third of its restaurants as bills rise

The move, which puts 810 jobs at risk, comes after the chain was hit by soaring costs.

Millions of families miss out on cheap broadband

Ofcom is concerned that people are not getting the broadband social tariffs they are entitled to.

Sunday, April 23, 2023

£55bn withdrawn from Credit Suisse before collapse

The announcement gives an insight to the scale of the bank run that caused the 167-year-old institution to fail.

Bed Bath & Beyond files for bankruptcy in the US

The embattled retail giant is seeking buyers for its assets, and will close all its stores by 30 June.

NBCUniversal boss Jeff Shell out after 'inappropriate relationship'

Jeff Shell has left the US media giant over an "inappropriate relationship" he had with a colleague.

Maleficent: Dragon catches fire during Disneyland show in LA

Maleficent the fire-breathing dragon dramatically went up in flames during Saturday's live show.

The wedding tech now at the heart of couples' nuptials

A growing number of brides and grooms are embracing technology for their big day.

The tech entrepreneur betting he can get younger

Millions of dollars are being poured into research to find ways of making lives longer and healthier.

CBI rape allegations 'shocking' says Labour shadow minister

The lobbying group needs 'root and branch' reform, says Labour's Jonathan Ashworth.

Saturday, April 22, 2023

Has TransPennine Express improved its train service?

After a period of disruption, we examine how the company is performing ahead of a decision on its future.

Friday, April 21, 2023

Facebook still being used to arrange fake reviews - Which?

The consumer group found more than a dozen groups trading reviews for free products or payments.

Rainfall washes out retail sales in March

Department stores and clothing shops blame wet weather for a sharp fall in demand.

Thursday, April 20, 2023

Shanghai Auto Show: Mini responds to Chinese ice cream racism uproar

It comes after a video appeared to show staff giving ice cream to foreigners and refusing local visitors.

Lachlan Murdoch drops lawsuit against news site Crikey

Crikey linked the Murdoch family name to the US Capitol attack in an opinion piece last year.

Ukrainian vodka producers toast a rise in global sales

With Russian vodkas no longer on shelves around the world, Ukrainian brands have filled the gap.

Beyonce and the Pope among those to lose Twitter blue check in purge

The social media giant has erased the once-coveted blue check verification from thousands of accounts.

Compensation plan for Neil Woodford investors revealed

Savers in the collapsed Neil Woodford fund could receive 77% of their investment back.

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

US imposes $300m penalty over hard disk drive exports to Huawei

It is the latest move by the US government to stop sales of sophisticated technology to China.

Child Trust Funds: Millions of pounds stuck in 80,000 accounts - report

Families are facing court battles to get their children's money, in pots worth up to £210m in total.

Lidl wins logo lawsuit against Tesco

The High Court orders Tesco to stop using its Clubcard logo after finding it copied Lidl's logo.

Overdraft changes saved borrowers £1bn, says watchdog

Simpler overdraft rates have helped borrowers but some still miss out on support, the FCA says.

UK inflation dips but remains above 10%

Inflation, which measures the rate of price rises, fell to 10.1% in the year to March.

Thousands of flights delayed as Southwest glitch grounds planes

The embattled airline cited a "technical issue" as the case for the one-hour nationwide stoppage.

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Can Fox News afford the $787.5m Dominion settlement?

The network still faces a second, similar defamation lawsuit from another election technology firm.

Sacked CBI boss says reputation 'totally destroyed'

The former head of the business group tells the BBC his side of the story in an exclusive interview.

What counts as sexual harassment at work?

The BBC speaks to experts about sexual harassment and what to do if you experience it in the workplace.

Netflix ends DVD rentals in end of era

The streaming giant will stop shipping DVDs starting in September.

More people looking for work as vacancies fall

The number of jobs on offer continues to fall with companies blaming economic pressures.

Monday, April 17, 2023

Hikvision: Chinese surveillance tech giant denies leaked Pentagon spy claim

A leaked US government document alleged that Hikvision was likely enabling Chinese espionage.

Covid: China economy rebounds after pandemic measures lifted

Gross domestic product for the first three months of 2023 grew by 4.5% compared to a year earlier.

TUC: Government failing to protect workers from AI

Union group claims using artificial intelligence to hire and fire staff could lead to greater discrimination.

How artificial intelligence is matching drugs to patients

Health-tech firms around the world are increasingly using AI to help tailor drugs for patients.

EY cuts 3,000 jobs in US blaming 'overcapacity'

The decision comes days after the firm called off a radical restructuring.

Forced prepay meter installations to be banned in homes of over-85s

Energy suppliers will also have to give struggling customers more chances to clear their debts.

Retiring landlords risk fuelling rental shortage

Investors with buy-to-let mortgages are retiring but new landlords are not replacing them.

Sunday, April 16, 2023

Angry Birds: Sega in talks to buy video game maker Rovio

The Japan-based entertainment giant Sega is in discussions over a deal for Rovio reportedly worth $1bn.

Business confidence up sharply at biggest firms

Sentiment is rebounding as concerns about energy prices and Brexit ease.

Greener flights will cost more, says industry

Demand for air travel will be hit as decarbonisation drives up ticket prices, says industry.

Scrap all existing smart motorways, says AA

It comes after government cancels plans to build more stretches of road without permanent hard shoulders.

Amazon strike: Hundreds of workers in Coventry walk out in pay dispute

GMB members walked out at 06:30 BST on Sunday and will strike until Tuesday, the union says.

Saturday, April 15, 2023

US savers get savvy ditching and switching banks

A wave of transfers is hitting US banks, adding another wrinkle to challenges facing the financial system.

Royal Mail and Communication Workers Union reach agreement on pay

A provisional agreement over pay and working conditions for postal service workers has been reached.

Friday, April 14, 2023

Britain's economy is back, says chancellor

Jeremy Hunt says his strategy has been welcomed by the IMF after his predecessor faced criticism.

Japan approves plan to open its first casino

Officials have allowed a gambling resort to open in Osaka in 2029 to attract tourists.

Ford launches hands-free driving on UK motorways

Government approves Ford's BlueCruise system to allow hands-off, eyes-on driving.

Thursday, April 13, 2023

The bean that could change the taste of coffee

How researchers are pinning their hopes on a climate-resilient coffee species.

Texas dairy farm explosion kills 18,000 cows

Animal welfare activists say the incident is "by far" the deadliest barn fire in recent memory.

Bank of England considers raising saver protection, governor says

The move is seen as one response to recent concerns over the strength of the banking system.

Wednesday, April 12, 2023

Judge sanctions Fox News ahead of Dominion defamation trial

Dominion, which is suing Fox for $1.6bn, alleges network lawyers withheld evidence in the case.

Twitter and hate speech: What's the evidence?

Some studies show abuse on the platform is increasing - but Elon Musk has pushed back.

SharkNinja boss shares his CEO Secrets advice

Mark Barrocas, president of SharkNinja, shares his advice for the CEO Secrets series.

Renting: Shortfall of properties creates frenzied market, surveyors say

Agents say high numbers of tenants chasing a shortage of properties will continue to push up rents.

Juul Labs agrees $462m deal to settle claims

Juul Labs agrees a deal to settle claims that it targeted teenagers with its products.

Accounting firm EY calls off 'Project Everest' to break up firm

The US arm of the accountancy giant has pushed back against demerging auditing and consulting.

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Theranos Founder Elizabeth Holmes to go to prison end of April

A judge has ruled the start-up founder could not stay free while she appeals against her convictions.

Changi Airport: Hanging out at the world's best airport

Singapore's Changi Airport is a particular point of pride in a country obsessed with rankings.

Tupperware: Why the household name could soon be history

The name is so familiar many do not even realise it is a brand - but the firm may be in deep trouble.

Why robotic worms could one day dig beneath your feet

Simulating an earthworm's movement is difficult, but could have very useful real-world applications.

UK to be one of worst performing economies in 2023 - IMF

The International Monetary Fund predicts the UK economy will shrink this year, alongside Germany.

Monday, April 10, 2023

Junior doctors' strike: NHS faces most disruptive walkout yet

Thousands of junior doctors across England begin their four-day walkout in a dispute over pay.

Artificial Intelligence: China tech giant Alibaba to roll out ChatGPT rival

In recent months, technology firms around the world have unveiled their own generative AI chatbots.

More people entertaining at home as cost of living bites

Sales of home accessories and furniture rose in March as people ate out less to save money.

Junior doctors' strike: Health leader calls for Acas help with talks

Some 350,000 appointments and operations could potentially be cancelled this week, a health body warns.

World Startup Convention: The India start-up gala that exploded into a scandal

An event that dubbed itself the “world’s biggest funding festival” has been accused of duping entrepreneurs.

Vodafone broadband down for customers across UK

Thousands of users of Vodafone landline internet have reported a loss of service.

The Ukrainian refugees making a living somewhere new

After fleeing the war in Ukraine, refugees share their experiences of finding work in their new homes.

Sunday, April 9, 2023

Elon Musk: Tesla to build new battery factory in Shanghai

Elon Musk's electric car firm says the Chinese plant will initially produce 10,000 units a year.

Lithium: A white gold rush excites Cornwall - but who gains?

Locals wonder who will benefit from the mining of a metal that's fuelling a "battery arms race".

Twitter: BBC objects to 'government funded media' label

Corporation says it wants to resolve issue after one of its main accounts receives new designation.

Cost of living: Fish and chip shop that opened in 1961 shuts doors

Dennis Jackson, 84, says the last six decades of business had been "fantastic".

Eurovision 2023: Airbnb host tried to increase rent from £465 to over £2,000

Roy Henry says the host he booked with tried to raise the price from £465 to more than £2,000.

Friday, April 7, 2023

Good Friday shopping beats analyst expectations

Springboard said more people headed out to the shops, though levels remain below pre-pandemic levels.

French police blame Dover port for border delays

French border police say the Port of Dover did not prepare properly for last weekend's holiday rush.

US job creation slows but unemployment stays low

The world's biggest economy added 236,000 roles in March, led by bars and restaurants.

Russian rouble falls to lowest value for a year

The currency tumbles against the dollar as Western sanctions continue.

Thursday, April 6, 2023

World economy faces weakest growth since 1990 - IMF

The weak outlook reflects a sharp rise in borrowing costs weighing on businesses and households.

Amazon takeover of iRobot faces UK watchdog probe

A review has begun into the tech giant's planned takeover of the makers of Roomba vacuum cleaners.

NI licensing laws: No more supermarket points for alcohol sales

Alcohol sellers in Northern Ireland can no longer run some loyalty schemes, under new laws.

Warning post-Brexit border checks could deter EU imports

The Cold Chain Federation says planned new measures will put off some suppliers and push up food prices.

Renting: Six out of 10 renters live in energy-inefficient homes

Renters in Blackpool tell the BBC they're struggling while living in flats which have poor energy efficiency ratings.

CBI lobby group in 'difficult place' after rape claim, says member

Andy Wood, boss of brewer Adnams, says his company is considering its membership of the group.

Wednesday, April 5, 2023

New tax year: Higher rates for some but benefit rises may ease hit

Frozen thresholds add to the personal income tax burden but the state pension and benefits will rise within days.

Sainsbury's defends vac-pack mince after complaints

The store printed leaflets after complaints that its new eco-friendly packs turned the meat to mush.

Royal Mail pay talks with union collapse

The long-running row between the CWU and the postal firm continues after recent discussions failed.

Treasury steps back from CBI over misconduct claims

The BBC understands the chancellor and officials have "paused engagement" with the business group.

Virgin Orbit boss blasts leaders in parting email

Tony Gingiss, chief operating officer at the rocket firm, tells staff they "deserved better".

Tuesday, April 4, 2023

Amazon closing UK-based online shop Book Depository

The announcement was met with sadness by many of its customers from around the world.

Rupert Murdoch's engagement abruptly called off - US media

The media tycoon and ex-police chaplain Ann Lesley Smith abruptly call off their nuptials.

Businesses in NI face perfect storm warning

The new financial year can bring an increase in many costs from wages to business rates.

A nutty solution for cleaner stoves and barbecues

Cleaner fuels for cooking could improve health and be better for the environment.

Johnson & Johnson offers $9bn to settle talc claims

The new settlement offer is a significant boost over the $2bn the firm had previously proposed.

Virgin Orbit: Richard Branson's rocket firm files for bankruptcy

The satellite launch company has failed to secure new investment after a rocket launch failed.

Monday, April 3, 2023

Stamps featuring King Charles go on sale but price increases

All new stamps will now feature King Charles, but stocks featuring the late Queen will be sold off first.

Airport scraps 100ml liquid rule with new scanners

Passengers at London City Airport can take two litres of liquids and electronics in their hand luggage.

Obituary: Nigel Lawson

He was one of Britain's longest-serving chancellors who presided over the 1980s economic boom.

Nigel Lawson: Reforming chancellor dies aged 91

Best known for his role as chancellor during the 1980s, Lord Lawson held key posts under Margaret Thatcher.

CBI business group faces new sexual misconduct claims

The Confederation of British Industry is facing fresh allegations over individuals' behaviour.

John Lewis wins court battle over Edgar the dragon's Christmas advert

A children's author argued that the retailer copied one of her designs in its 2019 Christmas advert.

Cost of living: What payments are available and how do you claim?

Low-income households, pensioners and some disabled people can get extra help with energy bills.

Sunday, April 2, 2023

The other Chinese apps taking the US and UK by storm

Four out of the top 10 most downloaded free mobile apps in the US and UK are Chinese-owned.

Demand rises for passports as workers begin strike

The Home Office confirms a spike in passport applications as 1,000 workers begin a five-week strike.

Tesco boss won't predict when food price inflation will ease

John Allan says the firm is "doing its bit" to help customers cope with high inflation.

Twitter's blue ticks disappear as Musk attacks NY Times

The New York Times Twitter account has lost its blue tick after it said it would not pay to stay verified.

Swiss probe into UBS takeover of Credit Suisse

The rushed takeover deal is to be investigated by Switzerland's federal prosecutor.

Saturday, April 1, 2023

China's loans to Africa worry World Bank President David Malpass

The bank's president David Malpass says more transparency is needed when providing economic help.

Food prices: How the humble shopping list is saving us money

Soaring food prices mean some families are missing meals and desperate for deals, but preparation can help.