Summary: Housing costs are rising significantly, affecting millions of homeowners on variable or fixed-rate mortgages. The Bank of England's successive rate increases bring short-term stability but pose challenges for those struggling with housing costs. Volatility in the housing market is expected as some homeowners need to sell their properties at reduced prices. Investment in energy-efficient and high-quality housing stock is essential for the long-term stability of the market. ...

Summary: Retail sales in the UK increased by 0.7% in June 2023 compared to the previous month, but were down by 1% compared to June 2022, indicating a gradual slowdown. Consumer confidence in July showed a decline, attributed to rising interest rates, fiscal drag, and reduced disposable income. Small businesses face challenges due to the cost of doing business, including higher interest rates, inflation, and the highest tax burden in 70 years. The UK government borrowed £18.5 billion in June 2023, with a significant portion going towards paying interest on previous debt. Debates arise about the sustainability of government borrowin...