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...

Summary: The UK economy faces concerns as initial data shows an unexpected rise in June's inflation rate to 4.2%. Job numbers indicate potential hesitance by the Bank of England in raising interest rates . Unemployment reaches levels not seen since October 2021 amid recent events like Wilco's administration. Average hourly earnings grew by 8.2% in June, aligning with expectations of further interest rate increases. The uncertain monetary policy outlook hinges on upcoming consumer price inflation figures. Sterling reacts positively to data release, impacting currency performance. Future economic trajectory depends on up...

Summary: Halifax , the UK's biggest mortgage lender, is reducing rates by up to 0.71 percentage points. HSBC and other major banks have also announced rate cuts in response to rising mortgage rates. The reduction in rates provides relief to homeowners and potential buyers, especially for fixed-rate deals. The move is influenced by expectations of Bank of England rates and inflation trends. Mortgage rates have been on the rise due to consecutive interest rate increases by the Bank of England . Recent decrease in inflation offers optimism about possible rate stabilization. Mortgage companies are aiming to attract customers by ...

Summary: UK housing prices experienced the sharpest decline in 14 years, falling by 3.8% in July. Rising mortgage rates and high interest rates are affecting potential buyers' affordability. Estate agents are witnessing an increase in sellers needing to sell for financial reasons. The Bank of England is expected to raise interest rates for the 14th consecutive time in the near future. House prices are likely to continue falling, presenting an opportunity for first-time buyers. ...

Summary: FTSE 100 reaches four-week highs after consumer prices rise 7.9% in June, according to ONS data. Tata Motors announces £4 billion investment for the UK's first large-scale EV battery plant. National Grid sells 20% of the UK's gas network in a £700 million deal. Hargreaves Lansdowne reports a 6% jump in net new business during the quarter. Thacker Pass Lithium project gets approval from the US Court of Appeal, boosting Trident Royalty shares. London's FTSE...

Summary: UK house builders experience stock price declines following figures and comments from Halifax. Volatility in the housing market presents opportunities for investors. Halifax reports a fourth consecutive monthly decline in British house prices . Resilience observed in the market among first-time buyers seeking smaller properties . ...

Summary: Central banks face a significant week with crucial interest rate decisions. The Federal Reserve is expected to raise rates and provide insights through the press conference. The European Central Bank will likely indicate ongoing commitment to supporting economic growth. The Bank of Japan is anticipated to maintain its short-term interest rate target. Global markets closely monitor these decisions for potential currency shifts and investor reactions. Central banks wor...

Summary: UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak accused of dishonesty for claiming the hospitality sector is thriving. Critics argue that rising inflation, energy bills, and interest rates make such claims hard to believe. Hospitality business owners counter the Prime Minister's statements, asserting that business is far from 'good.' The industry demands concrete measures to address increasing costs and decreasing profits. Debates continue on the real impact of government policies on the hospitality sector's well-being. ...