Latest Business News
FTSE 100 Briefly Breaches 10,000-Point Mark
The FTSE 100 briefly surpassed the symbolic 10,000-point level, indicating strong international investor interest in UK markets. However, broader business confidence remains subdued due to rising costs from tax changes and National Insurance hikes.
Analysts predict increased insolvencies in retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors.
UK Business Confidence Weakens Amid Rising Costs
Only 46% of UK companies expect sales growth in 2026, with SMEs citing labour costs and taxes as top concerns. Retailers face a tough post-Christmas period, with a 16.7% rise in companies in critical financial distress.
Innovation in AI and renewables offers some optimism.
Crude Oil Prices Surge After Maduro Ouster
Oil prices rose following the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, as markets react to potential supply changes. Wall Street anticipates key US jobs data amid geopolitical tensions.
OPEC+ maintains steady production through March despite turmoil.
Trump Demands US Access to Venezuelan Oil
President Trump stated US oil companies want entry into Venezuela and require total access to its reserves. This follows a US military operation capturing Maduro, now in New York custody.
China and Latin American nations condemn the intervention as hegemonic.
Global Backlash to US Venezuela Raid
Spain, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Uruguay rejected the US operation, warning against exploiting Venezuela's resources. Leaders called it a violation of international law.
Trump plans to run Venezuela until a safe transition.
BYD Overtakes Tesla in Global EV Sales
China's BYD has surpassed Tesla in worldwide electric vehicle sales, reshaping the EV market. This shift highlights growing competition from Chinese manufacturers.
The development provides a bright spot amid UK economic challenges.
AI Boom Raises Bubble Concerns
Experts question if the AI surge is a bubble, comparing it to past tech hype where infrastructure outpaced demand. Companies rethink CEO pipelines as AI automates early career roles.
Historical patterns suggest potential overinvestment risks.
UK Housing Market Shows Muted Growth
Nationwide reported a 0.6% annual house price rise in 2025, with December prices at ÂŁ271,068 after a 0.4% slip. Affordability improved with earnings growth, boosting first-time buyer mortgages by 18%.
The market remains cautious entering 2026.
Rising UK Insolvencies Threaten 'Zombie' Firms
The Resolution Foundation warns 2026 could mark a productivity turning point as inefficient businesses collapse under higher wages and energy costs. Sectors like retail and hospitality are most vulnerable.
This may create space for more productive firms.
RTO Wars Evolve to 'When' You Work
Bosses shift focus from return-to-office locations to work timing amid burnout concerns. This new battle addresses mental health in hybrid models.
Companies adapt policies to sustain productivity.
Geopolitical Risks Drive Energy Markets
Investors assess fallout from Maduro's ouster and US-Venezuela tensions impacting equities and commodities. Prestige Economics highlights elevated global risks.
Bitcoin holds above $90,000 amid muted currency moves.