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UK pension funds are being urged to take on more risk in green infrastructure investment to support the country’s net zero ambitions. According to Ian Brown, head of banking and investments at the National Wealth Fund (NWF), pension funds are playing it too safe by prioritising established energy projects rather than backing new infrastructure. The Need for Greater Investment in Clean Energy While pension funds are comfortable investing in wind and solar projects that are already operational, Brown argues that more financial backing is needed during the construction phase. Without this early support, the UK risks falling short of its…

Inflation doesn’t just affect prices—it directly impacts your savings, loans, and financial future. As the cost of living rises, the money in your bank account may lose value faster than you realise. But while inflation can feel like a financial setback, it also presents opportunities to make strategic money moves. Here’s how inflation affects your savings and what you can do to stay ahead. Higher Interest Rates Can Affect Borrowing When inflation rises, banks and lenders often increase interest rates, making it more expensive to take out loans for homes, cars, or businesses. According to Jim Pendergast, General Manager of…

The UK economic growth shrank by 0.1% in January, marking a slowdown after December’s 0.4% growth. This unexpected contraction has raised concerns about the country’s economic momentum and its impact on wages, jobs, and government revenue and funds. What Is GDP and Why Does It Matter? Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the total economic activity of a country, including businesses, government spending, and household consumption. The UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) releases GDP figures monthly, but quarterly reports are considered more significant. A growing GDP signals a strong economy, leading to higher wages, more jobs, and increased government revenue.…

The UK vulcanised rubber seal market is anticipated to experience steady growth over the next decade, with consumption projected to reach 35,000 tonnes and market value estimated at £727 million by 2035. This growth is attributed to increasing demand across various industries, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.0% in volume and 1.2% in value from 2024 to 2035. Market Forecast and Consumption Trends In 2024, the UK’s consumption of vulcanised rubber seals declined to 32,000 tonnes, marking a 12.6% decrease from the previous year. This downturn continues a trend observed since 2013, when consumption peaked at 45,000…

The crude oil price forecast remains uncertain as prices hold above $66 per barrel, driven by sanctions on Iranian and Russian oil and broader market recovery sentiment. However, ongoing trade war tensions and supply concerns continue to pose a bearish outlook for the global oil market. Key Market Drivers Several factors are currently shaping oil prices: Trade War Risks Weigh on Market Sentiment Despite the supportive impact of oil sanctions, the market remains vulnerable to bearish pressures. The impending unwinding of OPEC supply quotas, coupled with weak oil demand forecasts, is keeping traders on edge. Escalating trade tensions between the…

The UK property market trends are shifting as a decade-high number of homes flood the market this spring. Despite a rush to beat the stamp duty deadline, sellers are keeping price increases in check, creating a buyer-friendly landscape, according to the latest Rightmove report. This month, the average asking price of a home in the UK rose by 1.1% (£3,867) to £371,870, aligning with the usual March trends. However, many sellers are adopting realistic pricing rather than inflating their expectations, Rightmove stated. Stamp Duty Deadline Fuels Market Activity The market is experiencing a surge in activity as buyers scramble to…

The Royal Navy has taken a major step in modern naval warfare with the deployment of its first AI-powered mine countermeasures drone. Developed by Thales, this cutting-edge system enhances maritime security by detecting and neutralising underwater threats with minimal human intervention. This advanced drone was designed under the Franco-British Maritime Mine Counter Measures (MMCM) programme, launched in 2019. In 2020, both the UK and France signed a joint contract to accelerate the project, ensuring the rapid deployment of autonomous mine-clearing solutions. AI-Driven Mine Warfare: A Safer Future for Naval Operations According to Thales, the AI-powered mine countermeasures drone is cyberattack-resistant…

The UK bus manufacturing sector took a major step forward on 13 March, as industry leaders and Metro Mayors gathered for the first-ever UK Bus Manufacturing Panel. The initiative aims to support British bus production, strengthen local economies, and accelerate the shift toward zero-emission transport. Held at the Canon Medical Arena in Sheffield, the event brought together key industry players, including representatives from Alexander Dennis, the Urban Transport Group, the Confederation of Passenger Transport, and local government leaders. Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood hosted the event, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to modernising public transport. Driving Growth in British Bus Manufacturing…

Cement manufacturer Cimpor entered the UK market, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. The move follows a change in ownership in 2024 and a fresh wave of capital investment. The company registered Cimpor UK Limited in April 2024, establishing its base in Cheadle. As part of its expansion efforts, Cimpor has committed between £17m and £21m (€20m-€25m) to develop a state-of-the-art terminal at the Port of Bristol. Strengthening Global Supply Chains Cimpor’s UK expansion is a strategic step aimed at enhancing its global supply chain. Berkan Fidan, Chief Technology Officer of Cimpor Global, emphasised the company’s commitment…

Investor sentiment towards UK and European markets is strengthening as confidence in US stocks declines, according to a recent Hargreaves Lansdown survey. The study found that investor confidence in North America dropped 17% in March, with concerns over new US policies. Meanwhile, sentiment towards the UK surged by 16%, and confidence in European markets jumped by 48%. With renewed interest in UK investment trusts, here are two promising options for investors seeking exposure to local markets. 1. Schroder European Real Estate Investment Trust (SERE) The Schroder European Real Estate Investment Trust (LSE: SERE) is currently trading at a 35.2% discount…