Business News

This section contains the latest business news stories.

New cryptoasset rules aim to protect consumers

The government is introducing legislation to regulate cryptoassets and improve consumer protection for the asset class.

Lack of trust and board expertise putting brakes on AI adoption

A lack of trust and a shortage of expertise at board level are limiting the adoption of AI in UK businesses, according to research from the Institute of Directors (IoD).

Chancellor unveils plans to maintain level playing field for British business

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has said British businesses will be supported in trading freely as she takes action on practices that undercut fair trade, such as the dumping of cheap goods into the UK.

IHT receipts reach record £8.2 billion

Figures published by HMRC have revealed that Inheritance Tax (IHT) receipts reached a record £8.2 billion in the 2024/25 tax year as a result of rising asset values.

Government taking right approach to tariff negotiations

The UK government is taking the right approach to tariff negotiations with the US despite downgrades to the economic outlook, says the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Sole traders and landlords get Making Tax Digital warning

Tax red tape costs small businesses nearly £25 billion a year

Tax compliance costs small businesses nearly £25 billion a year, according to recent research conducted by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

More parents financing children's house deposits

More parents are financing their children's housing deposits, according to new research.

Business confidence falls to two-year low

Data published by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has revealed that business confidence has fallen to its lowest level in two years.

Inflation falls as result of lower petrol prices

Lower petrol prices helped to drive down UK inflation by more than expected in the year to March 2025, official data has revealed.

Companies House begins to verify identities

A new service has been launched that allows individuals to verify their identity directly with Companies House through GOV.UK.

Spending Review 'could brighten living standards outlook'

Think tank the Resolution Foundation has suggested that the government's upcoming Spending Review could help to brighten the 'bleak living standards outlook' for low-to-middle income families.

Business group welcomes launch of Code of Practice

The Institute of Directors (IoD) has welcomed the launch of the government's new Cyber Governance package, which is underpinned by the Cyber Governance Code of Practice.

Price rises 'most likely response' to US tariffs

Price increases are the most likely response to US tariffs by affected firms, according to a survey conducted by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).