Business News

This section contains the latest business news stories.

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).

Pension reforms needed to help people through retirement

Reforms are needed to make the pension system easier to navigate successfully in order to help reduce the risk of a shortfall in retirement, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS).

Government calls time on red tape for pubs, clubs, and restaurants

Pubs, clubs and restaurants will benefit from a reduction in the red tape that has stifled hospitality business, the government said.

UK firms show 'resilience' as exports grow in January

Total UK exports in goods and services rose by 2.8% in January, according to the latest trade data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Confidence amongst business leaders 'remains low'

Optimism in regard to the UK economy amongst business leaders rose slightly to -58 in March 2025 from -64 in February, the Institute of Directors (IoD) recently found, but still 'remains low'.