Business News

This section contains the latest business news stories.

Companies face prosecution risk as new fraud law comes into force

Companies could be prosecuted and face unlimited fines if they fail to prevent fraud that their firm profits from under a new corporate offence.

Business confidence rises but concerns over taxes remain

Confidence amongst business leaders rose to -61 in August from -72 in July, the Institute of Directors (IoD) has found.

Nearly 5,000 scams reported to FCA in first half of 2025

Data published by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has revealed that 4,465 reports of scams were made in the first six months of 2025.

Unemployment yet to peak, warns think tank

Although the unemployment rate has risen this year it is yet to peak, according to analysis by think tank the Resolution Foundation.

HMRC splits advisory fuel rates for electric cars

HMRC has split fuel advisory rates for electric cars depending on where drivers charge their company cars due to the price discrepancy between home and public chargers.

Support more young people into work, says FSB

More needs to be done to support young people into work, says the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

Over 850,000 self employed to be pulled into first phase of MTD

HMRC has confirmed that 864,000 self employed workers and landlords will be pulled into the quarterly reporting rules for Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax when it comes into force.

Scams warning as self assessment taxpayers targeted

HMRC is calling on self assessment taxpayers to remain vigilant to scams that claim to be from the department.

Extend Child Benefit for teenagers by the end of August

Parents have less than two weeks to tell HMRC their 16-19-year-old is continuing education or training, or their Child Benefit payments will stop.

Inflation rises by more than anticipated

Data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed that inflation rose to 3.8% in July from 3.6% in June.

Homebuyers warned as HMRC clamps down on Stamp Duty claims

HMRC is warning homebuyers about rogue agents advertising misleading Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) repayment claims.

Uncertainty over IHT changes affecting property market

Uncertainty over changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) is adversely affecting the UK property market, experts have warned.

Office return picks up pace but varies across sectors

Many UK firms are now increasing their requirement for onsite working but the return to offices varies by sector, according to data from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).