Business News

This section contains the latest business news stories.

UK economy returns to growth in November

The UK economy grew for the first time in three months, driven in part by a boost in trade for pubs and restaurants, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

UK inflation dips to 2.5% in December

UK inflation dipped in December for the first time in three months, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Government to 'unleash' AI to boost growth

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated that the government intends to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help boost UK growth.

CIOT calls on government to rewrite unfair VAT rules

The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) is calling on the government to address unfair tax rules as interest rates on late payments rise.

Optimism wanes as Budget measures affect investment

A survey carried out by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has revealed that optimism in the UK financial services sector fell at its quickest pace since September 2022.

92% of employers 'concerned about Employment Rights Bill'

A survey carried out by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has suggested that nine in ten small employers have concerns about measures included in the Employment Rights Bill.

Significant amount of businesses worried about tax hikes

Data published by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has revealed that 63% of businesses are concerned about tax hikes, including the rise in employers' National Insurance Contributions (NICs).

5.4 million yet to file their self assessment tax return

With less than a month to go, 5.4 million taxpayers still need to complete their self assessment tax return to avoid penalties, HMRC has warned.

Business leaders remain cautious on the outlook for the year ahead

Business leader optimism rose slightly in December but remains at a low point, according to the Institute of Directors' (IoD) latest Economic Confidence Index.

Government must reset EU trade relations, urges BCC

The need for the UK government to reset trade relations with the EU is increasing, according to a report from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Over 40,000 file self assessment over the Christmas break

More than 40,000 taxpayers completed their self assessment returns over the Christmas break, according to figures from HMRC.

Have you made your financial New Year's resolutions?

With 2025 just around the corner, you may wish to consider creating some financial New Year's resolutions to ensure that you remain on course for a profitable and successful year ahead.