The banking sector is being warned it faces penalties if it does not secure free access to cash for the UK population, including businesses, following waves of branch closures over more than a decade. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is to be given powers to fine banks that fail to provide free access to cash,…
As the first major global AI safety summit approaches, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is yet to provide crucial details such as an exact date and invitee lists, as officials from four counties around the world urge the UK to speed up the planning process, according to spokespeople from Politico. Earlier this year, the UK announced…
The proportion of top A-level grades is down on last year but still remains above pre-pandemic levels. A* and A grades were awarded to 27.2% of students, compared to 36.4% last year, 44.7% in 2021 and 38.5% in 2020. But the number is up by 1.8% compared to pre-pandemic levels, when 25.4% of A-level entries…
In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into various aspects of business operations has become increasingly prevalent. Small businesses in the UK are no exception to this trend. While AI offers promising solutions to enhance efficiency and productivity, it also brings to the forefront a series of ethical…
In a world driven by technological advancements, the integration of AI into various aspects of business operations is becoming increasingly vital. Among the frontrunners of this trend is GoDaddy, a multifaceted platform renowned for its website building prowess and comprehensive business solutions. In a bold stride forward, GoDaddy has introduced the Small Business Generative AI…
Scotland’s finances are “improving at a faster rate” than the UK as a whole, a key ally of First Minister Humza Yousaf has insisted, despite new figures showing spending north of the border continues to exceed the amount raised in revenue. Public spending in Scotland amounted to £106.6bn in 2022-23 – up by £9.3bn (9.5%)…
Nearly 30% of people find it difficult to afford essentials – like groceries, broadband and insurance – despite most people shopping around for better prices, a think-tank reveals today. The Social Market Foundation (SMF) said the research showed the limits of the “Martin Lewis effect”, where shoppers use better consumer information to get better deals….
In the modern corporate landscape, where demands are high and expectations are ever-increasing, the toll of stress on management teams is a significant concern. Recognizing the signs of stress within your management team is crucial for maintaining team morale, productivity, and overall success. This article will delve into the indicators of stress that often manifest…
As a small business owner in the UK, managing your finances is a pivotal task that can significantly impact the success and growth of your venture. One of the key tools for effective financial management is creating a well-structured business budget. This budget not only helps you keep track of your income and expenses but…
Scottish fintech Know-it have announced the expansion of their cloud-based credit management platform in Australia for 2024. This strategic move aims to deliver Know-it’s credit management solution to the Australian market, ensuring that Australian SMEs have access to the platform to effectively manage their credit control process. With its impressive track record of helping businesses…
Business confidence is high among SME leaders in the UK, with three in five forecasting increases in revenue over the next 12 months. Small businesses have been under unprecedented strain over the past few years, with the Covid-19 pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and ongoing economic volatility creating persistent and cumulative challenges. Yet the majority of…
Small enterprises in the UK are continually seeking innovative strategies to streamline their operations and optimize efficiency. One pivotal solution that has emerged to meet these demands is sales automation. This transformative tool holds the potential to revolutionize how businesses manage their sales processes, interact with customers, and ultimately drive revenue growth. In this comprehensive…
Hiring your first employee is a significant step for any business, and in the UK, it comes with specific considerations that you must be aware of. From legal obligations to creating a positive work environment, there’s a lot to think about before bringing someone new onto your team. In this article, we’ll walk you through…
The landscape of the UK rental market is undergoing a significant shift as a growing number of landlords are opting to sell their properties amid a surge in mortgage rates. This trend, driven by a combination of economic factors, is causing ripples throughout the real estate industry and raising questions about the long-term stability of…
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has launched an inquiry to investigate the phenomenon of ‘debanking’, aiming to assess the extent to which individuals, particularly politically exposed persons (PEPs) such as politicians and military leaders, have faced the denial of banking services. This move comes in the wake of the recent controversy involving Nigel Farage, whose…
