Two pubs closing every day after 'sheer weight' of tax rises
Around two pubs closed each day in the first three months of the year, new industry figures suggest.

Around two pubs closed each day in the first three months of the year, new industry figures suggest.

EasyJet's board is criticized for accepting a £5.5bn takeover offer from Castlelake at 690p per share, seen as an undervaluation despite the premium. Analysts argue the airline has strong assets and a clear path to higher profitability, suggesting the board gave up too easily.

EasyJet's board is criticized for accepting a £5.5bn takeover bid from Castlelake at 690p per share, seen as a sign of timidity. Despite recent challenges, the airline has a clear path to increased profitability and strong assets, suggesting a higher valuation is achievable.

John Lewis is consulting on closing its in-store foreign exchange and gift wrapping services, potentially impacting 200 jobs. The company cites changing customer needs and online convenience, while staff express concern over increased workload and loss of customer service.

Marks & Spencer is investing in refrigeration equipment capable of handling temperatures up to 45C due to the climate crisis. CEO Stuart Machin cited recent extreme heat challenges and the need to adapt to a hotter UK, alongside investments in security and fashion ranges.

The Bank of England plans to loosen capital requirements for UK lenders, potentially benefiting major banks like NatWest and Lloyds. This move, aimed at boosting lending and competitiveness, faces internal concerns about amplifying risks from debt-fueled stock investments, particularly in AI, and increased cyber threats from AI advancements.

The Bank of England plans to loosen capital requirements for UK lenders, potentially benefiting major banks like NatWest and Lloyds. However, policymakers expressed concerns about AI development and debt-fueled stock investments amplifying financial stability risks.