A Lloyds Banking Group subsidiary and Scotland’s historic commercial bank.
The Melrose Triangle site in West Hollywood has a new development plan replacing hundreds of thousands of square feet of offices with 282 apartments, including 66 affordable units for seniors, plus nearly 100,000 square feet of retail and restaurants, three underground parking levels, and a central open-air courtyard. The plan envisions a pedestrian-friendly, multi-building campus with a mix of one- and two-bedroom units and a substantial open space program. The project previously emphasized office space but has stalled amid legal and market headwinds.
A parliamentary-style essay argues that AI offers productivity gains but risks widening inequality unless Scotland aligns strategy across economy, education, and governance. Leaders are urged to act quickly to shape a future where Scots build their own intelligence instead of becoming simply customers of global AI.
Lloyds Banking Group has confirmed it will phase out the Halifax name, moving accounts to Lloyds branding while keeping customer details intact. No job cuts are planned, and branches will be rebranded or merged through 2027. Local leaders warn the change risks eroding town identity, though the bank pledges commitment to Halifax.
NatWest and Lloyds report higher half-year profits, with NatWest posting 4.3bn pre-tax profit and Lloyds following with 4.3bn, as AI and cost-cutting drive efficiency and expansion in wealth management and digital services.
Savers have more options as banks, fintechs and platforms offer easy-access and fixed-rate accounts above 4% in August 2026. Several products include bonuses, with some rates proving short-term; readers should compare terms and ladder strategies to shield value from inflation.