UK online investment service and flat-fee platform
Official CPI data for June shows a 3.5% annual rise in the US and a 0.4% monthly drop, driven by a slide in energy prices. Core inflation remains sticky, with food, services and AI-driven price pressures keeping costs elevated. Markets watch for Fed policy as oil prices rebound amid Middle East tensions.
Wetherspoons has seen a recovery in share value after a March profit warning, with like-for-like sales rising in Q2 but growth slowing in Q3. A fourth-quarter update on July 22 is anticipated, amid pressure from wage costs, National Insurance, and a packaging levy, as the sector awaits clarity on costs and VAT relief.
Pay growth has cooled in early 2026 as inflation pressures from energy prices persist. BoE watchers note slower wage deals, while housebuilders warn profits will fall amid higher costs driven by the Middle East conflict. Retail, travel, and housing sectors are all feeling the pinch as uncertainty lingers.
WH Smith has warned of lower full-year profits and plans to raise up to 100 million through new shares as passenger numbers through travel hubs fall amid the Middle East conflict. UK airport revenues are down, hospital and rail shops help offset declines, and a capital raise aims to strengthen the balance sheet. Regulators are examining PwC’s audits in the US division.
Jetex founder says private aviation has grown post‑COVID, with Middle East leading expansion; company plans to expand in Saudi Arabia as eVTOL and urban mobility gain traction. Market worth ~$50.6B with 24k–25k jets active; high-end travel driving demand amid regional tensions.
Savers have boosted cash ISA deposits ahead of planned reforms that would cut the quarterly cash ISA allowance and tax cash within Stocks and Shares ISAs. Independent and Guardian coverage shows a mixed reception: ministers say changes aim to boost investing, while critics warn of added complexity and a stealth tax on cautious savers.