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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.