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Multiple banking developments are underway: UK banks increase switching bonuses, Israel's Esh Bank begins limited operations with a revenue-sharing model, and the UAE launches a new instant payment platform. These efforts aim to boost competition, transparency, and customer benefits in banking services.
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HSBC plans to buy out the remaining shares of Hang Seng Bank for HK$155 per share, delisting it and maintaining its brand. The move aims to streamline operations, address rising bad debts from Hong Kong’s property slump, and reinforce HSBC’s commitment to Hong Kong’s future as a financial hub. The deal is expected to close in mid-2026.
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The FCA's proposed scheme to compensate victims of car finance mis-selling faces criticism from MPs, industry leaders, and consumer groups. Concerns focus on the scheme's low payouts, potential economic impact, and influence from lender profits. The scheme aims to address mis-sold agreements from 2007-2024, with payouts averaging £700, but critics argue this undervalues claims.
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As of December 2025, the UK government is expanding its Electric Car Grant by £1.3bn and adding £200m for charging infrastructure to support EV adoption. This comes amid stalled EV demand due to high upfront costs and plans for a new pay-per-mile tax on EVs from 2028, sparking industry concerns about potential market slowdown.
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The Bank of England's latest Financial Stability Report highlights increased risks to the UK financial system from cyberattacks, geopolitical tensions, and inflated tech valuations, especially in AI. Major firms like JLR and retailers have faced cyber incidents this year, raising concerns about systemic vulnerabilities.