Economy

The Bank of England kept its keyInterest Rateat 3.75% in September 2026, holding steady as it weighed risingInflationagainst a weakening jobs market. With consumer price inflation at 3.1% and employment softening, the question of which signals will decide the next move has rarely been …

The UK economy is grappling with an awkward combination:Inflationhas risen to 3.1% while the jobs market is visibly weakening. Recent figures showed employers cutting roles, payrolls falling more than expected and wage growth slowing, even as consumer prices climbed. That mix makes the fight …

The UK economy is bracing for a Budget that Chancellor John Healey has signalled will be “really challenging”, to be delivered on 28 October 2026. WithInflationat 3.1%, a weakening jobs market and elevated borrowing costs, the statement is expected to weigh heavily on taxes, …

Rising borrowing costs are steadily narrowing the choices available to the UK government ahead of the autumn Budget. Higher gilt yields have increased the cost of servicing the national debt, reducing the fiscal headroom Chancellor John Healey has to work with and complicating his …

The US Federal Reserve has raised interest rates for the first time since 2023, lifting its benchmark to a range of 3.75% to 4% in September 2026. The move, driven by renewed concern over inflation, marks a notable shift after a period of cuts …

Wandsworth, the south London borough long celebrated by the Conservatives for its low council tax, is at the centre of a striking story after reports that its bills could rise by around 94%, adding hundreds of pounds to household costs. The council has accused …

The government is examining reforms to disability benefits as part of an effort to control a rising welfare bill, with ministers looking at how personal independence payments are assessed and awarded. The work is being taken forward through a review led by Sir Stephen …