Reeves set to lift two-child benefit cap in budget?
Rachel Reeves is expected to announce changes to the two-child benefit cap in November’s Budget, amid growing pressure to scrap the policy introduced by George Osborne under Conservative austerity measures. The cap currently…
Trump meets Starmer as £150bn US investment is announced
Donald Trump has met Keir Starmer at Chequers during his second state visit to the UK, following the announcement of £150 billion in American investment. The funds, pledged by major firms including Blackstone,…
USA: Federal Reserve governor threatens to sue Trump for unfair dismissal
The conflict between Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook and Donald Trump represents a profound clash over institutional independence and executive authority. Trump says he has dismissed Cook, alleging mortgage fraud, but her attorney…
Rachel Reeves' 'mansion tax' plan
Reports suggest Chancellor Rachel Reeves may extend capital gains tax (CGT) to primary residences above a set threshold, sparking debate over a potential 'mansion tax’. Currently, homeowners pay no CGT when selling their…
Reeves must raise tax to cover £41bn gap, says thinktank
The Government faces a £41.2 billion shortfall that could force Rachel Reeves to raise taxes this autumn to meet her own borrowing rules, according to the National Institute of Economic and Social Research…
Surprise inflation jump complicates interest rate decision
The UK’s economic outlook has been shaken by a surprise rise in inflation, complicating plans for an anticipated interest rate cut in August. Despite a strong start to the year, recent data shows…
France: prime minister proposes axing two public holidays
There has been widespread criticism after prime minister François Bayrou proposed eliminating two public holidays - Easter Monday and 8 May (Victory in Europe day) - to help reduce the national budget deficit.…
Suriname: first woman president faces challenges
Jennifer Geerlings-Simons has made history as Suriname’s first female president, elected amid political and economic turmoil. The 71-year-old physician and lawmaker was backed by a two-thirds parliamentary vote after inconclusive May elections and…
Borrowing costs jump and pound falls on Chancellor's tears
Financial markets reacted sharply this week after Rachel Reeves appeared tearful during Prime Minister’s Questions, after the Government’s sudden U-turn on welfare reforms. Sterling fell by 1% against the dollar, while UK borrowing…
Reeves presents her spending review
Rachel Reeves’ new spending review represents a pivotal moment for the Labour government, aiming to launch a narrative of 'renewal' after a challenging first year. With £600 billion allocated over four years, the…
