Author: Dave Antrobus

The potential impact of a Trump presidency on American AI policy is under scrutiny by experts and policymakers.During Trump’s first term, executive orders focused on maintaining U.S. leadership in AI and promoting trustworthy AI in government.A strong focus on repealing Democratic-imposed AI regulations could shape future policy directions.Federal pre-emption on AI regulation may mirror the UK’s pro-innovation approach amid Democrat state regulations.A priority would be on enhancing U.S. dominance in the global AI race, especially against China.The re-election of Donald Trump raises significant questions regarding changes to American AI policy. During his first term, Trump signed executive orders aimed at…

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Barbour has unveiled its Christmas 2024 advert, featuring the beloved character Shaun the Sheep, to emphasise the value of giving.The advert, again featuring Shaun the Sheep, is produced by Aardman Studios and set at Mossy Bottom Farm.In the storyline, Bitzer the dog helps his friends warm up with Barbour gifts to continue their carol singing.Barbour is selling limited-edition jackets, with sales benefitting Oxfam, available online and in select stores.The campaign underscores a shared commitment to craftsmanship and multi-generational appeal, according to Barbour’s commercial director.Barbour has released its highly anticipated Christmas 2024 advert featuring Shaun the Sheep, marking the second collaboration…

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Mills & Reeve has successfully relocated within Leeds, marking this move by appointing seven new professionals to its team.The firm’s expansion comes as it occupies a new 10,200 sq ft office at 1 City Square, enhancing its capacity and services.A strategic enlargement of their workforce the firm has increased its headcount by 25% over the past year.Key appointments include new associates and specialists, reflecting a rise in demand for the firm’s legal services.The new office provides space for client events and networking opportunities, strengthening connections with clients and industry contacts.Mills & Reeve has recently moved to larger premises in Leeds,…

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Marks & Spencer has launched its 2024 Christmas campaign, bringing a touch of magic to the festive season.The campaign features a captivating TV advert directed by Emmy-nominated Elliot Power.A 10-year-old dancer, Skylar Blu, stars as a girl reviving her family’s holiday cheer with a magical snow globe.Corey Baker, a renowned choreographer, brings the dance to life with a routine set to ‘I Believe in Miracles’.Anna Braithwaite from M&S describes the campaign as a celebration of quality and innovative products at great value.Marks & Spencer is heralding the yuletide season with its 2024 Christmas campaign for clothing and home. At the…

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Kromek, a technology company based in County Durham, showcases impressive revenue growth but remains unprofitable.The firm reported a revenue increase of 12%, reaching £19.4m, yet struggles to commercialise its innovations effectively.Despite a positive adjusted Ebitda of £3.1m, Kromek’s losses, although reduced, still present a hurdle.A loan from existing shareholder Dr Graeme Speirs aims to bolster the company’s financial position.Global geopolitical tensions continue to drive demand for Kromek’s advanced detection technologies.County Durham’s technology company, Kromek, has announced record revenue figures, yet it continues to face financial challenges. The company’s revenue increased by 12% to £19.4m, driven by demand in both medical…

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SRT Marine has successfully secured a £31m funding package to propel its upcoming large-scale contracts.The finance comes from one of its existing U.S.-based shareholders, Ocean Infinity.This funding will support the delivery of a £213m contract starting soon and facilitate three more contracts worth $210m.Ocean Infinity’s CEO, Oliver Plunkett, will join the board of SRT Marine.These initiatives are poised to significantly enhance SRT’s capabilities and expand its reach.SRT Marine, a maritime surveillance company, announced a significant funding boost of £31m, provided by its existing shareholder, Ocean Infinity, a U.S. robotics firm. This financial injection is pivotal to SRT’s plans, enabling the…

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Co-op is set to introduce six new suppliers to its stores, marking the latest phase of its Apiary incubator programme aimed at fostering innovative, quality-driven products.This month, Co-op will expand its store offerings with the addition of six new suppliers selected through the Apiary scheme. This initiative seeks out producers that stand out with unique value propositions, emphasising diversity and inclusion. With over 100 convenience stores set to stock these products, the initiative enters its third wave of supporting emerging businesses.The new suppliers include Cháps, which aims to introduce beverages inspired by traditional African drinks to a global market. Cheeky…

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Former Inc & Co leaders sentenced to 22 months for flouting court orders.Executives accused of unlawfully extracting £13.7m from Barclays accounts.Court finds deliberate breach of asset-freezing orders and extensive dishonesty.Funds allegedly used for personal benefits, including luxury expenses.Executives face further legal actions and ongoing disqualification pursuits.Key figures from the former Inc & Co group have been handed 22-month jail terms following a severe violation of court orders related to Barclays Bank. The trio, Scott Dylan, David Antrobus, and Jack Mason, were implicated in extracting £13.7 million from Barclays accounts in a case highlighting significant legal infractions. The court found that…

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The rise in employers’ national insurance contributions is expected to impact job creation and increase unemployment over the coming years. The government’s decision to raise employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) is projected to curb job opportunities.Economists warn that the tax policy could yield far less revenue than anticipated due to its effects on wages and employment.Lower-income households may struggle more as economic pressures intensify.Inflation forecasts suggest limited economic growth in the near future.The National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) has raised concerns about the recent increase in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs). This policy, termed by the institute…

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A new budget introduces a rise in National Insurance Contributions (NICs) that experts describe as a ‘tax on jobs’.The National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) suggests the increase will hinder job creation and slow vacancy growth.Economists predict that new tax measures will primarily strain lower-income households due to high inflation and frozen tax thresholds.Volatility is anticipated in the UK bond market, alongside cautious interest rate cuts by the Bank of England.Employment growth is expected to struggle, with unemployment likely to rise over the coming years.The recent budget sees employer National Insurance Contributions rise by 1.2 percentage points, bringing…

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