Author: Sam Allcock

In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, global alliances are questioning the supremacy of the US dollar.The BRICS nations are at the forefront, proposing alternatives that could redefine international economic dynamics.The BRICS conference has highlighted a transformative shift in the global currency landscape. Amidst discussions, a new agenda emerges, one which is poised to challenge the dominance of the US dollar. With leaders from Russia, China, and other member countries in attendance, there is a concerted effort to propose alternatives that may undermine the USD’s longstanding preeminence.Putin’s acknowledgment of using the dollar as a tool of influence underscores a pivotal critique.…

On 24 October, the House of Lords Food, Diet and Obesity Committee released a report, urging the UK government to introduce mandatory regulations for the food and drink industry to effectively address the nation’s obesity crisis.The report emphasises that voluntary initiatives to promote healthier eating have not succeeded, necessitating a comprehensive overhaul of the existing food industry framework. It highlights that England faces one of the highest obesity rates among affluent countries, with two-thirds of adults classified as overweight or obese.Building on the successful measures like the Soft Drinks Industry Levy, which has resulted in a notable reduction of sugar…

Denmark prepares to introduce a groundbreaking tax model by 2026, targeting unrealized cryptocurrency gains.This initiative will transform how digital assets are taxed, with significant implications for investors.The Tax Law Council elucidates the concept of ‘inventory taxation’. In this model, capital income is taxed continually, regardless of sales. Essentially, assets are treated collectively in an inventory. The taxation is applied to the change in value of this total inventory, considering both purchases and sales over the year. This approach shifts the tax focus from individual transactions to overall portfolio performance.Denmark’s tax minister, Rasmus Stoklund, explains the rationale behind the reform. He…

Employers play a crucial role in supporting new mothers returning to their careers.Many mothers leave the workforce due to inadequate support, impacting gender diversity.Hybrid work models offer flexibility, aiding mothers’ transition back to work.Inclusive workplaces enhance job satisfaction and aid mothers’ successful career returns.Policies that listen to employees’ needs can help mothers thrive professionally.In the United Kingdom, a significant number of new mothers face challenges when attempting to return to work, with statistics showing that up to 54,000 women leave their jobs annually due to pregnancy or maternity leave. This situation raises concerns about gender diversity in the workplace, highlighting…

Apple is set to unveil its eagerly awaited Q4 earnings, with high expectations from investors and analysts alike.With a track record of strong performances, Apple’s forthcoming results could significantly sway investment decisions as the stock eyes the $300 mark.Apple’s Impressive Q4 ForecastApple, a titan in the technology industry, is preparing to release its Q4 earnings report. The company has shown remarkable resilience, with the iPhone continuing to be a significant driver of their revenue, amplifying their financial robustness. Analysts expect the company to mirror its strong Q3 performance, which boasted a 5% revenue increase, reaching $85.8 billion, alongside a rise…

Employee well-being is increasingly prioritised in Birmingham, with businesses recognising its impact on productivity. Strategic office design plays a crucial role in this.A well-planned office fit-out extends beyond aesthetics, contributing to employee morale and health.Ergonomic furniture and effective lighting setups are essential components for reducing physical strain at work.Flexible workspaces accommodate diverse working styles, enhancing both individual and collaborative productivity.Sustainable office practices, including eco-friendly materials and greenery, are vital in promoting a positive work environment.In Birmingham, businesses are increasingly acknowledging the vital link between employee well-being and productivity. One pivotal element in enhancing well-being is the office environment. An office…

Stablecoins are making waves as Visa and PayPal champion their use in global finance. These efforts aim to transform how digital currencies are perceived and utilised.The promotion of stablecoins by these financial giants is paving the way for more widespread use, offering promising changes in transaction speed and cost-efficiency.Prominent figures from Visa and PayPal have expressed their commitment to advancing stablecoin technology. Cuy Sheffield from Visa and Jose Fernandez da Ponte from PayPal highlighted plans to incorporate stablecoins into everyday transactions. Their focus is on reducing costs and expediting international transfers, indicating a strategic push towards normalising stablecoin usage.Operating on…

Dunelm has reported notable growth in its retail sector, highlighting vibrant sofa sales and plans for increased expansion.The homewares giant experienced a 3.5% rise in revenue, reaching £403 million in the recent quarter.Digital sales have surged, making up 37% of total sales, showcasing the retailer’s online growth.Dunelm’s new student-focused campaign has been well-received, catering to a fresh demographic with trendy designs.Plans to open a new store in Westfield London reflect Dunelm’s strategic expansion into the London market.Dunelm, a leader in the UK’s homeware retail industry, has demonstrated remarkable growth over the recent quarter, achieving a 3.5% increase in revenue to…

Unilever experienced significant growth in the third quarter of 2024, driven by remarkable demand for its power brands, despite flat turnover.The company reported an underlying sales growth of 4.5% in comparison to 2023, accompanied by a rise in volume growth to 3.6%. While overall sales increased by 1.3% for the nine months up to the end of September, reaching £12.7bn, the most notable growth was observed in its ice cream division. Here, underlying sales soared by 9.8%, with volume growth at 6.7%. Meanwhile, the nutrition arm also experienced a slight increase in underlying sales by 1.5%.CEO Hein Schumacher attributed this…

Recipe box firm has joined forces with a leading nutrition science company to introduce new gut-friendly recipes this November.The collaboration marks a significant step forward in promoting healthier eating habits by featuring recipes rich in plant variety and low in ultra-processed foods. These recipes include a smoky hake, artichoke and sundried tomato stew, aubergine parmigiana, sweetcorn and spinach dhal with curried cashews, and a gochujang bean bowl with eggs and kimchi. Each recipe has been meticulously curated from a cookbook known for its nutritional principles.Co-founders of the respective companies have expressed their enthusiasm for this partnership, highlighting the synergy between…