Author: Sam Allcock

Sickness absence is a challenging issue for employers, especially when linked to a disability. Employers must navigate this with care to avoid potential legal claims.Employers must clearly define sickness absence protocols in employment contracts or separate policies to manage it effectively.Inconsistent application of these policies by managers can lead to feelings of being singled out among employees, which should be avoided.In cases of long-term absence, employers should maintain contact with employees and may need to seek Occupational Health advice.Exploring all options and keeping detailed records can prevent claims of unfair dismissal and discrimination.Managing sickness absence is a complex issue for…

The BRICS alliance is significantly influencing the global economic stage as it now controls over 20% of the world’s gold reserves.The World Gold Council reports that since 2022, BRICS nations have been major contributors to gold purchases amidst geopolitical tensions, particularly following sanctions on Russia.In recent times, the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—have strategically bolstered their gold reserves. This collective accumulation is part of a broader strategy to shield against global economic uncertainties and reduce reliance on the US dollar. The bloc’s concerted efforts highlight a forward-thinking approach to economic stability.Russia leads with a substantial 2,340 tonnes,…

ASEAN nations are quietly but decisively preparing to move away from the US dollar, focusing instead on local currencies. As global economic uncertainties loom, these countries are adopting measures to safeguard their economies.With Trump’s tariffs causing alarm, ASEAN’s long-term planning comes to the forefront. Their strategic shift towards local currencies illustrates their readiness to face future challenges. Such foresight signifies their commitment to economic resilience. ASEAN’s Strategic PlanningASEAN nations have long been strategizing for a shift away from the US dollar. This strategic foresight stems from their desire to reinforce intracultural unity and economic resilience. Recent developments suggest that the…

BlackRock’s recent acquisition of Bitcoin has captured the market’s attention. The purchase totalling $1.17 billion coincides with a price jump of 7%, sparking discussions across the financial landscape.This move by BlackRock, a leader in global asset management, underscores a possible shift in the perception and acceptance of cryptocurrencies within mainstream finance, potentially heralding further market developments.BlackRock, a giant in asset management with a staggering $11 trillion in assets under management, has made waves in the cryptocurrency market once again. Recently, the company purchased 16,975 Bitcoin, accumulating to approximately $1.17 billion. This significant acquisition did not go unnoticed as it aligns…

Zinc Media Group has sold its non-core publishing business for £100,000 in a strategic move to enhance its core operations.The transaction involves Zinc Communicate Publishing, a Macclesfield-based unit, sold to Specialist Business Media Ltd.This sale enables Zinc Media to focus on its television and brand content production activities.Zinc Communicate, with revenues of £2.2m in FY23, has been loss-making and demanding significant resources.The divestment allows the business to continue within a more specialist publisher, maintaining its industry contributions.Zinc Media Group has strategically offloaded its non-core publishing unit, Zinc Communicate Publishing, for a sum of £100,000. This move is intended to allow…

Amid a challenging year for pumpkin cultivation, supermarkets are cautioning consumers about the likelihood of encountering green-tinged pumpkins due to one of the most difficult harvests on record.Persistent wet weather this spring, compounded by slug infestations, significantly affected pumpkin farms across the country. While pumpkins are expected to ripen to the festive orange hue at home, the early season adversities have led to many still carrying a distinct green tinge at purchase.Supermarkets like Asda are already advising customers not to be alarmed by the pumpkins’ unusual appearance. A representative confirmed that despite these challenges, the supermarket chain expects no shortage…

A significant investment has been made in Leeds University’s foodtech spinout, MicroLub, marking an essential development in food technology.Northern Gritstone, along with co-investors, has provided a £3.5m seed fund to bolster MicroLub’s innovative solutions.MicroLub addresses global health challenges by offering low-calorie alternatives without compromising taste or texture.The technology aims to contribute to sustainability in the food industry, specifically in plant-based foods.Strong market interest and existing traction highlight the commercial potential of MicroLub’s groundbreaking innovations.A significant stride in the landscape of food technology has been made with Northern Gritstone’s announcement of a £3.5 million seed investment into MicroLub, a spinout from…

GoDaddy’s emergence as a formidable player in the stock market has intrigued many investors. With robust earnings over the past year, questions abound about its potential for continued growth.As GoDaddy continues to climb the stock radar, it invites scrutiny and excitement from analysts and investors alike. This article delves into the various facets influencing GoDaddy’s market trajectory.GoDaddy’s Meteoric RiseThe recent trend in US stocks shows GoDaddy as a standout candidate for investors looking for promising opportunities. With a remarkable earnings report over the last year, GoDaddy has captured investor attention by outperforming the ‘magnificent seven’. Notably, it has achieved stellar…

Rumours suggest that ASAP Rocky is involved in a bid for Tranmere Rovers Football Club, with a potential Disney+ documentary to capture the process.ASAP Rocky, alongside celebrity lawyer Joe Tacopina, is part of a group aiming to purchase Tranmere Rovers Football Club.The prospective takeover could feature an accompanying documentary series, akin to the Welcome to Wrexham project.The involvement of renowned personalities like ASAP Rocky is seen as a strategy to increase the club’s profile and market value.ASAP Rocky highlighted the importance of support from his partner, Rihanna, in managing their demanding schedules.ASAP Rocky, known for his influential role in the…

The UK property market witnesses a shift as mortgage rates decline, attracting more buyers and stabilising house prices.Data from Rightmove shows estate agents in Britain are marketing an average of 63 homes, a notable increase compared to previous years.The increased housing stock is reducing price pressures, allowing buyers more negotiating power.Mortgages have become more affordable, with the average five-year fixed rate dropping from its peak, encouraging market activity.Optimism for future market recovery is growing, with expectations of further improvements in affordability.Data reveals a significant improvement in housing availability across the UK, with estate agents now listing an average of 63…