News

A new House of Lords report calls for a reimagining of UK high streets, emphasising the need to move beyond traditional retail to include more restaurants, leisure activities, and public services.

The decline of retail dominance on UK high streets has become increasingly evident, with over 10,000 store closures in 2023 alone. Communities have witnessed the loss of local department stores, pharmacies, clothing shops, pubs, and banks, leaving many town centres struggling to attract visitors.

According to the report titled “High Streets: Life Beyond Retail?” published by the cross-party House of Lords Built Environment Committee, there is a pressing need for high streets to offer a wider variety of services. This includes not only shopping but also dining, leisure activities, health centres, and libraries.

Lord Moylan, Chairman of the Built Environment Committee, stated: “Local high streets are places where generations have shopped, socialised, and worked. Many of them are in decline, and to reverse this they need to look beyond being simply a destination for shoppers.”

The report emphasises that local authorities, communities, and businesses must collaborate to create adaptable and resilient high streets that reflect local needs. A fixed, one-size-fits-all approach should be avoided in favour of flexible strategies that can evolve over time.

Key findings and recommendations include:

Implement a ‘town centre first’ policy: Ensure new public services like libraries, diagnostic centres, and local government buildings are established on high streets.
Appoint town centre managers: Each local authority should have an active manager to support high street development and share best practices nationwide.
Enhance accessibility: Improve public transport connectivity and provide sufficient parking to make high streets easily accessible by both car and public transport.
Create welcoming public spaces: Incorporate green spaces and areas where people, especially young people, can socialise without spending money.
Improve safety measures: Address concerns by enhancing street lighting, ensuring clear sightlines, and promoting a mix of uses that keep areas lively into the night.
Support local markets: Recognise the role of markets in boosting footfall and contributing to the unique character of towns and cities.
addressing challenges and future strategies

The Committee notes that previous government efforts to revive high streets were not well-coordinated. It urges the new government to implement local growth funding reforms that enable high streets to flourish in the long term and ensure those responsible have the expertise to deliver improvements.

The report also welcomes the announcement of plans to review the Business Rates system, acknowledging that taxation, funding, and the planning system significantly impact high street regeneration. It criticises the current model of local authorities bidding for central funding as expensive and wasteful, advocating for a more transparent funding distribution system.

Lord Moylan added: “Delivering a successful and sustainable high street often involves a local leader who motivates teams from the public and private sectors to use their imagination to breathe new life into their high street. Decision-makers shouldn’t be afraid of trying new things but should be mindful of the quality of what is delivered, as only well-designed and built spaces will stand the test of time.”

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Lords report urges shift beyond retail to revitalise UK high streets

For the small business owner who is in need of reliable transport, and at the same time, wants to manage their finances, expanding a vehicle fleet can be a daunting task.

Fortunately, options like Hire Purchase financing with CarMoney are a sensible and strategic solution for these problems. This is a good way for businesses to grow using structured payment plans and ownership benefits.

What Is Hire Purchase?

Companies can buy cars in installments through a financing strategy called Hire Purchase, or HP for short. When all payments are fulfilled, HP agreements offer businesses complete ownership of the assets, unlike leasing, which merely grants the lessor ownership. This approach can serve as a tempting option for companies who want to increase the fleet’s long-term value.

Benefits of Hire Purchase for Small Businesses

Predictable Monthly Costs

The predictable payment structure of Hire Purchase agreements is one of their greatest advantages. This helps business owners plan their budgets effectively, and avoid unwelcome financial surprises. Payments are fixed and this helps maintain cash flow control, so money can be redirected to other areas in the business.

Tax Efficiency

Another great advantage of Hire Purchase is that it gives you tax advantages. Additionally, depending on the particular arrangement, firms may be able to deduct interest from taxable earnings or claim capital allowances. The dual benefit of this not only alleviates financial strain but also fits in with long term tax planning strategies.

Ownership at the End

Unlike lease or rental agreements, Hire Purchase ensures that the asset remains part of your business once the payments are complete. Ownership means that the vehicle is a real investment, not a temporary resource. It is particularly important to businesses that wish to improve their balance sheet or maintain operational independence.

How Hire Purchase Supports Fleet Expansion

Flexible Terms Tailored to Your Needs

Hire Purchase agreements give you remarkable flexibility and are great if you have special requirements. The duration, initial deposit size and payment schedule for contracts can be adjusted. This flexibility gives businesses an option to get the vehicles they need at an affordable price.

Ideal for Scaling Operations

With business growth, transportation needs often grow.  Once you’ve begun delivering goods or services, you’ll need a dedicated fleet. HP financing helps companies to add vehicles incrementally and within budget. And it’s a gradual approach that’s manageable and sustainable.

Comparing Hire Purchase to Other Options

Leasing vs. Hire Purchase

Businesses that want to keep expenditures low may find leasing attractive, but it doesn’t deliver the ownership benefits of HP. Maintenance packages are usually included in leases, but Hire Purchase enables the company to invest in assets that keep their value over time.

Outright Purchase Challenges

Paying for vehicles outright can drain valuable resources, especially for small businesses with limited capital. HP offers an alternative by spreading costs over an agreed term and not having to make a large, lump sum payment.

Strategic Advantages for Fleet Management

Upgrading Your Fleet

Businesses can upgrade their vehicles without having to repeatedly buy at high cost using Hire Purchase agreements. This is useful in particular to maintain a modern and efficient fleet.

Strengthening Operational Reliability

With HP, you don’t have to break the bank on high maintenance bills, or regularly break down. Newer, more reliable transportation improves service quality, and customer satisfaction.

Hire Purchase makes small business owners’ lives easier when it comes to expanding their vehicle fleets. This method of funding is affordable with manageable payments, tax advantages, and ultimate ownership which keep stress on the finances to a minimum while facilitating growth.

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Why Hire Purchase Makes Sense for Small Businesses

As the creator economy expands, choosing the right creator marketplace becomes essential for any brand looking to thrive in 2025.

What sets a top marketplace apart is its ability to connect brands with creators who truly align with their identity and values. This alignment ensures that marketing efforts are authentic and resonate well with the audience.

In our experience, the best creator marketplaces harness the latest tools and trends in social media marketing and influencer partnerships. A strong marketplace should offer robust analytics, easy-to-use interfaces, and diverse creator collaborations. These elements help brands make informed decisions and maximize their marketing impact.

We also believe that user support and community engagement are vital. A good marketplace provides resources and support for both creators and brands to make the most out of their collaborations. To explore a marketplace that embodies these qualities, check out https://popularpays.com/.

Evaluating Marketplaces

When we look for a creator marketplace in 2025, two key aspects stand out: the platform’s reputation and its user interface. We need to ensure safety and collaboration for both creators and brands while providing an engaging, easy-to-use experience.

Assessing Platform Reputation

We prioritize platforms with a robust reputation for brand safety and trustworthiness. This involves examining the marketplace’s history and user reviews. Platforms that emphasize SafeCollab policies ensure safe and credible partnerships between creators and brands.

Transparency in operations is crucial. A platform that openly shares its collaboration terms and policies builds credibility. We also consider the marketplace’s previous handling of conflicts or disputes. Platforms with clear, fair procedures make us confident in their ability to manage potential issues.

Understanding the User Interface

An intuitive user interface is essential for any successful marketplace. We look for platforms where creators and brands can easily navigate dashboard features. Clear labeling, simple navigation paths, and responsive design are vital.

Efficient search functions help us find the right creators and projects. An accessible interface ensures all users, regardless of technical skills, can operate comfortably. Features like drag-and-drop, customizable dashboards, and easy access to analytic tools enhance the user experience.

We also focus on how the interface handles user communication. Integrated messaging systems that support rich media sharing are beneficial. A smooth user interface supports an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Creator Discovery Process

Finding the right creators is crucial for effective marketing in 2025. Using the right tools and analyzing creator performance can greatly improve our strategies.

Tools for Finding Creators

We use advanced tools, including AI-powered ones, to streamline the search for the best creators. AI tools help us by analyzing data patterns, giving us insights into trends and potential high-performing influencers.

Some platforms offer filtering options—like niche, audience size, and engagement rates—to pinpoint potential partners.

It’s important to consider the platform where the creator is most active, whether it’s YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok. By focusing on these areas, we can better reach our target audience. Modern tools also allow us to see real-time data, helping us make quick, informed decisions.

Analyzing Creator Performance

Evaluating creator performance involves examining several key metrics. Engagement rates such as likes, comments, and shares give us insight into how well a creator connects with their audience. We also look at ROI to determine the financial effectiveness of collaborations.

Tracking audience demographics helps us ensure that the creator’s audience aligns with our target market. Observing the content they create and how it evolves over time provides a deeper understanding of their growth and potential impact.

Lastly, we consider feedback from our campaigns to fine-tune our future engagements, ensuring ongoing success and improvement.

Campaign Management Features

In a creator marketplace, effective campaign management is crucial for optimizing digital marketing efforts. Key features must offer tools to simplify set-up and enhance ROI tracking with detailed analytics.

Simplifying Campaign Set-Up

Setting up campaigns should be intuitive and quick, allowing us to launch promotions efficiently. Drag-and-drop interfaces make configuring various campaign elements, like timelines and budgets, straightforward. Automated processes for repetitive tasks help reduce manual work.

We also look for platforms that offer integration with social media and other marketing channels, so we can manage multiple streams in one place. Customizable templates for different campaign types further streamline this process, making it easy to replicate successful strategies and adjust them for specific creator partnerships.

ROI Tracking and Analytics

Tracking ROI accurately requires comprehensive analytics features. We need tools that can handle real-time data analysis to determine which campaigns deliver the best returns. Metrics such as engagement rates, reach, and conversion rates should be easily accessible.

Having access to clear and detailed reports helps us understand campaign effectiveness. Metrics displayed in charts or visual dashboards can make complex data easier to digest. Detailed insights enable us to make informed decisions on where to allocate resources, optimizing our return on investment and enhancing overall campaign effectiveness.

Content Collaboration and Production

When exploring a creator marketplace in 2025, it’s crucial to examine how it facilitates content collaboration and offers tools for visual content creation. Focus should be on how creators can work together and what resources are available for producing high-quality media.

Co-creating with Creators

In a strong creator marketplace, the ability for creators to collaborate is vital. We should look for features that make co-creation seamless, like shared workspaces and communication tools. Platforms need to support different styles and approaches, enabling creators to combine their unique skills.

Effective collaboration involves clear roles and responsibilities. It’s important that the marketplace has systems to ease the process, like agreement templates and project management options. These elements help creators focus on what they do best—creating compelling content.

Visual Content and Media Tools

Visual content is central to engaging audiences. Therefore, access to high-quality media tools is a must. Our ideal marketplace should offer resources like video editing software, image libraries, and design templates.

These tools should be user-friendly yet powerful, supporting creators of all skill levels. It’s beneficial if the marketplace offers tutorials or workshops to help creators hone their skills. This can ensure that creators produce visually appealing content efficiently.

An emphasis on innovation, such as integrating AI tools that suggest creative ideas or provide editing shortcuts, can also elevate the content creation process. We should consider how a marketplace empowers creators to push the boundaries of their creativity in unique ways.

Science of Engagement

Understanding engagement is critical for thriving in creator marketplaces. We need to identify emerging trends and use data-driven strategies to improve content performance.

Trends in User Engagement

Social media marketing is continually evolving, and staying ahead requires us to monitor new engagement patterns. One trend is the shift towards short-form content. Platforms such as TikTok and Instagram Reels highlight the demand for quick, impactful videos that capture attention fast. This content not only boosts engagement but also enhances shareability, reaching wider audiences.

Interactivity is another key trend. More users prefer to interact rather than passively consume content. Features like polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions heighten user involvement. These formats make audiences feel valued and increase the chances of repeat engagement. Keeping our strategies aligned with these trends can maximize user interaction and loyalty.

Leveraging Data for Content Decisions

Data is a powerful tool in refining our content strategy. By analyzing engagement metrics, we can pinpoint what resonates with our audience and tailor our content accordingly. Insights from metrics like likes, shares, and comments help us understand which topics are hitting the mark.

Using A/B testing, we can experiment with different formats and styles to see what works best. This approach allows for ongoing refinement and ensures content remains relevant and engaging. Reliable data sources and analytical tools, such as Google Analytics and social media insights, are invaluable for making informed decisions to enhance engagement.

Safety and Compliance

In creator marketplaces, safety and compliance are crucial to protect both brands and creators. We focus on aligning the interests of both parties and ensuring content complies with legal and ethical standards.

Ensuring Brand and Creator Alignment

When brands and creators partner, it is important to maintain a shared vision and values. Creating clear guidelines helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures campaigns align with brand goals.

We prioritize tools like SafeCollab which facilitate these collaborations. They provide frameworks and guidelines to ensure everyone is on the same page. Regular meetings and open communication are essential. This fosters a collaborative environment where both parties work towards common objectives. Checking past work of creators can help identify if they align with the brand’s image and values.

Monitoring Content for Compliance

It’s essential to create and implement processes to review content for compliance. We recommend regular audits and utilizing tech solutions to automate compliance checks.

Many platforms offer tools that detect potential risks or policy violations before content goes live. Ensuring all content aligns with brand safety requirements protects the company’s reputation.

We also focus on regulatory compliance. Adhering to advertising standards is not negotiable. Overlooking this can have serious consequences, including legal action or damage to brand trust. By staying informed about the latest rules, we ensure all parties meet necessary standards.

Network and Community Aspects

In a creator marketplace, network and community aspects are crucial. They ensure successful collaborations between creators, brands, and influencers. These aspects support mutual growth and allow for diverse content production. Here, we highlight how to build strong relations and foster engaging community content.

Building Relationships with Influencers

To thrive as creators, connecting with influencers is essential. Marketplaces should offer tools to easily discover and reach out to these influential figures. A platform that highlights top influencers in various niches helps us tailor our partnerships effectively.

Being a part of a community where influencer marketing thrives means having access to insights and feedback. We should seek platforms that provide analytics and performance metrics. This data guides us in measuring the impact of our collaborations.

Direct communication features enhance cooperation between parties. Whether through messaging systems or scheduled chats, having these tools at our fingertips ensures smooth and productive interactions. This directness helps us in maintaining healthy long-term partnerships with our brand ambassadors and influencers.

Community-Driven Content Creation

A thriving community fosters creative content. Platforms that emphasize community engagement help us circulate diverse ideas and trends. Such environments are pivotal as they push forward innovative content production.

Crowdsourcing ideas can lead to fresh perspectives and shared creativity. Platforms offering community boards or forums empower us to harness user-generated content, boosting authenticity and relatability. Engaging with community members can spark inspiration and elevate the quality of our productions.

Moreover, embedding features like content challenges encourages active participation. This not only enhances visibility but also nurtures a positive atmosphere where creators feel inspired to contribute actively. Feedback loops, where community members can easily give input, are also essential. This way, we continuously improve our content and maintain engagement.

Marketing Asset Management

Effective management of marketing assets is crucial for any creator marketplace. By organizing content and optimizing product seeding strategies, we can enhance visibility and engagement.

Utilizing a Content Library

A well-organized content library acts as a centralized hub for all marketing assets. It allows us to efficiently store, categorize, and retrieve valuable content. By maintaining a comprehensive library, we ensure that all team members have access to the latest materials for campaigns.

It’s important to categorize content by type, purpose, and target audience. Implementing a tagging system helps locate specific assets quickly. Regularly updating the library with new content prevents it from becoming outdated. This approach not only saves time but also enhances consistency and branding in our marketing efforts.

Strategies for Product Seeding

Product seeding is an essential tactic to create awareness and buzz around new launches. It involves sending products to selected creators or influencers with a strong alignment with our brand values. By choosing creators whose audiences match our target demographic, we expand our reach effectively.

To maximize impact, we must personalize our outreach and clearly communicate the benefits of the product. Building genuine relationships with creators leads to more authentic endorsements. Additionally, setting clear guidelines ensures creators understand how to showcase the product, maintaining brand integrity while encouraging creative expression. By strategizing our product seeding efforts, we can foster meaningful connections and amplify our marketing message.

Future-Proofing through Innovation

To thrive in the rapidly changing digital landscape, embracing technology and creative approaches is key. We explore how adopting cutting-edge AI tools and keeping pace with market trends can help creators stay competitive.

Adopting AI for Enhanced Creativity

Adopting AI-powered tools, like those offered by platforms such as Popular Pays, allows us to enhance creativity significantly. AI can assist in generating unique content ideas and analyzing audience preferences. By leveraging AI, we can quickly refine our creative processes, ensuring that our content remains fresh and engaging.

AI tools also help us optimize campaigns by predicting trends and providing insights into consumer behavior. This means we can tailor our content more effectively to meet the demands of our audience. Moreover, AI-driven data analysis allows us to track performance metrics in real-time, leading to informed decision-making and strategic adjustments.

Staying Ahead with Evolving Trends

Staying ahead of the curve involves closely monitoring emerging trends in the creator economy and digital marketing. By regularly updating our strategies, we ensure that we cannot only match but exceed industry standards. Keeping an eye on new platforms and technologies is crucial for maintaining relevance.

This is particularly important as platforms evolve and user preferences shift. Engaging with communities and participating in industry events can offer valuable insights into these trends. As we adapt to new ways of creating and distributing content, our ability to innovate will determine our success in a competitive marketplace.

Read more:
What to Look for in a Creator Marketplace in 2025: Essential Features and Trends

Welcome to a new era of effortless cryptocurrency mining! Cloud mining takes the hassle out of traditional mining and makes it accessible to everyone.

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How to get started with Cloud Mining

Getting started is simple, and it only takes a few steps to begin mining with KSD Miner:

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Why Choose KSD Miner for Cloud Mining?

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Join the future of mining today

KSD Miner is all about simplicity, reliability, and profit. With just a few clicks, you can begin your journey into the world of cryptocurrency with a trusted cloud mining partner. Sign up, start earning, and build your future with KSD Miner. The $10 bonus is just the beginning — take your first step today and experience how easy mining can be.

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Fast passive earnings from $10,000 to $80,000

The UK’s gambling landscape has shifted dramatically in recent years, with the rise of illegal gambling operations posing a growing threat to consumers and the industry.

While the UK has a highly regulated market for legal gambling, a dark underbelly has emerged: the black gambling market. This underground economy is driven by unlicensed casino sites operating on the dark web, cryptocurrency-enabled transactions, and elusive “pop-up” casinos that vanish with players’ money. Join us as we explore how this market is growing, the criminal activities involved, and the steps being taken by UK authorities to combat it.

The Scope of the Black Market: A Growing Threat

According to a report by the UK Gambling Commission, an estimated 460,000 British gamblers used illegal gambling sites in 2021, resulting in a turnover of £2.8 billion in the unregulated market. These figures have shifted only upwards since the report, with illegal gambling becoming a growing problem fueled by various factors. The latter include strict regulations in the licensed market, technological advancements, and the appeal of anonymous gambling.

Crypto and the Dark Web: A Dangerous Combination

The rise of cryptocurrencies, which are increasingly accepted, has played a significant role in the expansion of the black gambling market. Unlike traditional currency, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum allow for anonymous transactions, making them an ideal tool for illegal gambling activities. Many black market casino sites operate on the dark web, a part of the internet that is only accessible through specialized browsers like Tor.

The use of crypto for gambling transactions has skyrocketed in recent years. A 2023 report by Chainalysis found that illicit cryptocurrency gambling transactions increased by 64% in 2022, with billions of dollars moving through dark web casinos and black market operators. These unlicensed platforms offer a variety of games that mirror legal sites but without any of the player protections that come with a licensed casino.

Money Laundering: Gambling as a Cover for Crime

Illegal gambling is not just about evading regulations; it is also a tool for financial crime. Criminals are increasingly using the black market for money laundering. The process involves funneling illegal profits through gambling activities to make them appear legitimate. For example, someone might buy large amounts of cryptocurrency, gamble on a black market site, and then cash out as if the funds were winnings, thereby “laundering” the money.

The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) has flagged online gambling as a significant money-laundering risk. A report published in 2022 estimated that around £1.5 billion is laundered through gambling operations in the UK every year, with much of this occurring through unregulated sites.

The Rise of “Pop-Up” Scam Casinos

One of the most disturbing trends in the illegal gambling scene is the emergence of “pop-up” casinos. These online platforms appear seemingly out of nowhere, luring players with flashy websites, generous bonuses, and attractive odds. However, they often disappear just as quickly, taking with them any deposited funds and unclaimed winnings. These pop-up scams are designed to take advantage of unsuspecting gamblers, and once they vanish, there is little recourse for those scammed. This is where sites that review online casinos and offer casinos comparison tools, such as onlinecasinoreports.co.uk or similar, come into play. They verify online casinos completely independently, which can save you from a very common nightmare.

A 2021 study by the UK’s Betting and Gaming Council estimated that over 27% of British gamblers have encountered a scam site or unlicensed platform, many of which were designed to operate for just a short time before disappearing.

Impact of Regulation: Driving Players Underground?

The UK is known for its stringent gambling regulations, with the UK Gambling Commission enforcing strict guidelines to protect players. These regulations cover everything from advertising standards to limits on stakes, affordability checks, and responsible gambling measures. However, some argue that overregulation may be inadvertently driving players toward the black market.

High taxes and tough regulations have led to concerns that legitimate operators are being squeezed, making it difficult to compete. However, authorities have been discussing potential tax hikes on licensed gambling operators, which might push more gamblers toward unregulated sites that do not follow the rules. If you want to learn more about the impact of overregulation, check out this interesting article.

Safe Gambling: Choosing Licensed and Regulated Casinos

Despite the appeal of black market sites, there are many reasons to choose a licensed and regulated online casino. These platforms are subject to strict oversight, ensuring fair play, data protection, and responsible gambling practices. While the temptation of illegal gaming venues is undeniable, it is not worth risking your hard-earned money on. It is, after all, always better to be safe than sorry.

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The Rising Threat of the Black Market in the UK Gambling Scene

Rachel Reeves’s proposed changes to agricultural relief on inheritance tax—dubbed the “tractor tax”—may impact five times more farmers than the government has estimated, according to the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV).

The Treasury has stated that the changes will affect approximately 500 farmers each year. However, Jeremy Moody, secretary and adviser to the CAAV, argues that this figure is incorrect due to a misunderstanding of the farming industry’s complexities. He asserts that the new measures will actually impact around 2,500 farmers annually.

Moody contends that the Treasury’s analysis overlooks farmers who only claim Business Property Relief (BPR) and not Agricultural Property Relief (APR). This includes individuals who own land but not the farmhouse, those in farming partnerships, tenant farmers without ownership of land or buildings, and farmers who are shareholders in family companies.

“They’re wrong because they’re working on an incomplete picture,” Moody said. “What they got wrong is, they didn’t know what to ask and HMRC couldn’t answer them even if they had.”

He estimates that over a generation, about 75,000 farms will be affected by the changes.

Currently, farmers can claim up to 100% relief on inheritance tax for their land and buildings through APR and for operational equipment and livestock via BPR. Starting from April 2026, only the first £1 million of their combined land and business assets will qualify for 100% relief under the new rules. Any amount above this threshold will be subject to inheritance tax at an effective rate of 20%—half the standard rate of 40%.

The government argues that farmers can effectively have a nil-rate tax band of £1.5 million each, allowing a married couple to pass on up to £3 million in assets tax-free. This calculation includes personal inheritance tax allowances. However, Moody disputes this, stating that these thresholds are personal and should not be applied to business assets.

“That seems to me to be basically wrong,” he commented. “If you’re throwing all that against the farm then actually what you’re doing is saying all of your personal effects will be taxed at 40%.”

The BBC Verify fact-checking service has supported the Treasury’s estimates, and the government has publicized this analysis. Sir Keir Starmer remarked, “All of you can check out what that means in terms of the impact. I think the BBC has already done it.”

A government spokesperson stated: “Our commitment to our farmers is steadfast—we have committed £5 billion to the farming budget over two years, including more money than ever for sustainable food production… We have been clear since this change was announced that around 500 claims of Agricultural and Business Property Relief each year will be impacted… It is not possible to accurately infer inheritance tax liability from farm net worth figures as there are different circumstances affecting each farm.”

Moody criticises the government’s and BBC’s analyses for not fully understanding the farming industry, leading to underestimations of the policy’s impact. He emphasises that many farmers, such as tenant farmers, may not benefit from certain tax allowances and that the changes could significantly affect their financial standing.

Read more:
Tractor Tax Could Affect Five Times More Farmers Than Government Claims, Expert Warns

Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, has announced it will no longer consider race and gender policies when awarding supplier contracts after facing pressure from conservative activist Robby Starbuck.

The company is rolling back several diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives following criticism that they were harmful to certain groups.

As part of the changes, Walmart is winding down the Center for Racial Equity, a non-profit organisation that received $100 million in funding from the retailer in 2020. The company will also end some racial equity staff training, review its support for Pride events, and withdraw from rankings by the Human Rights Campaign, an LGBT advocacy group.

Additionally, Walmart stated it would monitor online merchants for sexual or transgender products marketed to children and remove items deemed inappropriate.

The commitments come after Robby Starbuck, a conservative “anti-woke” activist and former music video director, threatened to mobilise his 700,000 followers on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to boycott Walmart ahead of Black Friday if changes were not made. In a post on X, Starbuck said: “I’m happy to have secured these changes before Christmas when shoppers have very few large retail brands they can spend money with who aren’t pushing woke policies.”

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and adviser to President-elect Donald Trump, who has been a vocal critic of DEI policies, amplified the news by reposting an article about Walmart’s decision, commenting: “The tide has turned.”

Walmart, which employs 2.1 million people and has a market valuation of about $740 billion, claimed it was already reviewing some of its DEI policies prior to conversations with Starbuck. The company stated: “We are willing to change alongside our associates and customers who represent all of America.”

John Furner, president and chief executive of Walmart US, addressed the policy changes during an interview with CBS News, saying: “Like many companies all across the United States, we’ve been on a journey and we continue to be on a journey. And what we’re trying to do is ensure that every customer, every associate, feels welcome here to shop, and to feel like they belong.”

In October, Walmart reported that in the past financial year it sourced more than $13 billion in goods and services from diverse suppliers, including companies owned or operated by veterans, people with disabilities, members of the LGBT community, women, and people of colour. The retailer’s latest culture and diversity report indicated that people of colour represented about 51% of its total US workforce, with 59% of new hires being people of colour and 49% being women.

The company’s decision has sparked mixed reactions. While conservative activists like Starbuck applaud the move towards “corporate neutrality,” others have criticised Walmart for potentially undermining efforts towards diversity and inclusion. Users of Bluesky, a social media platform rivaling X, described Walmart as “disgusting” and “cowards” following the announcement.

Walmart now faces the challenge of balancing the demands of different stakeholder groups, as it risks losing customers who support DEI initiatives while trying to appease those who oppose them.

Read more:
Walmart scales back diversity initiatives after pressure from conservative activist

Aston Martin Lagonda, the UK’s only listed carmaker, has issued a second profit warning in as many months and announced a £210 million fundraising effort. The company’s shares hit a two-year low, dropping 5.5% to 102p in early trading on Wednesday.

The Midlands-based luxury car manufacturer revealed late on Tuesday that it plans to raise £110 million in new equity from shareholders and secure an additional £100 million in debt financing at interest rates exceeding 10%. The funds aim to support the company’s ongoing operations and future growth initiatives.

Aston Martin reported delays in delivering about half of its expected £2 million Valiant supercars, leading to a reduction in projected operating profits. The company now expects operating profits to be between £270 million and £280 million, down from the previously anticipated £285 million.

Adrian Hallmark, who became the company’s fifth chief executive in as many years this September, had already revised down financial prospects in a trading update seven weeks prior. Following the latest adjustment and news of refinancing, Hallmark stated: “We are already taking decisive actions to better position the group for the future, including a more balanced production and delivery profile in the coming quarters. These efforts will deliver enhanced operational and financial performance in 2025 and beyond. The financing we are undertaking supports our growth and provides the investment to continue with future product innovation.”

In a company statement, Aston Martin said the new financing would assist in funding its £2 billion commitment between 2023 and 2027, which includes the company’s delayed transition to electric vehicle production.

The new shares have been placed at 100p, representing a 7.3% discount to Tuesday’s closing price. Of the £110 million raised through new shares, approximately £50 million came from Yew Tree Holdings, led by Chairman Lawrence Stroll, whose stake had been reduced to 26% after previous fundraisings.

An additional £23 million was contributed by strategic investors, including Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which previously held a 19% stake; China’s automotive group Geely, holding 18%; and technology partners Mercedes-Benz and Lucid Motors, which held 9% and 4% respectively.

Existing shareholders who did not participate in the new share issue will see their holdings diluted by about 13.5%.

According to stockbroker Jefferies, the new debt will raise Aston Martin’s total group debt to £1.47 billion, with net debt (after cash holdings) at £1.12 billion—more than four times the projected operating earnings. The annual interest expense is expected to increase to £130 million.

Philippe Houchois, an analyst at Jefferies, commented that the fundraising would help Aston Martin avoid a “zombie balance sheet,” meaning insufficient liquidity to achieve its planned £500 million operating profit next year.

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Aston Martin issues profit warning and announces £210m fundraising

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has released new guidance cautioning freelancers, contractors, and consultants about the risks associated with Managed Service Companies (MSCs)—complex tax arrangements that could leave independent workers facing tax bills running into tens of thousands of pounds.

Introduced in 2007, the MSC legislation aims to combat perceived tax abuse by freelancers who provide their services via limited companies set up primarily to avoid tax liabilities. These companies, controlled by a third party—often an accountant—are known as Managed Service Companies. HMRC contends that freelancers should not receive the tax benefits of running their own business if the business is effectively managed by someone else and used merely as a vehicle to reduce tax payments.

Under the MSC rules, if a freelancer’s business is deemed to be an MSC, HMRC will require that all income generated is subject to PAYE tax and National Insurance contributions. This could equate to up to 40% of the income earned by the MSC since its inception, once taxes, interest, and possible penalties are applied.

The latest guidance, published on 21st November, highlights the substantial risks for freelancers operating via MSCs. Currently, in an ongoing case, over 1,000 contract workers are under investigation by HMRC for allegedly breaching MSC legislation. Of the more than 100 contractors being supported by tax compliance firm Qdos, the average tax liability pursued by HMRC stands at £57,000, amounting to a collective total of £5.9 million.

Seb Maley, CEO of Qdos, emphasised the importance of vigilance among freelancers: “HMRC is right to put the MSC legislation back on the radar of the hundreds of thousands of contract workers it can impact. These notoriously complex tax rules can leave freelancers with staggering tax bills, often through no real fault of their own. All too often, these unsuspecting freelancers have been advised to work via MSCs by third parties.”

He added: “The trouble with these rules is that freelancers caught up in MSCs aren’t motivated to avoid tax. Typically, they will have engaged an accountant that specialises in their industry and in forming limited companies. It smacks of unfairness, but the fact of the matter is that if you fall into the trap of working through an MSC, the tax office could well demand up to 40% of everything you’ve earned through your company to date.”

Freelancers are urged to review their working arrangements and seek professional advice to ensure compliance with HMRC regulations. The potential financial implications of being deemed an MSC are significant and could have long-term effects on independent workers’ livelihoods.

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Freelancers warned of hefty tax bills as HMRC issues new guidance on managed service companies

The UK’s space sector is expanding at a pace surpassing the overall economy, contributing over £17.5 billion annually and employing more than 45,000 people.

Supporting £360 billion in economic activity through satellite infrastructure, the industry has become a significant player on the global stage.

Merger and acquisition (M&A) activity within the sector has surged over the past decade, leaping from just five transactions in 2013 to twenty-seven in 2023, according to advisory firm Heligan Group. This growth is expected to continue into 2025, driven by increasing government funding, decreasing launch costs, and the adoption of innovative technologies like satellite-based quantum key distribution.

Simon Heath, Partner at Heligan Group, commented: “Advances in technology such as reusable rockets, orbital refuelling, and in-space manufacturing via 3D printing are driving a wave of innovation in the space sector. A prominent development for the UK is the growth of small satellite technologies, which are revolutionising the industry by providing cost-effective and accessible satellite services.”

UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are playing a transformative role in the global space industry. Specialising in satellite components, propulsion systems, and space data analytics, many are outpacing larger firms by focusing on niche technologies. There’s optimism that a company on the scale of SpaceX could emerge from the UK over the next decade, although there’s a rising risk of SMEs being acquired by larger integrators.

Heath continued: “Most UK space SMEs operate outside traditional aerospace hubs, decentralising the industry and fostering innovation across the country. This broader talent base is crucial for the long-term competitiveness of the UK space industry. However, SMEs face growing challenges, including reliance on large upfront investments, cautious investors due to long timelines, and increasingly competitive government funds.”

Access to growth finance and investment in the UK space sector has improved in recent years but remains mixed. Trends indicate increasing interest from venture capitalists and corporate investors. Major aerospace and defence organisations like Airbus and BAE Systems are actively investing through their corporate venture arms. The UK government has also remained a key player, offering funds and grants through the UK Space Agency and Innovate UK.

Heath added: “Over the next 24 months, we will see a variety of themes driving activity in the UK space sector. Space infrastructure investment will be a primary concern as strengthening the UK’s space resilience is a national security priority. There will also be consolidation, with the market being highly fragmented and full of young, IP-rich, and fast-growing businesses. Lastly, technological advancements such as innovations in small satellite systems and reusable launch vehicles are lowering entry barriers, reducing investment risks, and creating new opportunities for space startups.

“It is exciting to see the UK position itself to become a leading force in the global space economy. Although it currently lags behind other nations in space launch capacity, this will change with multiple launches planned from UK soil in 2025, with UK SMEs playing a bigger role than ever. Rapid technological advancements and escalating geopolitical tensions have intensified reliance on private sector innovation, with sovereignty playing an important role in supply chains.”

He concluded: “While the space sector is growing, it is a typically cash-hungry industry with profitability for many of the UK’s brightest companies still several years away. However, the space sector is one area where the UK government is highly supportive, and this is mirrored in the private sector, with several VC investors solely focusing on frontier technologies. 2025 will be an interesting year for the UK space sector as interest from venture capitalists and corporate investors continues to grow.”

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UK space sector outpaces economy as M&A activity skyrockets