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Finding the right accountant is vital for managing your finances. Whether you are an individual or a small business owner, having professional support can save time and money.

But where do you start? A local accountants directory can help you find the best professionals in your area quickly and efficiently.

What Is a Local Accountants Directory?

A local accountants directory is an online or printed list of accounting professionals. It includes their contact details, qualifications, and services. This resource is designed to connect individuals and businesses with accountants who understand local tax laws and regulations.

With the right directory, you can compare options and choose someone who fits your needs. Many directories also offer reviews, ratings, and detailed profiles, making it easier to make an informed choice.

Why Individuals Need Accountants?

Managing personal finances can get overwhelming. From filing taxes to creating budgets, an accountant makes life easier. They ensure accuracy, which reduces stress during tax season.

Additionally, accountants can offer valuable advice. They guide you in managing debts, planning investments, and saving for the future. Using a local accountants directory allows you to find a professional near you who understands your unique financial challenges.

The Benefits for Small Businesses

Small businesses face complex financial tasks, such as payroll, tax filing, and bookkeeping. Accountants help ensure compliance with regulations, avoiding costly mistakes. They also provide strategic advice to help businesses grow.

Using a directory saves time. You can find accountants with experience in your industry. Local professionals are familiar with your market and state laws, which is an added advantage.

How to Use a Local Accountants Directory?

Start by searching for directories online. Look for directories that are user-friendly and updated frequently. Most directories allow you to filter results by location, expertise, or services offered.

Read profiles carefully. Look at qualifications and areas of expertise. Many accountants specialize in specific industries or services. Check client reviews to see their reliability and professionalism.

When you find potential candidates, reach out. Ask about their experience, fees, and availability. This step ensures you find someone who aligns with your goals.

What to Look For in an Accountant?

When choosing an accountant, consider their credentials. A certified professional has the training and knowledge required to handle financial matters effectively.

Experience matters too. An accountant with years of practice can anticipate problems and find solutions. Choose someone who communicates well. You need someone who explains financial concepts clearly and answers your questions promptly.

Finally, check their fees. Some accountants charge hourly, while others offer fixed rates. Choose a professional whose pricing fits your budget.

The Importance of Local Expertise

Local accountants understand the specific tax laws and business regulations in your area. They are also familiar with local markets, which helps small businesses.

For individuals, a local accountant is accessible for in-person consultations. They can offer personalized advice based on their knowledge of your community’s economic conditions.

Why Reviews Matter?

Reviews help you learn from the experiences of others. A directory with verified reviews gives insight into an accountant’s strengths and weaknesses. Look for consistent positive feedback on professionalism, accuracy, and reliability.

Boost Your Financial Confidence

Finding the right accountant can transform how you manage your money. Whether you’re an individual filing taxes or a small business owner juggling multiple tasks, the right professional provides peace of mind.

Using a local accountant directory simplifies the search process. It connects you with trusted experts who are ready to assist. Take the first step today and find the support you need for a secure financial future.

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Local Accountants Directory for Individuals and Small Business

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Microdosing Truffles

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If you are a big fan of mental health and productivity enhancement, then there is a great chance you have come across topics around microdosing truffles. But do you know exactly what that phrase means and what it entails?

Microdosing truffles refers to the practice of consuming very small (perhaps sub-perceptual) doses of psychedelic truffles. The practice has become increasingly popular today as people research and get creative around alternative approaches to personal development and general mental health. Let’s delve deeper into the benefits of microdosing truffles and how to do it safely.

Why Microdose Truffles?

When this question arises, many people are drawn to the comparison of magic truffles vs mushrooms. The truth is, there aren’t many differences between these two psychedelics. However, truffles edge mushrooms when it comes to various aspects, including legality, safety and ease of use. Here are a few benefits of microdosing truffles:

Improved Focus, Creativity and Problem-Solving

According to regular users, microdosing truffles enhances focus, creativity and problem-solving. This claim is sufficiently backed scientifically. Truffles contain a psychoactive compound known as psilocybin, which stimulates neuroplasticity, boosts dopamine and reduces mental noise/chatter. These chemical effects are what bring about an enhancement in cognitive and emotional functioning.

Reduced Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety

The psilocybin compound present in truffles also has the ability to suppress the symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is possible in two primary ways: modulating serotonin receptors and disrupting negative thought loops. In small amounts, truffles increase serotonin activity, elevating mood and alleviating feelings of sadness. Additionally, it encourages the brain to be more flexible and think positively, which helps disrupt negative thought loops.

Increased Feeling of Well-being

It goes without saying, but microdosing truffles helps create an overall feeling of well-being. Since it reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety and PTSD, it is very natural to conclude that the user will feel a lot better once the psychedelic kicks in. However, it is essential to remember the importance of safe usage. That said, let’s take a look at how to safely microdose truffles.

What is the Correct Way to Microdose Truffles?

In order to enjoy the benefits discussed in the section above, it is essential to learn how to correctly microdose truffles. Here is a quick guide containing everything you need to know before you get started:

Source High-Quality Truffles

The first step to correctly microdosing truffles is finding the best quality. High-quality truffles not only ensure consistent potency but also guarantee safety and purity. You can grow your own – however, this can be relatively costly and time-consuming. The best option is to source from a reputable supplier. Ensure the truffles are fresh and properly stored to maintain their quality.

Determine the Right Dosage

To determine the right dosage, start small, then gradually increase until you find your optimal amount. The ideal starting amount is around 0.1-0.5 grams. Of course, the optimal dosage will change with time, so always make adjustments to suit your needs.

The best time to microdose is in the morning or early evening. Always wait 2-3 days before the next dose to ensure the best results.

Conclusion: Potential Risks of Microdosing Truffles

Although truffles are generally safe, it is essential to be aware of potential risks before you start using them. For starters, be mindful of possible side effects, such as mild nausea and anxiety. If you experience them, consider reducing the dosage until you achieve that sweet spot. Another risk you should keep in mind is the legality of these psychedelics in your area. Check with local laws to avoid getting into trouble with the authorities.

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Microdosing Truffles

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The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI) introduced health insurance portability in India. This empowers consumers, allowing them to shift their health insurance providers without losing the benefits accrued under their current policy.

Let’s go through the process of porting your health insurance policy online in India, along with the benefits and factors to be considered.

What is Health Insurance Portability?

Health insurance portability facilitates the transferability of an existing policy from one insurer to another, retaining benefits such as waiting periods for pre-existing disease conditions and NCB.

However, it can only be ported when switching to a similar policy type, such as from individual to individual or from family to family, and that too at the time of policy renewal.

Steps for Porting Your Health Insurance Online

There are many reasons why you should port health insurance policy, and now that you know why you might want to port, it’s time to understand how you can port your health insurance policy online in India. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Start Early

As such, you must apply for portability at least 45 days before the end date of your prevailing policy. This time will help the new insurer evaluate your application and liaise with your prevailing insurer without any time constraints.

Step 2: Research and Compare Plans

You must research various potential insurers and what they have to offer in their plans before you finally decide. You can utilise online comparison tools that allow you to compare various side-by-side policies.

Determine what coverages include illnesses and treatments and what is not covered under the policy. You must also compare premium charges for the same coverage level, check the claim settlement ratio, and read customer reviews. If you are still determining which plan would suit you best, consider consulting an insurance advisor.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

To proceed with the renewal, ensure you have the necessary documents. The renewal notice issued by your insurer will indicate the renewal date and premium charges. You will also need to submit a No Claim Declaration Form, confirming any claims made during the previous policy term.

Proof of age, such as an Aadhaar card or birth certificate, is required for verification. Additionally, gather any medical history documents that outline pre-existing conditions. If any claims were made in the past year, include all related documentation as well.

Step 4: Lodge the Application

Now, apply for portability once you have settled on a new insurer and collected all the required documents. Complete the form accurately and attach all relevant documents. Pay attention to any details that could delay processing.

Most corporations allow you to do this online, using their website or mobile app. Simply follow their instructions and keep copies of everything you submit.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

Once the application has been submitted, the new carrier will begin processing it. Here’s what happens next. The new carrier will reach out to your former company to verify the following:

Policy History
Claims Made
No Claim Bonus Eligibility
Waiting Period Served

This must be done within 15 days after the submission.

Either insurer will contact you and keep you posted on how your application is faring. You may need to act on some missing information or details, further delaying the process.

Step 6: Confirmation

After approval, both insurers should contact you to inform you that your policy has been ported without a hitch. Do this:

Once you obtain a copy of the new policy document from the new insurer.
Take the time to ensure that the conditions still include everything discussed.
Ensure the coverage amounts and exclusions are the same as those agreed upon during the application.
Ensure that you have an exact date when your new coverage begins.

Ideally, there should be no void between the expiry date of your old policy and the start date of your new one.

Why Should You Port My Health Insurance?

Here are the following reasons why porting health insurance policy is a must:

You are dissatisfied with the service provided by your existing insurer or during the claim settlement process.
You found a better insurance company which provides better or additional benefits at the same or lower price.
Your current insurer has hiked the premium quite well without any corresponding increase in the benefits to be provided.
You think you want to change to an insurance company with a wider network of hospitals.
The current policy does not suit your requirements or your family’s health.

Things to Know Before Porting Health Insurance

Since porting health insurance affords flexibility, here are some other factors you should be aware of:

Waiting Period for an Existing Disease: Porting allows you to carry on the waiting period already served. If it is a different insurer, you would have to serve the rest of your waiting period with the new insurer.
Sum Insured Limit: If you increase the sum insured under the new policy, then the waiting period for an existing disease may be incurred for the increased sum insured amount.
Policy Coverage: Ensure that the new policy covers all aspects, including maternity cover, daycare procedures, annual health check-ups, and alternative treatments like Ayurveda or Homeopathy.
Claim Settlement Ratio: An insurance company’s high claim settlement ratio would avoid the hassle of claiming.
Inclusions and Exclusions: Compare inclusions and exclusions in the new policy with your healthcare requirements.

Porting your health insurance policy online is one of the easiest ways to adapt your coverage to match the dynamic needs of your healthcare costs without compromising on rewards you have earned over time.

The complete process is extremely easy, with porting under the rule book of IRDAI, and thus, it gives flexibility to the policyholder with better features and efficiency. As discussed above, carefully consider the factors explained here before making the change in a hassle-free way.

Read more:
How to Port Health Insurance Policies Online in India?

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In the modern competitive business landscape, companies increasingly recognize that employee wellness is not just a perk – it’s an investment in productivity, retention, and overall workplace satisfaction.

While many organisations focus on equipment and programs when designing their corporate fitness centers, one crucial element often overlooked is the foundation beneath it all: gym flooring.

The Foundation of Workplace Wellness

Corporate fitness centers represent a tangible commitment to employee health and well-being. Quality gym flooring plays a pivotal role in creating a safe, functional, and inviting environment that encourages regular physical activity among employees.

Key Benefits of Quality Gym Flooring

Safety First

High-quality gym flooring significantly reduces the risk of workplace injuries during exercise. The right flooring provides essential shock absorption, reducing impact on joints during high-intensity workouts and protecting employees from potential injuries caused by slips or falls. Rubber gym flooring excels in absorbing impact, minimizing the strain on knees, ankles, and the lower back, fostering a safer workout environment.

Noise Reduction

In corporate settings, minimizing noise disruption is crucial. Premium gym flooring helps absorb impact sounds from dropping weights, running on treadmills, or high-intensity training, ensuring that fitness activities don’t interfere with nearby office operations. Rubber flooring acts as a natural sound insulator, reducing vibrations and enhancing the gym’s acoustics, creating a more peaceful and less distracting atmosphere.

Durability and Cost-Effectiveness

While quality gym flooring requires an initial investment, its durability makes it cost-effective in the long run. Premium materials withstand heavy foot traffic, equipment weight, and regular sanitization without degrading, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Rubber flooring is renowned for its unparalleled durability, providing a long-term solution that minimizes maintenance and repair costs.

Choosing the Right Flooring Solutions

Interlocking Floor Mats

Interlocking floor mats offer excellent flexibility in design and installation. These versatile tiles can be easily configured to fit any space and provide superior shock absorption. They’re particularly suitable for areas designated for free weights and functional training, where impact resistance is crucial.

Rubber Matting Rolls

For larger spaces, rubber matting roll solutions offer seamless coverage and professional appearance. These rolls are ideal for cardio areas and general fitness spaces, providing consistent support and protection across the entire floor surface.

Implementation Strategies

Zoning Considerations

Different areas of your corporate fitness center may require different flooring solutions:

Heavy lifting zones benefit from thicker, more resilient flooring.
Cardio areas need moisture-resistant, easy-to-clean surfaces.
Stretching and recovery spaces can utilize softer, more comfortable materials.

Maintenance and Longevity

Proper maintenance of gym flooring extends its lifespan and preserves its protective properties:

Regular cleaning with appropriate solutions.
Prompt attention to any damage or wear.
Periodic professional inspection and maintenance.

Impact on Employee Wellness

Enhanced Engagement

Quality flooring contributes to a more professional and inviting atmosphere, encouraging higher participation rates in corporate wellness programs. Employees are more likely to utilize fitness facilities that feel safe and well-maintained, fostering a culture of wellness.

Improved Performance

Proper flooring supports better workout performance by providing stable footing and appropriate shock absorption, allowing employees to exercise with confidence and achieve better results. The non-slip surface and enhanced stability ensure a safer and more efficient workout experience.

Return on Investment

Investing in quality gym flooring delivers tangible returns through:

Reduced maintenance and replacement costs.
Lower insurance premiums due to enhanced safety measures.
Increased employee participation in wellness programs.
Higher workplace satisfaction and productivity.

Looking Forward

As workplace wellness continues to evolve, the role of quality gym flooring in corporate fitness centers becomes increasingly significant. Forward-thinking companies understand that creating a safe, professional exercise environment starts from the ground up.

Best Practices for Implementation

Conduct thorough assessment of space requirements and usage patterns.
Consider long-term durability when selecting materials.
Partner with reputable suppliers and installers.
Plan for future expansion or modification needs.

Conclusion

Quality gym flooring is more than just a surface – it’s a fundamental component of successful corporate wellness programs. By investing in premium flooring solutions, businesses demonstrate their commitment to employee health while creating safer, more effective workout environments. As companies continue to prioritize workplace wellness, the importance of quality gym flooring will only grow, making it an essential consideration for any corporate fitness facility.The right flooring choice sets the foundation for a successful corporate wellness program, contributing to improved employee health, satisfaction, and ultimately, business success. By making this strategic investment, companies position themselves as leaders in workplace wellness while creating lasting value for their organization and employees alike.

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Enhancing Workplace Wellness: The Role of Quality Gym Flooring in Corporate Gym Spaces

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Ministers should grant farmers an inheritance tax holiday to prevent unfair treatment under upcoming tax changes, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS).

The IFS has warned that the government’s proposed changes to agricultural taxes risk treating some landowners unfairly and could impact food security if not mitigated appropriately. Last month, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced in her budget that farmers with businesses worth more than £1 million could be subjected to a 20% inheritance tax, prompting tractor protests outside Parliament.

Previously, the government had promised no changes to agricultural property relief, which exempted farmers from inheritance tax. The IFS’s new analysis concludes that while it’s largely fair to treat agricultural assets like other taxable assets, special considerations are necessary to avoid unintended consequences.

David Sturrock, senior research economist at the IFS, stated: “Current farm owners passing away in the next seven years (but after the new regime comes into force in April 2026) will not have had the opportunity to avoid inheritance tax by making lifetime gifts. If the government wished to give current farm owners the same opportunity to avoid inheritance tax as owners of other assets, it could, for example, make lifetime gifts of agricultural property made before a certain future date inheritance tax free, regardless of the timing of the death.”
Treasury officials are reportedly assessing mitigations to the policy, including amending gifting rules for over-80s so they can pass on their farms without needing to live for seven years after making the gift.

Despite pressures, Chancellor Reeves is understood to be holding firm, aiming to target wealthy investors buying land to avoid inheritance tax—a practice blamed for driving up land prices. Labour insists the policy is focused on fairness and preventing tax avoidance.

However, many farmers argue that while they may be asset-rich due to land ownership, they are often cash-poor. Declining farm incomes, cost inflation, poor harvests, and fierce competition among retailers mean many farmers take home less than the minimum wage.

Tax expert Dan Neidle has conducted research suggesting the tax changes may hit working farmers harder than tax avoiders. He proposes equalising the inheritance tax to 40% but making it payable only when the land is sold, thus avoiding impact on those wishing to pass the family farm to relatives. Neidle also suggests a “clawback” mechanism where inheritance tax relief is reclaimed if inherited farmland is sold within a certain timeframe.

He further recommends raising the inheritance tax cap to about £20 million, so only the largest and most sophisticated farm businesses are affected.

Tim Farron, the Liberal Democrat environment spokesperson, commented: “The government hid behind the IFS to try and justify this disastrous policy. That very same organisation is now telling them that their own proposals need an overhaul.”

A Treasury spokesperson responded: “As the IFS has said, the existing rules for these reliefs are unfair and inefficient. We remain committed to fully implementing the policy and are not considering mitigations.”

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Think tank calls for delay in farm inheritance tax to ensure fairness

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Asda has appointed former chief executive Allan Leighton as its new chair, replacing Lord Stuart Rose amid ongoing challenges including an IT overhaul and declining sales.

Leighton, who led Asda from 1996 to 2000, is set to steer the UK’s third-largest supermarket chain through a critical period of transformation.

Lord Rose, 75, who served as chair since 2021 and took on day-to-day leadership responsibilities in September alongside Rob Hattrell of TDR Capital—Asda’s majority stakeholder—will remain on the board temporarily to ensure a smooth transition before stepping down.

Leighton, 71, is renowned for revitalising Asda in the late 1990s alongside Archie Norman and orchestrating its sale to Walmart. Expressing his enthusiasm about rejoining the company, he said, “I am delighted to be returning to the business. The potential for Asda now is significant.”

Asda has faced a series of challenges in recent months, including product availability issues, concerns over store cleanliness, a petrol leak at it’s petrol station in Bramley in Surrey affecting the areas water supply, and a decline in customer experience. The retailer reported a 2.5% drop in total revenues, excluding fuel, and a 4.8% decrease in like-for-like sales for the quarter ending 30 September. Additionally, it has lost market share amid fierce competition.

The company is in the process of disentangling its IT systems from former owner Walmart, a complex task that has led to problems with payroll and online orders. Despite these hurdles, Hattrell has stated that the IT overhaul is nearing completion.

Leighton emphasised the need for Asda to refocus on its value proposition, saying the supermarket must go “back to the future but with modernity” to regain its competitive edge. Under his leadership, Asda will continue its search for a new chief executive.

Gary Lindsay, managing partner of TDR Capital, commented, “Asda has both a leading superstore estate and a strong position in every format, and Allan’s experience and understanding of Asda will stand us in good stead as he leads the business into the next stage of its development.”

Lord Rose noted that Asda would “benefit enormously from Allan’s experience” and expressed his intent to support the chain “as a shareholder and customer over the coming years.”

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Allan Leighton returns to Asda as chair, succeeding Stuart Rose

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Casinos and bookmakers across Great Britain are set to face a mandatory £100 million annual levy to fund research, education, and treatment of gambling-related harms, under new government proposals expected to be announced imminently.

The move aims to replace the current voluntary donation system with a statutory levy, compelling gambling operators to contribute a fixed percentage of their gross gambling yield to address the negative impacts of gambling. This shift would mark a significant change in how the industry supports harm reduction initiatives.

Sources indicate that details of the levy could be unveiled soon, with implementation potentially starting from next April. Under the proposed terms, gambling firms would be required to pay 1% of their gross gambling yield—the total amount they win from British gamblers—towards funding support services. Based on recent figures from the Gambling Commission, which reported industry earnings of £10.9 billion over the past year, this could generate approximately £109 million annually.

However, previous consultations have suggested a lower rate of 0.4% for land-based operators like high street bookmakers and casinos, acknowledging their higher operational costs. Smaller firms with gambling revenues below £500,000 are expected to be exempt from the levy.

Iain Duncan Smith, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Gambling-Related Harm, welcomed the initiative, stating: “For the first time, the gambling industry will be mandated to pay for the harm they cause. This is a significant step forward in addressing gambling-related issues.”

The funds raised are anticipated to support a range of initiatives, including the establishment of new NHS specialist addiction clinics and funding for charities that provide education, counselling, and support services for those affected by gambling-related problems.

A potential point of contention is the allocation of the funds, particularly concerning GambleAware, the UK’s leading gambling charity. Under the current voluntary system, GambleAware is the largest recipient of industry donations. There are indications that the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) may become the government’s preferred destination for funds collected under the new levy.

The industry’s trade body, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), had initially expressed support for a statutory levy when it was proposed in a government white paper. However, the BGC has since raised concerns. In a statement, a BGC spokesperson said: “We previously proposed a mandatory levy and welcomed the government’s announcement for a new system of payments with independent funding allocation. However, we remain concerned that there should be a sliding scale for land-based businesses with higher fixed costs and that funding for established providers of research, prevention, and treatment services is protected.”

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport declined to comment on the forthcoming announcement.

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Government plans £100m annual levy on gambling firms to tackle harms

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Annual salaries in the UK have increased at the fastest pace since 2021, driven by a surge in Christmas hiring that is revitalising the job market.

According to job search engine Adzuna, the average advertised salary stood at £39,234 in October, marking a 6% increase compared to the same month last year. This is the highest annual rise since April 2021.

While salaries are on the rise, competition for jobs has intensified. Adzuna reported 861,000 vacancies at the end of October, a slight decrease of 0.17% from September. This shift means there are now 2.08 jobseekers per vacancy, the highest ratio since June 2021, indicating a more competitive landscape for those seeking employment.

Andrew Hunter, co-founder of Adzuna, commented: “While 2024 had a challenging start, the second half of the year has shown signs of recovery and resilience. Driven by preparations for the busy Christmas shopping season, sectors like trade and construction and retail are ramping up hiring.”

The average duration of job postings on Adzuna has extended to 39.5 days, reflecting a tougher environment for jobseekers as roles remain open longer due to increased applicant numbers.

British businesses are now grappling with rising salary expectations alongside increased national insurance contributions. Last month, the Labour Party announced that the rate of employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) will increase by 1.2 percentage points to 15% from April. Additionally, the earnings threshold at which employers start paying contributions will decrease from £9,100 to £5,000.

These changes are expected to hit the retail industry particularly hard, as supermarkets, pubs, and restaurant chains typically employ large numbers of lower-paid workers.

Despite these challenges, certain sectors are experiencing growth due to seasonal demand. Adzuna noted a significant rise in advertised vacancies in the trade and construction industry in October, with new postings up by 8.6%. The retail sector saw vacancies grow by 6%, while hospitality and catering, as well as travel, each experienced a 1% increase in job postings.

Conversely, the sales sector faced a 9.8% decline in job postings last month. However, when compared to six months ago, job adverts for sales roles were up by 6.5%. The IT sector saw a 9.6% decrease in vacancies, and the energy, oil, and gas industries experienced an 8.4% drop.

A separate report by PwC highlighted a surge in “green” job adverts—positions focused on environmentally friendly products, services, or sustainable practices. Overall, there has been a 9% increase in green job postings over the past year.

In London, green job adverts grew by 30% to reach 58,500 positions. Scotland boasts the highest proportion of green job adverts, with 5.6% of all vacancies—equating to 28,700 positions—falling into this category.

Carl Sizer of PwC noted: “While this demand is a great signal of intent and opportunity as the UK transitions to net zero, it’s also a sign that green skills are in short supply. Given the government’s new increased targets to deliver clean power by 2030, the skills challenge is only going to increase.”

Meta Description: UK salaries rise at fastest rate in three years amid Christmas hiring surge. Discover how seasonal demand and rising wages are impacting the job market, with sectors like retail and construction ramping up recruitment efforts.

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UK salaries rise at fastest rate in three years as Christmas hiring boosts job market

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The Invest in Women Taskforce has achieved a significant milestone by securing over £250 million in funding aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs across the United Kingdom.

This historic investment is backed by major financial institutions and organisations, including Barclays, M&G, the British Business Bank, Morgan Stanley, Visa Foundation, BGF, and Aviva. The funds are set to be channelled directly by these entities or through a newly established ‘Women backing Women’ fund.

A selection process is currently underway to appoint fund managers who will be responsible for deploying the capital from the ‘Women backing Women’ fund. The primary objective is to create one of the world’s largest investment pools dedicated to female-led and mixed-gender businesses, providing them with the necessary resources to grow and thrive.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves, the first female to hold the position, expressed her support for the initiative. “We all, including myself as the first female Chancellor, have a responsibility to make the economy work better for women,” she stated. “Initiatives like the Invest in Women Taskforce funding pool are a fantastic example of the public and private sectors working together to help unlock the potential of female founders and seize opportunities to fire up the government’s number one mission of economic growth.”

The investment pool will be managed by female investment decision-makers throughout the UK, acknowledging that women investors are statistically twice as likely to invest in female-led and mixed-gender enterprises. This approach aims to dismantle systemic barriers that women entrepreneurs and investors often face.

The announcement comes in response to recent data from the Taskforce indicating a decline in funding for all-female-founded businesses. In the first half of 2024, these businesses received just 1.8% (£145 million) of the total equity investment, down from 2.5% in 2023.

Debbie Wosskow, a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and co-chair of the Invest in Women Taskforce, commented on the need for change: “Female entrepreneurs and investors have been sidelined for too long—they are two sides of the same coin. It’s time we rebooted the system and gave female investors the power to drive change, and funds like the ‘Women backing Women’ fund is how we do it. I’m thrilled that investors from both the public and private sector have joined us and recognise the enormous opportunity here, but this is only the beginning. We need more investors to come aboard and join us on this journey.”

Hannah Bernard, head of business banking at Barclays and co-chair of the Taskforce, highlighted the commercial benefits of supporting female entrepreneurs. “Our funding partners not only recognise the moral imperative to drive systemic change for female investors and founders, they recognise that this also makes strong commercial sense. Studies show that female-led businesses generate 35% higher returns than male-led businesses. The ‘Invest in Women’ funding pool is about changing the landscape of investment. I’m incredibly excited about what’s to come.”

The Taskforce’s efforts represent a concerted push to level the playing field in the UK’s entrepreneurial landscape. By mobilising substantial financial resources and focusing on female-led initiatives, the programme seeks to foster economic growth and innovation while addressing long-standing gender disparities in business funding.

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Invest in Women Taskforce secures over £250m to boost UK female entrepreneurship

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Amshold Limited, the commercial property business owned by Lord Sugar and his two sons, has swung back to profit after a challenging period marked by falling property values.

The company reported a pre-tax profit of £932,000 for the year ending June, reversing a £29.1 million loss from the previous year.

The turnaround comes as the valuation of Amshold’s property portfolio showed signs of stabilisation. Between July 2023 and June 2024, the portfolio’s value dipped by £1.2 million to £85.7 million, a significant improvement compared to the £28.5 million decline experienced during the prior year due to rising interest rates and market uncertainties.

In its annual report, the company noted: “The market for quality London freehold investment property is difficult with high interest rates, uncertainty, and falling valuations. Although this provides opportunities for investment, it also puts pressure on the existing portfolio.”

Founded in 1985, Amshold Limited manages a diverse mix of commercial properties. Notable assets include a Premier Inn hotel in Brentwood, Essex, an Iceland supermarket in Leyton, East London, and a five-storey Grade II-listed office block on Fleet Street. The portfolio also features properties like a McDonald’s in Liverpool, a Tesco Express in Newport, and a Barclays Bank in Portsmouth.

Despite the current portfolio valuation of £85.7 million, the properties were originally acquired for £97.2 million, reflecting the broader challenges in the commercial property market over recent years.

Beyond property investments, Amshold offers additional services, including accounting and IT support. The company provided £30,000 worth of services to Dr Leah Limited, a chain of skin clinics founded by Leah Totton, the 2013 winner of The Apprentice. Amshold also operates a small private jet charter business.

Lord Sugar, 77, founded Amstrad in 1968. The company gained fame for its audio equipment and the Amstrad CPC 464, one of the first home computers. Amstrad also produced the initial range of Sky television receivers and satellite dishes before being sold to the broadcaster for £125 million in 2007. Today, Lord Sugar is widely recognised as the host of the BBC reality series “The Apprentice“.

Amshold’s board comprises Lord Sugar, his sons Daniel and Simon, and long-term finance director Mike Ray. While the company distributed dividends of £390 million in 2021 and £90 million in 2022, no dividends have been declared in the past two years, indicating a focus on consolidating the business amid market fluctuations.

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Lord Sugar’s Amshold returns to profit as property valuations stabilise

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