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Showing posts from March, 2026

IndiGo names former British Airways chief Willie Walsh as CEO

The announcement comes days after former CEO Pieter Elbers quit in the backdrop of a flight cancellation crisis.

From water to council tax: How the bill rises (and one drop) affect you

A string of bill increases have taken effect but minimum wage and benefit rises will help some to pay them.

Asia's migrant workers debate if Gulf jobs are worth deadly risk of Iran war

Iran's strikes on Gulf states have been especially hard for migrants who have long supported these economies to lift their families back home from poverty.

Oil nears highest price since start of Iran war

The US-Israel Iran war has halted almost all traffic in a key waterway and the price Brent crude has surged.

US petrol price tops $4 for first time since 2022

The Iran war continues to push up prices at the pump for US motorists.

'I sent eight letters': Drivers hope for payout from car finance redress scheme

Millions of motorists could be entitled to compensation with the financial regulator setting out how to apply

How will car finance compensation payments work?

Millions could be entitled to compensation as a result of commission arrangements between lenders and dealers.

Housing market to soften amid Iran war fallout, Nationwide says

The lender says the market regained momentum in March, but rising mortgage and energy costs could hit consumer confidence.

Korean Air takes emergency action as fuel prices soar

Many airlines are taking measures to deal with the economic impact of the Iran war.

Are domes and spheres the future of entertainment?

Rivals are emerging for the Las Vegas Sphere - are domes and spheres the future for entertainment?

Millions of drivers mis-sold car finance to receive average £829 in compensation

The City regulator says 12.1 million mis-sold motor finance deals will be eligible for redress.

Why Chinese tech companies are racing to set up in Hong Kong

Mainland firms are using the territory to test products and as a springboard for global expansion.

The £5.30 orange juice that tells the story of why supermarket prices are sky high

Butter, chocolate, coffee and milk have all seen prices rocket. Tracing back through the story of one particular supermarket staple begins to explain why

Asda boss rejects profiteering claims as petrol price tops 150p

Motorists are facing higher fuel prices ahead of Easter break due to the conflict in the Middle East, the RAC says.

'Ripple of fear' over Iran war hits consumer confidence

A key survey indicates growing doubt among shoppers over prospects for the UK economy in the next year.

Just Eat and Autotrader among firms investigated in fake reviews probe

The UK's competition watchdog says it is looking at five firms in its investigation into misleading online reviews.

'Affordability is the biggest thing' - Conservatives mixed on economy under Trump

Conservatives gathered at the annual CPAC conference in Texas were mixed when asked about their feelings on the current economy.

The spiky cactus fruit giving Indian farmers a cash boost

Indian farmers are turning to dragon fruit as a profitable alternative to mangoes and coffee.

Who knew Lord Sugar is a table tennis fan?

The Apprentice candidates try to sell a table tennis set live on TV.

JLR temporarily halts production at Solihull plant

Jaguar Land Rover pauses Range Rover production at its West Midlands factory due to supplier issue.

Elon Musk's X advertising boycott lawsuit dismissed by US judge

US District Judge Jane Boyle said the company had failed to show it had suffered any harm under federal competition laws.

Don't panic - five ways to stop your kids' endless scrolling

Parenting experts share their tips on how to keep children's screen time under control.

NS&I boss replaced as savers left waiting for millions of pounds

Pensions Minister Torston Bell said those affected would receive compensation "where appropriate".

'It took six years to receive my late father's premium bonds'

Readers contacted BBC Your Voice to say they not been able to claim funds from dead family members' premium bond investments.

The Briefing Room

What are the reasons for the large number of young people without a job in the UK?

How to make the most of your Lifetime Isa

Martin Lewis explains that you can use your Lifetime Isa to buy with someone who has already bought.

Co-op boss quits after 'toxic culture' claims reported by BBC

Shirine Khoury-Haq's departure comes after a troubled year, in which the retailer suffered a cyber-attack and faced allegations about its workplace culture.

Prepare for turbulence - how a prolonged Middle East conflict could reshape how we fly

The Gulf's hub airports made long-distance travel cheaper - but now their future looks unclear.

Prepare for turbulence - how a prolonged Middle East conflict could reshape how we fly

The Gulf's hub airports made long-distance travel cheaper - but now their future looks unclear.

The homeless teenager who became a successful advertising boss

Greg Daily has swapped sleeping on friends' sofas for running a popular digital marketing company.

Octopus boss: We've seen a 50% rise in solar panel sales since start of Iran war

The UK giant is optimistic but chief executive Greg Jackson tells the BBC he is making contingency plans.

Would you build your own apps?

Start-ups are offering tech for novices to create apps with the help of AI.

US weight-loss drugmakers slash prices in fight to win customers

Weight-loss drug prices are falling in the US - but can the example be repeated?

Germany has a shortage of workers - so it's turning to India for help

The European nation, struggling to find skilled staff, is giving jobs to young people from India.

'Club vibes without the hangover': The twenty-somethings going out - in the gym

Young people are driving a gym boom as more fitness spaces are transformed into vibrant hangouts.

Home working, long leases and rise of parking apps - what went wrong for NCP

How could a company that charged as much as £65 for a day's parking fail to turn a profit?

Colombia's budding tech scene needs a cash boost

Colombia has become a tech hub for Latin America, but attracting investors is a challenge.

Sir John Curtice: Why Labour's Brexit focus has shifted from Leavers to Remainers

Will the pursuit of a closer relationship with the EU risk courting electoral disaster by alienating Brexit-backing voters?

Sir John Curtice: Why Labour's Brexit focus has shifted from Leavers to Remainers

Will the pursuit of a closer relationship with the EU risk courting electoral disaster by alienating Brexit-backing voters?

Sir John Curtice: Why Labour's Brexit focus has shifted from Leavers to Remainers

Will the pursuit of a closer relationship with the EU risk courting electoral disaster by alienating Brexit-backing voters?

Sir John Curtice: Why Labour's Brexit focus has shifted from Leavers to Remainers

Will the pursuit of a closer relationship with the EU risk courting electoral disaster by alienating Brexit-backing voters?

Sir John Curtice: Why Labour's Brexit focus has shifted from Leavers to Remainers

Will the pursuit of a closer relationship with the EU risk courting electoral disaster by alienating Brexit-backing voters?

Sir John Curtice: Why Labour's Brexit focus has shifted from Leavers to Remainers

Will the pursuit of a closer relationship with the EU risk courting electoral disaster by alienating Brexit-backing voters?

Sir John Curtice: Why Labour's Brexit focus has shifted from Leavers to Remainers

Will the pursuit of a closer relationship with the EU risk courting electoral disaster by alienating Brexit-backing voters?

Bank ready to raise interest rates if Iran war price 'shock' persists

Policymakers vote unanimously to hold rates at 3.75% after the Iran war prompts a reversal in the debate over borrowing costs.

Pay grows at slowest rate in more than five years

Annual earnings grew at an annual rate of 3.8% in the November to January period, the Office for National Statistics says.

Pay grows at slowest rate in more than five years

Annual earnings grew at an annual rate of 3.8% in the November to January period, the Office for National Statistics says.

Pay grows at slowest rate in more than five years

Annual earnings grew at an annual rate of 3.8% in the November to January period, the Office for National Statistics says.

Pay grows at slowest rate in more than five years

Annual earnings grew at an annual rate of 3.8% in the November to January period, the Office for National Statistics says.

Pay grows at slowest rate in more than five years

Annual earnings grew at an annual rate of 3.8% in the November to January period, the Office for National Statistics says.

Pay grows at slowest rate in more than five years

Annual earnings grew at an annual rate of 3.8% in the November to January period, the Office for National Statistics says.

Why the average age of a first-time buyer has risen

The average age of a first-time buyer in England has risen from 29 to 34.

Nearly 400 firms fined over failure to pay minimum wage

The official minimum rates of pay will rise for 2.7 million workers in April 2026.

How Finnish supermarkets are central to the country's defence

The chains all have detailed plans to follow in the event of the nation going to war.

UK sets target to boost steel making and cut imports

Up to half of steel used in Britain should be made there, the government says, as it announces its steel strategy.

Labubu film is official with Paddington director at the helm

The film will combine live action and computer-generated animation and is in "early development".

The Iran war is causing a global energy crisis - can China withstand it?

With oil supply disrupted, Beijing's oil reserves and renewable energy push are being put to the test.

US holds interest rates as Iran war triggers inflation fears

The US central bank is moving cautiously, despite pressure from the president to cut interest rates.

How high could UK petrol and diesel prices go?

For every $10 rise in oil prices, motorists face paying roughly 7p per litre more in the UK.

Computer says no. Are AI interviews making it harder to get a job?

Bhuvana Chilukuri has sent more than 100 job applications and is convinced very few have been seen by a human.

Computer says no. Are AI interviews making it harder to get a job?

Bhuvana Chilukuri has sent more than 100 job applications and is convinced very few have been seen by a human.

Computer says no. Are AI interviews making it harder to get a job?

Bhuvana Chilukuri has sent more than 100 job applications and is convinced very few have been seen by a human.

Bentley workers 'shocked and angry' at job cuts

A union says the announcement came as a blow to employees with up to 275 positions at risk.

Bentley workers 'shocked and angry' at job cuts

A union says the announcement came as a blow to employees with up to 275 positions at risk.

Bentley workers 'shocked and angry' at job cuts

A union says the announcement came as a blow to employees with up to 275 positions at risk.

Bentley workers 'shocked and angry' at job cuts

A union says the announcement came as a blow to employees with up to 275 positions at risk.

Bentley workers 'shocked and angry' at job cuts

A union says the announcement came as a blow to employees with up to 275 positions at risk.

Bentley workers 'shocked and angry' at job cuts

A union says the announcement came as a blow to employees with up to 275 positions at risk.

Average age of first time buyer climbs to 34

A new report looks at how conditions have changed for first time buyers since the 1990s.

Ad for AI editing app which said it could 'remove anything' banned

The UK regulator said the ad condoned "digitally altering and exposing women's bodies without their consent."

Mayors to gain more spending power under Reeves tax plans

The chancellor sets out the government's plan for economic growth, which also includes closer ties to the EU.

Typical new mortgage costs soar £788 a year in two weeks

Lenders have hiked rates on new deals and withdrawn products as war creates uncertainty in the markets.

Is it possible to build a plastic-free home?

Using plastic in construction is cheap and easy, but some are trying to radically cut back its use.

Train Delay Repay rule changes to make claims easier

There will also be additional checks on railcards during a trial to crack down on fraud.

Train Delay Repay rule changes to make claims easier

There will also be additional checks on railcards during a trial to crack down on fraud.

Teens sue Musk's xAI over Grok's pornographic images of them

Musk's AI chatbot has created millions of fake sexualised images, experts say.

Teens sue Musk's xAI over Grok's pornographic images of them

Musk's AI chatbot has created millions of fake sexualised images, experts say.

Teens sue Musk's xAI over Grok's pornographic images of them

Musk's AI chatbot has created millions of fake sexualised images, experts say.

Teens sue Musk's xAI over Grok's pornographic images of them

Musk's AI chatbot has created millions of fake sexualised images, experts say.

Teens sue Musk's xAI over Grok's pornographic images of them

Musk's AI chatbot has created millions of fake sexualised images, experts say.

Bank of America settles over Epstein claims

The lawsuit had accused the bank of facilitating Epstein's sex trafficking.

Selling Sheffield Wednesday

BBC Sport looks at one of England’s most famous football clubs’ fight for survival.

Companies offered £3,000 to hire jobless under-24s

It comes as ministers grapple with spiralling unemployment rates among young people.

Alcohol-free beer and pet grooming used to measure inflation

Houmous and motorhomes are also added to the basket of goods and services used to chart the rising cost of living.

Ukraine's urgent fight on the financial frontline

The war-torn country is battling to secure crucial funding from the IMF and EU, as well as putting up taxes.

She spent 16 hours on Instagram in a day. It's up to a jury to decide if Meta is to blame

A landmark lawsuit will set the stage for thousands of people who say social media platforms are intentionally addictive.

She spent 16 hours on Instagram in a day. It's up to a jury to decide if Meta is to blame

A landmark lawsuit will set the stage for thousands of people who say social media platforms are intentionally addictive.

We're not profiteering on fuel. But my staff still face abuse

Independent retailer Goran Raven says the higher oil price is "horrific" for him as well as his customers.

We're not profiteering on fuel. But my staff still face abuse

Independent retailer Goran Raven says the higher oil price is "horrific" for him as well as his customers.

We're not profiteering on fuel. But my staff still face abuse

Independent retailer Goran Raven says the higher oil price is "horrific" for him as well as his customers.

We're not profiteering on fuel. But my staff still face abuse

Independent retailer Goran Raven says the higher oil price is "horrific" for him as well as his customers.

We're not profiteering on fuel. But my staff still face abuse

Independent retailer Goran Raven says the higher oil price is "horrific" for him as well as his customers.

We're not profiteering on fuel. But my staff still face abuse

Independent retailer Goran Raven says the higher oil price is "horrific" for him as well as his customers.

Judge says 'no evidence' to justify Federal Reserve probe

Jeanine Pirro said she would appeal the ruling, which blocks the subpoenas she issued to the central bank.

Petrol retailers in row with government over 'rip off' accusations

They briefly threatened to pull out of a government meeting, accusing ministers of using "inflammatory language" over rising fuel prices.

Why has Trump eased sanctions on Russian oil - and will it help Putin?

The US said easing sanctions on Russian oil would provide only a limited financial boost to Putin.

Why both partners need to be across a couple's money

Martin Lewis explains why both partners in a relationship need to know what financial products they hold.

Dharshini David: Economy on shaky ground even before Iran war

The government's hopes that 2026 would be the year when growth picks up are at risk of being scuppered.

Can Ukraine's war-torn wheatfields be cleansed?

Researchers take 8,000 soil samples from battlefields to see if it is safe to grow crops.

KPop Demon Hunters to return as Netflix announces sequel

The sequel brings back the co-directors of the first film, which was a smash-hit for the streaming service.

Qantas agrees to pay $74m over Covid-19 travel voucher refunds

The case relates to cancelled flights during the pandemic, for which customers were given credits instead of cash.

Can plastic-eating fungi help clean up nappy waste?

Cost and convenience have made disposable nappies dominant - can start-ups compete?

Pottery firm Denby to appoint administrators

The famous company said rising costs had "squeezed the business financially".

Why animals will replace historical figures on bank notes

British wildlife will replace historical figures on the next series of Bank of England banknote

Jo Malone sued for using her own name in collaboration with Zara

The perfumier sold the rights to her name in 1999 but has previously said she regretted the move.

Lloyds, Bank of Scotland and Halifax apps showed customers other users' transactions

The Lloyds Banking Group customers reported being able to view payments and charges from other sources.

Customer sues Costco for tariff refunds

The lawsuit is an indication of the complexities looming over a potential $166bn in tariff refunds.

How Iran war laid bare the world's reliance on Gulf oil and gas

Countries around the world are feeling the impact of the conflict and the resulting energy price shock.

What role has cyber warfare played in Iran?

Militaries are often cagey about their cyber activities. But the US has hinted at the role it has played.

Food voucher scheme extended until September

A county council says it has earmarked £2.7m to fund the scheme until September.

John Lewis to pay first staff bonus for four years

The department store and Waitrose supermarket owner will give workers a bonus equivalent to an extra week's pay.

The Inquiry

How Poland’s economy became one of Europe’s fastest-growing success stories

US launches probe into trading partners including the EU, China and India

The move comes weeks after the US Supreme Court struck down a key part of Trump's tariffs policies.

Student loans inquiry to look at whether system is 'unfair to graduates'

The Treasury Committee will look at whether "the goalposts [have] been moved in a way which is unfair".

A small US grocer is calling out the lower prices at big chains

It is 'impossible for us to compete', says the boss of a New York grocery store.

Big Tech backs Anthropic in fight against Trump administration

A group representing tech giants called government action against Anthropic a "temper tantrum".

Countries agree to record release of emergency oil reserves as prices surge

The G7 group of nations welcomes the idea of releasing oil in response to the surge in prices since the US-Israel war with Iran began

The Aldi-style disruptors who could be about to shake up the vets market

As pet owners complain of rising prices, independent practices want to take on the big chains.

Wildlife to replace historical figures on banknotes - and you get a say

The public will help choose which animals and birds will appear on the Bank of England's new notes.

Iran war cost will be passed to consumers, shipping giant boss tells BBC

Maersk chief executive Vincent Clerc has called on the US, Israel and Iran to reach "some kind of deal".

Meta buys 'social media network for AI' Moltbook

The forum-style app has sparked interest by showing how AI bots interact without human involvement.

'Icky and heartbreaking': The $2 per hour worker behind the OnlyFans boom

The BBC talks to a Philippines-based woman paid to pretend to be an OnlyFans star in online chats.

GPS jamming: The invisible battle in the Middle East

GPS jamming has made navigation hazardous in the Gulf, spurring efforts to develop alternatives.

Spain's migrants welcome amnesty: 'It will help us in every way'

Madrid cites humanitarian and economic reasons to give undocumented workers legal status.

There’s an inflation wave coming - what does the Iran war mean for the UK economy?

Economic consequences are an intrinsic aspect of the Iran conflict, writes BBC economics editor Faisal Islam.

London mayor courts embattled AI firm Anthropic

The letter from London's mayor came as the US moved to designate the company a supply chain risk.

Flight paths squeezed as Iran conflict closes more airspace

A drone attack on Azerbaijan has narrowed choices for airlines scrambling to respond to disruption in the Gulf.

What in the World

Iran says it has closed the vital shipping channel to global trade.

Lenders lift mortgage rates as Iran war hits borrowing costs

Nationwide, HSBC and Coventry Building Society are all putting some mortgage rates up.

US eases sanctions on Russian oil sales to India during Iran conflict

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent gives India a 30-day waiver to buy Russian crude as a "stop gap measure".

Anthropic vows to sue Pentagon over supply chain risk label

The supply chain risk designation of the artificial intelligence firm is a first for a US company.

Can snacks help you sleep?

Chocolates, bars, gummies and drinks promise to help you sleep, but is the science behind them sound?

One in 7 shops in UK has turned cashless in the past year, survey finds

Some 14% of small High Street traders have gone card only in the last year, a survey suggests.

Five ways the Iran war could affect you - in charts

With fuel and gas prices having risen in recent days, here are some ways the conflict could affect households.

TfL hack in 2024 affected around 10 million people, BBC can reveal

TfL insists it has "kept customers informed throughout this incident and will continue to take all necessary action".

States sue Trump administration over new 'unlawful' global tariffs

The 24 states are seeking to block Trump's latest tariffs, which he imposed to replace levies struck down by the Supreme Court.

UK firms pull fixed energy deals as Iran war pushes up prices

Data suggests the number of fixed-term deals has more than halved as prices for wholesale energy surge.

South East Water faces £22m fine for supply failures

The firm was unable to cope during high demand, Ofwat says, leading to "immense stress" for customers.

China sets lowest economic growth target since 1991

It is also the first time the target has been lowered since it was cut to "around 5%" in 2023.

Musk tells jury 'people read too much' into his posts

The billionaire is accused of misleading investors in the run-up to his 2022 Twitter purchase.

US trade court orders tariff refunds in setback for Trump administration

A trade court has cleared the way for businesses to receive refunds for tariffs that the Supreme Court struck down last month.

We have more privacy controls yet less privacy than ever

Has online privacy become "a luxury not a right" for us all in 2026?

Higher tariffs likely this week, says US Treasury

Scott Bessent says that "likely sometime this week" the US will increase its global tariff on imports from the existing 10%.

Stock markets and oil prices still volatile over fears Iran war may drag on

Experts have warned that if oil and gas prices remains elevated it could make goods and services more expensive.

Father claims Google's AI product fuelled son's delusional spiral

The case is the first wrongful death case against Google over alleged harms caused by Gemini.

Remote work, offices shut: Tech giants scramble to respond as Iran war escalates

The region has been positioning itself as an AI hub, following billions of dollars in investment by tech giants.

Are UK interest rates still expected to fall soon?

The interest rate set by the Bank of England affects mortgage, loan and savings rates for millions.

Use our tax calculator to see how Spring Statement forecasts may affect you

Wages are forecast to go up over the next five years but you could pay more tax because of frozen thresholds.

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?

We look at the different circumstances that affect you if you're due a refund for cancelled or delayed flights.

No new tax rises in Spring Statement, but don't be fooled - tax bills are still rising

There are measures, announced ahead of the chancellor's Spring Statement, yet to take effect.

What Spring Statement forecasts could mean for your money

Among the data and projections are key figures that shine a light on prospects for your finances.

Wales' richest man says Britain is 'uncomfortable place' for Jews

The billionaire says "anti-semitism is always in the air" with parallels to the persecution his ancestors faced.

Know when to fold them: the tech inspired by origami

Origami techniques can add strength to structures without adding bulk.

Limited flights leave UAE but disruption continues amid Iran strikes

The majority of flights to key Middle Eastern hubs have been cancelled for Monday as the conflict continues.

Bars close and hundreds lose jobs as US firm buys Brewdog in £33m deal

Beverage and cannabis company Tilray acquires the brewery, the brand and 11 bars after Brewdog went into administration.

Deepfake attack: 'Many people could have been cheated'

The boss of the Bombay Stock Exchange was recently targeted in what is a growing global problem.

UK launches consultation asking for views on under-16s social media ban

Discussions over what measures to implement to protect children's wellbeing will last for three months.