CMA takes steps towards probe into BlackRock’s acquisition of Preqin
The British competition regulator takes first steps towards a probe into BlackRock's anticipated £2.55bn acquisition of financial data group Preqin
London commuter slowdown dents growth at Great Western Railway and Heathrow Express operator
Fewer London commuters slowed growth at the company behind Great Western Railway and the Heathrow Express, as delays and cancellations became more frequent during its latest financial year. First Grea
Avanti West Coast: Ticket sales pass £1bn despite operating troubles
Turnover at Avanti West Coast jumped past £1bn last year, even as it was named as one of the least reliable rail operators in Britain, it has been revealed. The train operator, which is jointly owned
Gail’s Bakery to open 35 new locations amid £500m sale talks
Gail’s Bakery is planning to open 35 new locations across England during its current financial year as it considers a £500m sale. The London-headquartered business opened 21 in its latest 12 months
City rents rise as return to the office drives up demand for prime locations
Available office space in London’s most sought-after areas has slumped to near record lows as businesses continue to reverse pandemic-era working from home rules. According to global property consul
French turmoil could be a boost for the City of London, says top lawyer
Political turmoil in France and geopolitical tensions between China and the US are showcasing the UK’s status as an “independent financial centre” and destination for international IPOs, a leadi
Foreign firms launch £7.8bn summer deals raid on British companies
A raid by international firms on UK companies accelerated over the summer as foreign buyers kicked off deals worth some £7.8bn – even as domestic mergers and acquisitions (M&A) slumped. Foreign spe
Microsoft facing £1bn overcharging claim from UK firms
UK businesses are leading a £1bn legal action against Microsoft over claims the US giant overcharged firms for access to products. Filed to the Competition Appeal Tribunal, the claim alleges customer
Shein: Why the FCA is unlikely to block a blockbuster listing
The boss of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has insisted he is not the regulator of “every aspect of corporate behaviour” amid growing concerns over plans for the fast fashion retailer Shein
Natwest boss says government could exit stake in first half of 2025
The chief executive of Natwest has said the bank could return to full private ownership in the first half of 2025, a move that would draw a line under the government’s bailouts of lenders during the