Latest Business News
UK Small Business Confidence Plunges to Pandemic Lows
The Federation of Small Businesses confidence index fell to minus 71, the weakest since 2020, with taxation now the top concern for nearly two-thirds of firms. 26% reduced headcount last quarter, and investment intentions dropped sharply amid rising costs post-Budget.
Insolvency risks mount in pubs, restaurants, recruiters, and retailers.
Global Equity Markets Hit Record Highs Despite Uncertainty
S&P 500, Nasdaq, and European stocks reached all-time peaks, while FTSE 100 hovered above 10,130 awaiting UK GDP data. Gold surged above $4,600/oz on US monetary concerns weakening the dollar; oil rose on Iran tensions.
Sterling strengthened to $1.35 vs USD.
Elon Musk: AI Abundance Makes Retirement Savings Irrelevant
Elon Musk stated saving for retirement is pointless as AI will create a world of abundance where it 'won't matter'. This reflects optimism on AI-driven economic transformation amid broader tech debates.
Published January 13, 2026.
Wall Street Expects Trump's Fed Plans to Backfire on Rate Cuts
Analysts predict Trump's Fed nominee push will emphasize independence, potentially blocking rate cuts. Any nominee must prove apolitical stance amid political pressures.
Reported January 13, 2026.
Trump Threatens 25% Tariffs on Iran Trading Partners
Trump vowed 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran, escalating trade pressures. This comes amid broader Asia market reactions and US policy shifts.
Featured in Bloomberg Daybreak Europe on January 13, 2026.
Global PMI Ends 2025 at Six-Month Low Amid Low Confidence
December PMI showed weakest growth in six months, with subdued business expectations due to economic and political uncertainty. US and eurozone confidence fell below averages; Japan led positivity.
Emerging markets like India slowed, China modest.
BlackRock Cuts 250 Employees Firm-Wide
BlackRock announced layoffs of 250 staff across the firm amid market adjustments. This reflects ongoing cost controls in asset management.
Breaking news from January 13, 2026 broadcast.
SK Hynix to Invest $12.9B in South Korea Chip Facilities
SK Hynix plans $12.9 billion spending on chip packaging facilities in South Korea. Boosts semiconductor sector amid global tech race.
Announced January 13, 2026.
Trump Targets Credit Card Rates and Tech Data Center Bills
Trump stated tech firms must pay their data center electricity bills and aims to target high credit card rates. Part of wider economic policy signals.
From Asia Trade updates on January 13.
US Close to Finalizing Trade Pact with Taiwan
Sources indicate US nearing a trade agreement with Taiwan amid regional tensions. Repeated in multiple segments, highlighting strategic importance.
Reported January 13, 2026.
UBS to Hire 100 Front-Office Staff in APAC Wealth Management
UBS CEO Sergio Ermotti clarified hiring 100 staff across broader APAC, not just China. Supports Asia expansion strategy.
Exclusive interview January 13, 2026.
Exxon CEO at Odds with Trump Over Venezuela
Trump threatens to bar Exxon from Venezuela after CEO Darren Woods gave reality check on operations. Woods emerged as industry voice.
Reported January 12, but relevant today.