Expert views
Commentary submitted by Dan Coatsworth in their own words.
Back to profileShell cuts gas production outlook blaming Middle East conflict
While the big increase in energy prices should boost Shell’s profit, the company also has a significant operational footprint in the Middle East which has been disrupted by the fighting.
Oil prices nudge higher amid caution ahead of Trump’s Iran deadline
Markets were steady with investors largely non-committal as they await the apparent cliff-edge deadline imposed by the Trump administration.
US billionaire plots £48bn takeover of Universal Music Group
On paper, you might think UMG is a money-making machine. In reality, it’s not that simple.
Retail sales dip amid wet weather and weaker supermarket trading
Households might feel no choice but to watch their spending more closely and that is terrible news for retailers.
NS&I faces paying hundreds of millions of pounds over bereaved families blunder
News that thousands of bereaved families faced delays accessing their relatives’ Premium Bonds will be bruising for its reputation.
Currys boss to stand down after eight years in top job
The CEO leaves on a high.
Next reveals £15m cost hit from Iran war and warns prices may need to rise
If there are any companies better at navigating the ins and outs of being a public company than Next, they’re certainly few and far between.
UK faces weaker economic growth and higher inflation due to Iran war – OECD
The last thing Chancellor Rachel Reeves wants is for her growth plan to be derailed, but it’s clear that she needs to consider such a scenario.
Vets to be legally required to publish price lists and cap prescription fees
The competition watchdog has been sniffing around the sector for some time, casting uncertainty over the likes of CVS and Pets at Home.
B&Q and Screwfix owner hails ‘rapid progress’ as profits jump
It’s a lot simpler to get a tradesperson to do the work, and those experts must source the materials from somewhere.
Gas prices soar as Shell plant damaged in attack on Qatar energy site
The Fed and Bank of England are in a state of limbo while they wait to see if the Middle East crisis will trigger a long-lasting inflation shock.
BP hikes cost-cutting target again after striking deal to sell German refinery
Higher oil and gas prices should improve the financial position of BP