Amid ‘instability and fear’ in Trump’s economy, Americans are cutting holiday spending

Asda has reported a 3.8% decline in total sales to £5.1 billion for the three months ending September, attributing the drop to both government actions that have undermined consumer confidence and internal IT issues that led to product shortages. Comparable store sales also fell by 2.8% during this period.

Ryanair is discontinuing its frequent flyers members’ club after just eight months due to excessive exploitation of its benefits by customers. The airline reported that while 55,000 individuals signed up for the Prime membership, passengers benefited from discounts totaling over €6 million, surpassing the €4.4 million generated from the scheme.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled the 2025 budget, introducing new tax rates and measures that will significantly impact household finances, including changes to pensions, savings, and a pay-per-mile scheme for electric vehicles. This budget aims to address the ongoing cost of living crisis while raising £26 billion through various tax reforms.

The UK energy minister, Michael Shanks, emphasized the urgent need for the country to take decisive action to prevent a potential gas supply crisis, which could leave homes and businesses without gas during the coldest days of the year. Advisers have warned that without adequate planning, the UK may face significant shortages by the end of the decade.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves's recent budget includes a tax break for wealthy former non-domiciled individuals, significantly reducing their inheritance tax liabilities. Experts indicate that this benefit primarily favors those with assets exceeding £83 million, raising concerns about equity in tax policy.

Campbell's has dismissed Martin Bally, a senior executive, following allegations that he made derogatory comments about the company's products, referring to them as being for 'poor people,' and made disparaging remarks about Indian employees. The comments were reportedly recorded by another employee, prompting immediate action from the company.

Shellfish exports from the Menai Strait have significantly declined post-Brexit, impacting Welsh mussel farmers who are now focusing on the future. The mussels, freshly harvested from the waters, are being processed in hopes of revitalizing their business amidst challenging market conditions.

Romania has successfully implemented the largest deposit return scheme in the world, leading to a remarkable 94% increase in beverage-packaging collection and recycling within two years of its launch. Residents like Dana Chitucescu from the village of Pianu de Jos actively participate in this initiative by returning empty PET bottles, aluminum cans, and glass to local shops weekly.