Autumn Budget 2025: What we know so far

Energy bills are set to increase by 0.2% in January 2026 due to rising costs associated with funding the Sizewell C nuclear project in Suffolk.

The UK government borrowed nearly £10 billion more than expected in the year leading up to October, with total borrowing reaching £17.4 billion last month, according to the Office for National Statistics. This data comes just ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves's upcoming budget statement, prompting calls for her to create more fiscal headroom against her fiscal rules.

Rachel Reeves, the UK's first female chancellor, expressed her frustration with individuals 'mansplaining' her role as she prepares to present her budget next week. In an interview, she highlighted the pressures of her position amid ongoing political scrutiny and attacks.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to announce an increase in duties for gambling firms, including bookies and casinos, during the upcoming budget. This decision follows months of speculation and lobbying efforts from the gambling industry aimed at influencing government policy. The proposed changes are anticipated to have significant financial implications for these companies.

Experts are urging Chancellor Rachel Reeves to initiate a comprehensive revaluation of council tax properties in the upcoming budget. This call comes as the Treasury is reportedly planning to update the valuations of homes in the top three council tax bands, which have not been revised since 1991. The proposed changes aim to address disparities in council tax bills across different regions.

Research indicates that artificial intelligence (AI) has significant limitations in providing reliable financial advice. Despite its growing presence in financial planning, AI still requires substantial development to meet the complexities of individual financial needs and market dynamics.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to announce a £1.7 billion plan for the extension of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Thamesmead, one of London's most deprived areas. This funding aims to improve connectivity and is expected to facilitate the development of thousands of new homes in the region. The announcement is anticipated during the upcoming budget presentation next week.

Critics have described the current council tax system as chaotic, with some households in Blackpool facing higher bills than those in affluent areas of London. The potential changes to council tax are raising concerns as they could significantly increase annual costs for many families. Following the abandonment of a plan to raise income tax, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to implement smaller tax measures to address public finance issues.