Premier League clubs face prospect of higher wage bills after budget tax change hits players

The upmarket bakery chain Gail's has announced plans to open 40 additional outlets following a significant sales increase of 20% last year, bringing total sales to £278 million. Despite the growth, the company reported a widening pre-tax loss of £7.8 million, attributed to rising staff and energy costs as well as expenses related to the expansion of new locations.

Utah has become the first state in the US to pass legislation allowing the purchase and installation of small, portable solar panels that can be plugged into standard wall sockets, making solar energy more accessible to residents. This change is expected to enable millions of Americans to benefit from balcony solar technology, which is simpler and less expensive than traditional solar panel systems.

Research in England indicates that water shortages could significantly hinder the UK's plans to achieve net zero emissions, particularly affecting carbon capture and hydrogen projects. The Environment Agency has raised concerns about potential widespread drought conditions in the coming year, intensifying tensions among government, water suppliers, and regulators.

Small business owners in the U.S. are expressing concern over the impact of Donald Trump's tariffs on holiday sales, which have raised prices on popular goods and led to a significant number of businesses closing. Despite hopes for strong holiday sales, many owners remain skeptical about alleviating the financial strain experienced throughout the year.

The UK government is engaging bankers to review options for the struggling steel industry, responding to calls for potential mergers among major players in the sector. This initiative comes as the industry faces significant challenges, including rising energy costs and competition.

Research indicates that the UK has at least 8,000 illegal waste sites, containing around 13 million tonnes of rubbish, leading to an estimated £1.63 billion in avoided landfill taxes. This alarming situation raises significant concerns regarding public health and environmental safety.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that individuals relying solely on the state pension will not be subject to income tax, a move that could create a two-tier system for retirees. The new state pension is set to increase to £241.30 per week in April, just below the personal tax allowance threshold.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has confirmed a temporary solution for pensioners who may face income tax on their state pension, stating that those relying solely on this pension will not incur tax until the end of the current parliamentary term. This decision comes as the new state pension is projected to exceed the tax-free personal allowance in the coming years.