Bad season of bird flu in UK hits supply of Christmas turkeys

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a strategy aimed at producing 10% of the UK's critical minerals domestically, a move designed to lessen dependence on the vulnerable global supply chain.

The UK government has announced a freeze on rail fares in England for 2026, marking the first such measure in 30 years. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to confirm this decision in her upcoming budget speech, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on commuters and support economic growth amid rising living costs.

An increase in property down valuations, particularly in London and the south-east, is causing significant disruptions in the housing market, with some homes being valued at 10% or more below the agreed sale price. Mortgage experts warn that this trend is 'turning deals and lives upside down.'

Duralex, the renowned French glassmaker, successfully raised €5 million in emergency funding within just five hours and 40 minutes after appealing to the public for support. The fundraising effort quickly exceeded expectations, with pledges surpassing €19 million within 48 hours, highlighting the brand's nostalgic value and strong consumer loyalty.

The trend of adult Advent calendars, which include items ranging from luxury beauty products to instant mashed potato, has been criticized by environmental groups as a form of 'superfluous consumerism' that contributes to excessive waste. Campaigners argue that the individual packaging and potential for unwanted items exacerbate the ongoing waste crisis.

A collective experiment revealed that women experienced a significant increase in their LinkedIn traffic when they altered their profiles to present as male and adopted 'bro-coding' language. This change led to greater engagement, despite LinkedIn's denial of favoring male posts.

Moody's has affirmed the UK's Aa3 credit rating ahead of the upcoming budget, indicating a stable outlook for the country's financial health. This decision comes as the UK prepares for significant fiscal measures, reflecting Moody's confidence in the UK's economic management.

US consumer confidence has declined as stock markets continue to fall and shop prices remain high. The FTSE 100 index dropped by over 1%, reaching a one-month low, while the S&P 500 also experienced a significant decline after initial gains. Concerns about an AI bubble are resurfacing, contributing to market volatility.