Junior Isas: how to turn £50 a month into £18,000 for your child at age 18

Caretaker French Prime Minister Lecornu expressed optimism regarding the upcoming budget, suggesting that the chances of a snap election are diminishing. This is significant as it indicates stability in the French government, which could lead to more effective governance and economic planning. With a hopeful outlook on the budget, Lecornu's statements may reassure citizens and investors alike about the country's financial direction.

Rachel Reeves has received an additional £3 billion for her upcoming budget after the Office for National Statistics (ONS) corrected a significant error in public finance data. This adjustment revealed that government borrowing had been overstated by £200 million to £500 million each month since January. This correction not only provides Reeves with more financial flexibility for her November budget but also highlights the importance of accurate financial reporting in government planning.

Greencore has reported a strong performance in its fourth quarter, leading the company to raise its full-year 2025 operating profit expectation to £125 million. This positive news reflects the company's resilience and growth in a challenging market, showcasing its ability to adapt and thrive. Investors and stakeholders will likely view this as a sign of Greencore's solid management and strategic direction, which could enhance confidence in the company's future prospects.

Recent data reveals that the UK has significantly increased its exports of plastic waste to developing countries, with an alarming 84% rise in the first half of this year compared to last year. This surge, primarily directed towards Malaysia and Indonesia, has sparked outrage among campaigners who label it as 'unethical and irresponsible waste imperialism.' This situation raises serious concerns about environmental justice and the responsibilities of developed nations in managing their waste.

Indian investors are keenly observing the upcoming trade talks during Keir Starmer's visit to the UK. This engagement highlights the growing interest in strengthening economic ties between India and the UK, which could lead to significant opportunities for both nations. As trade discussions unfold, they may pave the way for enhanced market access and investment prospects, making this a pivotal moment for investors looking to capitalize on international trade dynamics.

A recent report from a think tank highlights the increasing wealth gap faced by workers in the UK, raising concerns about economic inequality. This issue is significant as it not only affects the financial stability of individuals but also has broader implications for social cohesion and economic growth. Addressing this challenge is crucial for ensuring a fairer distribution of resources and opportunities in society.

A recent IPPR report reveals that one in three UK workers have called in sick after attending work-related drinking events, highlighting a troubling trend in workplace culture. This statistic underscores the pressure many employees feel to drink, even when they prefer not to, particularly as younger generations like Gen Z are moving away from heavy alcohol consumption. The findings suggest a disconnect between traditional workplace expectations and the evolving attitudes towards alcohol, raising concerns about productivity and employee well-being.

A recent report by the Resolution Foundation reveals that the average UK worker would need to save all their earnings for 52 years to match the wealth of the richest 10% of society. This stark finding highlights the growing wealth inequality in the UK, especially in the wake of the Covid pandemic, and raises concerns about economic mobility and fairness in the distribution of wealth. It underscores the challenges faced by average earners in achieving financial security and prosperity.

As British Prime Minister Keir Starmer prepares for a two-day visit to India, he reassured that the newly struck trade deal will not lead to changes in UK visa restrictions. This visit, which includes over 120 leaders from various sectors, aims to strengthen ties with India while addressing concerns about Prime Minister Modi's relationship with Vladimir Putin. The significance of this visit lies in its potential to enhance economic collaboration between the UK and India, making it a pivotal moment for both nations.

OpenAI has taken a significant step by banning accounts suspected of being linked to China that were attempting to solicit surveillance proposals. This action highlights the ongoing concerns regarding privacy and security in the tech industry, especially as companies navigate the complex landscape of international relations. The move is crucial as it underscores the importance of safeguarding user data and maintaining ethical standards in artificial intelligence.

Sir Keir Starmer has embarked on a significant trade mission to India, marking the first of its kind since Theresa May's tenure as prime minister. Bringing along 125 UK CEOs, entrepreneurs, and university leaders to Mumbai, this initiative aims to strengthen business ties and explore new opportunities. The mission is crucial as it highlights the UK's commitment to international trade and collaboration, especially in the wake of changing global dynamics.

Recent cyberattacks have significantly disrupted daily operations for major UK brands like Marks & Spencer, Jaguar Land Rover, and Co-op. Jaguar Land Rover, in particular, had to halt production at its Solihull factory after discovering a breach, marking it as the third major incident this year. This situation highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and its potential to impact not just businesses but also consumers who rely on these brands for their daily needs.

Mizuho has lowered its stock price target for Shift4 Payments due to international headwinds affecting the company's performance. This adjustment reflects concerns about the challenges Shift4 may face in global markets, which could impact its growth and profitability. Investors should pay attention to these developments as they could influence the stock's future trajectory.

RBC Capital has raised its price target for Select Medical's stock to $20, citing recent regulatory relief as a key factor. This adjustment reflects growing confidence in the company's future performance and highlights the positive impact of regulatory changes on its operations. Investors may see this as a promising sign for Select Medical's growth potential.

Mizuho has lowered its price target for Corteva's stock to $78 following the company's announcement of a stock split. This adjustment reflects concerns about the potential impact of the split on investor confidence and market performance. Investors should pay attention to how this change might affect Corteva's stock in the coming months, as it could influence trading strategies and overall market sentiment.

Zenas Biopharma has successfully licensed three promising autoimmune candidates from InnoCare, marking a significant step forward in their development pipeline. This collaboration not only enhances Zenas's portfolio but also underscores the growing importance of innovative treatments in the autoimmune space. The partnership is expected to accelerate research and bring new therapies to patients in need, highlighting the potential for improved health outcomes.

Frontline stock has received a reaffirmed 'Buy' rating from BTIG, reflecting confidence in the company's performance amid a robust tanker market. This endorsement is significant as it highlights the potential for growth and profitability in the shipping sector, which is currently benefiting from increased demand and favorable market conditions.

In a remarkable achievement, Yoshio Kitagawa, David Robson, and Omar Yaghi have been awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their groundbreaking work in the field of porous materials. This recognition not only highlights their innovative contributions but also underscores the importance of chemistry in addressing global challenges such as energy storage and environmental sustainability. Their research paves the way for future advancements that could significantly impact various industries and improve our daily lives.