The FTSE 100 has ended in the red on the final day of August, with the index shedding 28 points, or 0.4 per cent, to 7,119. But the UK-focused FTSE 250 rose 42 points, or 0.2 per cent, to 24,102.
China’s businesses and the broader economy came under mounting pressure in August as factory activity expanded at a slower pace, while the services sector contracted
Business confidence across Britain has hit a four-year high, driven by rising optimism about the post-Covid recovery, but some companies highlighted concerns about staff shortages.
The vaccine rollout, scrapping of lockdown restrictions and changes to self-isolation rules all contributed to greater optimism among firms this month, according to the latest snapshot from Lloyds Bank.
Elsewhere, fresh rules could force blue-chip businesses to allocate spare funds to pension schemes instead of hiking dividend payments after the pandemic.
Speaking to The Times, actuarial firm LCP warned that companies should not underestimate the significance of the new Pension Schemes Act 2021.
And, energy company regulator Ofgem has today launched a £450million fund aimed at projects that will help the country meet its net zero climate targets.
Ofgem will make the money available to energy network companies that are trying to ensure homes and business are going green.
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