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Business news 24 October 2025

The UK economy delivered a mixed picture for small and medium-sized enterprises this week. Ministers are weighing tax rises while pushing to cut red tape; manufacturing and investment remain weak, and wage pressures continue to squeeze cash flow. Yet retail sales surprised on the upside and bank profits improved. Globally, oil prices jumped on new Russia sanctions, raising inflation risks, while Apple and China both faced legal and political headwinds in Britain. For SMEs selling on credit, the climate remains challenging — margins are narrow, borrowing costs high, and prompt-payment discipline more important than ever.

cpa.co.uk/business-news-24-october-2025/