AGP Executive Report
Last update: 9 hours agoInterest Rates and Costs: The Bank of England is tipped to raise rates this week for the first time since 2023, as higher energy bills threaten to push inflation up. A further 22% rise in household bills is forecast for January, while businesses warn they may have to pass on higher energy costs. Industrial Growth: The government is seeking 10 UK sites for a £700m accelerator to tackle barriers such as grid access and planning, aiming to unlock up to £2bn in private investment and create tens of thousands of jobs. Small Business: Almost seven in 10 side hustlers want to grow their venture, a new report says. It argues better support could help create employers and exporters, with a one-point annual increase in growing SMEs potentially adding £320bn to the economy by 2030. Scotland’s Economy: Glasgow’s slimmed-down 2026 Commonwealth Games generated £223m in economic activity across Scotland, including £158.6m in the city region, at a reported cost of £160m. Business Rates: Scottish Labour is urging the Scottish Government to match England’s expanded relief for small retail, hospitality and leisure firms, warning Scottish businesses risk being left with less support.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.