Podcasts about uk retail

In this episode of OFFBounds, Paula Macaggi sits down with Nigel Oddy, CEO of American Golf, to unpack what it really takes to turn around a retail business. With more than four decades in the industry and multiple CEO roles behind him, Nigel shares how he approached a company that had lost direction post-COVID, facing overstock, cash pressure, and declining performance. Instead of overcomplicating the strategy, he focused on people, clarity, and a simple vision that the entire organization could align behind.The conversation goes beyond the numbers and into the realities of execution. Nigel explains how to diagnose a business from the inside out, why most transformations fail in the early stages, and how customer experience becomes a true differentiator when done right. From retraining store teams to reduce customer intimidation to building a one-stop shop model supported by services and technology, this episode offers practical insights for retail leaders navigating growth, change, or turnaround situations.

In this Omni Talk Retail episode, recorded live at Retail Technology Show 2026 in London from the Vusion podcast studio, Chris Walton sits down with Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, to discuss the biggest policy and economic forces shaping UK retail today. Helen explains how the BRC is helping retailers navigate inflationary pressure tied to global supply chain disruption, rising energy costs, and mounting regulatory complexity. She also shares why upcoming employment law changes could significantly impact retailers' ability to offer flexible, local, and entry-level jobs across the UK. The conversation also explores how retail leaders are approaching AI, why most companies are still in the early innings of transformation, and how the UK may have a unique opportunity to create balanced AI guardrails that protect consumers without slowing innovation. Key Topics Covered: • How global conflict is impacting retail supply chains and consumer prices • Why energy costs remain a major concern for UK retailers • The Employment Rights Act and what it means for retail labor models • Protecting flexible, part-time, and entry-level retail jobs • Why unemployment and workforce participation remain critical issues • How trade associations help retailers navigate policy change • Why many retailers are still early in their AI journey • AI efficiency gains vs true operating model transformation • The UK's opportunity to balance AI innovation with consumer protection Thank you to Vusion for supporting Omni Talk Retail's live coverage from Retail Technology Show 2026, and thank you to our listeners for joining us during the event. #RTS2026 #RetailTechnologyShow #OmniTalkRetail #BritishRetailConsortium #UKRetail #AIRegulation #RetailLabor #RetailEconomy #HelenDickinson #Vusion

In today's episode of iGaming Daily, SBC Media Manager Charlie Horner is joined by SBC Editor-at-Large Ted Menmuir and iGaming Expert Editor Joe Streeter as the trio discuss the shifting landscape of the UK retail betting sector following a massive Grand National weekend, the fallout of recent tax hikes, and the uncertain future of the high-street bookmaker.Tune in to today's episode as we explore:The Grand National Aftermath: A look at the betting volume from Aintree and the controversial calls from Green Party Leader Zack Polanski to ban horse racing entirely.The Retail Squeeze: How the 40% tax on online casino operations is inadvertently forcing operators to slash costs and close brick-and-mortar shops to maintain efficiency.The Future of William Hill: Analyzing reports that evoke is looking to sell the iconic brand's retail estate and who the potential bidders might be in this climate.Community Pillars vs. "Hubs of Evil": Joe Streeter shares his firsthand experience working in betting shops to challenge the negative perceptions often found in the UK press.A Glimmer of Hope: Why Buzz Bingo and the bingo sector might be the only positive stories in a retail environment facing further sports betting tax hikes in 2027.Host: Charlie HornerGuests: Ted Menmuir & Joe StreeterProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: Anaya McDonaldLearn how Optimove's Positionless Marketing is changing how iGaming teams operate. Discover how operators are using Optimove's Positionless Marketing Platform to launch personalised CRM campaigns, dynamically change casino lobbies and bet slips, and create engaging gamified experiences. Learn more at optimove.com.Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

is week's 5 Things Friday is a fast, solo rundown of the biggest stories shaping UK retail right now.With a lot happening across the market, this episode covers five standout updates: JD.com launching Joybuy in the UK, Amazon facing fresh competition, Alexa+ and Amazon's next AI push, Tesco increasing pay for frontline store colleagues, The Perfume Shop expanding its beauty recycling and refill push, and Greggs sponsoring the UK edition of Saturday Night Live with a free sausage roll activation in London.In this episode: • JD.com expands Joybuy across the UK and other European markets • What it could mean for Amazon and last-mile delivery • Alexa+ and Amazon's latest smart assistant upgrade • Tesco raises pay for hourly-paid store workers • The Perfume Shop pushes refillable products and empty bottle returns • Greggs leans further into culture-led brand marketingThis is a quick, opinion-led snapshot of the retail stories worth watching now.Chapters00:00 Intro00:00:48 JD.com launches Joybuy in the UK00:02:59 Amazon upgrades Alexa with Alexa+00:04:05 Tesco increases frontline worker pay00:04:39 The Perfume Shop expands beauty recycling and refill00:05:27 Greggs sponsors Saturday Night Live UK activation00:06:11 Wrap-up and next week's schedule#UKRetail #RetailNews #Amazon #JDcom #Joybuy #Tesco #Greggs #AlexaPlus #ThePerfumeShop #RetailTrends

Mark Neale, founder and chief executive of Mountain Warehouse - the outdoor clothing company - joins Will Bain for this episode of Big Boss Interview to discuss how conflict in the Middle East, tariff volatility and UK economic policy are affecting retailers and the wider economy.Disruption to global shipping routes is already pushing up costs for businesses importing goods from Asia. Prior to the latest US/Isarael war against Iran ,attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea had effectively closed the Suez Canal to many freight ships for nearly a year, forcing cargo to travel around the Horn of Africa instead. That detour adds roughly two weeks to delivery times and significantly increases freight costs. Neale says companies have built greater resilience into supply chains since the pandemic, but sustained disruption in from the latest conflict will eventually feed through into higher prices if the situation continues.Trade policy is creating further uncertainty due to the impact of American tariffs. Neale questions what such tariff policies are designed to achieve, arguing that no realistic trade regime is going to bring garment manufacturing back to the United States. He also says they've tried diversify away from Chinese made clothes as a result.The interview also examines the state of the UK economy. Neale argues the country has lost “the best part of a year of growth” because the government repeatedly emphasised how broken parts of the country were — from the NHS to the economy — without setting out a clear positive vision for growth. When the new administration arrived, he says, inflation and interest rates were already beginning to fall and there were early signs of recovery emerging. Neale compares the situation to a new chief executive taking over a struggling company: you acknowledge the problems, but you also need to rally the workforce with a plan.Hiring and labour regulation are another concern. Neale describes the government's proposed Employment Rights Bill as “the let's make it more difficult for people to get a job Bill”, warning that additional regulation may make businesses more cautious when recruiting. With around a million people in the UK currently out of work due to long-term sickness, he argues that policies which increase perceived hiring risk could make it harder for people trying to re-enter the workforce to get an opportunity.Competition for jobs is already intense. When Mountain Warehouse opened a new store in Wigan, 493 people applied for just ten roles, including more than 100 applicants for the store manager position alone. Neale says that when employers face such large applicant pools alongside stricter employment rules, they are more likely to choose the safest candidate — potentially shutting out those who most need a chance.Presenter: Will Bain Producer: Olie D'Albertanson Editor: Henry Jones00:00 Sean and Will start the show 01:45 Mark Neale joins BBI 02:28 From rollerblades to Mountain Warehouse 08:17 Freight concerns & Middle East disruption 11:38 Diversifying supply chain away from China 17:44 Government stamping out green shoots of recovery & lost year of growth 25:39 Employment Rights Bill impact & unintended consequences for hiring 29:33 De minimis, ideal high street & long-term confidence

In this edition of Five Things Friday UK, Alex and Simone break down the most important retail and brand signals shaping the future of shopping right now. From Reformation's quietly embedded in-store technology to luxury pop-ups in Dubai malls, this episode explores what actually improves customer experience and what retailers should be paying attention to.We cover how technology should be woven into the retail journey, not bolted on, why wellness-driven shopping baskets are accelerating, and how global markets like the UAE are redefining what shopping destinations can be. The conversation also tackles the realities facing UK retail, from high street pressures to cultural shifts, and why optimism is still justified.In this episode, you'll hear about:Reformation's tech-enabled fitting room modelWhy “quiet tech” is outperforming gimmicksOn Running's purpose-led collaboration strategyProtein and fibre as growth drivers in grocery basketsWhy UAE shopping malls feel like retail's golden eraHow luxury brands are engaging Gen Z without dilutionWhat UK retail must learn — and what it's already doing rightIf you work in retail, brand, ecommerce, or physical experience design, this episode is essential listening.Chapter Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Five Things Friday UK00:16 – Meet Alex & Simone00:31 – Retail travel, weather & context setting00:54 – What Alex & Simon do in retail01:16 – Shoptalk Luxe & empowering store staff with tech01:41 – Reformation's “tech menu” store experience01:57 – QR codes, digital baskets & optional technology02:22 – Physical retail's version of Google Analytics02:41 – Why quiet tech matters02:59 – Has Reformation cracked in-store tech?03:22 – The future of fitting rooms04:01 – Global brands entering the UK market04:29 – Asian and US brands expanding into London05:03 – Coffee brands, Camden & taste-testing retail05:16 – On Running x Sky High Farm Goods collaboration05:40 – Purpose-driven brand partnerships06:01 – Wellness shopping trends & Nielsen IQ insights06:28 – Protein and fibre driving basket growth06:47 – Fashion buying, Olympia & industry events07:14 – UAE retail experiences vs the UK07:35 – Why UAE malls feel different08:00 – Shopping as entertainment and destination08:16 – YSL pop-up & gamified luxury08:37 – Engaging Gen Z without cheapening luxury09:27 – Safety, culture & UK shopping centres10:11 – Challenges facing UK retail10:52 – Fun over more product11:15 – Signs of recovery and optimism

In this episode of Five Things Friday UK, Alex and Simon break down what the rescue of Russell & Bromley by Next really signals for the British high street, why consolidation is accelerating, and what it means for heritage brands.They also explore:Why the UK may be heading toward a three-giant retail landscapeA standout Valentine's campaign from Thortful and how physical products stay relevant in a digital ageThe return of fashion founder Nina Hopkins with her new ready-to-wear label Sam DateWhy fashion careers aren't linear — and why that matters for the next generation of retail talentA first look at www.Keynotely.ai , a new “Spotify for keynotes” built to preserve human intelligence in a world dominated by AIThis conversation blends retail strategy, brand storytelling, fashion innovation, and the future of knowledge sharing — with practical insights for anyone building, selling, or advising retail brands in the UK and beyond.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YVCxn035iQI  Rob Edwards is dairy leader Arla Foods' Head of Media and Digital in the UK. He joins us live from SMG and ADWEEK's Retail Media Summit UK 2025 to speak about his vision of what Media means to FMCGs today – especially as a rare outsider to the industry! Tune in to hear about: Why Retail Media is just "Media" Finding simplicity within a increasingly fragmented media ecosystem How partnerships could connect the omnichannel journey Brands: how they can find the right tone that resounds with consumers The importance creating quality content More  Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fmcgguys/ Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fmcgguys/   Audio Mixing by Modest Ferrer Voice Acting by Jason Martorell Parsekian Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of The FMCG Guys (Dwyer Partners SL) or its partners. The FMCG Guys make no representations or warranties about the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any information discussed, and accept no responsibility for any decisions or outcomes based on this content. Listeners are encouraged to seek their own professional advice before acting on any of the topics covered.  

In this week's episode Nick talks to Allan LockhartAllan Lockhart is the CEO of NewRiver REIT plc and has over 35 years of experience in the UK retail real estate sector. He began his career with Strutt & Parker in 1988, advising leading property companies and institutions on retail leasing, investment, and development. In 2002, he joined Halladale Plc as Retail Director, where he focused on identifying value-add opportunities within the UK retail market and delivering effective asset management strategies. Following Halladale's successful sale in early 2007, Allan co-founded NewRiver, serving as Property Director from its IPO before being appointed Chief Executive Officer in May 2018.Nick and Allan's discussion focuses on the transformation of UK retail real estate and the future of the sector. Allan Lockhart, CEO of NewRiver REIT, reflects on his unconventional career path from insurance broking to property investment and how shifts in technology, e-commerce, and consumer behaviour have reshaped retail spaces. He explains the evolution from long-term leases to a more operationally driven market and champions omnichannel retailing — where physical stores complement online sales as critical “last-mile” distribution points. He highlights the enduring strength of convenience-led retail, retail parks, and grocery-anchored assets as consumers prioritize accessibility and efficiency.The conversation then widens into economic and policy themes. Allan emphasizes the resilience of UK consumers amid inflation and high interest rates, buoyed by strong employment and elevated savings. He calls for decisive government fiscal reform to reduce debt and stimulate investment, particularly through business rate and stamp duty reforms that could unlock real estate growth. Looking ahead, he envisions NewRiver doubling in size through strategic acquisitions and data-driven decision-making, with AI and predictive analytics central to this growth. Allan's Book Choices were:The Outsiders : Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success by William N. ThorndikeThe Fourth Turning Is Here by Neil HoweAllan's Music Choice:Sex Pistols -Anarchy in the UK This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

Jeff Grubb and Jason Fanelli chat about Ghost of Yotei's sales so far in the UK, Nintendo clashing with the Japanese government, Red Dead Redemption 2's current console ports still happening, and whatever the hell Microsoft is up to now...

Join OANDA Senior Market Analysts & podcast guest Nick Syiek (TraderNick) as they review the latest market news and moves. MarketPulse provides up-to-the-minute analysis on forex, commodities and indices from around the world. MarketPulse is an award-winning news site that delivers round-the-clock commentary on a wide range of asset classes, as well as in-depth insights into the major economic trends and events that impact the markets. The content produced on this site is for general information purposes only and should not be construed to be advice, invitation, inducement, offer, recommendation or solicitation for investment or disinvestment in any financial instrument. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of OANDA or any of its affiliates, officers or directors. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, please access the RSS feed or contact us at info@marketpulse.com. © 2023 OANDA Business Information & Services Inc

On this episode of Talking Shop we are joined by Rebecca Sawyer, Managing Director Retail, GRO. We explore the health of the UK retail property market, spotlighting where resilience and growth are strongest, her advice on future-proofing new stores for an omni-channel world, and her predictions on what will define the most successful retail spaces of tomorrow.

In this week's Five Things Friday UK Edition, Alex and Simone break down the retail trends you can't afford to ignore. From iconic brands fighting for survival to the innovative players winning Gen Z loyalty, we explore how cultural relevance is now the biggest currency in retail.Topics include:River Island & Claire's — lessons from legacy brand strugglesMango's teen range expansion and the underserved youth marketUK's booming £4.8B online second-hand homeware sectorLoop earplugs — turning hearing protection into a fashion flexTALA's scuba-tech leisurewear and the rise of functional styleIf you're in retail, brand marketing, or consumer strategy, this episode is your cultural trend compass.

In this podcast, you'll receive valuable insights from eToro's Market Analyst, Sam North on the significant daily financial news, all within a concise time frame of under 5 minutes.

In this insightful episode of Kiln DeFi Rendez-Vous, host Laszlo Szabo, CEO & Co-Founder at Kiln, sits down with Duncan Moir, President of 21Shares, the world's largest crypto ETP issuer, for a deep dive into the explosive growth of Bitcoin ETFs, the evolving landscape of institutional crypto adoption, and what's next for digital asset investing.Less than a year after their launch, Bitcoin ETFs have captured nearly 70% of the trading volume of gold ETFs (GLD)—a staggering milestone that underscores the pent-up demand for crypto exposure in traditional finance. Duncan breaks down why this is just the beginning, with the $40 trillion US pension fund market still largely on the sidelines.The conversation explores how major players like Goldman Sachs are entering the space, why Ethereum ETFs haven't seen the same success as Bitcoin (yet), and the critical role of staking in ETPs—especially in Europe, where 21Shares has pioneered innovative products. Duncan shares his unique perspective on regulation, from the UK's recent shift allowing retail crypto ETNs to the SEC's cautious approach in the US.With over 40 crypto ETPs under its belt, 21Shares has become a bellwether for institutional crypto adoption. Duncan reveals how the company selects new assets, from blue-chip tokens to emerging altcoins, and why Dogecoin—often dismissed as a memecoin—has surprising institutional potential. He also discusses the growing intersection of traditional finance and on-chain assets, including the tokenization of real-world assets (RWA) like BlackRock's BUIDL money market fund.Before joining 21Shares, Duncan spent years in hedge funds and asset management, eventually leading Aberdeen's digital asset division and serving on the board of Hedera Hashgraph. He shares lessons from his journey, including how blockchain can streamline archaic financial systems and why crypto is maturing beyond speculative trading into a strategic portfolio allocation.PODCAST INFO:

In today's episode of The Daily Voice, Sam reviews the main headlines from yesterday and previews the day ahead.

URGENT: Cyber Criminals Target US Retailers After UK Rampage The cyber attack wave that devastated UK retail is crossing the Atlantic. Our panel, including a former retail CEO with firsthand cyber security experience, breaks down the alarming reality of retail vulnerability. Key Moments: 0:00-1:00 - Breaking news: UK retail hackers now targeting major US brands 1:01-1:15 - Marks & Spencer, Co-op, and Harrods attack details 1:16-3:00 - Michael's shocking revelation: Only 20% of US retailers truly prepared 3:01-4:15 - Real-world experience: What happened when Joann Fabrics got serious about security 4:16-5:35 - The customer loyalty catastrophe: Why cyber attacks destroy businesses permanently 5:36-6:25 - Target 2013 and Vegas casino breaches: Long-term customer relationship damage 6:26-7:25 - Michael's warning: "Not your parents' cyber attack anymore" - recovery takes weeks, costs multiply The sobering reality that could save your business - or destroy it. This week's episode was brought to you with the help and support of the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Simbe, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and ClearDemand. #cybersecurity #retailsecurity #cyberattacks #databreach #businesssecurity #retailtech #cybercrime #retailnews #securitybreach #businessrisk #cyberthreats For the full episode head here: https://youtu.be/Qx2hUtMWmTY

In today's episode of The Daily Voice, Sam discusses the main headlines from Thursday and previews the last trading day of the week.

In this episode of Five Things Friday, Alex and Laura break down the strategies, trends, and tensions shaping the retail landscape.Fresh from the World Retail Congress in London, Alex shares how Morrisons is rebuilding trust with a simple but powerful 5-5-5 framework. Laura brings sharp insights from Australia, highlighting Shein's explosive $12B sales surge and what it means for domestic retailers.They also explore:The overlooked role of inclusive leadership and how gender conversations need a resetWhy marketplaces like Amazon are reshaping luxury commerceHow brands can stay relevant in an era of shifting customer loyaltyThe impact of tariff changes and cost-of-living pressure on global expansion strategiesWhether you're a CEO, operator, strategist, or startup founder — this episode delivers the frontline signals you need to make better decisions.

Is traditional shopping dead?Discover how the Stock Market School can help you turn small, consistent investments into life-changing wealth

Signal clone gets hacked Sounding the alarm on easyjson Ransomware group takes credit for UK retail attacks Thanks to today's episode sponsor, ThreatLocker ThreatLocker® is a global leader in Zero Trust endpoint security, offering cybersecurity controls to protect businesses from zero-day attacks and ransomware. ThreatLocker operates with a default deny approach to reduce the attack surface and mitigate potential cyber vulnerabilities. To learn more and start your free trial, visit ThreatLocker.com/CISO. Find the stories behind the headlines at CISOseries.com.

Join OANDA Senior Market Analysts & podcast guest Nick Syiek (TraderNick) as they review the latest market news and moves. MarketPulse provides up-to-the-minute analysis on forex, commodities and indices from around the world. MarketPulse is an award-winning news site that delivers round-the-clock commentary on a wide range of asset classes, as well as in-depth insights into the major economic trends and events that impact the markets. The content produced on this site is for general information purposes only and should not be construed to be advice, invitation, inducement, offer, recommendation or solicitation for investment or disinvestment in any financial instrument. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of OANDA or any of its affiliates, officers or directors. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, please access the RSS feed or contact us at info@marketpulse.com. © 2023 OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

In today's episode of The Daily Voice, Sam reviews Thursday's trading session which saw equities come under pressure across the board as the market digests the latest tariff updates. Sam goes onto talk about Gold hitting a new all-time high, UK retail sales beating expectations, and previewing the upcoming US PCE number.

Join Charlotte Smart and Owen Dutton as they discuss the dynamics of retail letting and asset management from both a landlord and tenant perspective, including expansion vs consolidation, changing rent structures, the need for store flexibility and the move from online to physical retail. Charlotte Smart – Partner – Charlottesmart@eversheds-sutherland.com  Owen Dutton – Legal Director – owendutton@eversheds-sutherland.com

TakeawaysRetail predictions for 2025 highlight significant changes in consumer behavior.Proposed tariffs could lead to higher costs in the supply chain.UK retail will see cautious consumer spending in 2025.Quick commerce is set to expand into tier 2 and tier 3 cities in India.Kirana stores need to adopt digital strategies to compete.China's retail market is projected to grow significantly in 2025.Experiential shopping is becoming a key focus for Chinese consumers.AI technology is transforming retail interactions and experiences.The PingTee trend offers luxury quality at lower prices.Physical retail spaces are evolving into immersive experiences.Chapters00:00 This Week in Research: New Reports and Data02:30 UK Retail Trends and Predictions05:27 India's Retail Landscape and Quick Commerce12:02 China's Retail Market: Opportunities and Challenges Dive into our predictions for these retail markets in our comprehensive research reports: Retail 2025: UK Retail PredictionsRetail 2025: India Retail PredictionsRetail 2025: China Retail Predictions

Join OANDA Senior Market Analysts & podcast guest Nick Syiek (TraderNick) as they review the latest market news and moves. MarketPulse provides up-to-the-minute analysis on forex, commodities and indices from around the world. MarketPulse is an award-winning news site that delivers round-the-clock commentary on a wide range of asset classes, as well as in-depth insights into the major economic trends and events that impact the markets. The content produced on this site is for general information purposes only and should not be construed to be advice, invitation, inducement, offer, recommendation or solicitation for investment or disinvestment in any financial instrument. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of OANDA or any of its affiliates, officers or directors. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, please access the RSS feed or contact us at info@marketpulse.com. © 2023 OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

European bourses grind higher, US futures modestly in the green.USD marginally firmer, JPY softer and GBP knocked lower by disappointing retail sales.JGBs lag slightly on further BoJ reports, Gilts gapped higher on Retail Sales.Mixed trade in the base metal complex but crude stays firm.Looking ahead, US Industrial Production, CBO Budget and Economic Outlook, Comments from ECB's Cipollone, Earnings from SLB, Fastenal, Truist, State Street & Citizens.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk

In today's episode of The Daily Voice, Sam recaps yesterday's price action where all magnificent-7 stocks finished in the red as the markets cooled down after a strong push higher on Wednesday. He goes on to mention how XRP recorded its highest daily close of all time, as Bitcoin trades north of $101k too. Finally, Sam discusses the poor UK retail sales data where December recorded a negative reeding.

On this week's AJ Bell Money & Markets podcast, we dive into a story about seven investment trusts under attack from an activist investor. The big retail companies have started to report on Christmas trading and not everyone is smiling about the outlook. You can also hear about the changing cost of keeping the lights on at home and why the Lifetime ISA is under review. There's been a sell-off in UK government bonds and the pound, causing jitters on the market at the start of the new year. Dan Coatsworth explains what's going on. [00:02:06] Hedge fund Saba Capital has got its sights on the UK investment trust sector and wants to get behind the driving seat of seven names including Baillie Gifford US Growth Trust and Herald Investment Trust. Dan takes a closer look and chats about why it's so important for investors to vote on the proposals and what could happen next. [00:05:14] Sue Inglis, an independent non-executive director from Baillie Gifford US Growth Trust, is on the podcast to share her experiences of being on the receiving end of an activist investor attack, and her thoughts on Saba's proposals. [00:11:25] Gas and electricity bills went up again on 1 January, when the latest energy price cap took effect. Charlene Young considers the impact to UK households and what they can do about it. [00:19:08] Following a miserable final quarter for UK retail, we've now got a host of shopkeepers updating on trading and giving guidance for the year ahead. Tom Sieber looks at what Tesco, Marks & Spencer, Greggs and Next are saying, and what to expect from retailers in 2025. [00:23:09] Charlene considers the reasons why the Government has announced a review of the Lifetime ISA and what might happen next. [00:35:29] Finally, Danni Hewson chats to Dominic Weller, fund manager of the Octopus UK Future Generations Fund, about whether investing for change can also come with chunky returns now that interest rates are slowly on their way down. [00:40:17]

Innovating Period Care with Ruby Raut of Wuka In this inspiring episode, Nicole Higgins sits down with Ruby Raut, the founder of Wuka, a sustainable period product brand on a mission to eradicate period shame and combat period poverty. Join us as Ruby shares her journey from a small village in Nepal to leading a game-changing brand in the UK. With insights into funding, product innovation, and the importance of building a community, this episode is packed with valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and those interested in sustainable solutions. Key Highlights: Product Market Fit  How Ruby initially tested the idea and discovered that there was a market need for the product, and how they continue to test and innovate, making period underwear accessible to all. Explore the diverse applications of Wuka's period underwear, from comfort for new moms and women experiencing perimenopause to suitability for children with sensory issues. Community Building & Kickstart  Ruby stresses the importance of community, sharing the organic reach and PR strategies that led to their successful Kickstarter campaign, including a pivotal feature on BBC's front page. Getting into retail  How product innovation meant they were able to grow their  retail presence, currently in  stores like Boots,  Morrisons, Sainsburys, Ocado  and their plans for further expansion. The Growth of the brand  How resilience, networking and hiring the right teams has helped move the brand forward  Ruby's Advice for Entrepreneurs.  Tips and strategies for new product business founders, including starting lean, proving product value, and building a competent team. https://wuka.co.uk/ https://www.instagram.com/wukawear/ Guest Bio  Ruby Raut Ruby, Environmental Scientist and listed in the 2019 Top Women in Femtech, grew up in Nepal, which inspires her work in making menstruation positive, taboo-free and environmentally-friendly. “When studying for my Environmental Science degree, I discovered that more than 200,000 tonnes of tampons and pads were sent to UK landfills every year, contributing to the mounting tide of plastic pollution. This was my ‘lightbulb moment'. I knew something had to change about the way we handled menstruation.” - Ruby Raut, Founder & CEO Ruby grew up in Nepal, where shame about periods was widespread. Nachune is the Nepalese word for period which basically translates as 'untouchable'. When she started her period, she experienced a form of Chapaudi, now illegal in Nepal. During menstruation, she was sent to her aunt's house and wasn't allowed to go out in the sun, look at men, or touch plants - as it was believed that she would kill them - just because she was having a period. Like other girls, she was given old sari rags to use for the bleeding, which happened to be reusable and eco-friendly, but not hygienic. They weren't leak-proof nor comfortable, and didn't work for her when she played sports! When she arrived in the UK, she was astonished by the wide range of menstrual products available on the shelves, but quickly realised that most of them were neither comfortable nor leak-proof, and they certainly were not eco-friendly. So it became Ruby mission to replace plastic-riddled disposable pads & tampons with the world's most comfortable and sustainable period underwear. Host Nicole Higgins  The Buyer and retail coach  Nicole Higgins Links  https://www.instagram.com/thebuyerandretailcoach/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolehigginsuk/ https://thebuyerandretailcoach.com/ https://thebuyerandretailcoach.com/newsletter-sign-up/ https://thebuyerandretailcoach.com/free-discovery-call/ https://thebuyerandretailcoach.com/blog/ Sponsor  Neon Digital Clicks  Are you ready to scale your ecommerce store?This episode is brought to you by Neon Digital Clicks, the agency dedicated to helping kids' and family brands achieve explosive growth with high-performing digital marketing campaigns. Neon's new Runway to Results programme is a revolutionary paid-advertising service that will help you understand your brand's true potential and reach the heights of success you dream of. Over the course of 60 days, Neon's expert team will test and optimise your Meta and Google ad accounts to establish your business KPIs and optimum Cost Per Acquisition.  At the end of the Runway period, they'll analyse your data to establish what profitable scaling looks like and arm you with knowledge, confidence and a clear plan for the next phase of your growth. If you're ready to elevate your e-commerce game, Neon is the navigator you need on your flight deck. https://runwaytoresults.com/ https://neondigitalclicks.co.uk/

On this episode of the Scouting For Growth podcast, Sabine VdL talks to Ola Jacob, Business Development Director for the UK & Ireland at Descartes Underwriting, a specialist Parametric Insurance MGA and Insurer. On today's episode, Ola will provide an educational deep dive into the world of parametric insurance. He'll explain what parametric insurance is, how it differs from traditional insurance, and why it is gaining traction as a data-driven solution to cover risks like natural catastrophes.  Ola will share real-world examples of how parametric insurance has provided significant value to corporate clients and industries adopting this innovative approach as part of their risk management strategies. KEY TAKEAWAYS When I started in insurance I didn't know much about it, but when you strip it down to its bare bones it's the idea of making good on your promise. That was a big draw for me because it felt altruistic. When it's done right, and someone receives their cheque for the claim after it's all gone smoothly is the best feeling in the world. The stigma we get from the bad experiences is what damages the image of insurance. The best solutions are ones that people don't know about, and ones that don't get in the way and make things better. If you're going to create a solution that helps it should have another login or portal, something clunky that gets in people's way, it should be cool and slick like a Rolex. Innovation can't be done on your own, when I won the Insurance Times Technology Champion of the Year Award, it was a reflection of the whole industry and all the people I've met on my journey that have been open to change. I don't think we've done it yet, I think there's so much more change to be had and I'm excited to see how we can push further. The biggest problem in parametric insurance is the name, because it sounds so complicated. But it's actually the simplest form of insurance there is. The Mantra behind all parametric policies is: When a pre-agreed parameter is met then a pre-agreed pay out is made. This forms the backbone of all parametric contracts. That differs from indemnity because indemnity is a promise to put you back in the same condition you were in before the loss, parametric is pretty much black and white. BEST MOMENTS ‘If you add parametric to indemnity it could really be a game changer that could change the face of how we do insurance forever.' ‘I've always wanted to come in and do something to help change insurance for the better with technology.' ‘In parametric products, the parameters must be measurable and independent, something that's not controllable by somebody else, like weather.' ‘Clients recover, using parametric insurance, with 10X less limit than they'd previously because of the speed of payout. And they'd planned how they would use that payout because they already knew what they were going to get if this event happened.' ABOUT THE GUEST Ola Jacob is the Business Development Director for the UK & Ireland at Descartes Underwriting, a specialist Parametric Insurance MGA and Insurer covering Natural Catastrophe exposure globally.  With over 12 years of experience in the London Market Insurance Sector, Ola has worked on UK Retail, Product Recall, Terrorism, Onshore Energy and Parametric insurance. Ola's background in Human-Computer Interaction and Psychology has fueled his passion for developing new approaches to risk transfer and managing risk for clients. As one of the pioneers of parametric insurance, Ola helped build a distribution strategy for one of the first successful parametric solutions in the London Market. In 2024, he was named Insurance Times Technology Champion of the Year for his innovative work. LinkedIn ABOUT THE HOST Sabine is a corporate strategist turned entrepreneur. She is the CEO and Managing Partner of Alchemy Crew a venture lab that accelerates the curation, validation, & commercialization of new tech business models. Sabine is renowned within the insurance sector for building some of the most renowned tech startup accelerators around the world working with over 30 corporate insurers, accelerated over 100 startup ventures. Sabine is the co-editor of the bestseller The INSURTECH Book, a top 50 Women in Tech, a FinTech and InsurTech Influencer, an investor & multi-award winner. Twitter LinkedIn Instagram Facebook  TikTok Email Website

On today's MadTech Daily: Fubo Launches New CTV Ad Format; Roku Enters UK Retail Media Partnership; Meta's Latest EU Compliance Updates   

Join OANDA Senior Market Analysts & podcast guest Nick Syiek (TraderNick) as they review the latest market news and moves. MarketPulse provides up-to-the-minute analysis on forex, commodities and indices from around the world. MarketPulse is an award-winning news site that delivers round-the-clock commentary on a wide range of asset classes, as well as in-depth insights into the major economic trends and events that impact the markets. The content produced on this site is for general information purposes only and should not be construed to be advice, invitation, inducement, offer, recommendation or solicitation for investment or disinvestment in any financial instrument. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of OANDA or any of its affiliates, officers or directors. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, please access the RSS feed or contact us at info@marketpulse.com. © 2023 OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

Join OANDA Senior Market Analysts & podcast guest Nick Syiek (TraderNick) as they review the latest market news and moves. MarketPulse provides up-to-the-minute analysis on forex, commodities and indices from around the world. MarketPulse is an award-winning news site that delivers round-the-clock commentary on a wide range of asset classes, as well as in-depth insights into the major economic trends and events that impact the markets. The content produced on this site is for general information purposes only and should not be construed to be advice, invitation, inducement, offer, recommendation or solicitation for investment or disinvestment in any financial instrument. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of OANDA or any of its affiliates, officers or directors. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, please access the RSS feed or contact us at info@marketpulse.com. © 2023 OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

Spending on big-ticket items like home renovations will be limited, but more affordable gifts are growing in popularity—including the “snuggle hoodie.” Bloomberg Opinion columnist Andrea Felsted and UK retail reporter Katie Linsell join Allegra and Francine to unpack the retail landscape this holiday season and what we can expect in 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join OANDA Senior Market Analysts & podcast guest Nick Syiek (TraderNick) as they review the latest market news and moves. MarketPulse provides up-to-the-minute analysis on forex, commodities and indices from around the world. MarketPulse is an award-winning news site that delivers round-the-clock commentary on a wide range of asset classes, as well as in-depth insights into the major economic trends and events that impact the markets. The content produced on this site is for general information purposes only and should not be construed to be advice, invitation, inducement, offer, recommendation or solicitation for investment or disinvestment in any financial instrument. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of OANDA or any of its affiliates, officers or directors. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, please access the RSS feed or contact us at info@marketpulse.com. © 2023 OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

European equities soar with US futures bid but slightly more containedDXY is trending lower towards the 104.00 level, with outperformance in the Yen amid tighter yield differentialsBond bulls rampant, assisted by softer UK Retail Sales, with key yield levels in sightCrude attempts to nurse some losses while industrial metals are subdued but precious metals shineLooking ahead, highlights include US Housing Starts, Speeches from BoE's Ramsden & Greene; Fed's Collins, Barr, Goolsbee & Daly; ECB's Nagel, Wunsch & Cipollone.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk

I was honoured to be a guest speaker at the recent Retail Trust Together Fest employee wellbeing event and today I'm absolutely delighted to be welcoming Chris Brook-Carter, the CEO of the Retail Trust.From 1832 onwards, the Retail Trust has been caring for and protecting the lives of people working in retail. They believe the health of retail colleagues is the foundation they need to flourish in both work and life, creating a more sustainable and successful future for the retail sector. And in recent years the retail industry has been extremely hard hit by economic turbulence. Their services have never been more necessary.Last year, over 270,000 retail colleagues reached out for help. The Retail Trust took 14,000 helpline calls, that's one every 37 minutes, provided over £400,000 in financial aid and delivered over 10,000 counselling sessions.Chris has been a passionate supporter, advocate and champion of UK retail across his entire career. Prior to joining the Retail Trust, Chris was the Managing Director and Senior Vice President of Retail Week - the most influential media brand in UK retail – and the World Retail Congress, the single biggest gathering of global retail's leadership each year. Chris led these brands for ten years, transforming the business from a weekly print title, into a digital-first information and global events brand that continues to sit at the heart of global retail by delivering on its mission to inform, connect and inspire the leaders that continue to colour this great sector.I'm looking forward to hearing about Chris's life lessons in retail and the Unlock Moments that helped him to figure out the path ahead.--Chris Brook-Carter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-brook-carter-3891474/The Retail Trust: https://www.retailtrust.org.uk/

Join OANDA Senior Market Analysts as they review the latest market news and moves. MarketPulse provides up-to-the-minute analysis on forex, commodities and indices from around the world. MarketPulse is an award-winning news site that delivers round-the-clock commentary on a wide range of asset classes, as well as in-depth insights into the major economic trends and events that impact the markets. The content produced on this site is for general information purposes only and should not be construed to be advice, invitation, inducement, offer, recommendation or solicitation for investment or disinvestment in any financial instrument. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of OANDA or any of its affiliates, officers or directors. If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, please access the RSS feed or contact us at info@marketpulse.com. © 2023 OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

"Everybody's incredibly focused and just talking about it shows a level of commitment to it. It's about being really selective with the organisations that you work with, look to acquire and vice versa”, says Andy. He describes Gallagher's global growth, the 25 tenets of the Gallagher Way, maintaining cultural consistency as the business has scaled from it US roots to 45,000 colleagues globally and the world's 3rd largest insurance broker. Andy shares Gallagher's selective approach to acquisitions and how new people are integrated and embedded in to the business. “We put a lot of time in communicating, engaging. You realise in any acquisition that probably only four or five people have actually chosen to join Gallagher, all of their colleagues didn't even know they were going to.”As well as the importance attributed to the family feel, Andy maintains the importance of high performance and the reliance on regional and local leaders to drive standards. “We are an organisation that values performance and demands performance. It's a good blend between setting expectations, equipping people to deliver against them and holding them accountable.”“Whether it's Gallagher as a global organisation or just as a UK business, another big area of investment and continued focus is around continually equipping our branch leaders, our regional leaders with the skills and tools to enable them to create that engagement.Andy share his journey from the NHS in to financial services and insurance to joining Gallagher in 2015 and his current role as HR Director – Retail for the UK & Ireland. He highlights his advice for interviewees and interviewers as he recalls memorable interviews from his career, as well as his recommendations to HR leaders in attracting the very best talent. “Making assumptions around individuals' backgrounds, career histories or organisations worked for, is not a good thing. Do not get hung up on legacy knowledge.”Connect with Andy Parsons on LinkedIn or find out more about GallagherThe Insurance Coffee House Podcast is hosted by Nick Hoadley, CEO, Insurance Search, the Executive Search Consultancy for growing Insurance and Insurtech businesses around the globe.To discuss identifying & attracting the very best talent to your team or being a podcast guest, reach out to Nick via nick.hoadley@insurance-search.com Copyright Insurance Search 2023 – All Rights Reserved.

APAC stocks traded mixed following the mild positive bias stateside where the tech sector surged on Nvidia's blockbuster reportNikkei 225 outperformed, US equity futures were rangebound, and European equity futures are indicative of a flat openUS President Biden and House Speaker McCarthy are said to be near a deal that would raise the debt ceiling for two years and cap spendingUS House Speaker McCarthy said there was no agreement on Thursday and he will stay at the Capitol to continue to work this weekendLooking ahead, highlights include UK Retail Sales, US PCE Price Index, Durable Goods, Speeches from ECB's Lane, Enria & RBNZ's Orr, Supply from the UKRead the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk

Risk tone has slipped as we await substantive debt ceiling updates into the long weekendDXY is softer, but remains above 104.00, with CHF and JPY outperformingEGBs/Gilts slipped on UK Retail data, but have since pared with USTs bid on the above toneCommodities edging higher given the USD and XAU benefitting from sentimentMcCarthy said there was no agreement Thursday; will stay to continue work. Biden said they were near a deal to lift the ceilingLooking ahead, highlights include US PCE Price Index & Durable Goods.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk

Host Alix Steel and guest host Kristine Aquino are joined by Bloomberg Cross-Asset Strategist Ven Ram to discuss the ECB's path forward, including recent comments by ECB executive board member Isabel Schnabel. They also speak with Bloomberg UK economy reporter Lucy White about the surprising UK retail sales numbers, and hear from Bloomberg European correspondent Maria Tadeo, who will be attending the Munich Security Conference.

Hosts Alix Steel and Guy Johnson speak with Bloomberg's Lucy White, Alyce Andres, Sonali Basak, and Ed Ludlow.

In this week's episode #73 of Let's Talk Money and More Podcast I am delighted to introduce you to another really interesting guest, Nicola Frampton. Nicola joined William Hill in 2010 as Director of Corporate Risk then Group Director of Customer Operations before becoming Managing Director of the UK Retail division in June 2014 during which time she led and implemented a number of major innovation and transformation projects. She has extensive experience in risk management, assurance and corporate governance across a wide range of industries, having specialised in these areas of corporate activity at both William Hill and prior to that whilst at Deloitte. Nicola is the Operations Director at Domino's Pizza UK and a Non-executive Director at Frasers Group.In this episode Nicola shared her money story, the pivotal moments in her career, her experiences and learnings that have contributed to the kind of relationship with money she has today. Make sure to tune in, this episode is inspiring, insightful and a fascinating listen. Enjoy! Key TakeawaysOur health and well being is wealth. Wealth is also about freedom. Money is an enabler and it gives us freedom choices, it allows us to support the future we want as well as the people who matter to us. Wealth is available to everybody. Believe in that and hold on to it, plan and put action into place to create that wealth but also recognise that there isn't one way to get there but several. Be intentional with the actions you are taking. Even more importantly, be aware of your limiting factors.Money is emotive. And when we are in certain situations we respond to those emotions, have knee jerk reactions and make us feel a whole raft of different emotions. Our relationship with money, how we spend, how we save, and utilise money can be very different to somebody else. That's why it is important to have self awareness and deep understanding towards our relationship with money.You are your greatest investment.Believe in yourself and believe in your capability and accepting that it really is you who makes the choices about what you go for. Your integrity and authenticity builds relationship and trust with people. When you work hard and prove you are capable people will invest in you.Connect with Nicola FramptonLinkedin www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-frampton-5a242a/Connect with Lesley ThomasFREE Money Archetype Quiz www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/resources/sma-assessment/FREE Resources www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/resources/My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/Join my Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkmoneyandmoreYoutube channel www.youtube.com/@themoneyconfidenceacademyFollow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/lesleythomascoaching/Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode #73 of Let's Talk Money and More Podcast I am delighted to introduce you to another really interesting guest, Nicola Frampton. Nicola joined William Hill in 2010 as Director of Corporate Risk then Group Director of Customer Operations before becoming Managing Director of the UK Retail division in June 2014 during which time she led and implemented a number of major innovation and transformation projects. She has extensive experience in risk management, assurance and corporate governance across a wide range of industries, having specialised in these areas of corporate activity at both William Hill and prior to that whilst at Deloitte. Nicola is the Operations Director at Domino's Pizza UK and a Non-executive Director at Frasers Group.In this episode Nicola shared her money story, the pivotal moments in her career, her experiences and learnings that have contributed to the kind of relationship with money she has today. Make sure to tune in, this episode is inspiring, insightful and a fascinating listen. Enjoy! Key TakeawaysOur health and well being is wealth. Wealth is also about freedom. Money is an enabler and it gives us freedom choices, it allows us to support the future we want as well as the people who matter to us. Wealth is available to everybody. Believe in that and hold on to it, plan and put action into place to create that wealth but also recognise that there isn't one way to get there but several. Be intentional with the actions you are taking. Even more importantly, be aware of your limiting factors.Money is emotive. And when we are in certain situations we respond to those emotions, have knee jerk reactions and make us feel a whole raft of different emotions. Our relationship with money, how we spend, how we save, and utilise money can be very different to somebody else. That's why it is important to have self awareness and deep understanding towards our relationship with money.You are your greatest investment.Believe in yourself and believe in your capability and accepting that it really is you who makes the choices about what you go for. Your integrity and authenticity builds relationship and trust with people. When you work hard and prove you are capable people will invest in you.Connect with Nicola FramptonLinkedin www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-frampton-5a242a/Connect with Lesley ThomasFREE Money Archetype Quiz www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/resources/sma-assessment/FREE Resources www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/resources/My website www.themoneyconfidenceacademy.com/Join my Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkmoneyandmoreYoutube channel www.youtube.com/@themoneyconfidenceacademyFollow me on Instagram www.instagram.com/lesleythomascoaching/Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-thomas Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.