Inflation stories - Page 3

AI dominates CEO earnings calls for the first time, as leaders pair record investment pledges with mounting warnings of an AI market bubble.

ClickMechanic named Growing Business of the Year after 40%+ annual growth and directing over GBP £100 million to UK independent mechanics.

CMC says AI, energy, robotics, defence and store-of-value trades will be the “Furious Five” megatrends steering markets into 2026.

Australian businesses could unlock a USD $60bn productivity gain by saving 8%-10% on external supplier spend without job or performance cuts.

Finance firms are shifting from AI hype to mature, strategic use, aiming to cut costs by 81% and speed processing by 73% with integrated solutions.

Innovation in European FMCG markets has dropped 20%, yet smaller brands boost sales with new products that align with consumer lifestyles and values.

For the first time, Cyber Monday has surpassed Black Friday in UK online sales, reflecting shoppers' shift towards value-driven and personalised purchases amid inflation.

US and UK finance leaders cut FX hedging to lowest levels since 2024 start, but most will increase cover if interest rates rise next year.

Almost all UK and Ireland CFOs work evenings or weekends, with 25% prioritising timely data access over inflation and cybersecurity concerns.

Air IT Group unveils a new automation-focused strategy and omnichannel platform to boost technology adoption and growth for UK SMEs facing economic pressures.

Rising economic pressures drive UK, US and Australian proposal teams to adopt AI, boosting bid quality and revenue despite tougher market conditions.

UK SME leaders focus on resilience and workforce growth amid rising costs and low confidence in economic policies ahead of the Autumn Budget.

Global volatility is revealing key risks in Asia Pacific firms' finance operations, with fragmented intercompany processes causing cash and compliance issues.

UK firms are boosting AI investment and upskilling plans, with 42% hiring for AI roles amid inflation and rising energy costs, says Barclays survey.

UK credit card balances climbed to an average GBP £1,885 in June as spending rose 4.6%, while payment rates fell, signalling financial strain for many households.

Blue Yonder expands with acquisitions and AI, securing major clients and boosting supply chain efficiency amid inflation and regulatory challenges in Q2 2025.

Security budget growth slows to 4% in 2025, the lowest in five years, amid economic volatility and staffing challenges, says IANS Research report.

Prime Day in Australia gains momentum as shoppers seek bargains amid rising living costs, with retailers leveraging discounts and omnichannel strategies for growth.

Global 3D printer market grew 5% in Q1 2025, driven by a 22% surge in entry-level sales amid tariff fears, while high-end segments faced decline and uncertainty.

UK credit card balances rose to an average of GBP £1,875 in April 2025 as payments dropped to 33.98%, highlighting ongoing household financial strain.