Economic forecasts and cost-of-living measures
The Chancellor’s latest Budget focused on driving economic growth and easing pressure on households, with updated forecasts from the OBR and several new measures to support living standards.
News in Review
The latest data from Halifax shows that house prices decreased by 0.3% month-on-month in September, following an increase of 0.2% in August. Meanwhile, the annual growth rate eased from 2.0% to 1.3%, the slowest rate since April 2024.
Economic Review – September 2025
UK data highlight persistent pressures – inflation stuck at 3.8% (largely due to food costs), GDP slowed to 0.2%, payrolls fell, with wage growth at 4.8%, while retail sales rose in August but sentiment weakened.
News in Review
According to ONS, UK GDP is estimated to have grown by an unrevised 0.3% between April and June, compared to an increase of 0.7% in Q1. The BCC has urged the government to take decisive action to improve the competitiveness of the UK economy. In a new report they caution that, without increasing investment and productivity, the UK risks falling further behind its international peers.
Economic Review – September 2025
UK data highlight persistent pressures – inflation stuck at 3.8% (largely due to food costs), GDP slowed to 0.2%, payrolls fell, with wage growth at 4.8%, while retail sales rose in August but sentiment weakened.
Market Update
Trump’s sweeping global tariffs have triggered market turmoil and international backlash, especially from China. While stocks slump, gold hits record highs. Investors are urged to stay focused on long-term goals and avoid reacting emotionally to short-term market noise.
News in review
The Bank of England kept rates at 4% as inflation persists. A historic US-UK ‘Tech Prosperity Deal’ promises £150bn in investment for AI, energy and quantum computing. Meanwhile, UK consumer confidence declined, reflecting continued financial pressures on households.
News in review
The UK economy flatlined in July, with no growth recorded. This is in line with expectations and follows GDP growth of 0.4% in June. Director of Economic Statistics at ONS, Liz McKeown, said, “In the latest month GDP showed no growth, with increases in services and construction offset by falls in production.”
News in Review
The UK’s Autumn Budget is set for 26 November, with speculation over new taxes as borrowing costs climb. Meanwhile, the services sector hit its strongest growth since April 2024, but weak mortgage borrowing suggests economic risks remain despite retail gains.
Economic Review – August 2025
UK growth beat expectations in Q2, while inflation climbed to an 18-month high. The Bank of England cut rates, but future policy looks uncertain. Public borrowing improved, though fiscal pressures mean tax rises are still likely in the autumn.
