Latest News
- EU commissioner urges member states to open accession talks for Ukraine
- Scientists warn that Euphrates River could face severe drying by 2040
- EPP pushes for EU-US trade deal discussions, Socialist chair insists on 19 May
- Laos detains hostel owner as investigation into methanol poisoning continues
- Sanctions target Hamas amid international criticism of Israel’s settlements
- Manchester’s Gay Village Sealed Off as Hotel Evacuated Following ‘Chemical Incident’
- Turkish Airlines plane catches fire upon landing at Kathmandu airport
- Keir Starmer pledges to restore hope and rebuild ties with Europe
Business
The EU’s trade deal with South America’s Mercosur bloc has begun provisional implementation after 25 years of negotiations. This agreement forms one of the world’s largest free trade areas, encompassing 720 million consumers and aiming to reduce tariffs on over 90% of bilateral trade.
President Trump announced that the US blockade of Iranian ports is proving effective, urging Tehran to “just give up” amid escalating tensions. Iran’s Parliament Speaker dismissed the blockade’s impact, stating it has only increased global oil prices, while tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt markets.
Meta is laying off 8,000 workers, about 10 per cent of its workforce, to enhance efficiency and focus on artificial intelligence investments. Concurrently, Microsoft is offering voluntary buyouts to approximately 8,750 employees, marking a significant shift for the company amid industry-wide cost adjustments.
The five problems with the chancellor’s U-turn on winter fuel payments – and there are some major issues.
International Airlines Group (IAG) faces potential shareholder revolt over a proposed £2.7m one-off share award for CEO Luis Gallego at its annual meeting on 18 June.
As Europe rolls into June with sunshine and a festival spirit, this week brings a rich mix of cultural sparkle, artistic flair, and sharp business thinking. Whether you’re jetting off, logging in, or just indulging in a bit of Euro-envy, here’s a whistle-stop tour of what’s lighting up the continent right now.
The FT leads with the news the US investor has backed out of rescuing Thames Water over fears of political meddling.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to unveil a £15.6bn transport investment package aimed at boosting infrastructure across the North, Midlands and West Country. The cash will fund tram, train and bus improvements, including major projects in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, and the West Midlands.
The London business newspaper CITY AM reports economists are warning the PM’s defence spending boost will come at a heavy price – and asks who’s going to pay.
© 2026 WTX News.