Small caps: how to ride the recovery wave of UK equities

Google's chief investment officer Ruth Porat highlights the company's significant investment in AI for search, calling it their biggest bet yet. Google has introduced AI overviews to search results, but initially faced challenges with inaccuracies. Despite this, Google plans to continue adding AI features to search, with CEO Sundar Pichai hinting at significant changes by early 2025. Currently dominating the global search engine market share, Google remains focused on advancing AI technology to enhance the...

Porsche SE anticipates writing down its stake in Volkswagen by up to 40%, citing uncertainty over potential plant closures and strikes. The Porsche-Piëch family's holding company expects to write down its stake in VW by €7bn to €20bn, and its stake in Porsche AG by €1bn to €2bn, emphasizing that the book value of both stakes will remain significantly higher than their stock market values. VW faces resistance from union IG Metall and its works...

Major U.S. companies are making donations to support President-elect Donald Trump's second term inaugural events, a common practice to build relationships with incoming administrations. This follows a trend seen in previous years, where corporate leaders seek to align themselves with the new administration through financial support. The donations reflect a strategic move by companies to establish connections and influence policy decisions in the upcoming administration. Full Article

The Cavendish Hotel in Derbyshire offers a luxurious winter break in a historic coaching inn renovated by designer Nicola Harding. With two restaurants, including the more relaxed Garden Room and the formal Gallery, guests can enjoy delicious meals. Nearby, Chatsworth House hosts festive Christmas celebrations, including a themed display, Christmas market, and captivating winter light show. Full Article

Vietnamese property tycoon Truong My Lan was sentenced to death for masterminding a $12 billion bank fraud, with a chance for commuted sentence if she repays 75% of the embezzled amount. The scale of the fraud has shocked the country and damaged investor sentiment, leading to a government crackdown on corruption. Lan's rise from humble beginnings to infamy through manipulation of the banking system has resulted in a potential life sentence as she races against...

President Emmanuel Macron has appointed centrist politician François Bayrou as the new prime minister in an effort to stabilize political turmoil in France. Bayrou, a three-time presidential candidate, has a market-oriented economic view and supports social justice measures. His appointment has faced criticism from Macron's opponents, who argue that he lacks democratic legitimacy and must engage in dialogue with all parties. The uncertainty in French politics has caused concern among businesses and investors. Bayrou's ability...