The Government’s confirmed key policy positions at a glance

Downing Street expects a coalition of over 30 countries to help secure peace in Ukraine, with UK, France, and Australia willing to send troops contingent on US support. G7 foreign ministers are preparing to escalate pressure on Russia, including further sanctions and seizing assets, while UK officials are discussing a potential multinational peacekeeping force involving up to 30,000 troops. European nations, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand are considering various contributions, with discussions ongoing regarding rules...

Twenty investment trusts, including City of London Investment Trust, Bankers Investment Trust, and Alliance Witan, have increased dividends for over two decades, with three trusts extending this record to 58 consecutive years. The newest addition to the list is the Murray International Trust, with 20 years of dividend growth. Investment trusts' unique structure allows them to hold back income in a dividend reserve, making them attractive to income-focused investors, especially during periods of market volatility....

Entrepreneur contributor launches own golf media brand, Rainmakers Golf Club, after feeling unfulfilled in previous role despite success. Offering relatable content and unique 3-hole challenge, the brand differentiates itself by leveraging relationships with PGA players, top teachers, and golf brands. With early success, securing partnerships and clients, Rainmakers is poised for growth, focusing on building an engaging and inspiring brand for golfers. Full Article

The race to develop superior artificial intelligence products has spurred a global hunt for alternative energy sources to power tech giants' data centers. Karen Weise of The New York Times explains how these specialized A.I. data centers are more energy-intensive, leading companies to explore innovative ways to increase electricity supply to meet growing demand. The investment in new energy solutions underscores the importance of powering the infrastructure that supports cutting-edge A.I. technologies. Full Article

Forever 21's operator in the US filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, listing assets of $100 million to $500 million and liabilities of $1 billion to $5 billion. The company, known for popularizing fast fashion, struggled to compete with online retailers, leading to its second bankruptcy filing in 2023. After being bought out of bankruptcy in 2019, Forever 21's operator Sparc Group signed an agreement with Shein, a Chinese e-commerce retailer, allowing Shein to buy a...

Investors are exploring ways to make sanctions-proof bets on Russian bonds and the rouble in anticipation of potential easing of sanctions by the US under President Trump's administration. Some are considering trading Russian assets that have been shunned by the west in hopes of a rally if sanctions are relaxed as part of a ceasefire deal in Ukraine. However, trading roubles directly is challenging due to sanctions and capital controls, leading to low trading volumes....