Month: March 2025

Ontario has taken the dramatic step of pulling more than 3,600 US-produced alcohol products from its Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) catalogue.
Premier Doug Ford describes this as the province’s “first round of retaliation” against Donald Trump’s latest raft of tariffs targeting Canadian goods.
As the exclusive wholesaler in the province, the LCBO’s decision effectively cuts off the supply of key American brands to not only Ontario’s consumers, but also to bars, restaurants and retailers that rely on LCBO stock. The agency’s website was temporarily taken offline to remove US listings, though customers can still purchase existing inventory in-store for the time being.
The move carries significant weight: Ontario is one of the world’s largest buyers of American alcohol, selling nearly £570 million (CA$965 million) worth of US wine, beer, cider and spirits each year. Ford has indicated these products will remain off shelves and in LCBO warehouses until the White House reverses its position.
Industry voices in the province appear broadly supportive. The Ontario Restaurant Hotel and Motel Association is urging locals to embrace home-grown alternatives in solidarity. Meanwhile, the Ontario Craft Brewers Association backs the ban, arguing that US tariffs on steel and aluminium raise costs for local brewers, jeopardising their competitiveness.
However, industry groups such as Restaurants Canada worry that escalating the trade war will hurt hospitality businesses already struggling with staffing and cost pressures. Many have called on government to reduce taxes and tariffs to protect jobs and help maintain affordable consumer prices.
Ontario’s stand is not isolated: several other provinces, including British Columbia and Quebec, have followed suit with their own measures against US-made drink imports. While the Trump administration insists its tariffs are needed to secure better trade deals, critics point out that both sides risk economic pain if tensions continue to mount.
Read more:
Ontario pulls US alcohol from LCBO in retaliation against Trump tariffs

The Bank of England has cautioned that US president Donald Trump’s escalating trade tariffs will likely leave British households with less disposable income.
Speaking before MPs, Governor Andrew Bailey described the risks to the UK and global economies as “substantial” and warned that any disruption to trade flows could reduce output and raise costs.
Megan Greene, a member of the Bank’s monetary policy committee, highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the extent of Washington’s protectionist measures and how other nations might respond. She noted that tariffs on British exports to the US would exert “downward pressure” on UK growth but also potentially dampen inflation. On the other hand, the higher costs associated with fragmenting supply chains could weigh on the UK economy while fuelling price rises.
Professor Alan Taylor, another committee member, agreed that the balance of risk is heavily tilted to the downside. “If you put sand in those wheels of trade, we’re going to be worse off on some margin,” he said. Bailey echoed these concerns, stressing that open trade fosters innovation and growth, and urged the settlement of disputes through established institutions like the World Trade Organization.
Trump administration officials argue that tariffs help secure better deals for the US. However, critics say such policies inflate consumer prices at home while threatening economic vitality elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Bailey warned of further upheaval if the US withdraws from bodies such as the International Monetary Fund or the World Bank, calling the idea “very damaging for the world.” The newly appointed US treasury secretary, Scott Bessent, has expressed support for multilateral cooperation, a stance Bailey said he “strongly” welcomes.
Read more:
US tariffs threaten British consumers’ pockets, warn Bank of England

Kaleb Cooper, the 26-year-old breakout star of Jeremy Clarkson’s hit series Clarkson’s Farm, has officially joined the millionaire ranks.
Newly filed company accounts show that his production firm, Kaleb Cooper Productions, amassed £910,000 in profit over the past year, contributing to a total of £960,000 in assets — including £400,000 in cash.
This windfall, combined with further earnings from his agricultural businesses, puts Cooper comfortably past the seven-figure milestone.
The rise is particularly striking given Cooper’s comments just two years ago about paying himself only 50p an hour. Back then, he was grappling with the unpredictable costs of launching his own ventures, such as buying and rearing calves to sell on for profit. His famously tough schedule — often working 18-hour days without a break — underscores how hard he has laboured to turn his ambitions into reality.
Having set up Kaleb Cooper Productions in 2021, Cooper runs it alongside two farming ventures: K Cooper Contracting and K Cooper Holdings. These side businesses have jointly generated around £100,000 in profits. With this success, the Chipping Norton native is closer than ever to fulfilling his long-held dream of owning his own farm — a goal he has described as his “one goal in life.”
Meanwhile, the personal news keeps coming. Cooper recently announced that he and his fiancée, Taya, are expecting their third child, adding another dimension to his ever-changing life off the farm.
Read more:
Kaleb Cooper becomes a millionaire, just two years after 50p-an-hour farm work

Barings Law, a leading Manchester-based firm, has won a pivotal High Court appeal that could allow thousands of consumers to obtain swifter justice in motor finance commission claims.
The judgment, handed down today, permits more than 5,000 claimants to move forward as part of eight omnibus actions rather than filing separate individual cases.
This major ruling, in the case Stuart Angel and Others v Black Horse Limited and Others, overturns a previous court decision which would have forced every claimant to bring their claim individually—causing likely delays, higher costs, and inconsistent outcomes. By keeping the omnibus cases together in Birmingham, the process should become more efficient and may prompt major motor finance companies such as Black Horse, BMW Financial Services, and Volkswagen Financial Services to consider early settlements.
The origins of the motor finance commission scandal date back to a 2019 investigation by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which found that many car dealers and brokers were inflating interest rates on finance agreements in order to increase commissions. These practices often involved inadequate disclosure to consumers, sparking thousands of complaints and claims.
Craig Cooper, Managing Director at Barings Law, described the ruling as a “major breakthrough” for consumer rights. “This is a huge moment for the thousands of people who have been misled and overcharged by finance companies. Instead of facing costly and time-consuming individual cases, claimants can now pursue justice as part of omnibus actions, making access to justice fairer and more efficient for everyone involved,” he said.
The firm initially issued the eight omnibus actions in November 2022, but Birmingham County Court subsequently ruled that the claims could not continue on a group basis and should instead proceed as individual actions—a decision that would have significantly increased both time and cost for those seeking redress. Barings Law appealed, and Mr. Justice Ritchie has now overturned that decision, clearing the way for the claims to remain part of the group proceedings.
Cooper highlighted the broader significance of this ruling for consumers, noting that it establishes a clear and financially viable route for those who have traditionally encountered barriers to compensation. “For too long, people have faced hurdles in receiving the restitution they deserve. This ruling offers a viable path to justice and sends a strong message to motor finance companies that they will be held accountable for their actions,” he added.
As the first High Court precedent that addresses the use of omnibus claim forms in motor finance commission claims, the ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications for the industry. By allowing group actions to proceed, legal costs can be contained, making it more realistic for consumers to challenge and seek compensation from finance providers. Barings Law anticipates that the decision will encourage other law firms to pursue group actions in cases where unfair practices have taken place.
The firm will continue to advocate on behalf of the thousands of claimants involved, seeking to ensure that everyone affected by these alleged finance misrepresentations receives fair compensation. A further court date will be scheduled in the near future to determine next steps.
“As a firm, we are driven by the belief that justice should be accessible to all, and this ruling supports that principle,” said Cooper. “It proves that in an ever-accelerating world, the legal system must adapt to offer consumers a fair, affordable, and prompt way to stand up for their rights. Today’s victory isn’t just about one case; it’s about challenging powerful institutions and securing the justice that people deserve.”
Read more:
High Court overturns ruling in landmark judgement, clearing way for thousands of motor finance claims

Cashflow management platform Lenkie has announced £49 million in fresh Series A funding—comprising £4 million in equity and a £45 million debt facility—to boost its payables financing solution for UK SMEs.
Led by a major US private credit fund, the round aims to tackle a reported £22 billion shortfall in UK SME funding as banks continue to retreat from business lending.
Founded in 2021 by Sanjeev Jeyakumar and Nnaemeka Obodoekwe, Lenkie pays suppliers upfront on behalf of growing businesses to cover vital costs such as stock, subcontractor payments, and equipment. By relying on real-time data for instant underwriting, Lenkie offers an alternative to the “slow and rigid” traditional borrowing process. Having already financed over £70 million and paid 2,000 suppliers across 40 countries, the company’s transaction-based approach reduces risk, lowers costs, and aligns with SMEs’ real-time needs.
Jeyakumar, a former Citigroup credit trader, said: “We’re using data and technology to understand the nuances of each business and provide fast, flexible capital. By financing specific transactions, we’re creating a new model of financial inclusion that aligns with how modern businesses operate and grow.”
Amid skyrocketing demand for alternative funding options, Lenkie’s tailored model could prove pivotal. The company plans to use the new capital to refine its data-driven underwriting, scale partnerships with major platforms, and potentially enter new markets. By bridging SMEs’ working capital gaps, Lenkie aims to spur growth among smaller enterprises, which drive 60% of UK employment and 50% of GDP—and remain underserved by traditional lenders.
Read more:
Lenkie raises £49m to expand transaction-focused SME financing in the UK

New research from EngineeringUK and The Royal Society, released during National Careers Week (3-8 March), shows that young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are more inclined towards technology and computing careers than their non-SEND counterparts.
The findings come from the Science Education Tracker, a large-scale study exploring 7,200 pupils’ experiences and aspirations in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM).
The survey reveals that nearly half (47%) of both SEND and non-SEND students are keen on an engineering career, with SEND pupils leading the way in technology and computing aspirations at 43%, compared to 37% among non-SEND students. There is little difference when it comes to interest in maths-focused roles, with 35% of SEND students and 37% of non-SEND students expressing enthusiasm, but fewer SEND pupils (39%) are interested in a science career than their non-SEND counterparts (48%).
Despite these promising levels of interest, SEND pupils remain underrepresented in engineering and technology jobs, currently making up 14% of that workforce compared with 18% in other sectors.
The survey also highlights that SEND students have fewer opportunities to engage with STEM content online and are less likely to receive comprehensive careers guidance or participate in STEM work experience. “It’s great to see strong interest in engineering among both SEND and non-SEND students,” says Becca Gooch, Head of Research at EngineeringUK. “And it’s particularly encouraging that SEND students are leading the way in tech careers. But we need to ensure all young people have access to training, role models, and clear routes into engineering and technology.”
EngineeringUK notes that between now and 2030, the UK is set to see faster-than-average growth in engineering and technology roles, which underscores the urgency of addressing the diversity gap.
In pursuit of this goal, the organisation has prioritised SEND schools in its outreach programmes, including the Neon initiative, designed to inspire pupils about STEM pathways. First conducted in 2016 and 2019, the Science Education Tracker gathers data on students’ perceptions and attitudes toward STEM.
Read more:
Tech careers appeal more to SEND students, new survey finds

Cryptocurrencies soared on Sunday as President Trump named five digital tokens set to form part of a United States “crypto reserve”.
In a surprise announcement, Trump revealed that XRP, cardano (ADA), solana (SOL), bitcoin (BTC) and ethereum (ETH) will comprise the government-backed reserve in a move aimed at bolstering the status of digital assets.
Values of XRP, SOL and ADA initially soared, with XRP jumping from $2.23 to $2.99—adding $44 billion to its market value—and solana gaining 20 per cent in minutes. The second wave of buying was sparked by Trump’s later disclosure that bitcoin and ethereum would also be included; BTC jumped 9 per cent to approach $93,000. While the president touted the strategic reserve’s goal of making the US the “crypto capital of the world”, questions remain about how it will function and whether investor losses might be protected by federal guarantees.
Trump’s administration has simultaneously shelved plans for a government-backed “digital dollar” via the Federal Reserve, opting instead to focus on private stablecoins. This policy shift forms part of a wider Republican agenda to provide stronger support for the crypto industry, which has struggled through high-profile collapses and increased volatility in recent years.
Despite the announcement, broader markets were unsettled by new tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico due to come into force this week. Commerce secretary Howard Lutnick did not confirm if the levies would reach 25 per cent as initially promised, though he emphasised that the measures are being taken in response to concerns over migrant flows and alleged drug trafficking.
With a fresh “crypto roundtable summit” scheduled at the White House, industry insiders are optimistic about long-term growth—though the administration’s trade disputes and stances on regulation could spark continued unpredictability in global financial markets.
Read more:
Cryptocurrencies surge as Trump unveils us ‘crypto reserve’

Channel 4’s commercial arm, Channel 4 Sales, has unveiled an exclusive competition for UK-based Certified B Corporations (“B Corps”), offering five winners the chance to share in £600,000 of free advertising airtime.
Partnering with B Lab UK – the non-profit behind the UK B Corp movement – Channel 4 seeks to showcase businesses that meet rigorous social and environmental standards and position them as a force for good in the marketplace.
The competition, called Channel 4 proudly supports B Corp: using business as a force for good, aims to increase public awareness of what it truly means to be a B Corp while challenging any misconceptions around sustainable business practices. Each winning company will receive £120,000 in commercial airtime on Channel 4’s main channel, which reaches nearly 32 million adults per month, giving them the potential to attract new audiences. In addition, the initiative supports Action 5 of the Ad Net Zero Action Plan by leveraging advertising to foster positive consumer behaviour change.
Channel 4 has long addressed climate and environmental issues through its programming. It now aims to extend its focus to off-screen efforts, encouraging the advertising industry to actively support sustainable practices. The broadcaster’s own company-wide targets, verified by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), commit to a 90% reduction in Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 2050.
“Channel 4 is renowned for addressing climate and sustainability issues in its programming to drive national conversations and inspire change,” said Ewan Douglas, Head of Sales Nations & Regions & Business Development at Channel 4 Sales. “We want to take that a step further by turning our attention to the impact of adverts and rewarding those who commit to sustainable practices. We’d encourage all eligible businesses to apply.”
Ros Holley, Director of Communications & Marketing at B Lab UK, added: “This is an exciting opportunity to empower B Corps across the UK to reach new audiences. As one of the fastest-growing B Corp communities in the world, UK B Corps of all sectors and sizes are proving that businesses can be a force for good. Channel 4’s mission to champion unheard voices aligns perfectly with our own goals.”
How to apply
Applications for the competition are open now , with full eligibility criteria available on Channel 4 Sales’ website: https://www.channel4sales.com/business-good/bcorp
All applicants must hold certified B Corp status, demonstrating high social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. This latest move by Channel 4 to promote sustainable advertising underscores the broadcaster’s commitment to advancing social and environmental agendas both on and off-screen.
Read more:
Channel 4 sales launches competition to champion sustainable B Corps

Dimitrios Kiourtziev, a seasoned capital strategist operating from Dubai, has forged a reputation through consistently successful global ventures.
His market experience spans diverse sectors, having assembled a robust portfolio encompassing commercial real estate, culinary enterprises, financial technology, entertainment venues, and digital gaming platforms. The entrepreneur operates by pinpointing and nurturing ventures positioned for exceptional growth trajectories.
Kiourtziev Dimitrios has more than a decade of experience in the commercial real estate sector, with successful investments in the biggest cities of Europe and the Middle East. With an eye for resource optimization and conservation, he has been involved in a wide range of projects promising a high return-on-investment. His experience spans the full cycle of commercial properties – from development through operations – including retail centers, corporate towers, flexible workspaces, hospitality venues, and wellness facilities. Kiourtziev Dimitrios is currently developing a 150,000 sq. m. logistics facility, adding to his experience with industrial properties.
Dimitrios Kiourtziev has also played a key role in various consumer-facing industries. In terms of the entertainment world, he backs the latest trends and technologies in the flourishing gaming sector. He has also made his mark with the development and management of several movie theaters, with an emphasis on scaling operations for success. Among his most recent projects in this field is a 6,000 square meter children’s entertainment park that opened in a major shopping center in 2023. The center has remained a steady performer within his portfolio.
Within financial technology, Kiourtziev Dimitrios partners with Eco Finance, established in 2015 to address credit accessibility gaps. The venture connects underserved European consumers with lending solutions, expanding financial services to previously excluded communities.
Dimitrios Kiourtziev is also experienced in the F&B industry. Among his latest projects was the introduction of the international Syrovarnya Cheesefarm restaurant chain to the UAE market in 2024. This unique establishment specializes in producing cheese on-site using organic milk sourced from local Emirati farms, bringing an authentic farm-to-table experience to Dubai’s dining scene.
Kiourtziev Dimitrios holds a degree from the University of Westminster in London. His hobbies include physical activities such as boxing and the Mexican racket sport padel, as well as intellectual activities such as chess. He brings the same sense of competitiveness, focus, and strategy to these pastimes as he does to the development of his professional portfolio. Based in Dubai today, Dimitrios Kiourtziev continues to seek out promising new ventures and partnerships to drive innovation and his personal career growth.
Read more:
Dimitrios Kiourtziev: Portfolio Overview