A South London landlord, Rongmala, is grappling with £15,000 in rent arrears and significant court delays, forcing her to wait up to 11 months for bailiffs to remove a non-paying tenant. This case highlights broader concerns among property owners regarding the government's new Renters' Rights Act, which is set to reform the private rented sector in England from 1 May.
Chinese regulators have prohibited Meta's acquisition of AI start-up Manus, valued at approximately £1.48 billion, citing foreign investment controls. This decision follows months of scrutiny and demands the transaction's withdrawal.
Pret A Manger's chief executive, Pano Christou, has offered insights into evolving consumer behaviour, noting a shift towards healthier options and sustained hybrid working patterns, particularly impacting Friday trade. Despite these changes, and a notable sales increase, the chain reported a substantial loss in 2024, citing a significant write-down by its owner and persistent inflationary pressures, including those linked to Middle East instability.
