Double blow to London as Cobalt Holdings abandons IPO June 5, 2025 Cobalt Holdings has abandoned its plans for a $230m float on the London Stock Exchange, issuing a double blow to UK markets after losing Wise to the US today. The company confirmed in a brief London Stock Exchange notice that it “will not proceed with its proposed initial public offering”, dashing hopes for what would [...]
Natwest returns to private ownership May 30, 2025 Natwest has finally re-entered private ownership ending one of British banking’s longest-running sagas. The government sold off its remaining 0.26 per cent stake in the group on Friday marking a full exit from the lender. The Treasury’s share of the FTSE 100 lender dates back to the 2008 financial crisis. Natwest, then under the Royal [...]
What’s on June 2025 May 29, 2025 | City Talk June is a vibrant time in London, ideal for enjoying the city’s lively outdoor scene. With long daylight hours, explore blooming parks like Hyde Park, catch open-air performances, or enjoy picnics in St James’s Park. Take part in one of the sporting activities in London Sports Festival, dive into bustling street food markets, visit world-class [...]
Revolut: UK is ‘entrepreneurial hub of Europe’ May 28, 2025 UK entrepreneurship has stormed ahead of its European rivals, according to findings from the region’s most valuable fintech company. Fresh data from Revolut’s business arm shows half of British businesses using its services are startups, a figure that dwarfs its European counterparts. Their closest rivals, the Netherlands and Ireland, sit at near 40 per cent. [...]
The Emory London review: is this £1k per night hotel more fun than Claridge’s? May 28, 2025 INTRODUCING THE EMORYAs the hotel beloved by Princess Victoria and the late Queen and Madonna and just about everyone worthy of admiration, Claridge’s is considered by those lucky enough to go as the pinnacle of London luxury. Even if you visit once a year for their afternoon tea or to stare at the Christmas tree, [...]
Sadiq Khan backs calls to decriminalise cannabis possession May 28, 2025 A report commissioned by Sadiq Khan has called for decriminalising the possession of cannabis in small quantities, in a major policy pivot for City Hall. The London Drugs Commission, which was set up by the Mayor of London two years ago, argues that while the production and supply of cannabis should continue to “be policed [...]
London slips from top smart centre spot May 28, 2025 London has lost its place as the world’s top hub for science and tech innovation after a sobering report warned of the City’s slipping global status. The UK’s capital fell behind San Francisco and Zurich which stormed ahead with a gain of 16 and 6 points respectively. Meanwhile, London’s rating shed three points as it [...]
London needs the Conservatives to restore its tech crown May 27, 2025 The Tories left London with more tech unicorns than France and Germany combined. Now Labour is quickly unravelling our legacy, writes Alan Mak MP.
Panel sessions and punk music: SXSW comes to London May 24, 2025 In the first week of June, the world’s largest tech, business and arts festival, SXSW, will make its European debut in Shoreditch. Ali Lyon asks its its chief executive, Max Alexander, why London, and why now? Of the many aspirations Max Alexander has for next month’s inaugural South by Southwest London, there is one which [...]
London vs New York: Who will win the fintech IPO war? May 24, 2025 A battle with New York awaits as Rachel Reeves sets her eyes on London fintech IPOs. The Chancellor has courted top fintech darlings in her attempt to boost listings on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) as a fleet of firms are flirting with floating in the near future. Monzo is reportedly consulting with investment bankers on [...]