Author: Dave Antrobus

In the early chaos of the pandemic, investors quickly bet on fields that seemed poised for growth. Companies offering remote work solutions, like Zoom, and vaccine creators, such as Pfizer and Moderna, were significant early winners. However, while many have faced challenges returning to normal, Moderna’s path has been notably turbulent. Investors are currently uneasy about the future prospects of this once-celebrated vaccine innovator.Originally a small 2010 startup, Moderna made history with the largest US biotech IPO in 2018, based on high hopes for its mRNA research. Despite lacking a market-ready product, the pandemic accelerated its timeline as it became…

Asda has announced a reduction in the prices of essential Christmas vegetables, ensuring customers can prepare traditional meals affordably.From 19 to 24 December, Asda offers 1kg carrots, 500g sprouts, 360g broccoli, and 500g parsnips for just 15p each.This year, the promotion includes 2kg potatoes at 15p, a new addition to the sale.The initiative aligns with Asda’s broader community support efforts, including tackling loneliness during the festive season.David Hills, Asda’s Chief Customer Officer, emphasizes the importance of connecting with the elderly and supporting communities.Asda is set to reduce the prices of selected vegetables, crucial for a traditional Christmas meal, to just…

Boohoo and Frasers Group are locked in a contentious boardroom battle ahead of Boohoo’s general meeting on 20 December.Boohoo firmly opposes the appointment of Mike Ashley and Mike Lennon to its board, citing conflicts of interest.Frasers holds a substantial 27% stake in Boohoo but faces resistance over governance commitments.Boohoo suggests it could consider a board seat for Frasers with conditions, excluding Ashley and Lennon.Frasers has been accused of selectively fulfilling governance commitments, leading to further tensions.Boohoo has responded staunchly to Frasers Group’s attempts to influence its boardroom decisions. As the general meeting on 20 December approaches, Boohoo has publicly opposed…

In The Style is reducing its workforce amidst financial challenges as it prepares to return to the London Stock Exchange.The fashion retailer reported a pre-tax loss of £2.6 million for the year ending 31 March, a reduction from a £7.7 million loss the previous year.Revenue dropped to £30.4 million from nearly £46 million, with UK sales declining from £42.7 million to £29 million.The company reduced its staff from 179 to 140 to cut operational costs through automation and eliminating task duplication.Founder Adam Frisby resigned in September, having earlier returned to the CEO role after a private equity takeover.In The Style…

Stanley, a prominent drinkware brand, has initiated a significant recall affecting approximately 2.6 million travel mugs due to potential burn risks. This decision comes in light of findings by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The recall focuses on specific models with lids that can loosen, posing a hazard.The recall covers Stanley’s Switchback and Trigger Action travel mugs, sold primarily in the US. These mugs have experienced issues due to their polypropylene lids, which can detach when exposed to heat. Customers are advised to discontinue use immediately. Stanley provides free replacement lids.Details of the RecallThe recall specifically targets the Stanley Switchback…

Sake production is on the brink of a revolutionary shift. Asahi Shuzo, a renowned sake producer, is venturing into space to experiment with brewing processes at the International Space Station (ISS).This audacious project aims to understand fermentation under microgravity, with a potential outcome of creating the world’s most exclusive sake. The stakes are high, and so is the prospective price tag of $500,000 per glass.The Ambitious Space VentureA sake brewing project is set to take the Japanese beverage to new heights—quite literally. Asahi Shuzo, makers of the famous Dassai sake, announced its plan to send sake ingredients to the International…

The skies over New Jersey have recently become the subject of considerable intrigue. Reports of large drones hovering over sensitive areas have unsettled residents and caught the attention of officials. Despite initial fears suggesting Iranian involvement, the Pentagon has dismissed these as baseless claims, leading to a flurry of local speculation.These drones, characterised by their significant size and unusual flight patterns, have been witnessed near critical infrastructure. The situation has prompted emergency calls and heightened vigilance among citizens. As investigations continue, government agencies strive to calm public fears, assuring that these drones pose no immediate threat. Yet, the origin remains…

Cantor Fitzgerald, a prominent name on Wall Street, has agreed to a substantial settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The brokerage firm will pay $6.75 million amid allegations related to its management of special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs). Questions arose regarding the accuracy of disclosures provided to investors. These developments highlight critical regulatory expectations for transparency in the financial markets.In recent years, SPACs have become increasingly popular as a means of taking private companies public. Cantor Fitzgerald’s settlement emphasises the importance of honest communications during this process. The SEC scrutinised disclosures made during Cantor’s SPAC dealings, shedding light…

Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren has attracted significant criticism following comments perceived as sympathetic towards the motives behind the tragic killing of UnitedHealthcare America’s CEO, Brian Thompson. The incident, occurring on 4 December, has sparked a polarising debate around the actions and practices of health insurers. Her remarks particularly have amplified this discussion, drawing strong reactions from various quarters.Warren suggested that the emotive responses from disgruntled individuals across the United States should serve as a stark warning to the healthcare system. The backlash she received underscores the complexity of the healthcare debate and the anger many feel toward insurers. As tensions…

Time Magazine has once again named Donald Trump as its Person of the Year, recognising his significant political resurgence. This accolade, which Trump previously received in 2016, highlights his impact on both national and international stages in 2024. Given his contentious political history, this selection has sparked considerable debate among commentators and citizens alike.Having captured widespread attention with his unexpected victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump has made headlines not just for his electoral success but also for the controversies surrounding him. From court cases to nearly becoming a victim of assassination attempts, Trump’s year has been anything but…