Author: Sam Allcock

A US technology firm unknowingly employed a North Korean IT worker who later compromised their sensitive data. The situation escalated when the worker demanded a ransom after being dismissed, highlighting significant threats within remote working environments.Remote work, while convenient, can expose companies to unexpected security threats. This became evident when a US firm found themselves victimised by a cyberattack orchestrated by a North Korean posing as a legitimate employee.North Korean hackers have been increasingly infiltrating US companies by posing as legitimate remote workers. In a recent case, a US firm hired an IT worker, unaware of his true identity, leading…

Aldi is introducing updated packaging to support its commitment to animal welfare, providing 20% more space for fresh chickens compared to industry standards.Starting 30 October, shoppers will observe new labels reflecting enhanced welfare measures for chicken products.This initiative follows Aldi’s earlier move to stop selling eggs from caged hens, achieving its cage-free target ahead of schedule.The retailer’s changes coincide with similar industry efforts, including competitor Lidl’s 20% space increase for chicken welfare.Aldi’s new policy is backed by collaboration with suppliers, ensuring improved welfare conditions without compromising value.Aldi is set to enhance its animal welfare standards with the introduction of new…

Amazon is set to announce its Q3 earnings on October 31, 2024, sparking discussions about whether its stock could reach $200 before the report. This anticipation comes amidst expectations of strong performance, driven by key business areas.Anticipating Amazon’s Q3 EarningsAmazon’s earnings report for Q3 is highly anticipated, with analysts expecting notable contributions from Amazon Web Services (AWS), the arm responsible for most of the company’s profits. This focus reflects a shift towards higher-margin services that play a crucial role in the company’s success.Concerns, however, linger around the sustainability of AWS’s profit margins, which have seen a decline from 37.6% in…

Lidl is significantly expanding its plant-based product range across the UK, reacting to a noticeable increase in consumer demand.Demand for plant-based products at Lidl has risen by 12% over the past year, prompting the retailer to triple its range.The new range, named Vemondo! Plant Based, will debut in select stores this month, before becoming available nationwide by January.Lidl aims to offer market-leading prices for plant-based products, enhancing dietary options for its consumers.The retailer is committed to doubling the sales proportion of plant-based proteins, aligning with its sustainability goals.In response to a 12% rise in demand for plant-based products, Lidl is…

In the latest financial year, Uber Eats in the UK has demonstrated significant financial growth.The company reported a remarkable 74% increase in pre-tax profit, reaching £18.4 million.Turnover rose by 55% to an impressive £1.1 billion, accompanied by a growth in staff numbers.Despite rising administrative costs, total profit stood at £14 million, showing resilience.Brand risks due to reputational issues were noted, yet plans to rehabilitate the brand are underway.In the latest accounts, the UK division of Uber Eats has recorded a substantial 74% rise in pre-tax profits, culminating in £18.4 million for the period ending December 2023. This leap from £10.5…

Donald Trump’s recent rhetoric has reached new heights, raising concerns across political circles. His statements exhibit an unprecedented level of unpredictability, prompting discussions about potential implications for future governance.As the election looms, Trump’s behaviour is under scrutiny, with critics highlighting his erratic and autocratic tendencies. This has intensified discussions about his suitability for office, challenging voters to consider the impact of such conduct.The latest comments from Donald Trump have elevated his already contentious image. Descriptions of his behaviour as vulgar and erratic are becoming more frequent, with critics arguing that such rhetoric undermines the dignity of the presidency. This persistent…

The British agricultural sector is sounding alarms over a growing food security threat. Recent discussions highlight the imperative to boost domestic production and lessen import reliance.A consortium of farmers and organisations stresses the importance of immediate policy interventions to avert a potential ‘food crisis’. The publication of a new report amplifies these calls for action.The West Country farming community has issued an urgent appeal to the government, highlighting an increasing threat of a “food crisis”. The region’s producers, backed by the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), are urging for an immediate boost in domestic food production. Their stance is clear: Britain…

The Bank of America projects significant gains in key investment assets. Gold is expected to reach new heights of $3,000, while Bitcoin is forecasted to potentially climb to $75,000.These predictions are grounded in the Federal Reserve’s anticipated interest rate cuts and evolving market dynamics. Investors could see substantial returns by as early as the second quarter of 2025.The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy changes play a crucial role in the projected rise in gold and Bitcoin prices. The Bank of America highlights planned interest rate cuts as a significant driver pushing these assets’ values upward. These adjustments could mitigate inflationary pressures…

The UK hospitality sector is bracing for a substantial increase in business rates, poised to quadruple without timely government intervention. Industry stakeholders are vocalising their concerns.With only a few months until the expected rise in rates, the financial implications for pubs, restaurants, and hotels are significant. Urgent appeals for reform are being made to avert a potential crisis.The anticipation of business rates soaring without government intervention has ignited serious concerns within the hospitality industry. Industry leaders assert if the relief ends as scheduled on 31 March, the sector will incur an additional £914 million in costs. The looming financial burden…

Plural, led by Ian Hogarth, invests £16.9m in Oriole Networks.Oriole Networks utilises photonics for efficient AI training.The London-based startup emerged from University College London.Investment aims to tackle energy demands in AI data centres.Oriole Networks sees potential in photonic networking for AI.Plural, an investment group led by Ian Hogarth, has made a notable financial commitment of £16.9m to Oriole Networks, a London-based startup. This investment is part of a total $35m raised by the company in 2023.Oriole Networks, founded as a spinout from University College London, is pioneering innovations in artificial intelligence by harnessing photonics technology. This approach is aimed at…