Author: Scott Dylan

US federal prosecutors have taken significant action against two Russian nationals accused of administering billion-dollar money-laundering operations. The move is part of a larger US effort to combat Russian cybercrime.An indictment unsealed in the Eastern District of Virginia presents serious allegations against Sergey Ivanov and Timur Shakhmametov. They are accused of operating long-standing and extensive money-laundering services.The US authorities have imposed sanctions on Ivanov and Cryptex, a cryptocurrency exchange believed to be linked to millions of dollars’ worth of cybercrime. According to Deputy US Attorney General Lisa Monaco, the collaboration with Dutch partners led to the shutdown of Cryptex and…

Former first lady Melania Trump has publicly reflected on two assassination attempts on her husband, including the moments she learned of these incidents, while once again questioning the details surrounding a shooting at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.In a recent Fox News interview, Melania Trump expressed her lingering uncertainties following the Butler shooting that resulted in injuries to former President Donald Trump and several others, along with one fatality. She remarked, “It’s interesting how quiet and – everything became, all of the mainstream media, there were a few days of reporting about July 13 event, and everything then became…

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has partnered with Devon-based Altilium in a landmark clean energy initiative. This collaboration focuses on recycling electric vehicle batteries.This project is set to redefine the sustainability of battery production by utilising recycled materials for new batteries at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre.Altilium aims to recycle old electric vehicle batteries, extracting critical materials such as lithium and nickel. These will be processed at their pilot facility in Tavistock. The ultimate goal is repurposing these materials to manufacture new battery cells, which will then be validated by JLR to meet the stringent standards of the automotive industry.By proving…

Tesco has expanded its collaboration with The Trade Desk, leveraging Clubcard data to enhance targeted advertising capabilities.The initiative grants advertisers access to anonymised audience segments through Dunnhumby’s platform.This strategic move shifts the focus from third-party cookies to first-party data derived from actual shopping behaviours.Both Tesco and The Trade Desk emphasise the importance of consumer privacy and control over personal data in their approach.This partnership is expected to improve media efficiency and help brands achieve better business outcomes.Tesco has advanced its partnership with The Trade Desk by enabling brands to access Clubcard user data. Through the Tesco Media and Insight platform,…

Pennon, based in Exeter, has linked rising sewage leaks and pollution to abnormally high groundwater levels. Recent reports indicate the third wettest period from October to August since record-keeping began, contributing to an increase in storm overflows.The situation has raised significant concerns about the infrastructure capabilities of the water industry, alongside the performance of certain treatment facilities. As regulatory decisions loom, the challenges faced by utility companies in addressing these issues become increasingly critical.The recent period has seen historically high rainfall, marking it as the third wettest October to August. This exacerbation in rainfall levels has significantly impacted Pennon’s operations,…

Harrods has come under scrutiny following alarming accusations against its former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed.Michael Ward, Harrods’ managing director, publicly apologised for failing employees amid these serious allegations.A BBC investigation revealed accusations by 20 former female Harrods employees against Al Fayed.Al Fayed is accused of fostering a toxic environment characterised by intimidation and misconduct.The department store is cooperating with police and has initiated an internal review.Harrods has been thrust into the spotlight following revelations of sexual misconduct by its former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed. The department store’s managing director, Michael Ward, has issued a public apology recognising the failures in…

Mitchells & Butlers, a prominent operator of restaurants, pubs, and bars, has announced significant sales growth in its latest trading update. The company has shown resilience and strong performance despite market challenges.Mitchells & Butlers has experienced a noteworthy increase in like-for-like sales, growing by 5.2 per cent over 51 weeks leading up to 21 September. The initial quarter of the period was particularly strong, with sales growth of 7.7 per cent.Despite a dip in total sales growth to 2.5 per cent in the fourth quarter, the company attributed this to external factors such as the unusually cool summer and disruption…

Morrisons has agreed a significant property deal aimed at reducing its debt.The deal involves a 45-year ground rent agreement with Song Capital.Morrisons will generate income from 75 stores while retaining ownership.This agreement is part of a strategic move following a 2021 acquisition.Morrisons forecasts increased financial performance following the deal.Morrisons, a major player in the supermarket sector, has finalised a property deal worth £331 million. This ambitious move involves a 45-year ground rent agreement with Song Capital, a real estate investor. The arrangement is designed to reduce the company’s existing debt, with Morrisons retaining ownership of the store freeholds.The private equity-backed…

Leonardo Hotels has achieved a significant reduction in pre-tax losses, decreasing by over £50 million in the past financial year. This improvement is attributed to the ongoing recovery in the UK market post-pandemic.The hospitality group, which operates in various regions across the UK, reported a pre-tax loss of £3.7 million for 2023, a notable improvement from the £58 million loss recorded in 2022.Leonardo Hotels saw its turnover rise from £290.2 million to £336.5 million year-on-year, as per the latest filings with Companies House. Improving market conditions have been credited for this growth.Over the course of the year, Leonardo Hotels increased…

In an impressive display of corporate responsibility, various North East organisations have actively engaged in community and charitable activities this week.These initiatives not only highlight the social commitment of these companies but also contribute significantly to local development and well-being.Barratt and David Wilson Homes have contributed to the regeneration of Gateshead’s Riverside Park as part of the Tyne Derwent Way project. This initiative, in collaboration with the National Trust and local councils, is transforming the area with a nine-mile trail and a new forest school, aiming to promote outdoor learning.The drama department also plans to utilise the equipment for upcoming…