Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleHolly WilliamsWednesday 27 May 2026 06:56 BSTReeves announces cost of living support package including summer VAT cut and suspended food tariffsEight out of ten UK businesses are negatively impacted by the Middle East conflict, with 20 per cent pausing investment due to geopolitical uncertainty.Businesses are primarily struggling with rising energy and fuel costs, increased shipping expenses, and supply chain disruptions, with 37 per cent planning to pass these costs onto consumers.Small companies are reducing borrowing and increasing savings to build financial buffers, while larger firms are prioritising long-term investment, particularly in technology.A significant number of firms are increasing investment in cybersecurity and adopting agentic AI, with over half reporting improved productivity from AI and automation.Matt Hammerstein, CEO of Barclays UK Corporate Bank, advocates for a Cabinet-level AI role within the UK government to strengthen strategy and capitalise on economic opportunities.In fullEight in 10 UK firms suffering hit from Iran war: ‘Uncertainty has become the norm’Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in