HLAS

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has confirmed that Google has been designated with strategic market status (SMS) for its general search and search advertising services – marking a significant milestone in how the UK regulates major technology companies. This announcement follows an extensive investigation and consultation, which concluded that Google holds substantial and entrenched market power in both general search and search advertising. It’s estimated that more than 90% of searches in the UK take place on Google’s platform. The new designation does not accuse Google of any wrongdoing, nor does it introduce immediate changes. However, it grants the [...]

Running your own business often means juggling a lot - and for many, that includes childcare. With autumn school breaks rapidly approaching, HMRC is reminding working families that the Tax-Free Childcare scheme can be a good way to make some savings. What’s on offer Through the scheme, you can get up to £2,000 a year toward childcare costs for each child up to the age of 11, or up to £4,000 (up to the age of 16) if your child is disabled. The government adds £2 for every £8 you pay into your childcare account - and you can use [...]

Airbnb has launched a new £1 million “Best of British” fund, supported by VisitBritain, to help communities and small tourism businesses transform local customs and traditions into memorable visitor experiences. The fund, which offers grants of up to £100,000, aims to support local businesses in developing experiences that celebrate Britain’s culture, heritage and creativity – from centuries-old customs such as maypole dancing and cheese rolling, to regional food, music and arts events. This initiative comes in response to research indicating that, although many holidaymakers are eager to discover authentic local experiences, half of UK adults have never participated in a [...]

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published proposals to reform the veterinary market. While the review focuses on veterinary businesses, its findings offer valuable insights for companies of all types – particularly regarding transparency, communication, and customer confidence. What’s happeningThe CMA’s investigation found that many pet owners struggle to understand what they are paying for when visiting the vet. Prices are often unclear, comparisons are difficult, and making complaints can be challenging when things go wrong. The market has also evolved significantly in recent years. Independent practices have been acquired by larger corporate groups, yet many clients are unaware [...]

A new Charity Sector Risk Assessment, recently published by the Charity Commission, highlights some of the serious challenges facing charities in England and Wales. The report draws on data from annual returns, serious incident reports, and casework, and notes a number of pressures that are making it increasingly difficult for many organisations to operate effectively. What the Risk Assessment Found Key issues identified in the report include: Rising operating deficits: In the 2023 Annual Return, 22.5% of charities reported a deficit (spending more than they receive), up from 20% in 2022. Increasing demand versus rising costs: Many charities are experiencing [...]

Cyber incidents, data breaches and operational disruptions don’t just affect systems—they affect people. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has published guidance titled “Putting staff welfare at the heart of incident response” to help organisations consider how a cyber incident may impact employees. While the guidance has been available for some time, the rising frequency of cyberattacks makes it increasingly relevant. When an incident occurs—whether a cyberattack, system failure or security breach—employees may experience stress, uncertainty, fatigue, guilt or anxiety. The NCSC emphasises that if staff welfare is overlooked, it can weaken the overall resilience of the response. A team [...]

The Insolvency Service has reported on an investigation it made into a company that was serving as a front to enable unlicensed insolvency activities previously carried out by another firm. The investigation resulted in the Insolvency Service winding up the company in the public interest. The case serves as a reminder that only properly licensed insolvency practitioners can act as a liquidator or administrator for a company. However, if you’ve reached the point where your company has run its course and you want to close it down, does that mean your only option is to formally wind it up using [...]

Cash flow is the lifeblood of any business. Without it, even profitable companies can encounter difficulties. Yet many business owners, and even some finance teams, only review cash flow on a monthly or quarterly basis. This can be risky. A weekly cash flow check is a straightforward but powerful habit. It keeps you informed, proactive, and in control. By making this a regular routine, you can maintain your business’s financial health, spot potential issues early, and gain confidence in every decision you make. Why Weekly Checks Matter Regular cash flow reviews can help you to: Avoid surprises: Examining your inflows [...]

For many small and medium-sized business owners, bookkeeping, payroll and VAT returns are part of the usual routine. They’re vital for keeping things compliant and organised, but they only show what has already happened. To truly shape the future of your business, it helps to think more strategically — like a Chief Financial Officer (CFO). That means using your financial data not just to record the past, but to plan ahead, forecast outcomes, and make smarter business decisions. Bookkeepers Record the Past — CFO Thinking Looks Ahead A bookkeeper’s role is to ensure every figure is correct and every transaction [...]

Creative businesses and freelancers outside London could benefit from increased support following a government announcement aimed at accelerating growth across the sector. Six regions with established strengths in film, TV, music, fashion, and video games will each receive £25 million to expand their creative industries. The funding forms part of the new Creative Places Growth Fund, first introduced in June’s Creative Industries Sector Plan. £25 million each for six regionsThe funding will be divided equally among:• Greater Manchester• Liverpool City Region• North East• West of England• West Midlands• West Yorkshire Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy confirmed that the allocations will be [...]