The UK economy showed signs of strain last week, with a cooling jobs market, weak consumer spending and rising corporate distress. Hiring slowed in February, with the smallest increase in starting salaries in four years, while permanent job appointments declined for the 29th month. Consumer spending growth lagged behind inflation, signalling cautious sentiment amid economic uncertainty. Business distress hit a post-pandemic high, with 11.2% of firms struggling due to high debt costs. The economy contracted 0.1% in January, driven by a manufacturing downturn, adding pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves ahead of the Spring Statement. Meanwhile, the government faces economic challenges as growth remains sluggish, casting doubt on its ambitious targets...

Stocks featured:

IAG, Melrose Industries and Tesco

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