Archie Mitchell

The UK government will introduce a 20 percent business rates cut for pubs, clubs and live music venues in England from April, affecting nearly 32,000 businesses. Prime Minister Andy Burnham framed the measure as support for struggling hospitality venues, funded by reducing tax relief for vape shops and tightening compliance on online marketplace sellers. Industry groups welcomed the relief but warned it may not offset wider cost pressures and noted uncertainty over eligibility, especially for larger music venues. The discount builds on earlier rate reductions and follows additional government measures such as VAT cuts on electricity and capped bus fares.

US leisure and hospitality employment fell by 61,000 in June despite expectations of a World Cup-driven boost, contrasting with earlier signs of growth in May. Overall US job growth slowed to 57,000, and prior months were revised downward by 74,000. Economists described the sector's decline as surprising given high visitor activity, and the weaker data suggests reduced likelihood of an imminent interest rate hike. Market analysts said moderating job growth could support a balanced economic outlook with fewer anticipated rate increases.