Cost of living & mortgages: Nationwide says Bank of England capital reforms could unlock £40bn of new lending for mortgages and business customers, potentially easing credit availability. Inflation watch: UK CPI slowed to 2.6% in June (from 2.8%), helped by cheaper fuel and food, though analysts warn oil-driven pressures could return. Royal Mail disruption: Royal Mail issued delay warnings affecting 141 postcode areas, including parts of Merseyside, West Midlands and Wales, citing local resourcing/sickness issues. Travel consumer safety: An easyJet flight to Liverpool was forced to turn back to Tenerife after a mid-air 10-person brawl; passengers and crew were met by police and the flight later resumed. Beauty rules: New UK nail regulations come into force from August, restricting ingredients used in gel and other nail products. Retail & value: Mulberry narrowed FY26 losses as retail sales improved, while Wetherspoons warned profits could fall short despite steady punter numbers. Energy & water: Hosepipe bans expanded across southern England and Thames Water warned millions face restrictions; meanwhile the electrical industry urged caution over “plug-in solar” rules, saying safety must come first. Tech & payments: Ramp rolled out stablecoin accounts and payments for businesses, aiming to simplify cross-border payouts and accounting.