Insights

20 Jul 2026Technical

What Could CIPFA’s Proposed Prudential Code Changes Mean for Local Authorities?

CIPFA’s latest consultation signals a fundamental shift in the prudential framework, placing the liability benchmark at the centre of how local authorities assess borrowing needs, affordability and longer-term treasury strategy. Although the revised Codes are not expected to apply until 2027/28, authorities should begin preparing now for more integrated forecasting, enhanced group-risk reporting and significant changes to prudential indicators, governance and reporting arrangements.

17 Jul 2026Local Authorities

Local Government Reorganisation: Government Confirms Decisions for 14 Further Areas

The Government has confirmed 38 new unitary authorities across 14 areas in England. Arlingclose will support affected councils with the treasury, finance and transition arrangements.

16 Jul 2026Universities

How Sustainable is UK University Borrowing?

UK university borrowing is falling, but lower debt does not necessarily mean lower financial risk. Weaker cash generation, refinancing pressures and deferred investment are reshaping the sector’s debt outlook.

09 Jul 2026Charities

CC26: Should Charities Be Rethinking Their Approach to Risk and Treasury Resilience?

Charities may need a more practical approach to risk, one that supports real decisions rather than compliance paperwork. Recent sector research raises important questions for governance, treasury risk, funding pressures and financial resilience in an increasingly uncertain operating environment.

02 Jul 2026Housing

How Can RPs Fund Their Retrofit Programmes?

UK housing providers face rising retrofit costs and tighter EPC deadlines, despite progress and government support. A blended funding strategy will be essential to manage compliance, liquidity, covenant and interest rate risks.

30 Jun 2026Economic Updates

Is Inflation Structurally Higher Now?

Inflation has arguably been the most important and persistent economic problem facing policy makers globally over the past half-decade. Although inflation has fallen back from its 2022 peak, it has remained persistently and materially above the 2% targeted, leading many to question whether something more structural has changed.

29 Jun 2026Banking

Why Has the ECB Risen Rates For the First Time Since 2023?

The ECB has raised interest rates in response to renewed energy-driven inflation, despite weaker economic growth. The decision highlights the outlook for inflation, future rate expectations and the implications for euro and UK financial markets.

26 Jun 2026Local Authorities

What Checks Should You Do Before Appointing a Contractor?

Contractor failure remains a live risk as insolvencies stay above pre-pandemic levels, with construction under severe pressure from weak margins, higher costs and falling output. Robust financial due diligence helps organisations spot hidden weaknesses before contracts become costly, disruptive failures.

23 Jun 2026Technical

Are Spreadsheets Really the Problem, Or Is It How We Use Them?

Despite their reputation, spreadsheets remain one of finance's most flexible and transparent tools when used with appropriate controls and governance. In many cases, they can be more adaptable, auditable and sustainable than bespoke systems.