Insights

17 Sept 2024Investing

What is the FSCS and is My Authority Covered?

Find out if the FSCS could protect your authority's deposits and whether your investments are fully covered.

13 Sept 2024Economic Updates

The Rise of Company Insolvencies in England and Wales

Company insolvencies in England and Wales reached record levels in 2024, surpassing the 2008 financial crisis, due to inflation, rising interest rates, and post-pandemic economic pressures. This surge highlights financial strain across key sectors like retail and hospitality, leading to higher unemployment and increased financial risks.

09 Sept 2024Borrowing

What Time to Email the PWLB

Fixed loan rates are set twice daily and are influenced by gilt yields, which fluctuate throughout the day. Borrowers should carefully monitor these yields to decide whether to borrow in the morning or afternoon, as afternoon rates may be lower. However, waiting carries the risk of overnight market changes, which could lead to higher rates the next day

06 Sept 2024Banking

The Rise and Fall of Credit Suisse

Credit Suisse, once a global banking powerhouse with a huge market capitalization, collapsed in 2023 after years of scandals and mismanagement, ultimately being acquired by UBS.

03 Sept 2024Banking

Are UK Financial Markets Safe?

The Bank of England's SWES exercise reveals that severe market stress could lead to significant liquidity needs for non-bank financial institutions, tightening conditions in the repo market, and increased pressure on corporate bond markets.

02 Sept 2024Borrowing

The Management of Legacy Debt

Legacy debt funds in the UK were created to manage debts from abolished local councils, ensuring financial obligations are met and shared among successor authorities, despite the councils' dissolution.

29 Aug 2024Borrowing

Exceptional Financial Support & Capitalisation Directions Explained

What is the difference between Exceptional Financial Support & Capitalisation Directions?

13 Aug 2024Local Authorities

Is Your Financial Assistance Compliant?

Learn how to ensure your authority's financial assistance to local businesses aligns with market standards and avoids legal challenges.

31 Jul 2024Local Authorities

Are you ready if an inspector calls?

Without additional government support many authorities will struggle to make ends meet over the next few years, but those that can demonstrate good governance may have a more sympathetic response from stakeholders if an inspector ever calls. In this latest Insight David Blake explores this process and how a review of treasury management practices can help reduce and control risk.