Agentic AI: Is It the Future of Shopping?
Agentic AI: Is It the Future of Shopping? ICO weighs in on privacy concerns The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has published a new report on the ways agentic artificial intelligence (AI) could soon be used as digital personal assistants or shopping agents. The development of AI means that, perhaps within the next five years, […]
Mayfair Talks Quarterly Event
With special guest Scott McKim from Ferrock Join us for our new, exclusive quarterly Mayfair Talks SME event, limited to just 30 guests and hosted by DUA Accountancy and Business Consultancy. Taking place from 6pm to 9pm at the Mandeville Hotel London W1U 2BE, this evening event includes a buffet dinner and a glass of […]
Strategic Planning for 2026 – Turning Uncertainty into Advantage
While economic uncertainty remains a constant theme in early 2026, many UK businesses are shifting focus from survival to strategy. Recent Institute of Directors commentary suggests that firms investing time in structured planning are better positioned to adapt quickly as conditions change. Strategic planning does not require complex models. It starts with clarity: […]
Backtrack on Digital ID Requirements
Backtrack on Digital ID Requirements Digital right to work checks will be mandatory, ID optional It appears that the government has backtracked on plans to require workers to register with its new digital ID programme to prove their right to work in the UK. While right-to-work checks will still be carried out digitally […]
Spring Forecast Scheduled for 3 March 2026
Spring Forecast Scheduled for 3 March 2026 Will there be any changes to tax policy? The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has requested the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) to publish an economic and fiscal forecast on 3 March 2026. This will be accompanied by a statement to Parliament. As set out in the Budget, […]
VAT Risk Areas HMRC Is Targeting in 2026
HMRC activity in January has confirmed that VAT remains a major compliance focus in 2026. Updated guidance and professional commentary point to several recurring risk areas that SMEs should address early in the year. Common issues include partial exemption calculations, incorrect zero-rating, and errors around international services. With Making Tax Digital data now giving […]
Cash Flow Pressure in Early 2026 – Why Profitable Businesses Still Struggle
Despite improving inflation figures, many UK SMEs are entering 2026 under sust ained cash flow pressure. Recent commentary from the Federation of Small Businesses and British Chambers of Commerce highlights a recurring theme: profitability does not guarantee liquidity. Late payments remain a key issue. Larger customers continue to extend payment terms, while SMEs absorb rising […]
Chancellor Increases Agricultural and Business Property Relief Allowance to £2.5 Million
Chancellor Increases Agricultural and Business Property Relief Allowance to £2.5 Million Surprise amendment to IHT proposals The government has announced a major change to the agricultural property relief (APR) and business property relief (BPR) reforms that will take effect from 6 April 2026. The full 100% relief from inheritance tax will now apply […]
Employment Law Updates for 2026 – What Employers Must Prepare for Now
Employment compliance should remain a concern for UK businesses, particularly following guidance updates from ACAS and the Health and Safety Executive. While no single reform dominates headlines, the cumulative effect of incremental regulatory change is increasing risk for employers who fail to stay current. One area under scrutiny is flexible working. Updated ACAS […]
Getting Ready for Making Tax Digital
Getting Ready for Making Tax Digital What you need to know before MTD begins With just a few weeks to go until the new tax year, many businesses are preparing for the changes that Making Tax Digital (MTD) will bring. From April, sole traders and landlords with an income of over £50,000 will need to […]