Defence & Growth: Wes Streeting says boosting UK defence spending would “enormously” help economic growth, while insisting it won’t be “on the cheap” as Andy Burnham targets NATO’s 3.5% by 2035. Inflation Watch: The UK CPI cooled to 2.6% in June, helped by lower fuel and food prices, though analysts warn pressures could return. Tax & Cost of Living: HMRC data suggests the number of higher-rate taxpayers will jump sharply in 2026/27 as thresholds stay frozen, adding to “fiscal drag” worries. AI & Work: Deloitte research finds UK CFOs expect cost control to curb graduate hiring, with AI also dampening demand. Tech & Media Business: Permutive and Adform partner to let publishers activate first-party audiences across DSP/SSP. Regulation & Finance: The Joint Regulators Committee issued a response after OBSI’s independent evaluator report. EU-UK Defence Funding: EU states approved UK participation in a EUR 90bn Ukraine support loan, enabling UK firms to supply defence needs. Business Closures: Charles Clinkard shuts an Oxford store as it shifts spending toward stronger stores and online. Sports Finance: Reports say Jeff Bezos is in talks to buy a 30% stake in Liverpool FC. Science Policy: Burnham scraps DSIT and creates a cabinet-level AI minister role, folding science functions into new departments.