Letter from London: An imminent economic reckoning that requires fresh thinking

by Katerina | Mar 4, 2026 | News

The single most alarming indication of the complacency that afflicts the Westminster village is the frequent claim (usually made when a hapless government Minister is defending further public expenditure on some profligate welfare scheme or other) that, ‘The UK is...

MFS collapse spooks specialist property lending

by Katerina | Mar 3, 2026 | News

The sudden collapse in recent days of London-based specialist property lender Market Financial Solutions Ltd (MFS) has stunned the UK property and credit markets, prompting fresh scrutiny of underwriting standards in private credit and bridging finance. MFS, a...

Tried and Tested: Recipes you’ll love – Orange & Olive Oil Cake (Portokalopita): A Taste of Spring

by Katerina | Feb 27, 2026 | News

As we edge (hopefully!) towards spring here in London, I find myself craving something lighter, brighter — something that carries the warmth of sunshine even on a grey afternoon. Over the past few months, I’ve noticed Orange & Olive Oil Cake appearing more and...

SMEs sleepwalk into working capital crisis

by Katerina | Feb 24, 2026 | News

Headline insolvency figures might suggest otherwise, but beneath the surface many UK SMEs are facing intensifying liquidity pressure. According to the latest annual figures there were 23,938 registered company insolvencies in England and Wales during 2025 — broadly in...

Buchler Phillips Hospitality Index – UK hospitality collapses remain high after 3,353 hit wall in 2025

by Katerina | Feb 17, 2026 | News

The number of hospitality businesses entering insolvency eased very slightly in 2025, yet remained historically high, reflecting challenging trading conditions for the industry. Some 3,353 accommodation and food service companies, including hotels, restaurants and...