LINKS ¦ Reading this week

Starling Intensifies Legal Actions as Loan Defaults Rise: Amid increasing loan defaults and a regulatory probe, Starling Bank has stepped up legal measures against delinquent debtors. Read more.
AI Enters the Political Arena in 2024: Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in political campaigns, influencing public opinion through targeted advertising. Read more.
Neuromorphic Computing Poised to Revolutionize Tech Industry: Innovations in neuromorphic computing could drastically change competitive dynamics in technology by simulating brain processes. Read more.
Sainsbury’s Divests Banking Division to NatWest: In a strategic move, Sainsbury’s has sold its banking operations to NatWest, enhancing the latter’s asset base significantly. Read more.
Apple Retracts Pay Later Service Amid Financial Strategy Shift: Apple has discontinued its financial service that offered loans directly to customers, signaling a shift away from direct financial services. Read more.
Nvidia Surpasses Microsoft in Market Valuation: Nvidia has overtaken Microsoft to become the world’s most valuable company, reflecting its significant growth in the tech sector. Read more.
UK Faces £6 Billion Unpaid Council Tax Crisis: The UK’s unpaid council tax has accumulated to over £6 billion, with calls for reform in debt collection practices. Read more.
FCA Postpones Report on Politically Exposed Persons: The Financial Conduct Authority has delayed the publication of a crucial report regarding politically exposed persons, citing further review needs. Read more.
Household Debt in the UK to Increase by Record Levels: Projections indicate a significant rise in unsecured household debt within the year, exacerbating the financial strain on families. Read more.
Late Payment Issues Worsen for One in Five UK SMEs: A significant percentage of small and medium enterprises report deteriorating conditions related to late payments, impacting business operations. Read more.