AI in Voice Fraud Response: Simwood launched “Conversation Intelligence” to deliver fraud alerts, compliance prompts and customer signals during live calls, aiming to stop scams before transfers are authorised. Crypto Regulation (UK): The FCA published final rules for the UK cryptoasset regime, completing the regulatory framework for the sector. Car Finance Redress (UK): A tribunal move has paused payouts on the car finance compensation scheme, with the FCA also partly suspending the redress process amid legal challenges. Banking Security (Global, UK-linked): Global IME Bank introduced instant account blocking via hotline or “missed call” banking in its Global Smart Plus app, designed to freeze accounts without login. Public Finance Watch: Coverage focused on the incoming Andy Burnham’s budget constraints, with attention on defence spending pressures and the state of fiscal “headroom”. UK Data Centres: Arcus agreed to buy Verne’s UK data centre operator Volta Data Centres, backing London’s demand for carrier-neutral colocation. Consumer Confidence: YouGov/Cebr’s June index showed a modest rise in UK consumer confidence, with household finance measures improving but homeowners still more negative. Universal Credit Migration (DWP): DWP said eligible legacy benefit claimants moving to Universal Credit will receive transitional protection so they don’t lose money immediately. UKtech50 2026: Computer Weekly named DeepMind co-founder Demis Hassabis as the most influential person in UK technology for the third time, underlining AI’s dominance in the sector.