UK business confidence is set to decline compared to 2024, with more than half of all UK executives expecting business risks to increase in the year ahead, says Heather Blundell

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has attended the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos this week with a clear mission – to convince global CEOs and wealthy investors and financiers gathered in the Swiss town that Britain is not only open for business but is where the smart money lies.

It may not be an easy sell. The UK economy has been sluggish with a burdensome regulatory environment blamed for stifling growth.

Nevertheless, Ms Reeves and Jonathan Reynolds will seek to hammer home the message that UK Plc is one of the most exciting places to invest, underpinned by entrepreneurial spirit, a skilled workforce and a stable and supportive government.

Back home, business leaders might greet the government’s charm offensive with scepticism.

In the wake of the Budget last October, firms face “pain” amid hikes to national insurance........

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