Thursday, 28 August 2025

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US Economy Surges by 3.3%, Defying Expectations

The US economy has continued to defy forecasts, surging by an annualised 3.3% in the latest quarter, according to government data released on Thursday. The strong performance highlights the resilience of American consumers and businesses despite high interest rates and ongoing global uncertainties.

The growth was largely driven by robust consumer spending, increased business investment, and government expenditure. Analysts had widely predicted a much slower pace of expansion, with some expecting growth closer to 2%, given the Federal Reserve’s aggressive rate hikes designed to cool inflation.

“This is another sign of just how durable the US economy has been,” said one senior economist. “Consumers are still spending, the labour market remains strong, and investment activity is holding up better than many thought possible.”

Inflation has eased from its 2022 peaks, falling closer to the Fed’s 2% target, though policymakers remain cautious. The central bank has signalled it may keep rates elevated for longer to ensure price stability, but the latest figures could complicate its path, as too much growth risks fuelling renewed inflationary pressures.

Financial markets responded positively to the report, with Wall Street indices rising on hopes that the economy can continue expanding without tipping into a recession. The US dollar also strengthened, while bond yields edged higher as investors reassessed the likelihood of future interest rate cuts.

Despite the upbeat headline figures, economists warn that risks remain. Geopolitical tensions, slowing growth in Europe and China, and the lingering effects of tighter credit conditions could all weigh on momentum in the coming months.

For now, however, the 3.3% surge underscores the US economy’s ability to withstand challenges and maintain its position as a global growth engine.

Attached is a News article regarding US economy growth by 3.3% 

https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/world-news/us-economy-grows-3-3-in-second-quarter/amp_articleshow/123565297.cms

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Farage Row: Pledge to Deport Illegal Migrant Women and Girls Sparks Backlash

1. The Original, Controversial Pledge

On August 26, 2025, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage launched a high-profile immigration policy dubbed Operation Restoring Justice. He pledged to detain and deport up to 600,000 illegal migrants over five years, upon winning the next general election. The plan called for immediate deportation of all unauthorized arrivals—including women and children—a sweeping and absolutist approach. 

These proposals included:

Withdrawing from key international protections like the European Convention on Human Rights, 1951 Refugee Convention, and associated UK human rights frameworks. 

Constructing detention facilities capable of housing thousands, RAF-led deportation flights, and incentive-based voluntary return schemes.  

Negotiating deportation agreements with countries including Afghanistan, Eritrea, Iran, and potentially the Taliban, who reportedly indicated readiness to accept deportees. 

2. Immediate Backlash and Legal Condemnation

Farage’s pledges ignited widespread criticism:

Legal experts denounced the proposals as authoritarian and likely illegal, warning the UK courts could still block such removals.  

Human rights groups and political opponents condemned the morality and practicality of deporting vulnerable groups, particularly to regimes with questionable human rights records.  

3. Dramatic U-Turns Follow

Within 24–48 hours, Farage began retracting:

At one public event, he reiterated that “women and children, everybody on arrival, will be detained.”  

But soon after, at a press conference in Broxburn, he claimed that women and children weren’t even being discussed at this stage and framed earlier reports as outright wrong.  

Clarifying again, he stated that while single adult females would be deported, deporting children or women with children was “more complicated” and would not be part of the first five years.  

4. Public and Political Fallout

These rapid reversals fueled widespread criticism:

Lib Dem deputy leader Daisy Cooper called the deportations a “Taliban tribute,” condemning the idea of deporting Afghan women and children while spending taxpayer money to facilitate it.  

Refugee charities, including Care4Calais, voiced horror at detaining vulnerable groups, urging humane and rights-respecting approaches.  

Within Reform UK, internal dissonance surfaced. Party figures including Zia Yusuf had voiced inclusion of women and children, while Farage later pulled back, exposing conflicting messaging.  

Press coverage lambasted the confusion: Sky News likened the policy toggles to a “Hokey Cokey”—first included, then excluded, then partially affirmed.  

Attached is a News article regarding farage pledge to deport illegal migrant women and girls 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce83x1457lyo.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Wednesday, 27 August 2025

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Bodybuilder Akinwale Arobieke Found Dead in His Flat

Manchester, UK — Akinwale Arobieke, the notorious figure who gained infamy as a bodybuilder and was often referred to by his nickname “Purple Aki,” has been found dead in his flat, authorities have confirmed. He was 63 years old.

Greater Manchester Police reported that officers discovered Arobieke’s body after being called to his residence on Tuesday afternoon following concerns for his welfare. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene. The death is currently being treated as non-suspicious, though a post-mortem examination will be conducted to establish the exact cause.

Controversial Figure with a Dark Past

Arobieke rose to notoriety in the 1980s and 1990s, not only for his imposing physique but also for a series of criminal convictions that made headlines across the UK. Known for his obsession with muscles and bodybuilding, he became a bizarre urban legend in Northern England. His reputation was cemented after numerous reports claimed he harassed young men, asking to measure their muscles and, in some cases, touch them.

In 2003, Arobieke was jailed for harassment and intimidation, which included approaching strangers to discuss their muscle mass. In 2006, a court imposed a unique order banning him from touching or measuring other people’s muscles. The ban attracted significant media attention and reinforced his status as one of Britain’s most unusual offenders.

Life After Prison

Despite numerous prison sentences, Arobieke maintained a cult-like following online, where many saw him as an eccentric figure rather than a dangerous one. However, his name continued to spark debate about criminal behaviour, mental health, and how the justice system handles repeat offenders with unusual fixations.

In recent years, reports suggested Arobieke had been living a low-profile life, avoiding the controversies that plagued his past. Neighbours described him as “quiet and withdrawn,” rarely seen outside his flat in the last year.

Tributes and Reactions

Social media has been awash with reactions to his death. Some users remembered him as an infamous character who became part of British urban folklore, while others expressed sympathy, noting that his life was marked by both notoriety and isolation.

One former acquaintance commented:

“Behind the headlines and the jokes, he was a real person who struggled to fit in. It’s sad it ended this way.”

Police Statement

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said:

“We were called to an address on Tuesday, where a man in his 60s was found deceased. There are no suspicious circumstances and a report will be prepared for the coroner.”

Who Was Akinwale Arobieke?

Age: 63

Origin: Liverpool, UK

Notable For: Obsession with bodybuilding and a criminal record for harassment

Nickname: “Purple Aki,” a moniker that became synonymous with urban myths in Northern England

Attached is a news article regarding bodybuilder found dead in his flat akinwale arobieke 

https://www.itv.com/news/granada/2025-08-27/liverpool-bodybuilder-akinwale-arobieke-confirmed-dead

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Notting Hill Carnival 2025: Over 500 Arrests in Largest Operation Yet

London, August 2025 – The Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street festival celebrating Caribbean and Black British culture, saw a dramatic rise in enforcement this year, with more than 500 arrests made over the two-day event.

A Snapshot of 2025 Policing

According to the Metropolitan Police, a total of 528 arrests were recorded—200 on Sunday and 328 on Monday. These figures were echoed by PA Media, which noted the police made “more than 500” arrests, with significant numbers stemming from live facial recognition interventions. 

In addition to these main figures, the British Transport Police contributed roughly 30 more arrests across the city’s transport network, suggesting that the overall tally associated with Carnival-related incidents approaches 558. 

Breakdown of Arrests & Incident Types

PA Media provided a snapshot of the arrest categories this year:

167 drug-related offences

50 for possession of offensive weapons

21 sexual offences

4 for violence with injury

49 for other violence

55 for assaults on police officers (two of whom needed hospital treatment: one with a broken nose and one with a serious bite injury)  

Nearly 100 individuals of interest were flagged via live facial recognition (LFR) systems, leading to 61 arrests, including a registered sex offender and a suspect accused of attacking someone five times with a machete. 

Despite these numbers, officials stressed the reduction in serious violence compared to prior years: just four stabbings, none life-threatening, were reported—an improvement over 2024 when eight people were injured and two killed. 


Historical Context: How 2025 Compares

2024: 349 arrests, eight stabbings (including two fatalities) 

2023: 275 arrests, 10 stabbings (no fatalities)  

2022: Approximately 209 arrests 


So while 2025 saw the highest arrest count to date, it’s also seen as a victory in terms of limiting serious violence and critical injuries.

Policing in the Spotlight

The orchestration of this year’s policing was extensive: over 7,000 officers deployed each day, supported by CCTV, police helicopters, knife arches, and live facial recognition technology. 

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matt Ward emphasized the proactive strategy of targeting potential threats preemptively, crediting both police effort and organizers’ messaging—which urged those planning violence to stay away—for helping reduce serious incidents. 

However, concerns remain about crowd safety, with incidents of overcrowding still requiring police interventions and a second part of the independent crowd safety review expected in October.,

What This Means for Carnival’s Future

While enforcement has ramped up, cultural advocates warn against turning the celebration into a security-first event that might undercut its community spirit. Funding remains a critical issue: prior warnings about cancellation risks without government support continue to loom large.,

Attached is a news article regarding Notting Hill carnival that see more then 500 arrest 

https://news.sky.com/story/thousands-attend-notting-hill-carnival-with-met-police-reporting-far-fewer-violent-incidents-this-year-13418358

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Cardi B Testifies in High-Profile Civil Assault Trial

New York, NY — Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B took the witness stand today in a high-stakes civil assault trial stemming from an incident that allegedly occurred at a Manhattan strip club in 2018. The Bronx-born star, known for her chart-topping hits and outspoken personality, appeared calm yet assertive as she faced questioning over her role in a violent altercation that has sparked years of legal battles and media scrutiny.

The Allegations

The case, brought by two bartenders — sisters Jade and Baddie Gi — alleges that Cardi B orchestrated an attack against them at Angels Strip Club in Queens. According to the plaintiffs, Cardi, whose real name is Belcalis Almánzar, believed one of the women had been romantically involved with her husband, rapper Offset. The sisters claim they were assaulted by members of Cardi’s entourage after a heated confrontation inside the venue.

While Cardi previously resolved the criminal charges related to the incident by accepting a plea deal in 2022 — which required community service — this civil trial focuses on financial damages. The plaintiffs are seeking a substantial sum for alleged emotional distress and physical injuries.


Cardi B’s Testimony

During her testimony, Cardi B firmly denied ordering anyone to physically harm the sisters. Dressed in a tailored black suit, the rapper spoke clearly as she addressed the jury, insisting that her presence at the club that night was purely for social reasons.

“I didn’t tell anyone to touch them,” Cardi stated. “I would never put my friends in that kind of situation.” Her legal team echoed the sentiment, arguing that the plaintiffs are exploiting her celebrity status to obtain an inflated payout.

Inside the Courtroom

The trial drew a packed gallery of reporters, fans, and legal observers, reflecting the immense public interest surrounding the case. Security was tight as Cardi entered the courthouse, waving briefly to supporters outside.

Legal experts suggest the trial could hinge on testimony from eyewitnesses and surveillance footage, which prosecutors claim supports the plaintiffs’ version of events. Cardi’s defense team, however, is expected to question the credibility of those accounts, citing inconsistencies in prior statements.

What’s at Stake

If the jury rules against Cardi B, she could face significant financial penalties, though the rapper’s career and brand endorsements remain strong. The outcome may also influence how other celebrities handle similar civil litigation, especially in cases that follow criminal plea deals.

The trial is expected to continue through next week, with closing arguments anticipated shortly thereafter. Cardi B, who has built her brand on authenticity and resilience, seemed unfazed as she exited the courthouse, telling reporters, “I’m here to tell the truth.”

Attached is a news article regarding cardi B giving evidence over assault trail 

https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2025-08-26/cardi-b-testifies-she-didnt-touch-security-guard-who-is-suing-her

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Dermot Murnaghan to Join Sir Chris Hoy on Charity Bike Ride Following Cancer Diagnosis

Veteran broadcaster Dermot Murnaghan has announced that he will take part in a major charity cycling event alongside Olympic legend Sir Chris Hoy, following his own recent cancer diagnosis. The former Sky News and BBC presenter, 66, revealed that his diagnosis earlier this year inspired him to support vital cancer research initiatives and raise awareness about early detection.

The charity ride, set to take place next month, will see Murnaghan join Sir Chris Hoy — a six-time Olympic gold medallist and cancer awareness advocate — for a grueling 150-mile journey across the Scottish Highlands. The event aims to raise significant funds for cancer charities, with proceeds going to research organisations and patient support services across the UK.

Speaking about the challenge, Murnaghan said:

“When I received my diagnosis, it was a life-changing moment. I wanted to turn something deeply personal into a force for good. Cycling with Sir Chris and the team is not just about fitness — it’s about giving hope to others going through similar battles.”

Sir Chris Hoy, who has previously campaigned for cancer awareness after losing a close friend to the disease, expressed his admiration for Murnaghan’s determination:

“Dermot’s strength and willingness to share his story is inspiring. This ride is about raising awareness and ensuring more people get the support they need, when they need it.”

The event will start in Inverness and finish in Edinburgh, with hundreds of cyclists expected to join along the route. Organisers hope to raise over £500,000 for cancer research and treatment services.

A Fight Beyond the Newsroom

Murnaghan, known for his decades-long career in journalism, stepped back from regular broadcasting duties earlier this year to focus on his health. While he has not shared specific details about his cancer type, he stressed the importance of regular check-ups and speaking openly about the disease:

“Early detection saves lives. If sharing my story encourages even one person to get checked, it’s worth it.”

Donations for the ride can be made through the official event page, with supporters invited to follow updates on social media using the hashtag #RideForHope.

Attached is a news article regarding dermot murnaghan to join Chris sir hoy in charity bike ride 

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15038525/amp/Dermot-Murnaghan-cancer-screening-stage-four-cancer-diagnosis.html

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Building Financial Freedom: A Guide to Taking Control of Your Future

In an era of rising living costs and economic uncertainty, the idea of financial freedom has never been more appealing. Financial freedom is not just about wealth; it’s about having the resources and flexibility to live life on your terms without the constant stress of money. Whether your goal is to retire early, start a business, or simply gain peace of mind, achieving financial freedom requires planning, discipline, and patience.

What is Financial Freedom?

Financial freedom means having enough income, savings, and investments to support your lifestyle without depending on a paycheck. It allows you to make choices—such as traveling, pursuing hobbies, or leaving an unfulfilling job—without financial constraints.

Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom

1. Define Your Financial Goals

Start by outlining what financial freedom means to you. Is it paying off debt, building an investment portfolio, or creating multiple income streams? Having clear, measurable goals will guide your decisions.

2. Create a Budget and Track Expenses

Budgeting is the cornerstone of financial control. Track your income and expenses to identify unnecessary spending. Tools like Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget), or even a simple spreadsheet can help you stay accountable.

3. Eliminate High-Interest Debt

Credit card debt and payday loans are financial freedom killers. Prioritize paying off high-interest debt first using strategies like the avalanche method (paying the highest interest debt first) or the snowball method (tackling the smallest debts first to build momentum).

4. Build an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund acts as a financial cushion against unexpected events such as job loss, car repairs, or medical bills. Experts recommend saving 3–6 months’ worth of living expenses in a high-yield savings account.

5. Invest for the Long Term

Saving money alone won’t lead to financial freedom due to inflation. Investing in assets such as stocks, bonds, index funds, real estate, or retirement accounts allows your money to grow over time. The earlier you start, the more you benefit from compounding returns.

6. Create Multiple Income Streams

Relying on a single paycheck is risky. Consider side hustles, freelancing, investing in dividend-paying stocks, or starting an online business. The more income streams you have, the faster you reach independence.

7. Automate Your Finances

Automating savings and investment contributions ensures consistency and removes the temptation to spend. Set up direct transfers to savings and retirement accounts after every paycheck.

8. Continuously Educate Yourself

Financial literacy is key. Read books, listen to podcasts, and follow reputable finance experts. Understanding taxes, investments, and money management will empower you to make informed decisions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Lifestyle inflation: Avoid increasing your spending as your income grows.

Ignoring insurance: Protect your wealth with health, life, and property insurance.

Chasing quick wins: Avoid high-risk investments that promise fast returns.

The Mindset Shift

Financial freedom requires discipline and patience. It’s not about overnight success but about making smart, consistent choices over time. Live below your means, save aggressively, and invest wisely.

Final Thoughts

Building financial freedom is a journey, not a destination. Start today by taking small, actionable steps toward controlling your finances. The earlier you begin, the sooner you can enjoy a life where money is no longer a daily worry, but a tool to create the life you desire.

Attached is a news article regarding people in the uk building financial freedom 

https://home.barclays/news/press-releases/2021/08/brits-reveal-what-financial-freedom-really-looks-like0/

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Tuesday, 26 August 2025

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Remembering Ariela “La Langosta”: A Vibrant Spirit Gone Too Soon

Mount Vernon, NY – August 17, 2025 — The New York nightlife community and social media woke to devastating news: Ariela Mejia-Polanco, widely known as Ariela “La Langosta,” was found dead inside her car on the eastbound Cross County Parkway near the Broad Street exit at approximately 8 a.m. on Sunday. 

Ariela, a 33-year-old Dominican influencer with over half a million Instagram followers, was a vibrant presence in New York’s nightlife and hospitality scene. She had worked the night before at Ikon New York, a Manhattan restaurant and lounge, before being discovered in what the Westchester County Police Department are treating as a targeted homicide. 

A Life of Joy, Energy, and Influence

Ariela was more than just a social media personality. Her followers admired her fashion, dance content, and bold, unapologetic style. In 2023, she made a memorable appearance in Tekashi 6ix9ine’s music video “Wapae,” further expanding her reach beyond New York’s nightlife. 

Her employers and peers remember her as a “brilliant, humble soul with incredible energy,” someone who “could light up any room.” Ikon New York expressed deep sorrow, announcing a temporary closure in her memory. Other venues where she worked—Opus Lounge and Starlet of NY—also paid heartfelt tributes, acknowledging the loss of an “angel” to the nightlife scene. 

A Tribute from Her Friend Tekashi 6ix9ine

Rapper Daniel Hernandez—better known as Tekashi 6ix9ine—was among the most vocal mourners. He took to social media to honor Ariela, calling her a “tremendous woman,” “my sister,” and “the queen of New York.” His emotional posts added to the widespread sense of loss, with fans echoing the sentiment that “NY won’t ever be the same.” The personal nature of his tributes sparked speculation about the closeness of their relationship.

Tragic Final Moments and Ongoing Investigation

Authorities confirmed Ariela’s death was due to gunshot wounds, and stressed the killing was not a random act. Detectives from Westchester County’s General Investigations Unit—alongside support from state and federal agencies—are actively investigating the incident, though no motive has yet been disclosed. 

Adding to the tragedy, Ariela’s final Instagram post—shared roughly ten weeks before her death—simply read “happy & blessed.” Now, that caption stands in poignant contrast to the abrupt end of her life and the vibrant presence that once radiated through her online and offline communities. 

About Ariela “La Langosta”

Full Name: Ariela Mejia-Polanco

Age: 33

Profession: Social media influencer, nightlife dancer/bartender

Instagram Following: Approx. 550,000–566,000 followers. 

Notable Appearance: Featured in Tekashi 6ix9ine’s “Wapae” music video in 2023

Last Seen: Leaving Ikon New York before being found deceased in her car

Ariela “La Langosta” leaves behind two children and a community shattered by grief. Her death serves as a tragic reminder of a bright light extinguished too soon—yet her energy, vibrance, and warmth remain etched in the memories of those she touched.

Attached is a news article regarding 6ix9ine girlfriend murder I’m Dominica republic 

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-15014431/amp/Ariela-La-Langosta-dead-33-Tekashis-friend.html

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Belgravia millionaires: who they are, what they do and where they come from

Belgravia’s name is shorthand for old-money glamour: broad stucco terraces, guarded garden squares and some of central London’s priciest real estate. Once the preserve of dukes and ministers, the neighbourhood around Eaton Square, Belgrave Square and Chester Square now houses a global roll-call of wealthy owners — from film stars and former prime ministers to hedge-fund chiefs, tech founders and international property investors. But look closer and a few clear patterns emerge about what most of today’s Belgravia millionaires do for a living and which countries they come from.  

What do Belgravia millionaires do for a living?

While Belgravia’s resident list is colourful, the dominant professions are predictable for a prime-central London enclave:

Finance and investment — private bankers, hedge-fund managers, family-office executives and long-standing City financiers remain a large presence among owners and long-term residents. Many UHNW (ultra-high-net-worth) individuals who base themselves in London work in asset management, private equity or wealth management.  

Property and real-estate investors — both UK developers and international real-estate investors buy in Belgravia for prestige and capital preservation. A notable share of ownership sits through offshore companies and investment vehicles.  

Entrepreneurs and tech founders — newer wealth from tech and fintech has also flowed into the super-prime market; these owners often favour large, secure apartments or converted townhouses close to central London’s amenities. 

Business tycoons, industrialists and family fortunes — established entrepreneurial fortunes (from manufacturing to commodities) continue to appear on property transaction lists in the Platinum Triangle that includes Belgravia. 

Public figures and creatives — a smaller but visible slice are celebrities, media figures, successful artists and a handful of politicians or former ministers who prize Belgravia’s privacy and address recognition. Historic and modern examples (from Margaret Thatcher to contemporary actors and chefs) underline this trend. 

In short: finance + property + entrepreneurial wealth = the bulk of Belgravia’s millionaires, with culture and politics supplying high-profile residents that keep the area in the headlines.  

Where are they from?

Belgravia is global. Over the past two decades prime central London has attracted buyers and residents from Asia, the Gulf, Europe and North America. Recent analyses of foreign ownership in prime central London point to strong representation from Hong Kong, Singapore, China, the United States and the UAE, with other buyers from Russia, India, Italy and elsewhere. That mix shows up in Belgravia’s ownership maps.  

Two dynamics shape the nationality mix:

Wealth migration and political shifts — political uncertainty or tax changes elsewhere (and in the UK) influence who buys, how long they stay and whether properties are occupied year-round or held in company names. 

Lifestyle buyers vs. investment buyers — some buyers (notably from the US and parts of Europe) come for lifestyle and long-term residence; others (frequently from overseas financial centres) treat Belgravia as part of a diversified property portfolio. 

The streets and squares that define the postcode

Eaton Square and Belgrave Square are shorthand for Belgravia’s rarefied market: grand façades, garden squares with private keys and high security. These pockets remain the most sought-after addresses because they combine scale, centrality and the kind of grandeur that appeals to international buyers and long-term British high society alike. 

A changing market — renting, taxes and post-pandemic shifts

Market behaviour has shifted recently: high taxes, changes to non-dom rules and political flux have pushed some ultra-wealthy people to rent rather than buy in cities like London, while others use London as a secondary or seasonal base. That affects how many Belgravia properties are owner-occupied year-round versus held by foreign companies or let on the ultra-prime rental market. 

Why Belgravia still matters

Belgravia offers a unique blend: proximity to Westminster and Knightsbridge, discreet garden squares, world-class embassies and private clubs — plus a status value that’s hard to replicate. For the wealthy who value privacy, security and a central London lifestyle, it remains a first choice even as the make-up of owners becomes increasingly international and tax-aware.  

Bottom line

Belgravia’s millionaires are not a homogeneous tribe, but most are anchored in finance, property and entrepreneurial ventures, supplemented by high-profile figures from the arts and politics. They arrive from across the globe — especially Asia, the Gulf, the US and continental Europe — and their buying patterns reflect a mix of lifestyle preference and sophisticated wealth management. As tax rules and global politics evolve, so too will who lives in Belgravia and how they use their homes: a continued blend of private residents, seasonal occupants and investment holders seems the likeliest future.  

Attached is a news article regarding the millionaires in Belgravia London 

https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/1955304/Belgravia-property-empty-billionaires-ghost-town/amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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BAT CFO Soraya Benchikh Steps Down Immediately After 15 Months

LONDON, 26 August 2025 – British American Tobacco (BAT), the famed maker of Lucky Strike and Dunhill brands, has announced that Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Soraya Benchikh is stepping down with immediate effect, after serving in the role for approximately 15 months. 

Leadership Transition

BAT has appointed Javed Iqbal—who previously served as interim finance director from May 2023 to April 2024—to once again assume the position of interim CFO. The company has initiated a search for a permanent successor. 

Benchikh’s Return to BAT

Benchikh originally rejoined BAT as CFO in May 2024, returning after a high-profile stint at Diageo, where she was President for Europe. Prior to that, she had over two decades of experience at BAT in several regional and executive finance roles. 

Reason for Departure

In her statement, Benchikh cited her intent “to move on to my next transformation,” indicating that she is ready to embark on new challenges. Nonetheless, she has stated she will remain available to assist with the transition through the end of 2025. 

BAT’s Recent Performance

This leadership shift comes on the heels of BAT posting stronger-than-expected first-half profits in July 2025, buoyed by significant growth in its U.S. business—the first such growth in three years. The result suggests a potential turnaround in their largest market amid changing consumer demands and evolving tariffs.,

Attached is a news article regardingSoraya Benchikh Steps Down Immediately After 15 Months

https://www.reuters.com/business/lucky-strike-maker-bat-says-finance-chief-benchikh-steps-down-2025-08-26/

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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