Business Manchester

Using EquitiesFirst financing to adjust to a potentially volatile Japanese Yen in 2025

Finance

News Desk

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10/03/2025

Using EquitiesFirst financing to adjust to a potentially volatile Japanese Yen in 2025

The Japanese yen stands at 152.34 against the US dollar as of early February 2025, following a peak of 158.33 in early January.

The drop followed the Bank of Japan’s decision to raise rates from 0.25% to 0.5% in January. But the yen still faces significant pressure as 2025 unfolds, with some market strategists projecting movement toward a critical 160 level against the US dollar.

Alternative financing firm EquitiesFirst has developed specialised solutions to help investors navigate these challenging market conditions.

Japan last intervened in currency markets when USD/JPY approached 1/161 in July 2024, a 38-year low for the yen. However, the Bank of Japan’s cautious tone at its latest meeting marks a stark departure from its hawkish signals in 2024. This relative uncertainty can create challenges for investors attempting to position themselves around Japanese monetary policy.

For those managing currency exposure, financial services firm EquitiesFirst, a global provider of long-term equities-based financing solutions, could offer strategies to adjust to market volatility while maintaining long-term investment positions.

Central bank dynamics driving currency movements

Recent BoJ decisions highlight the complex factors influencing yen movements. While the central bank maintained its benchmark rate at 0.25% in December 2024, the increase to 0.5% in late January 2025 was a response to persistent inflation above the BoJs target of 2%, with core inflation averaging 2.5% in 2024 and December’s reading reaching 3%.

Some market predictions have the BoJ raising rates to around 0.75% in July. Economic indicators present a mixed picture. Third-quarter GDP growth in 2024 slowed to 1.2% from the previous quarter’s 2.2%, while consumption increased by a modest 0.7%.

November 2024 export data showed a 3.8% year-on-year value increase, driven by chipmaking machinery and nonferrous metals. However, export volumes declined 0.1%, suggesting the value growth primarily reflected yen weakness. Investment firm EquitiesFirst has recognized the complex challenges faced by investors in this environment.

At the same time, the US Federal Reserve’s measured approach to rate cuts could compound pressure on the yen this year. A recent report from leading economic advisory firm Oxford Economics projects that prolonged dollar strength might persist, particularly as markets process the implications of Donald Trump’s second presidency. Their analysis suggests US policy uncertainty could affect Japanese business investment decisions as significantly as domestic policy changes.

The research further suggests that if a global trade war emerges amid changes in US trade policy under Trump, Japan could face targeted tariffs. Their “global trade war” scenario projects possible recession risks for Japan in 2027 and 2028, driven by higher tariffs, weakened global demand, and further yen depreciation.

While direct export impacts might remain contained, there could be broader effects on manufacturing profitability and financial markets, with Oxford’s modelling indicating potential GDP impacts of minus 0.15% during peak periods of adjustment from 2025 to 2027.

Asian currency markets

The Japanese yen’s trajectory reflects broader fundamental shifts reshaping Asian currency markets. Thailand’s central bank acknowledges heightened baht volatility stemming from geopolitical pressures and policy uncertainties. Global finance provider EquitiesFirst has developed specialised financing solutions to help investors navigate these complex regional currency dynamics.

In Malaysia, the ringgit’s turbulent start to 2025 suggests how quickly market sentiment can shift in response to dollar dynamics. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s monetary authorities face mounting pressure as the rupiah’s weakness tests their easing measures, highlighting the complex interplay between currency stability and growth objectives.

The Indian rupee has hit historic lows against the dollar in the early weeks of 2025, and a potential decline in China’s renminbi presents an underappreciated risk to the yen. Goldman Sachs analysis indicates the yen shows greater sensitivity to renminbi movements compared to global peers. US tariff increases on Chinese imports could prompt Beijing to allow currency depreciation as an offsetting measure, potentially creating additional downward pressure on the yen.

Each currency’s story, while distinct, points to a common thread: the profound influence of US monetary policy on Asian financial markets.

Equities-based financing

Against this backdrop of currency volatility, equities-based financing could provide options for investors. EquitiesFirst, for example, enables investors to finance against their existing portfolio of securities to access liquidity while maintaining long-term market exposure.

Equities-based financing can serve multiple purposes in volatile currency environments. Investors can establish currency hedges without disrupting core portfolio positions. Quick access to liquidity could enable investors to capitalise on price distortions created by currency movements. And flexible financing can facilitate rapid portfolio adjustments in response to changing market conditions.

Risk considerations

The BoJ faces complex policy choices as 2025 progresses. While their inflation projections suggest gradual progress toward their 2% target, persistent yen weakness complicates this normalisation timeline.

Kazuo Ueda’s recent comments indicate a deliberate approach to rate adjustments, with no rush to raise rates, and an emphasis on the need for clear wage trend data expected in March or April.

But finance minister Katsunobu Kato’s recent warnings against speculative yen selling highlight official concern about currency market dynamics. With the dollar reaching 158.33 yen in early January, approaching levels that prompted intervention last July, market participants should prepare for potential official action.

Equities-based financing represents one tool within a broader risk management framework for foreign exchange market strategies. While it cannot eliminate currency risk, it can provide investors with options to maintain long-term position

Levenshulme school’s safety boost for road safety investment

Helen Greaney

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10/03/2025

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Levenshulme school’s safety boost for road safety investment

A Manchester primary school is among the first to benefit from an investment into road safety in efforts to better keep pupils safe.

Alma Park Primary School in Levenshulme, has welcomed an introduction of double yellow lines near the school for children and parents on the school run to avoid the dangers posed by unauthorised parked cars as well as cars travelling in and out of the area.

The school is the first to have the major new road safety measures installed as part of Manchester-wide project funding from Clean, Green, Safer, Investment Programme.

The £15 million investment project, which will be carried out over three years, will improve factors such as local roads, green spaces and replacing all litter bins.

Around £2.2 million of the investment will be exclusively used to continue improving road safety for children and parents. Whether they choose to walk, cycle or ride into school they can be assured that active travel in their communities will be supported by becoming cleaner, greener and safer.

Some areas will also get new double yellow lines, while others will see new bee-adorned bollards, guard rails outside busy schools and speed bumps all with the aim of fostering a safe environment for everyone.

The investment back into local communities is a wider push in recognising Manchester as a Child Friendly City where children feel safe to walk, wheel or cycle to school.

Following the double yellow lines being installed, Alma Park Primary School has seen a significant reduction in anti-social parking outside the school. Children and parents have reported feeling more confident in travelling to and from the school, now knowing they can comfortably be in the area without the dangers of unwarranted cars.

Richard Williams (pictured far left), headteacher at Alma Park Primary School, said: “As a result of the double yellow lines more children can now more safely and confidently cycle, scoot or walk to school without the obstruction of parked cars on Errwood Road.

“We hope to see a reduction in air pollution around the school and I am very pleased to see the real-life benefit of the Council’s investment taking shape. We hope this will continue to encourage our community to embrace active travel.”

Councillor Tracy Rawlins (pictured) said: “I am thrilled to see the installation of double yellow lines outside Alma Park Primary School and how it has already had an impressive impact on the safety of children and parents during the school run.

“This initiative, part of our Clean, Green, Safer Investment Programme, aims to improve general safety across the city and foster better community relations as we stem the flow of traffic and make areas feel safer for everyone. It’s great to see how this is also encouraging residents to actively walk or cycle to school.

“I look forward to seeing the continuation of this project and how we can instil confidence in other school communities in Manchester.”

£500,000 worth of plants seized in major ‘cannabis farm’ crack down

Crime

Helen Greaney

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10/03/2025

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£500,000 worth of plants seized in major ‘cannabis farm’ crack down

More than 700 cannabis plants, worth a staggering £500,000 street value, have been seized from six cannabis farms.

During Operation Mille, a national operation aimed at detecting and disrupting Organised Crime Groups (OCGs) linked to cannabis cultivation, money laundering, and immigration crime, Greater Manchester Police executed nine warrants across the county.

Police forces across England and Wales – working with Regional Organised Crime Units (ROCUs) and partner agencies – all took part in the intensive activity, which is designed to apprehend key players, increase intelligence across the force, and safeguard those who are being exploited by the gangs and forced to live and work on cannabis farms.

Results from the operation showed there has been significant disruption to organised crime networks up and down the country.

Cannabis cultivation and serious crime are linked, with the profits funnelled into fuelling further criminality and exploitation.

Cannabis farms pose a fire hazard to residents due to potential faulty electricals; they can also pose anti-social behaviour (ASB) issues for local residents, with people coming and going from the locations at different hours of the day and night.

As result of this operation across Greater Manchester alone, four people were arrested and three people have been charged and remanded.

Detective inspector Abigail Thomas said: “Organised crime gangs distributing drugs blight our communities, causing fear and harm for residents with total disregard for others, interested solely in their own gain.

“I hope our intensive action sends a clear message to them that we are watching, and we will continue to pursue them and disrupt their criminal activity to protect our communities.

“We would like to let people know that we do take any intelligence submitted by the public seriously, and we will act on it – it plays an important role in our investigations. Please, let us know if you have any concerns about drug activity in your local area.”

Oxygen Activeplay – Manchester’s newest entertainment park opens

Entertainment

Helen Greaney

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10/03/2025

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Oxygen Activeplay – Manchester’s newest entertainment park opens

Oxygen Activeplay at Salford’s MediaCity has finally opened, offering a whole host of exhilarating activities.

We took a trip down to Quayside – a great location for it – to the park, which is packed with 24 trampolines, a jumping bag, high rope course and soaring above us, a very high Sky Rider aerial ride.

Before we let our kids loose, we went through a mini immersive world, with laundry machines to jump into and a laundry maid who makes some rather windy noises. Mello Lello Land was a particular favourite with kids jumping all over trying to avoid digital moving lemons and eggs while trying to hop across a river.

As soon as we got into the park, it was straight up to the high ropes to be strapped up with a hard hat and more safety gear than you could shake a stick at. Trying to get across some rope bridge was a bit sore in socks but we were up for the six challenges.

We then had to get across a high bridge with slats deliberately missing, purely relying on balance and nothing to hold onto and later, navigate some large orange swinging balls as we were climbing steps.

Next it was onto the Power Tower – a multi-storey soft play climbing canopy with nets, slides and more. At the top there was a great view over the park.

There were plenty of other activities including trampolines which we had a bounce on before heading over for a jump onto the mega airbag – this was super popular.

They also enjoyed the Strike Arena, where players can form a team or take on a solo mission, to navigate their way through obstacles to strike lit-up targets and score the most points.

And while all this is going on, near the ceiling there are thrillseekers taking turn to get in a harness on the Sky Rider.

High above the park, bouncers over 120cm can take on the exhilarating high ropes course and navigate across six challenging crossings, while thrill-seekers who are 135cm or taller can get a sky-high feeling as they take flight and soar over the park on a harness on the Sky Rider.

For small people, there was a great soft play area, ringed off from the main park, which was a great offering for under 5s to play safely.

We were gutted to miss the Neon Night party, which takes place on the first Friday (6-8pm) of every month, where the lights are turned down low, the music is pumped up and the disco neon lights are on full blast.

While we didn’t have time to go in the cafe, it had plenty of seating with lots of hot and cold food and drink options available. Options included Oreo & Strawberry Pancakes, bacon rolls, classic spaghetti bolognese and halloumi sticks, pizzas, jacket potatoes and lots more.

There was also a birthday party room to eat, with plenty of options open to those thinking of booking an event.

Overall we had a great time but it was very busy when we arrived at 2pm on Saturday. If you do a plan a trip in the near future, we would avoid peak times.

Book tickets here: https://oxygenactiveplay.co.uk/my-account/

Levy Artisan Market in Levenshulme set for Spring opening

Events

Helen Greaney

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08/03/2025

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Levy Artisan Market in Levenshulme set for Spring opening

A new monthly artisan day and night market to open in Levenshulme from April.

Manchester City Council and Independent Street – known for its successful events around the North West – have collaborated to bring a new market offering on the former, much loved Levy Market site.

The new market which will be known as Levy Artisan Market will bring freshly baked produce, independent food stalls, and unique artisan products to the vibrant area.

Levy Artisan Market will launch on Sunday, April 13 and will take place the second Sunday of every month. There will also be an exciting night market on the last Friday of every month from April 25.

Garry Bridges, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We are really proud to welcome Independent Street’s Artisan Levy Market onto the site, the end product of a collaborative approach to bring a new market offering to the people of Levenshulme.

“The new market will provide a unique space for small businesses, artisans, and food vendors, allowing them to thrive whilst also contributing to the local economy and offering residents and visitors access to high-quality products, delicious street food, and a welcoming social environment.

“We hope it will become more than just a market – but rather a hub for creativity, enterprise, and community spirit.”

The monthly Sunday Artisan Markets at Levy will offer family-focused events, from live entertainment and children’s workshops to food tastings and cultural celebrations, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The monthly Friday Night Markets will offer a newly designed food court area with a large selection of street food, plus live music, good vibes and a large seating area.

Lisa Cowley, director of Independent Street, said: ‘’We are thrilled to have been selected to launch this iconic market back onto the Manchester Market scene.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome back Levy’s loyal customers and introduce The New Levy Artisan Market to a new generation of visitors. With a focus on community, sustainability, and high-quality, local produce, we hope to make Levy Artisan Market the heart of Manchester for years to come.”

The Levy Artisan Market is set to showcase Manchester’s rich tapestry of Artisans and creators and also serve as a catalyst for driving footfall into Levenshulme’s established shops, cafes, restaurants and independents. It will once again continue to emphasise supporting small businesses and providing a space for entrepreneurs to thrive.

To celebrate the launch, Levy Artisan Market will be hosting a grand opening event on Sunday April 13, featuring live music performances, incredible artisans, a street food area plus a free crafting table and activities for its smallest visitors. The event will run from 11am and everyone is invited.

Organisers are on the hunt for local community groups and musicians to join in. Applications to trade can be made through the website: independentstreet.co.uk

£10,000 fine for company which flouted planning law

Construction

Helen Greaney

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08/03/2025

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£10,000 fine for company which flouted planning law

The landlord of a business property in Chorlton has landed a substantial fine after it failed to comply with a planning notice.

In October 2020, Manchester City Council granted planning permission to the operators of Dough House to construct a canopy around the exterior of a building at 93-95 Beech Road.

However, in November of that year, the planning service was made aware that the building work underway did not resemble the specifications set out in the original planning permission application.

In July 21, 2021 the council issued an Enforcement Notice which instructed the landowner – J.B Richardsons (Bakers) Limited, of Marmion Drive, Manchester – to dismantle and remove a canopy and fixed seating area which had been constructed contrary to planning permission.

The notice provided the landowner and operator six months to comply.

Although the canopy was eventually removed by March 1, 2024 this was outside the six-time to comply, by which point legal proceedings had already begun.

At a hearing held before Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, March 6, 2025, J.B Richardsons (Bakers) Limited pleaded guilty to failing to comply with a planning notice.

They were ordered to pay a fine of £10,000, court costs of £1,500 and a victim surcharge of £2,000.

Councillor Gavin White said: “The council has made no secret that we take a zero-tolerance approach to planning breaches.

“The rules around planning are in place for a very good reason, often providing safeguards and reassurance to residents who could otherwise be negatively impacted by rogue developments.

“In this case there was no excuse from the building’s owners for failing to comply with this order, and as a result they have paid the price in court.”

This enforcement action is not connected in any way to the current tenants of this property, Miss Dee’s Evoden Bar & Kitchen.

Cadillac to join Formula 1 grid as 11th team in 2026

Blog

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07/03/2025

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Cadillac to join Formula 1 grid as 11th team in 2026

General Motors (GM) has officially gained approval to join Formula 1 in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the US automotive giant.

The team will compete under the Cadillac brand, following a revised proposal that convinced F1 to greenlight its entry.

This decision follows months of negotiations and comes after an earlier bid involving Andretti Global was rejected. F1 was ultimately persuaded by GM’s stronger long-term commitment, leading to a joint approval from Formula 1 and motorsport’s governing body, the FIA, after thorough sporting, technical, and commercial evaluations.

The newly approved team will operate under TWG, a US-based organisation, in a restructured effort from the original Andretti-linked project. Dan Towriss, owner of Andretti Global, and Mark Walter of TWG are among the key investors.

The team will be headquartered in Silverstone, UK, aligning it with many existing F1 operations.

While former IndyCar and F1 driver Michael Andretti is no longer involved, his father, 1978 world champion Mario Andretti, will serve in an advisory role. Additionally, Graeme Lowdon, formerly with Manor Racing, has been appointed team principal, bringing extensive experience from his tenure in F1 between 2010 and 2016.

F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “As we said in November, the commitment by General Motors to bring a Cadillac team to F1 was an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport.

“I want to thank GM and TWG for their constructive engagement over many months and look forward to welcoming the team on the grid from 2026 for what will be another exciting year for Formula 1.”

Meanwhile, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem described the approval as “a transformative moment” for the sport.

BREAKING: Cadillac confirmed as 11th team on the 2026 F1 grid#F1 pic.twitter.com/V5eoWfQCYX

— Formula 1 (@F1) MARCH 7, 2025

Key Factors Behind GM’s Approval

The acceptance of GM’s entry was influenced by several major factors that distinguished it from the initial Andretti bid.

These included a long-term commitment to a full works team rather than relying on F1’s existing provisions. A confirmed engine supply agreement with Ferrari, eliminating concerns over compulsory engine allocation. GM’s commitment to developing its own engine for future seasons.

Additionally, a US Department of Justice investigation into F1’s initial rejection of Andretti’s bid was reportedly a factor in GM’s eventual acceptance.

General Motors’ entry aligns with a broader shift in F1’s landscape, driven by new power unit regulations set to debut in 2026.

These changes will increase the hybrid component of engines to approximately 50% (up from the current 20%) while mandating the use of fully sustainable fuels.

These regulations have played a key role in attracting other major manufacturers. Ford is partnering with Red Bull as the team develops its own power unit. Audi has acquired Sauber and will fully rebrand the team starting next year. Honda, initially planning to exit F1, has opted to stay and will become Aston Martin’s official engine supplier in 2026.

Meanwhile, Renault, which has long supplied its own power units, has decided that continued engine production is no longer financially viable. As a result, Alpine will switch to using Mercedes power units from 2025 onwards.

Tribute paid to girl who died in Manchester house fire

News

Helen Greaney

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07/03/2025

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Tribute paid to girl who died in Manchester house fire

A tribute has been paid to a four-year-old girl who lost her life following a house fire in Rusholme.

Emergency services were called to the blaze at a house in Gateshead Close on Sunday, March 2.

Lesma-Rose Wibier (pictured) was pulled from the house but died from her injuries in hospital.

A 44-year-old woman, who police say was known to the child, was arrested on suspicion of arson with the intent to endanger life, and has since been rearrested on suspicion of murder.

She has been detained under the Mental Health Act and is awaiting more assessments, Greater Manchester Police said.

Lesma-Rose’s family said: “She always had a smile on her face and could put the same on others’.

“She was such a smart and intelligent girl in her own unique ways, and she will be deeply missed by anyone who was blessed to meet her.”

A GMP spokesperson said they were awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination by a Home Office pathologist to determine the cause of Lesma-Rose’s death.

Anyone with any information about the fire is urged to contact police on 101.

Paedophile admits campaign of grooming abuse in Manchester

Crime

Helen Greaney

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07/03/2025

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Paedophile admits campaign of grooming abuse in Manchester

The court had begun to hear evidence of how Oates (44) from Stockport and nicknamed ‘Nails’ due to his long fingernails – groomed the girls and preyed on their vulnerability.

He coerced one of the girls to believe he was her boyfriend when she was just 14. He would subject her to sex work and sell her to other men.

The victim approached police in November 2020 after seeing media coverage of arrests as part of Operation Green Jacket.

She and her friend bravely reported Oates’ abuse. This video evidence was played in court earlier this week before Oates decided to finally admit his crimes.

Detective inspector Eleanor Humphrey’s, senior investigating officer for this case, said: “I am so pleased for both women that they have today finally got some justice all these years after this horrific abuse.

“Christopher Oates is a depraved and manipulative paedophile. The abuse he subjected these two girls to was horrific. He was even prepared to try and deny this throughout a trial and make the victims relive it all over again.

“Thankfully, due to the weight of evidence against him, his crimes have finally caught up with him two decades later. This is all thanks to the brave and compelling testimony from the victims, who now have been spared the experience of being cross-examined in court.”

Assistant chief constable Steph Parker said: “Today is a significant day for GMP and its ongoing pursuit of justice for victims of non-recent child sexual abuse.

“Firstly, I commend the bravery of the victims and the meticulous dedication of the investigation team and support services. Together, long-awaited justice has been secured.

“Operation Green Jacket was set up in 2019 to tackle non-recent child exploitation in Manchester in the 2000s. This result is a clear signal we will investigate and we will bring offenders to justice.

“However, we are clear that this is far from over. This operation has a number of live investigations and, with more than 70 arrests, more days like this will follow.

“Time is no barrier to justice. No matter how long ago the abuse, when you are ready we will listen to you.”

Profit First Hospitality to Launch at NRB 2025, Pioneering Financial Success in Hospitality

Hospitality

News Desk

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07/03/2025

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Profit First Hospitality to Launch at NRB 2025, Pioneering Financial Success in Hospitality

New Learning Platform Designed to Help Hospitality Businesses Thrive

A groundbreaking new learning platform is set to redefine financial success in the hospitality industry as Profit First Hospitality officially launches at the Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB) Show on 11th and 12th March 2025.

Created to help hospitality businesses take control of their financial management and increase profitability, this innovative programme is the brainchild of leading industry professionals Kieron Bailey (People on Purpose), Louise Kissack (Spaghetti Group & Liverpool Food Network), and Gareth Evans (Evans & Co Hospitality Accountants).

Profit First Hospitality is founded on the globally renowned Profit First methodology, which challenges traditional financial management by ensuring businesses prioritise profit from the start. By integrating this approach with hospitality-specific strategies and tools, the programme provides a clear framework for business owners to achieve sustainable financial growth.

Bringing together decades of industry expertise, the initiative is led by Gareth Evans, a former chef who transitioned into financial strategy, offering first-hand knowledge of the financial struggles hospitality businesses face. He is joined by Kieron Bailey, a business coach and brand culture expert with experience working with global names like Hard Rock Café and Wagamama to enhance business development and team performance. Completing the team is Louise Kissack, a strategic leader with almost two decades of experience at McDonald’s and Costa Coffee, specialising in brand growth and business strategy.

Most impressively, the programme claims to make any hospitality business profitable in just one week. “This isn’t just another finance course,” said Gareth Evans, founder of Profit First Hospitality.

“My accountancy practice Evans & Co Hospitality Accountants has already helped over sixty independent businesses – from Ma Pubs Group to Cardinal Rule – streamline their financial admin, optimise operations and achieve sustainable growth. Now we’re making these powerful strategies accessible to the wider hospitality industry.”

The programme offers participants tailored Profit First financial strategies specifically designed for hospitality businesses, expert guidance on marketing, menu optimisation, and brand culture to enhance revenue, alongside access to virtual clinics and interactive drop-in sessions with the Profit First Hospitality team. Additionally, participants will benefit from practical tools to simplify financial administration and maximise profitability.

Profit First Hospitality will officially launch at Stand 43 at NRB 2025 in Manchester, where visitors can experience the platform first-hand, meet the expert team, and learn how to take control of their business finances.

Louise Kissack said: “If paying yourself more is always at the bottom of your to-do list, we’ll help you fix that. With over 70 years of combined hospitality experience, we truly understand the unique challenges of this industry, and why now more than ever before businesses need to make profitability their priority.”