Bank of England expected to announce pre-Christmas interest rate cut today – business live

Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial newsUK inflation falls sharply to 3.2% amid slowdown in food price risesOver in Beijing, China’s commerce minister has criticised the European Union’s investigations into whether Chinese companies are unfairly subsidised by the state.The ministry said the EU’s Foreign Subsidies Regulation investigations severely impacted Chinese firms’ investment and business operations in the bloc, and China strongly opposes them.In the Nordics, being the clear leader in an improving market, combined with strong execution, has driven another notable step forward in profits. It’s pleasing that strong top-line growth is translating into improved profitability.In the UK&I, the consumer environment is more muted, and cost headwinds are unhelpful. Still, we’re the growing market leader, gaining share, and our margin and cost discipline is going a long way to mitigate headwinds and protect profits. In all markets, our big growth initiatives are paying off, our omnichannel model continues to win, and our growing services and solutions are great for customers and valuable to us. Continue reading...