Business

Nigel Farage has renewed his threat to strip commercial banks of billions of pounds in interest payments made by the Bank of England, reviving a controversial proposal that has already alarmed financial markets and the banking industry.

Speaking at a Bloomberg event on the fringes of the World Economic Forum, Farage confirmed that Reform UK still intends to scrap the interest paid on reserves held by banks at the central bank, money created during the era of quantitative easing.

Quizzed on whether the proposal, first outlined in Reform UK’s 2024 manifesto, remained party policy, Farage replied bluntly: “We are going to do it.”

“Some of the banks won’t like it,” he added. “Well, I don’t like the banks very much because they debanked me, didn’t they? This will be tough for banks to accept, but the drain on public finances is just too great.”

Farage rejected claims that the move amounted to a new tax on banks, insisting instead that lenders were benefiting unfairly from central bank policy. “They are just not going to get free money anymore,” he said.

Under current arrangements, commercial banks earn interest on the reserves they hold at the Bank of England, a mechanism designed to transmit monetary policy. Critics of the system argue it has resulted in large, politically sensitive transfers from the public purse to the banking sector as interest rates have risen.

At the time of the general election, banking groups warned that scrapping the payments could have “real consequences” for financial stability, lending conditions and investor confidence in the UK.

Asked why bond investors appeared uneasy about the prospect of a Reform UK government, Farage dismissed market concerns and suggested he would take a contrarian approach.

“As a former commodities trader, if there’s a big consensual view, take the opposite trade position,” he said. “I’ve always believed in that quite strongly.”

Farage also sought to draw lessons from the market turmoil that followed the 2022 mini-Budget under former prime minister Liz Truss and chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng.

“The big lesson is they did not propose to cut spending,” he said. “For our programme to work, we absolutely have to tell people that we are going to reduce welfare spending and cut excessive government spending. If we do that, I think the markets will applaud it.”

Farage also revealed that he had recently met Andrew Bailey, describing the encounter as “a very interesting clash of cultures”.

The renewed proposal is likely to reignite debate over the independence of the Bank of England and the relationship between monetary policy and fiscal decision-making, particularly as political scrutiny of bank profits and public finances intensifies ahead of the next phase of the economic cycle.

Read more:
Nigel Farage renews pledge to tax banks by scrapping Bank of England interest payments

A Leeds-based technology start-up has raised £23 million to accelerate the commercial rollout of its light-powered computer chips, in a move that could strengthen the UK’s position in the global race to develop next-generation artificial intelligence hardware.

Optalysys will use the funding to scale its photonic computing technology and expand operations into the United States. The investment round was led by Northern Gritstone, with backing from the UK government’s National Security Strategic Investment Fund.

Optalysys develops chips that process and transmit data using light rather than electrical currents flowing through copper wires, a technology known as photonics. The approach dramatically reduces energy consumption, generates far less heat and allows data to be processed securely while remaining encrypted.

Unlike conventional semiconductor firms, Optalysys designs its chips in-house but outsources manufacturing to specialist foundries. These include facilities at University of Southampton, as well as partners in Belgium and Singapore, with a further site planned in New York state.

Nick New, founder and chief executive of Optalysys, said building fabrication plants internally would be prohibitively expensive and unrealistic given the dominance of players such as TSMC.

“Trying to compete head-on with traditional semiconductor giants would be futile,” said New. “But in photonics, where the next generation of processing will come from, the costs are far lower. That gives the UK a genuine opportunity to become a global leader in photonic computing.”

The company’s immediate commercial focus is secure computing. Because photons allow data to be processed while in motion and encrypted, sensitive information can be analysed by AI systems without being exposed, a capability New said is increasingly vital across finance, defence and critical infrastructure.

“In financial services, for example, transactions can be processed confidentially, which makes this technology suitable for mainstream banking in a way traditional AI systems are not,” he said.

Optalysys is currently pre-revenue but launched its first commercial secure-computing product last year and is beginning to ship it to customers in the coming weeks. New believes secure computing will underpin the next phase of AI and cloud infrastructure.

“Where companies like Nvidia provided the foundations for today’s AI boom, we can do the same for the next generation of AI and secure computing,” he said.

The company is also targeting AI data centres, where tens of thousands of graphics processing units generate intense heat and consume vast amounts of electricity. As AI models such as ChatGPT proliferate, the industry is increasingly constrained by power availability.

Light-based connections do not generate heat in the same way as electrical currents, significantly reducing cooling requirements and overall energy demand. New said this efficiency advantage could prove decisive as data centres become some of the world’s largest consumers of electricity.

“Any meaningful reduction in energy use at that scale saves enormous amounts of money and resources,” he said.

Optalysys currently employs just over 50 people across Leeds, Bristol and the US, and plans to hire a further 35 staff as it scales. The company is also establishing a commercial base in San Francisco to deepen its presence in the US market and tap into American investment networks.

With geopolitical concerns growing around chip supply chains and AI infrastructure, investors believe photonic computing could offer the UK a rare chance to carve out global leadership in a strategically vital technology.

Read more:
Leeds startup raises £23m to push UK to the forefront of the AI chip race

Government borrowing fell sharply in December after a surge in income tax and national insurance receipts helped narrow the monthly deficit, offering short-term relief for the Treasury but little comfort over the longer-term health of the public finances.

Figures published by the Office for National Statistics showed public sector borrowing fell to £11.6 billion in December, £7.1 billion lower than the same month a year earlier, a 38 per cent reduction.

The improvement was driven by a strong rise in revenues. Total tax receipts increased by £7.7 billion year-on-year to £94 billion, while public spending rose by a more modest £3.2 billion to £92.9 billion.

Tom Davies, senior statistician at the ONS, said the fall in borrowing reflected “receipts being up strongly on last year, whereas spending is only modestly higher”.

However, the broader fiscal picture remains stretched. Over the first nine months of the financial year, borrowing totalled £140.4 billion, only £300 million lower than the same period last year and still the third-highest April-to-December borrowing figure since records began in 1993.

Public sector debt now stands at 95.5 per cent of GDP, up from 35 per cent before the 2008 financial crisis and 0.9 percentage points higher than a year ago. Higher interest rates continue to exert pressure, with £9.1 billion spent servicing government debt in December alone.

Dennis Tatarkov, senior economist at KPMG UK, said rising debt interest costs remained a structural challenge despite the month-on-month improvement.

The figures come amid continued economic uncertainty, following years of shocks including Brexit, the pandemic, energy price volatility after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the fallout from Liz Truss’s 2022 mini-Budget.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has raised taxes by around £70 billion across her first two Budgets, but the ONS data suggests this has yet to materially reduce borrowing over the course of the year.

James Murray, chief secretary to the Treasury, said the government was “stabilising the economy, reducing borrowing and ensuring public services deliver value for money”.

Independent commentators were less convinced. Philly Ponniah, chartered wealth manager at Philly Financial, said December’s improvement should not be mistaken for a turning point.

“The UK is still running one of the largest peacetime deficits on record,” he said. “High debt limits future choices and reduces resilience when the next shock arrives.”

With inflation still above target and growth fragile, economists warn that sustained improvement will depend less on tax windfalls and more on long-term productivity and investment-led growth.

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Government borrowing falls on income tax windfall, but pressure on public finances remains

The government is facing fresh calls to extend its business rates relief scheme for pubs to include hotels, as the accommodation sector grapples with sharp increases in taxes, wages and operating costs.

The appeal has been made by leading audit, tax and business advisory firm Blick Rothenberg, which warned that hotels are under growing financial strain and risk job losses without targeted support.

Darsh Shah, a partner at the firm, said ministers were planning to boost the £4.3 billion relief fund designed to help pubs manage rising business rates, but argued that hotels should not be excluded.

“Hotels are bearing the brunt of a number of tax and running cost increases,” Shah said. “Some are facing their rateable values increasing by more than 300 per cent this year, while also having to absorb higher national insurance contributions and a rising national minimum wage.”

He said a dedicated support fund, similar to that offered to pubs, would allow hotels to phase in business rate increases over three years, easing immediate financial pressure.

Shah also warned that recent policy changes allowing English mayors to introduce tourist levies on overnight stays could further undermine hotel finances. While the tax would be paid by guests, he said there was a real risk that customers would resist higher prices, squeezing margins and threatening employment.

“Hotels may be forced to pass on these additional costs, but guests may simply not be prepared to pay more,” he said. “That could harm hotel finances further and put jobs at risk.”

However, Shah said the levy could be turned into a positive if a proportion of the funds raised were redirected back into the sector. He suggested revenues could be used to offset rising rateable values or help hotels manage soaring utility costs, noting that average electricity unit prices for non-domestic users rose by 92 per cent between 2021 and 2023.

He added that levy income could also be used to support hospitality training and apprenticeships, helping to address skills shortages while benefiting young jobseekers and older workers looking to retrain.

Industry figures echoed the call. Frazer Callingham, managing director of Starboard Hotels, said hotels had faced the same cost pressures as pubs for years, yet were being overlooked.

“Hospitality was one of the industries worst hit during Covid and now seems to be bearing the permanent brunt of the most damaging cost and taxation changes,” Callingham said. “To add unconsidered increases in business rates on top of this is both unfair and unjust.”

He said employment costs alone had risen by double digits over the past three years due to increases in the minimum wage and national insurance, while suppliers and other operating expenses had also become significantly more expensive.

“We are the last line before the end consumer,” he said. “While hotels can flex pricing more than some industries, we are still demand-driven. We can only pass on costs at a level guests are willing to pay.”

Callingham also criticised the impact of recent revaluations by the Valuation Office Agency, saying they had dwarfed the benefit of the chancellor’s review of the business rates multiplier.

“Before any review or challenge, some hotels have seen rateable value increases of up to 300 per cent, with our estate averaging an 85 per cent rise,” he said. “All of hospitality needs to be reviewed alongside pubs if the sector is to survive.”

During and after the pandemic, hospitality businesses benefited from a 75 per cent discount on business rates, which has since been reduced to 40 per cent and is due to end entirely in April 2026. Shah said the government should consider extending the discount or phasing it out more gradually, alongside introducing targeted funding to help hotels manage the transition.

Without action, advisers and operators warn that rising business rates could become the final pressure point for an industry already struggling to recover from the combined effects of the pandemic, inflation and higher employment taxes.

Read more:
UK government urged to extend business rates relief to hotels amid mounting tax pressures

Capital gains tax (CGT) receipts fell sharply last year, reinforcing concerns that higher taxes on investment gains are failing to deliver additional revenue while discouraging business activity.

New figures published by HM Revenue and Customs show CGT receipts totalled £13.646 billion in 2025, down from £14.900 billion in 2024 — a decline of 8.4 per cent.

Wealth managers said the fall suggests investors and business owners are increasingly deferring disposals in response to a tougher tax environment. Jason Hollands, managing director at Evelyn Partners, said the data highlighted the “futility of over-taxing investors”.

“This marked decrease indicates that taxpayers are swerving the crackdown on capital gains by sitting tight and delaying disposals,” he said. “History shows that when CGT is increased, investors either bring decisions forward ahead of changes or are deterred from crystallising gains afterwards — or both. In many cases, more aggressive taxation leads to lower, not higher, revenues.”

The figures come after successive reductions to the CGT annual exemption under the previous Conservative government, which cut the allowance from £12,300 in 2022–23 to just £3,000 in 2024–25. Hollands said the receipts data suggested the Treasury had seen little benefit from that move.

Final revenue figures show CGT raised £16.93 billion in 2022–23, falling to £14.50 billion in 2023–24 and £13.06 billion in 2024–25, with the latest data indicating that the downward trend is continuing.

“The main consequence appears to have been distortion and disincentives to investment and business decisions,” Hollands said.

Attention is now turning to the impact of CGT rate increases announced by Rachel Reeves in her first Budget on 30 October 2024, when higher rates came into effect immediately. Hollands said much of the impact of those changes has yet to appear in the data, as most capital gains, aside from property, are reported through self-assessment with a lag.

“January and February 2026 will be the key months to watch,” he said, adding that early indications did not bode well for hopes that higher CGT rates would significantly bolster the public finances.

Hollands warned that further increases, including proposals to align CGT more closely with income tax rates, would be counterproductive. “Taxing investors more heavily on gains from capital they have put at risk does not work as a revenue raiser,” he said. “What it does risk is discouraging entrepreneurialism and investment at a time when the UK needs both to drive growth.”

The latest data is likely to intensify debate within government over whether capital gains tax can realistically be relied upon as a long-term source of revenue — or whether repeated hikes simply encourage investors to stay on the sidelines.

Read more:
Capital gains tax receipts fall 8.4% to £13.5bn as investors delay disposals

Anthony D’Anna is an entrepreneur and business leader known for his practical approach to management, finance, and growth.

His career began at ground level, running his own Italian deli, where he learned firsthand how leadership, operations, and customer trust come together in real time. Long hours and daily problem-solving shaped his belief that strong businesses are built through consistency, structure, and accountability.

Those early experiences led Anthony to develop a deeper interest in strategy and financial markets. He began studying trends, analysing patterns, and applying disciplined thinking to decision-making. Rather than chasing fast results, he focused on building systems that support steady progress. “Big ideas only work when the foundations are solid,” he often notes.

As his career progressed, Anthony brought together hands-on management experience with analytical insight. He is known for clear thinking, direct communication, and an ability to simplify complex challenges. His leadership style values focus over noise and preparation over speed. He believes that understanding how every part of a business connects is essential to long-term performance.

Outside of finance and operations, Anthony’s passion for cars and motorcycles influences how he views leadership and innovation. Precision, balance, and maintenance are principles he applies both on the road and in business. Today, Anthony D’Anna continues to build and lead with discipline, curiosity, and a commitment to sustainable growth, earning respect as a thoughtful voice in modern business leadership.

You started your career running your own Italian deli. How did that experience shape the way you think about business today?

Running a deli teaches you very quickly that ideas mean nothing without execution. You are dealing with staff, suppliers, customers, and cash flow all at once. If something goes wrong, you feel it immediately. That environment forced me to be present and accountable. I learned how small decisions add up over time. It also showed me that leadership is not about giving instructions from a distance. You are in it with your team every day, solving problems as they appear.

What lessons from that early stage still influence your leadership style?

Clarity and consistency. In a small business, people need to know exactly what is expected of them. There is no room for mixed messages. I also learned the value of systems early on. When processes are clear, people can do their jobs well. When they are not, even good people struggle. That lesson has stayed with me as my work has expanded beyond hands-on management.

How did your interest in finance and strategy develop from there?

It started with curiosity. I wanted to understand why some decisions led to stable outcomes and others did not. That pushed me to study patterns, trends, and structure. Finance appealed to me because it rewards preparation and discipline. There is a strong link between operational thinking and financial thinking. In both cases, you are managing inputs, measuring outputs, and adjusting over time. I approached it the same way I approached operations in the deli, by learning the mechanics before trying to change anything.

You often talk about systems rather than shortcuts. Why is that important to you?

Shortcuts tend to break under pressure. Systems are what hold up when conditions change. Early in my career, I tried to grow a business too quickly without the right structure in place. On paper, the idea made sense. In reality, the foundation was not ready. That experience taught me that growth without stability is not progress. Since then, I focus on building repeatable processes before scaling anything.

How does your passion for cars and motorcycles influence your thinking at work?

It influences almost everything. When you work with engines, you learn that performance comes from balance. Every part matters. If one component is off, the whole system suffers. Business works the same way. You cannot ignore small issues and expect strong results. Maintenance, attention to detail, and patience all apply. Working with machines has helped me stay grounded and realistic about how systems behave over time.

What does a productive day look like for you now?

I keep it simple. I start early and avoid filling my day with unnecessary tasks. I focus on a few priorities that actually move things forward. I also block time for deep thinking, especially when reviewing operations or planning next steps. Meetings and conversations happen later in the day. I have learned that productivity is about rhythm, not constant activity.

You have said that multitasking is overrated. Can you explain why?

Multitasking creates the illusion of progress. In reality, it often reduces quality and increases mistakes. I have found that giving full attention to one problem leads to better outcomes and fewer issues later. This applies to managing people, reviewing data, or building systems. Focus is not dramatic, but it is effective.

How do you handle moments when things do not go as planned?

I step back and review what actually happened. I treat setbacks as information rather than personal failures. When I expanded too quickly early on, it was uncomfortable, but it gave me clarity. I learned where the gaps were and how to close them. Reflection is important. You cannot improve what you refuse to examine.

What role does learning still play in your career today?

A constant one. Markets change, industries evolve, and assumptions expire. I spend time studying trends, reviewing outcomes, and learning from people with different perspectives. Maintenance applies to knowledge as much as it does to systems. If you stop learning, performance declines.

Looking back, what do you think has mattered most in bringing ideas to life?

Patience and discipline. Big ideas are appealing, but they only work when supported by strong fundamentals. Most progress comes from small improvements made consistently. That approach has helped me build ideas that last, rather than chasing results that fade quickly.

How would you describe your approach to leadership today?

Practical and focused. I value clear communication, steady progress, and accountability. Leadership is not about visibility or noise. It is about making sure the work is understood and done well. That mindset has stayed with me from the deli counter to where I am today.

Read more:
An Interview with Anthony D’Anna on Building, Focus, and Practical Leadership

Meir Oster is a social worker and community advocate based in Monsey, New York. He is known for his steady, people-first approach and his focus on helping individuals navigate emotional and social challenges in an increasingly digital world.

With a Master of Social Work, Meir has built his career around one core belief: people do better when they feel heard, supported, and understood. His work centres on helping teens and families manage stress, isolation, and the pressures of modern life. He brings a calm, practical perspective to issues that are often misunderstood or overlooked.

Meir has become a trusted voice on topics such as cyberbullying, emotional well-being, and healthy communication. He often speaks about how social media shapes teen identity and self-worth. He also highlights the subtle signs of stress and burnout that adults may miss. His insight comes from hands-on experience, not theory.

What sets Meir Oster apart is his ability to explain complex emotional issues in clear, everyday language. He focuses on listening, trust, and creating safe spaces for honest conversations. His approach avoids blame and shame. Instead, it encourages awareness and responsibility.

Through his work and writing, Meir continues to support his community with clarity and care. He believes long-term well-being is built through connection, consistency, and understanding. In a field that demands both empathy and structure, Meir Oster leads with purpose and integrity.

An Interview with Meir Oster: Listening First, Leading with Care

Meir, let’s start at the beginning. Where did your path into social work begin?

I grew up in Monsey, New York. It is a close-knit community, and from an early age, I was surrounded by people who looked out for one another. Helping people was not initially framed as a career choice. It was simply part of daily life. Over time, I realised that listening and supporting others came naturally to me, and I wanted to build a career around that.

You went on to earn an MSW. What drew you to that field specifically?

Social work felt practical and human. It sits at the intersection of emotional well-being, family life, and community systems. An MSW gave me the tools to understand behaviour, stress, and communication in a structured way. It also taught me to look beyond surface behaviour and ask what might really be going on for someone.

How did your early career shape the way you work today?

Early on, I learned that people rarely come to you with a neat explanation of their problems. Especially teens. They show stress through behaviour, silence, or withdrawal. Those early experiences taught me to slow down and observe patterns rather than react to single moments. That approach still guides my work.

Much of your focus today is on teens. Why that age group?

Adolescence is where so many long-term patterns begin. Identity, self-worth, and coping skills are still forming. I saw how easily stress and loneliness could be missed or dismissed at that stage. Teens are often labelled ‘difficult’ when they are actually overwhelmed. That gap matters.

You often speak about issues like cyberbullying and emotional overload. What are you seeing on the ground?

The digital world has changed how teens experience pressure. Cyberbullying does not end when school does. Comparison is constant. Even teens who appear socially active can feel deeply isolated. I see emotional burnout among young people who are trying to manage expectations from school, family, and online spaces simultaneously.

What do adults most often misunderstand about teen behaviour?

They see behaviour as defiance instead of communication. A teen who shuts down may be protecting themselves. A teen who lashes out may be overloaded. Social workers are trained to ask what a behaviour is saying. That question alone can shift how adults respond.

How does your work fit into the wider social work industry?

Social work is about systems as much as it is about individuals. My role is not only to support teens, but to help families and communities understand what teens need. That includes education around listening, trust, and boundaries. The industry is moving towards prevention and early awareness, which is critical.

You also write and speak publicly on these topics. Why is that important to you?

Not everyone will sit in a counselling room. Writing allows these conversations to reach parents, educators, and community leaders. I focus on clear language because emotional health should not feel academic or intimidating. If people understand the issue, they are more likely to respond thoughtfully.

How do you balance professionalism with empathy in your work?

Structure and empathy are not opposites. They support each other. Clear boundaries create safety. Empathy builds trust. My training helps me stay grounded, while my values keep the work human. One without the other does not work.

Looking back, how do you see your career evolving?

My focus has stayed consistent. Helping people, especially teens, feel seen and supported. What has evolved is the context. Technology, social pressure, and the pace of life continue to change. My role is to help others slow down and notice what matters.

What keeps you motivated after years in the field?

Small moments. A teen opening up. A parent sees their child differently. Those shifts may look minor, but they can change a trajectory. That is enough reason to keep going.

Finally, how would you describe your leadership style?

Quiet and steady. I lead by listening. In social work, leadership is not about being the loudest voice. It is about creating space for others to be heard.

Read more:
Meir Oster on Listening, Leadership, and Modern Social Work

As the legal industry continues to adapt to shifting regulations, emerging technologies, and evolving client expectations, 2026 is set to spotlight a new generation of legal leadership.

The top 5 leading lawyers to watch in 2026 are professionals who are not only excelling within their practice areas but also shaping the future of the legal profession through innovation, strategic thinking, and ethical leadership. These individuals stand out for their ability to navigate complex legal challenges while delivering meaningful results for clients and communities alike. From influencing policy and guiding high stakes decisions to redefining standards of excellence, each lawyer featured represents the qualities that will define success in the year ahead. Their expertise, vision, and impact make them names to watch as the legal landscape continues to evolve.

1- Francis Hornyold-Strickland

The practice of law demands clarity of thought, strategic skill, and steady composure. Every case presents its own challenges, and success depends on the ability to manage complexity with precision and confidence. Those who excel do so by combining deep legal knowledge with sound judgment and a commitment to excellence.

Francis Hornyold Strickland has built his career on these principles. As a barrister at Monckton Chambers, one of London’s leading sets, he is known for handling major, high-profile cases that test the limits of legal reasoning. His current work includes a multibillion-pound collective proceedings claim against Google, a fifty-million-euro dispute over the ownership of the Italian airline Aeroitalia, and a two-hundred-million-pound claim involving alleged secret commissions. These cases showcase his ability to manage demanding commercial litigation and arbitration with exceptional focus and professionalism.

His reputation is grounded in intelligence, attention to detail, and persuasive advocacy. He has been recognized as a leading junior in multiple legal directories, with clients describing his advocacy as clear, effective, and adaptable. His approach combines thorough preparation with an ability to remain composed under pressure, earning the trust of clients and the respect of colleagues.

Asked about what motivates him, Francis explained: “Commercial disputes (whether litigation or international arbitration) are generally stressful for clients who have their reputation and employees’ jobs on the line.  What drives me is helping people solve their problems and giving them a voice in a forum in which they may be unfamiliar.  If I can talk myself out of a job, put egos aside, and settle a case, that is normally the best long-term outcome. But sometimes a fight is unavoidable, and it pays to have someone in your corner who you trust to deliver.”

Beyond his casework, Francis contributes to the profession through authorship and mentorship. He co-authored Debattista on Bills of Lading in Commodities Trade, a respected practitioner text, and created Strickland’s Shipping Guide to support young lawyers navigating the complexities of shipping law. His dedication to education and practical guidance reflects his belief in continuous learning and professional growth.

Dividing his time between London and Athens, Francis has developed a strong international practice that spans England, the Middle East, Gibraltar, and Greece.

To learn more about Francis Hornyold Strickland’s work and current cases, visit his profile at Monckton Chambers or connect with him for insights into complex commercial and international arbitration matters.

2- Craig Ashton

Legal careers that endure are often shaped by discipline, service, and a steady sense of purpose. Over time, these qualities influence not only outcomes in courtrooms but also the confidence clients place in their advocates. Respect is built gradually, through results and through presence during difficult moments.

Craig Ashton has built such a career through decades of focused practice. After graduating from Pepperdine University School of Law, he refined his skills under the mentorship of respected trial lawyers, including Arnold Laub and Melvin Belli. These early experiences sharpened his courtroom instincts and reinforced the importance of preparation. His academic background in History from the University of California, Berkeley, further strengthened his analytical foundation.

In 1996, Ashton partnered with Christopher Allen Price to establish Ashton and Price in Sacramento. The firm was created to support injured individuals with clarity, transparency, and care. Over the years, it developed a strong reputation across Northern California. The practice addresses complex personal injury cases, including wrongful death and traumatic brain injury, with a steady and informed approach.

Ashton’s work has earned consistent professional recognition. He has been named North American Attorney of the Year and California Attorney of the Year. He has also received honors from Lawyers of Distinction, Who’s Who Publishing, and the President’s Circle for Top Attorneys. These recognitions reflect sustained excellence rather than isolated success.

Outside the courtroom, Ashton is known for public education and endurance pursuits. He co-hosts The All Things Legal Show, sharing practical legal insight with a broad audience. He has also appeared on major television networks to discuss legal issues that affect everyday lives. Often called The Bowtie Attorney Guy, his presence is rooted in approachability and experience.

People navigating personal injury concerns often benefit from clear and accessible information. The firm’s website provides context around legal rights, case processes, and community resources. Exploring these materials can be a practical starting point for those looking to stay informed and prepared.

3- Sital Fontenelle

Turning points of life often bring with them both challenges and change. During these moments, the right support can make the path ahead clearer and less overwhelming. In areas of family and relationships, trusted guidance can ease what might otherwise feel like an impossible journey.

With more than twenty years of experience in family law, Sital Fontenelle has become one of London’s most respected divorce lawyers. She has built her reputation on technical expertise, particularly in complex international cases. Her work is defined not only by knowledge of the law but also by a deep commitment to understanding people. Clients often remark on her ability to put them at ease even when the circumstances are daunting.

Sital leads the family and divorce practice at Kingsley Napley, an internationally recognised law firm. She is dedicated to building a team culture that values ambition , and collaboration. For her, success is not measured by individual victories alone but also by the strength of the team and the positive impact they create together.

Her career highlights include representing the wife in AH v BH (2024) EWFC 125, a significant case that successfully challenged a prenuptial agreement. She has also been named among the 50 Most Inspirational 2025 by CityWealth and is  recognised in leading legal directories such as Spear’s 500, Legal 500, UHNW Chambers, and Chambers & Partners.

Looking ahead, Sital remains committed to advancing family law in ways that serve clients with both expertise and empathy. She is passionate about collaborative solutions and believes in helping clients find outcomes that are not only fair but family focused. As a leader, she also champions diversity and inclusion, seeking to inspire young lawyers from underrepresented backgrounds to believe in their place within the profession.

To learn more about Sital’s work and her approach to family law, you can explore her profile and insights on the Kingsley Napley website.

4- Bryan M. O’Keefe

A steady rise in professional achievement often brings a search for deeper clarity. Many high performers move through impressive careers while carrying quiet questions about meaning and purpose. These questions shape how we see ourselves and how we engage with the work that once defined us. The legal field is no exception, and many senior attorneys are beginning to explore this space with greater honesty.

This growing interest in reflection has become an important part of the work of Bryan M. O’Keefe. He has built a respected career as an equity partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP and serves clients with excellence and focus. His accomplishments are extensive and include recognition from Chambers USA, The Legal 500, and Attorney Intel, which named him a Top 25 Financial Services and Insurance Attorney in 2025. These achievements reflect years of dedication to his craft. They also set the stage for a new chapter centered on deeper engagement with the inner life of attorneys.

Frequently writing on LinkedIn about the intersection of the law with matters of the heart, mind, body, and soul, Bryan brings a rare blend of experience and candor. He understands the demands placed on partners in major law firms and speaks openly about the deeper challenges facing attorneys in that intense environment. His writing offers a space for attorneys to reflect on the parts of life that often remain unspoken in professional circles.

An advocate of a “third-way” that balances working in an elite legal environment with heart-level change and personal transformation, his writing aims to create a community built on honesty, support, and dignity. Each reflection invites peers to slow down, to listen, and to reconnect with the aspirations that first drew them into the profession. His involvement in mentoring programs and ongoing theological study deepens his insights and strengthens his commitment to this mission.

The combination of practical experience and thoughtful reflection uniquely positions him to guide his peers working at the highest levels of the law. Those interested in joining these conversations can connect via LinkedIn.

5- Charlotte Harris

In a world where information moves faster than ever, the ability to safeguard reputation has become essential. Public figures, companies, and even private individuals face challenges that did not exist a decade ago. Privacy breaches, misinformation, and technological risks now shape the way people live and work. The demand for legal expertise that understands these pressures continues to grow.

Charlotte Harris has long been at the forefront of this space. She rose to prominence through her groundbreaking role in the phone hacking scandal, where she played a key part in the initial investigation. Her work in that case led to portrayals in both television and theatre, with Rose Leslie playing her in the recent ITV X drama The Hack, and her story was also brought to life on stage in Corruption in New York.

Harris has also appeared in several documentaries, including a new one set to air this October. These moments in the public eye reflect the impact of her legal career and her ability to take on matters of great sensitivity.

Today, she serves as a Partner at Brown Rudnick LLP, leading in the area of Brand and Reputation Management. Her practice combines privacy protection, crisis response, and strategic advice for individuals and corporations. The firm has expanded internationally, including a new office in Los Angeles, and maintains a Band 1 practice in the United States. Harris herself is ranked Band 1 High Net Worth in Chambers, recognized as a notable practitioner in Legal 500, and was a finalist for Woman of the Year 2025.

Her approach is shaped by the belief that personal and corporate information are deeply connected. The same vulnerabilities that expose a person’s private life can also put a company’s ideas and freedoms at risk. This understanding informs her work across industries, including corporate, company, and life sciences.

Looking ahead, Harris aims to build a department that can respond with agility to the rapid technological changes. For her, protecting reputation is all about enabling individuals and companies to move forward with confidence in an unpredictable environment.

To know more about Charlotte Harris and the work of Brown Rudnick LLP in Brand and Reputation Management, visit the firm’s website and follow its official social media.

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Top 5 Leading Lawyers to Watch in 2026

A vehicle warranty is supposed to give you peace of mind. It’s a promise from the manufacturer that they will cover repairs for certain problems within a specific time.

But what happens when the manufacturer refuses to honor that promise? You might find yourself in a frustrating cycle of endless repair visits and arguments with the dealership. This is when you need an expert in vehicle warranty dispute resolution. Trying to fight a massive corporation on your own is difficult, and they often count on you giving up.

When your warranty claim is denied, it can feel like you have nowhere to turn. Fortunately, there are experienced lawyers who specialize in these types of conflicts. Hiring the right attorney can completely change the outcome. They understand the complex laws and know how to hold manufacturers accountable. To help you find the right support, we’ve put together a list of the top ten lawyers you can trust for your vehicle warranty dispute resolution needs.

1. 247 Lemon Law

If you are facing a warranty dispute, you need a law firm that is both aggressive and efficient. 247 Lemon Law is a leading choice for consumers who need powerful representation. We specialize exclusively in lemon law and warranty disputes. This focus gives us an edge because we know every detail of this legal area. We understand the tactics that car manufacturers use to avoid paying for repairs or replacing a faulty vehicle.

At 247 Lemon Law, our primary goal is to get our clients back on the road in a safe, reliable car. We take the burden off your shoulders by handling all communication with the manufacturer. Our team builds a strong case by gathering all repair records and expert opinions. We have a strong history of winning substantial settlements for our clients. And because we work on a contingency fee basis, you won’t pay any attorney fees unless we win your case.

2. Johnson & Associates

Johnson & Associates has built a solid reputation for protecting consumer rights. They have extensive experience in dealing with vehicle warranty issues. Their legal team is known for being meticulous and prepared. They dive deep into the details of your warranty agreement and repair history to find the strongest points for your case.

This firm is skilled at negotiation. They often resolve disputes without needing a long, drawn-out court battle. However, they are always ready to litigate if the manufacturer refuses to offer a fair settlement. Clients often praise them for their clear communication and for making the legal process feel less intimidating.

3. The Law Offices of Jonathan D. Winters

This law firm is another strong advocate for consumers battling warranty problems. Jonathan D. Winters and his team have a history of taking on major automakers and winning. They understand that a defective vehicle is not just an inconvenience; it can be a serious safety risk for you and your family.

They are particularly good at handling cases where a manufacturer claims the warranty is void. Sometimes, a dealer might incorrectly blame the owner for the vehicle’s problems. The Law Offices of Jonathan D. Winters knows how to counter these false claims with solid evidence. Their dedication to justice for the consumer makes them a trustworthy option.

4. Law Office of Alex R. Tovarian

The Law Office of Alex R. Tovarian focuses on providing personalized legal services. They know that no two warranty dispute cases are exactly the same. They take the time to listen to your story and understand the unique challenges you are facing. This client-centered approach helps them build strong, trusting relationships.

Their team is aggressive when it comes to negotiations. They are not afraid to push back against lowball settlement offers. They have experience with a wide variety of car brands and know the common issues that arise with each. This specific knowledge can be a huge advantage when building your case.

5. Krohn & Moss, Ltd. Consumer Law Center

With decades of experience, Krohn & Moss is one of the most established consumer law firms. They have helped tens of thousands of clients resolve their lemon law and warranty disputes. Their size and experience mean they have the resources to take on any car company, no matter how large.

They have a streamlined process that makes it easy for clients to get started. They can quickly evaluate your case and tell you if you have a valid claim. Their attorneys are located across the country, but they have a strong presence in handling cases under state and federal warranty laws. Their long track record of success provides clients with confidence.

6. Neale & Fhima, LLP

Neale & Fhima is a firm that combines the power of a large firm with the personal attention of a small one. Their attorneys have a background in litigation, which means they are comfortable and effective in the courtroom. This reputation often persuades manufacturers to settle cases favorably before they go to trial.

They are known for their professionalism and ethical approach. They keep clients informed throughout every stage of the process. They work to demystify the legal jargon and ensure you understand all your options. Their goal is to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that’s a full refund, a replacement vehicle, or a cash settlement.

7. The Hanson Law Firm

The Hanson Law Firm is dedicated to fighting for the “little guy” against big corporations. They have a passion for consumer advocacy and a deep understanding of warranty law. They handle cases involving new, used, and leased vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards.

Their attorneys are skilled at uncovering evidence that manufacturers might try to hide. They work with automotive experts to prove that the defects are the manufacturer’s responsibility. Clients often note the firm’s persistence and their refusal to back down from a fight.

8. Consumer Action Law Group

Consumer Action Law Group handles a broad range of consumer issues, including vehicle warranty disputes. This wide experience can be beneficial, as they can sometimes spot related legal issues, such as financing fraud or misrepresentation by the dealer.

They offer a comprehensive approach to resolving your problem. Their team works together to build the strongest possible case. They are committed to making legal help accessible, often providing free consultations and working on a contingency basis. This means there is no financial risk to you for seeking their help.

9. The California Lemon Law Group

As their name suggests, this firm has a deep focus on California’s consumer protection laws. They are experts in the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, which is one of the strongest lemon laws in the country. If you are in California, their specialized knowledge is a significant asset.

They pride themselves on getting quick results for their clients. They know that you want to resolve your car troubles as soon as possible. Their process is designed to be efficient, moving your case forward without unnecessary delays. They have a high success rate in getting clients compensation for their defective vehicles.

10. Law Offices of Howard D. Silver

The Law Offices of Howard D. Silver has been representing consumers for many years. Howard Silver has a strong reputation as a tough negotiator and a skilled litigator. He is dedicated to ensuring that manufacturers live up to their warranty promises.

The firm provides individual attention to each case. You are not just another file number. They take the time to understand the impact the faulty vehicle has had on your life. This allows them to argue not only for financial compensation but also for the stress and inconvenience you have endured.

Final Thoughts

A vehicle warranty is a contract, and when a manufacturer breaks that contract, you have the right to take action. You do not have to accept endless repairs or unsafe driving conditions. The law provides a path for you to get the refund or replacement you deserve.

Hiring an experienced lawyer is the most effective step you can take. Any of the lawyers on this list can provide excellent guidance and representation. If you are seeking a firm that combines deep expertise with a relentless drive to win, consider starting with 247 Lemon Law. We are ready to listen to your story and provide a free case evaluation. Let us help you resolve your warranty dispute and get your life back to normal.

Read more:
Top 10 Vehicle Warranty Dispute Lawyers You Can Trust

In London’s business districts, work still unfolds around desks, deadlines, doctors operating rooms and long stretches of sitting broken only by meetings and commutes.

Hybrid working has changed where people work, but not the intensity, or the physical demands, of professional life.

Within this reality, herniated disc injuries are increasingly underestimated in return to work planning, treated as short interruptions rather than complex disruptions.

Employers and employees alike often misjudge back pain recovery windows, assuming readiness returns as soon as pain fades, despite evidence that herniated disc recovery time is frequently longer and less predictable than expected.

This misalignment fuels presenteeism, confidence loss, and reduced workplace back pain productivity.

The issue is not symptoms, but precise assessments and systems, how modern London workplace health frameworks measure recovery, performance, and resilience after back injury.

For many professionals, understanding the true herniated disc recovery time only comes after expectations collide with their back pain reality.

The Cost Of Reduced Spinal Function – And The Value Of Restoring It Properly

Your spine is more than a column of vertebrae and bones; it is one of your body’s central pillars of life – lost spinal function diminishes quality of life and performance.

According to the UK’s NHS guide, herniated disc symptoms include lower back pain, inability to bend or straighten your back, pain in the hips, buttocks, legs or toes, and numbness or tingling in the arms, legs or feet caused by vertebral nerve impingements or sharp sciatica pain.

Every step you trust, every breath you take, every moment of effortless movement depends on your spine’s strength and finely organised structure.

When spinal function is lost, its effects are felt throughout the body – and your business productivity suffers as a result.

Pain appears, confidence falters, and the way you move, think, and live is reshaped.

When spinal function is restored, strength returns, confidence grows, and freedom of movement follows.

Through correct assessments, exercises, customised rehabilitation, movement and rest, your spine rewards you with transformed physical freedom and mental well-being.

Reclaiming your lost spinal function enables you to walk upright, jog and run, lift, pull and push weights, live creatively, actively, and move through life without pain holding you captive – living life truly on your own terms.

Caring for the spine is not merely about avoiding discomfort.

It is about restoring your vitality, independence, business and physical performance, and the freedom to live fully – without back pain quietly dictating your choices.

Why Disc Injuries Are Quietly Changing Return-To-Work Timelines

Medical clearance is often treated as the finish line, yet functional readiness tells a different story.

Mayo Clinic guidance warns that while herniated disc healing may stabilise, functional recovery, spinal load tolerance, sitting demands, and sustained work capacity, can lag for weeks or months.

In desk-based roles, prolonged sitting and cognitive pressure expose this gap quickly.

Professionals may technically return to work, but confidence and their back health and work performance impaired by back pain remain fragile.

Research shows that the incomplete restoration of spinal load tolerance you lost during  back pain or spine injury, directly affects concentration, decision-making, and perceived competence at work (Waddell & Burton, 2004).

As a result, the disc injury recovery timeline extends beyond clinical benchmarks.

This reshapes how organisations experience return to work after back pain and spine injury, not through absence, but through quieter reductions in output and engagement.

Why Lived Recovery Outcomes Matter As Much As Clinical Theory

Clinical literature abundantly explains what happens in a herniated disc injury.

However, lived recovery illustrates how those mechanisms unfold over time in real working lives.

The NHS Hospital Episode Statistics for the period April 2014 – March 2015 shows 4,421 admissions at Barts Health NHS Trust, 2,981 at Royal Free London, 2,922 at University College London Hospitals and 2,811 at Imperial College Healthcare – all within a year in London population.

So, why herniated discs injuries are so prevalent –  what’s happening here?

“A herniated disc is far more than a simple case of spinal degeneration, muscle loss, or mechanical failure. It is a complex, multifactorial event in which annular disruption -the weakening of the disc’s outer layer -nucleus pulposus extrusion, and neuroinflammatory cascades converge and disrupt your  body signalling, motor control, and functional biomechanics. Understanding this interplay is essential for restoring movement, strength, and overall spinal health,” explains Jazz Alessi, founder of Personal Training Master, the creator of The Spine Method and the Herniated Disc Rehabilitation Division in London.

When People Return To Work But Do not Truly Recover

In many London offices, returning to work with back pain is framed as resilience. Professionals log back in early, sit through meetings, and push through discomfort, often driven by unspoken expectations and fear of falling behind.

Yet incomplete recovery back injury rarely stays invisible.

Fear of movement encourages avoidance behaviours: fewer posture changes, reduced breaks, and guarded body postures and controlled movement during long meetings.

Flare-ups become intermittent but disruptive, fragmenting focus rather than triggering absence.

The outcome is not time off, but a significant productivity drop, slower cognitive output, reduced social life and confidence, and diminished engagement in decision-making.

Occupational health research shows these patterns consistently shift cost from sick leave to presenteeism and reduced performance (Burton et al., 2006; Cancelliere et al., 2016).

Why Generic Recovery Advice Is Failing Professionals

Much generic back pain advice assumes flexibility, time to move, varied physical demands, and low cognitive pressure.

That model collapses inside desk-based professional roles.

Long screen hours, prolonged sitting, and constant availability expose a gap between advice and reality.

When recovery relies on unsupervised rehab exercise or generic recovery programmes, movement compensation, asymmetries and muscle weaknesses develops unnoticed, increasing back pain recurrence risk once workloads rise.

This fuels back pain relapse work cycles that frustrate employees, employers and your pay cheque.

The issue is systemic, not personal.

Evidence from occupational rehabilitation research shows that back health transformations occurs only when your back recovery performance reflects your real work demands and a customised exercise rehabilitation approach exposure to real life load, rather than one-size-fits-all rehab (Pransky et al., 2011; Waddell & Burton, 2004) therefore, correct assessments and laser sharp rehab customisations are crucial continues Jazz Alessi.

Slower Recovery After Minor Bumps Or Strains

Across London’s professional workforce, a subtle trend is emerging minor bumps, stiffness, or low-level strains are taking longer to resolve than expected.

This is less about tissue damage and more about predictability and confidence.

After a disc injury or sciatica pain, professionals often lose trust in their body’s signals, becoming cautious with everyday movement and even decision-making.

Without clear reassurance, recovery slows, not dramatically, but enough to affect momentum.

Observationally, organisations experimenting with assessment-led rehab models report better outcomes when evidence based movement assessment and progressive loading are used to rebuild your back functional strength and confidence rather than simply reduce back pain.

Are you living in West Hampstead, greater London, Central London, Kensington or Canary Wharf?

Technology makes it easy to access the right type of expertise wherever you are in the world and when you need.

However, if you live in north London approaches such as assessment based trainer-led rehab, sometimes delivered through partnerships like an expert personal trainer north London and spine health transformation collaboration.

PubMed research shows this assessment based approach is cited not as services, but as implementation examples of confidence first recovery applied to real working lives (Pransky et al., 2011).

So, what are the effects of an evidence based – assessment rehab-led approach?

Jan, a London-based NHS professional returning to desk-based work after 10 years of persistent back pain, described his recovery that it aligned closely both with functional benchmarks and symptom disappearance:

“My body inconsistencies and asymmetries diminished by 85–90 per cent very quickly. Pain also diminished by 85–90 per cent. After I completed my rehab – I could potentially take up a new sport for example. Jazz’s commitment, knowledge and care are surely unsurpassable.”

Hayley’s experience further highlights why long term expertise and specialist knowledge can have such transformational effects:

“When you have an injury, there is no margin for error. You have choose people who really know what they are doing. SAFETY is his top priority. He is very vigilant when it comes to carrying out movements safely in order to prevent further injury, which is such an important factor. Jazz has helped me and many others recover successfully from their injuries. His knowledge about anatomy, physiology, nutrition and how to exercise safely – SAFELY being the key word, I believe, is unparalleled.”

So, why this spine rehabilitation method restores strength, agility, confidence, long term resilience and freedom of movement where other methods fail?

Mostly because this rehabilitation system is not about generic exercises.

It is a precise, assessment evidence-based approach designed to rebuild your spinal stability from scratch, restore movement in the right way, and return injured clients to pain-free living, exercise, and sport.

Each phase targets the true causes of disc pain – not just the symptoms – so your spine becomes strong, agile and resilient for the long term, that is – the results last.

It focuses on the right approach to help you get back on track and enjoy movement without suffering from pain and get back to sport and exercise safely:

Rebuild Your Spinal Shield with Precision Core Activation

Your deep spinal stabilisers are retrained in a customised manner to protect the lumbar spine during everyday movement.

Unlike generic “core” exercises that increase spinal load and risks of injuries, this method restores protective muscle function and reduces reinjury risk.

Restore Fluid, Pain-Free Movement Across the Spine and Hips

Targeted mobility work for your thoracic spine, upper body posture and shoulders, lower back, hips, psoas, flexors, and hamstrings removes the uneven tension that compresses spinal structures and accelerates disc stress.

Re-Engineer How You Move in Daily Life

Everyday actions – lifting, bending, dressing, entering and exiting a car – are retrained using biomechanically safe patterns that strengthen the spine instead of damaging it.

Condition Your Spine Without Irritation

Low-impact aerobics and back-specific conditioning improves circulation and endurance while protecting the disc from overload, allowing recovery without flare-ups.

Correct Imbalances That Trigger Relapse

Repetitive uneven loading is eliminated, reducing strain on vulnerable segments and lowering the risk of disc re-injury.

Reactivate Weak Muscles and Release Overworked Ones

Assessment-led customisation restores balanced muscle function, improves posture, and rebuilds symmetrical movement — essential for long-term spinal health.

7. Stimulate Disc Healing and Slow Degeneration

Targeted spinal conditioning increases blood flow, oxygen delivery, and nutrient transport to affected vertebrae.

This reduces spine and vertebrae inflammation, supports disc repair, and slows the progression of degenerative disc disease.

 

This is not just an exercise rehab programme.

 

It is a new spine method reeingineering your spine functions and strength.

The result is a stronger, more resilient back and a confident return to movement, training, and life.

What this means for London businesses and leadership teams

For leadership teams, disc recovery remains a blind spot in wellbeing strategy.

UK data from bodies such as the Health and Safety Executive consistently show that musculoskeletal issues drive a significant proportion of sick leave costs, yet workplace back pain cost UK discussions often focus only on absence.

The greater impact lies in reduced employee productivity back pain creates through presenteeism and delayed capacity restoration.

Without integrating correct assessments, customised recovery approaches into workforce planning and absence management, London organisations can underestimate long-term output loss.

Framing disc recovery as a performance and predictability issue, rather than a medical one, allows leaders to align wellbeing strategy with measurable business outcomes (HSE, 2023; Burton et al., 2006).

Case insight: when recovery is done differently

Dr Christian H. an NHS senior consultant returned to work after a disc injury with medical clearance however, he struggled maintaining surgeries postures longer than 40 minutes.

Rather than escalating treatment, his focus shifted to take on a personalised back rehab programme built around structured rehab customisations, correct progression and his work-specific demands.

“What changed wasn’t just my back, it was my full body abilities, my strength, flexibility, agility and my confidence and ultimately my mood,” Dr Christian noted.

Through correctly customised exposure and realistic workload alignment, his functional confidence returned before symptoms fully resolved and I could not have done this without using Jazz’s spine method.

Within eight weeks, his surgeries and meeting endurance and decision-making clarity normalised.

Research shows that real-world case studies highlights how return-to-work confidence is restored when recovery is treated as a performance pathway, not a symptom checklist, bridging the gap between clinical recovery and professional readiness (Waddell & Burton, 2004).

Why Return-To-Work Strategies Need Updating

Across greater London organisations, return to work policies are quietly evolving, not because old models failed, but because work itself has changed.

Hybrid schedules, prolonged sitting, and high cognitive demand mean recovery frameworks must now account for confidence, predictability, and sustained output.

A modern return to work strategy recognises that functional recovery, strength, transformed body abilities and sustainable performance extend beyond medical clearance.

Research in occupational health consistently shows that prevention mindset thinking, early rehab customisations, graded exposure, and role-specific rehab demands, reduces disc relapse and supports long-term work capacity (Waddell & Burton, 2004; Pransky et al., 2011).

For leadership teams, this back health transformation approach is strategic: aligning recovery with how work is performed today, less back pain and significant savings in the future.

Conclusion

Herniated disc injuries are reshaping how return to work after back injury truly unfolds in London’s professional landscape.

When recovery is understood as an assessment based and laser sharp customised system, not a symptom confidence returns sooner, productivity stabilises, and performance becomes sustainable.

Smarter assessments, rehab customisations implementations and recovery expectations do not lower standards; they protect them.

People suffering from herniated discs injuries and London organisations that align recovery timelines with real work demands quietly build resilience safer, clarity, and better outcomes for both people and performance.

Read more:
From Boardrooms to Desks: How Disc Injuries Are Reshaping Return to Work in London