In times of uncertainty, businesses and their stakeholders need the certainty of advisers they can trust

The level of economic uncertainty for businesses and individuals we are experiencing now is almost unprecedented, spurred by:

• Global political challenges with the continuing war in Ukraine and the continued instability in the Middle East despite the ceasefire
• The volatility in global markets and trading relationships in part impacted by the tariffs position stimulated by President Trump  in the “America First” campaign
• Concern around the upcoming UK budget and what that might mean for businesses and individuals. The continued speculation about what might or might not be in the budget is damaging to confidence and stifling of action.

Consistency in government industrial, tax and fiscal policy is a cornerstone for fostering a robust business environment. When businesses operate in a climate of predictable and transparent regulation, they are empowered to make long-term commercial decisions with greater certainty. Conversely, frequent changes or ambiguity in government policy can undermine confidence, stifle investment, and ultimately hinder economic growth.

We call on the Chancellor and the Government to work towards restoring certainty to the UK economy, to UK businesses and to individuals through:

• Prioritising Transparency: Clearly communicate policy intentions and changes well in advance.
• Engaging with Stakeholders: Involve business leaders and industry experts in the policymaking process to ensure policies are practical and consider commercial realities.
• Avoiding Frequent Changes: Where possible, minimise the frequency of regulatory changes to allow businesses time to adapt and plan.
• Providing Long-Term Roadmaps: Offer guidance on the direction of future policy, especially in key sectors such as energy, technology, and trade.
• Guarding Against Unofficial Leaks: Implement robust processes and internal discipline to prevent the premature or unofficial disclosure of potential policy changes, which can destabilise markets and undermine confidence.

At James Cowper Kreston we understand how unsettling uncertainty is and we work with our clients to help them to navigate their way through the challenges that they face. Contact a member of our team to find out how we can support you.