Mind the gap

A downgrade in the UK's economic forecast could mean a larger than expected gap in the numbers Chancellor Rachel Reeves has to play with in her budget. Sean Farrington asks an economist what options she has to balance the public purse next month. And, we'll be hearing from an industry analyst why a UK oil and gas company has filed for administration and what it means for the industry in the North Sea. Also, how a hot summer might mean a miserable autumn for lovers of all things pumpkin.

Will Bain with the details of a 'framework' for a likely compromise on trade talks between the US and China this week. Proposals include a deferral of China's strict export controls of rare earths, minerals critical to US tech and industrial production. In return, the US proposes an end to promised retaliatory tariffs. We hear from an international trade expert on the robustness of the framework. And, a consultation has ended on Government plans to fine firms that repeatedly pay their suppliers late. Big companies have warned of investment risks if the plans go ahead. We speak to a small business leader involved in the discussions. And in football, embattled Sheffield Wednesday have finally entered administration. With a 12-point deduction from the EFL to contend with, what chances are there a likely buyer can be found?.

The number of cars produced in the UK fell by a massive 27% last month, according to the industry body the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. It says it's due to the cyber attack on Jaguar Land Rover that stopped production. Felicity Hannah asks how the sector might be able to recover.Our Friday panel looks back at the big economic stories of the week, including an inert inflation figure that has more than meets the eye behind it, and Rachel Reeves blaming Brexit for some of the UK's difficult economic circumstances.Plus, the most popular Netflix film of all time, Kpop Demon Hunters, is to make what the streaming service calls an "unprecedented" licensing deal for toys and games. One industry insider tells us just how big a deal it is.

As OpenAI launches a new web service, Will Bain looks at how it's set to rival Google. We also look at why English and Welsh football is appealing so much to Hollywood stars and American investors. And we hear from the owner of a cafe offering discounts to those who put their phones in lockers before grabbing a bite.

The boss of JCB says the Chancellor can't 'tax her way to growth' in November's Budget. Plus, with the latest inflation figures set to be revealed, what's driving up prices?

AWS says it's fixed the problem that's disrupted many of the world's biggest websites. Sean Farrington's joined by the former cyber chief of the UK Government to get his take on the bigger picture. Also, Chancellor Rachel Reeves says she can save businesses £6bn per year before the end of this Parliament. As she announces measures aimed at reducing the form filling process for SMEs, we delve into what that means. And as British Wool reports its strongest sales in more than a decade, its chief executive will be telling us why.

A new qualification, V Levels, will replace many existing vocational qualifications in a government shake up of the skills sector. Theo Leggett speaks to industry to find out their thoughts. Also, three weeks after the government offered embattled Jaguar Land Rover a £1.5 billion loan guarantee, we speak to a West Midland's business leader who fears help isn't reaching those companies in the supply chain reliant on the car maker for work. And, as some 1.5 million people in the UK mark Diwali, we speak to a business dedicated to ensuring those celebrating the Festival of Lights are supplied with food and gifts.

Greene King boss Nick McKenzie sits down with Felicity Hannah to talk about the pub trade, changing drinking habits and business taxes. Also, Sam Fender's People Watching picked up the 2025 Mercury Prize for best album. But in an era of music-streaming does the long player still make sense? We hear the thoughts of the boss of one of the legendary names in music retail. And, we debate the week's business and economic stories with our regular experts' panel.

Waymo driverless taxicabs are coming to London next year once they have completed safety tests. Bankers' bonuses to be paid earlier than before. They'll now receive them within 4 years instead of the current 8 years. And Microsoft's Xbox is launching its new £800 handheld gaming device around the world. Presenter: Sean Farrington.

According to the IMF, the UK is on course to record the highest inflation in the G7 this year. Sean Farrington talks to a senior economist about what this means for the UK economy in the long term and for Chancellor Rachel Reeves' budget plans in the short term. And we'll reporting on the latest round of the US China trade war. The US government is bullish, but are US businesses also up for the fight? We hear the views of a US importer. Also, Soho used to be at the heart of the British music industry. But the owner of a legendary Tin Pan Alley recording studio tells us business rates are making her studio unviable against a backdrop of home recording trends.