business / news / / LBC
80% of UK businesses reported a negative impact from the Middle East conflict.
80% of UK firms report a negative impact from the Middle East conflict, per Barclays report.
KEY POINTS
- Small companies' borrowing dropped 13.1% in early 2026 as they increased savings by 1.5%.
- 61% of surveyed firms now use agentic AI in operations, indicating rapid technology adoption.
- 68% of firms plan to increase cybersecurity investment over the next year.
- Barclays' CEO is advocating for a Cabinet-level AI ministerial post to guide national strategy.
COMPANIES
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