Home Blog Page 190

Enhancing Property Value Through Effective Pest Management

0

Pest control is essential for effective property management, but it has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Gone are the days of generic chemical treatments and reactive measures. Today’s modern pest control strategies are more efficient, tailored to individual property needs, and focused on long-term sustainability. These new approaches not only protect property but also improve the overall management of the property itself. This blog explores how modern pest control methods are enhancing property management practices.

Customised Solutions for Each Property

One of the biggest advantages of modern pest control is the ability to tailor treatments to the specific needs of a property. Each property is unique in terms of its size, structure, and environment, which means pest control solutions must be customized accordingly. Property managers can now work closely with pest control experts to design a plan that addresses potential risks specific to the property’s location and architecture. Whether it’s a high-rise building, a commercial complex, or a suburban home, bespoke pest control strategies ensure that interventions are both effective and cost-efficient. For example, property managers can work with companies like ThermoPest to implement advanced pest control solutions tailored to their property’s specific needs, ensuring a pest-free environment with minimal disruption.

Use of Biological Controls

While chemical pesticides were once the primary method for eliminating pests, biological controls are becoming an increasingly popular alternative. Biological pest control involves using natural predators or pathogens to target pest populations. For example, introducing predatory insects or beneficial nematodes can help control pests without causing harm to the environment or other wildlife. This method offers a more sustainable and natural approach to pest control, which aligns with the growing demand for eco-conscious management in both residential and commercial properties.

Streamlined Pest Control Services

Property managers no longer have to rely on sporadic visits from pest control providers. With the advent of integrated pest control systems, services can be streamlined to operate on a schedule. Many companies now offer real-time monitoring and continuous pest management, allowing property managers to access up-to-date reports and track pest activity remotely. These systems often use internet-connected devices that send alerts about pest activity or treatment needs, making the entire process more transparent and less time-consuming. The ability to monitor pest activity in real-time reduces downtime and helps prevent potential infestations from becoming serious problems.

Integration with Building Design and Landscaping

Modern pest control methods are moving beyond just treating infestations. There is an increased focus on integrating pest prevention into building design and landscaping. By incorporating pest-repellent materials or strategically placing pest traps within the building’s architecture, property managers can prevent problems before they start. Landscaping strategies also play a role; for instance, the use of certain plants can repel pests naturally, creating a proactive barrier against common intruders like mosquitoes or rodents. By incorporating pest control into the overall property design, managers can reduce the need for ongoing intervention.

Minimising Disruption to Tenants

Today’s pest control treatments are designed to be minimally disruptive to residents or tenants. Many modern methods, such as heat treatments or non-toxic sprays, are quick, effective, and leave no lasting odour or mess. This approach ensures that pest control is carried out without causing significant disruption to daily activities, which is crucial in properties with multiple tenants or high occupancy rates. The ability to manage pest issues efficiently without disturbing residents contributes significantly to tenant satisfaction and helps avoid complaints or negative reviews.

Enhanced Compliance and Reporting

With increased focus on health and safety, property managers must ensure that their pest control practices comply with all relevant regulations. Modern pest control services offer detailed documentation and reporting to help property managers meet these requirements. Whether it’s maintaining records for regulatory bodies or providing evidence of non-toxic treatments for tenants, these reports ensure that properties are in compliance with local, state, and national standards. The increased emphasis on transparency and accountability in pest control provides property managers with an added layer of security, helping them avoid potential legal or financial issues.

Conclusion

The evolution of pest control methods has significantly impacted property management, providing more efficient, environmentally friendly, and tenant-focused solutions. From customised strategies and biological controls to streamlined services and proactive design integration, modern pest control is helping property managers maintain safe, pest-free environments with minimal disruption. By embracing these advanced methods, property managers safeguard their properties and improve operational efficiency and tenant satisfaction.

The Economics Behind Online Gaming Incentives

0

Online Gaming Incentives, bonuses, and promotions on platforms like GoldenBet Casino can help you to stretch your bankroll that little bit further. This gives you the chance to prolong your fun, try out new games, as well as strategies even when you’re on a budget. So let’s take a look at how you can stretch your pennies that little bit further with online casino offers.

Understanding what’s on offer

The best way to take full advantage of casino offers is to know what’s on offer. Casino offers come in different shapes and sizes. Some of the more common promotions that you will find include:

Free spins: You receive a certain number of spins to use on a slot game (or a range of slot games). This allows you to play without spending any of your own money.

No deposit bonus: A casino provides you with promotional funds that you can use without having to make a deposit.

Matched deposit: A platform will match a certain percentage of your deposit which you will receive in bonus funds.

Cashback offers: Some casinos offer cashback on losses. This gives you the chance to earn back some of the funds you’ve lost. Giving you a second chance to spend it.

Loyalty programs: These are programs that offer perks for existing players. These could be points that can be redeemed for cash or even regular bonuses.

Welcome bonuses: Most casinos will have special bonuses in place for new players. Each casino is different but it’s very common for a casino to offer a mixture of offers in a welcome bonus like free spins and a matched deposit for example.

Reload bonuses: These are offers for existing players and are given for a number of different reasons, from depositing a certain amount or even just because. They are used to keep players engaged.

Being aware of the different types can help you find the best offers. As well as choose the right ones for your expectations and preferences. This way you’re not wasting your time on offers that won’t benefit you.

Reading the terms and conditions

One of the biggest mistakes that players make is not reading the terms and conditions. This can end up being your golden ticket on how to make the most out of your bonus. The terms and conditions tell you exactly how an offer works. This includes any specific requirements like eligibility and wagering requirements.

All types of offers come with wagering requirements. This refers to the amount you need to wager the bonus before you can cash out. You’ll find that no deposit bonuses and free spins will come with high wagering requirements. It’s important to be aware of this as it could prevent you from accessing your winnings.

It’s also very common for offers to only be valid on specific games. Being aware of this is important as you could end up spending real money on a game without realizing it. Ignoring expiry dates on an offer could also lead to spending your bankroll without realising it.

Taking advantage of free play

Online casinos often have a wide range of free play opportunities. These opportunities can provide a chance to get familiar with a game and practice your strategy. This can then help you to improve and increase your chances of winning. You can usually find free play opportunities on slot machines, demo games and even through free-entry tournaments. Free play also means you can enjoy your favourite games without spending your bankroll. This can be a really effective way to stretch your pennies.

Using your promotion strategically

A great way to make the most out of a bonus is to use it strategically. This can help you to boost your bankroll even further. Some great tips for making the most of your promotion include:

Stack offers: Some casinos allow users to stack multiple bonuses or promotions. This means you’re able to use more than one offer at a time. This can be an effective way to boost your bankroll.

Target high RTP games: The Return to Player (RTP) percentage is a measure of how much money a game is likely to return to players over time. Choosing a game with a higher RTP gives you a better chance of winning when using a bonus.

Maximize free spins: Using free spins on games that offer a high payout rate can be an exciting and easy way to boost your bankroll to enjoy on other games.

Stretching your pennies with casino offers is all about being smart, strategic and aware of what’s on offer for you. Taking advantage of promotions can help to maximize your bankroll and get more entertainment for your money. Just remember to always read the terms and conditions and always pay responsibly. This is the best way to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience.

Northspring Secures £37M Loan to Expand ESG-Focused Office Spaces

0

ESG-focused office provider Northspring is set to expand its UK portfolio following a £37 million commercial investment loan from Cynergy Bank.

Founded in Manchester in 2020, Northspring offers premium, all-inclusive office spaces designed with tenant wellbeing in mind. Its workspaces feature breakout areas, gyms, rooftop spaces, bike storage, and yoga facilities, promoting both physical and mental health.

Its portfolio currently consists of four offices in Manchester, two in Leeds and one in Birmingham. The properties all score highly for ESG, with features such as efficient lighting and EV charging points.

The new funding will enable Northspring to increase its portfolio to other cities across the UK to meet growing demand for these types of offices. The deal marks one of the largest loans for Cynergy Bank to date, highlighting its appetite for larger lending facilities.

Mark Morris, Managing Director at Northspring, said: “Having established high-profile, prominent office buildings in Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds, the refinance enables us to expand our Northspring proposition to new cities. Many of our tenants have taken offices across multiple locations and the demand for expanding our footprint is clear.

“Cynergy Bank was able to provide a funding facility where all the buildings are up and running but full leasing is not complete – this was a key differentiator as some banks simply can’t handle that. The process with the team at Cynergy Bank was efficient and pragmatic.”

Morris Rothbart, Managing Partner at Seaford Finance, commented: “We are delighted to have introduced another institutional client, Investream, to Cynergy Bank. The team at Cynergy demonstrated a great deal of agility in structuring this complex loan facility, that both satisfied their credit committee’s requirements and balancing the sponsor’s expectations. We have no doubt Investream will be an asset to the bank’s loan book and will be a relationship to be nurtured over the coming years.”

Darren Fretwell, Relationship Director at Cynergy Bank, commented: “It was a pleasure to work with Seaford Finance on this opportunity. It was clear from day one that Northspring provide a very high quality office accommodation and tenant experience to match. It’s great to have Northspring as customers of Cynergy Bank and we look forward to developing our relationship with them.”

Intuit Launches Small Business Growth Council to Drive UK Digital Adoption

0

Intuit Inc. (Nasdaq: INTU), the global fintech company behind TurboTax, Credit Karma, QuickBooks, and Mailchimp, has launched the Intuit Small Business Growth Council, a new initiative designed to drive AI and digital adoption among UK small businesses.

The Council, made up of 18 digitally-connected businesses, aims to amplify small business voices in shaping policies that foster innovation and economic growth. Research shows that businesses leveraging digital tools are 2.4 times more likely to boost productivity and 2.3 times more likely to increase revenue, yet over 25% of UK small businesses still lack basic digital adoption.

Intuit will host a roundtable with the Council at the Department of Business and Trade today. Intuit CEO Sasan Goodarzi and The Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade will lead the roundtable discussion with Small Business Council members: Afiya Titus, Co-founder, Coco Financial; Emma Thomson, Founder, Gemz by Emz; and James Vincent, Co-founder, Hot Source Creative.

As the UK government prioritises digital reform and AI adoption, the Intuit Small Business Growth Council will help ensure small businesses are at the heart of this transformation and given the consideration and support to access these tools. By championing policies that make AI and digital tools more accessible, the Council will help small businesses harness technology to drive growth and efficiency. Research shows that if the UK’s 1.1 million micro businesses doubled their uptake of AI technology, it could unlock a £16.6 billion productivity boost. The initiative underscores Intuit’s commitment to empowering small businesses with the tools, resources, and advocacy they need to thrive in the digital economy.

A Proven Model for Small Business Advocacy

The Intuit Small Business Growth Council builds on the success of the Intuit Small Business Council in the United States, which has helped drive meaningful policy changes. The US Council’s advocacy led to the introduction of the Small Business Technological Innovation Act (S.305). The bipartisan legislation would make explicit that loans backed by the US Small Business Administration (SBA) can be used to fund the adoption of digital tools and technology by small businesses.

The UK Council brings together entrepreneurs from diverse industries, ensuring a broad range of expertise and perspectives on the opportunities and challenges of digital adoption, are brought to the table. Focused on advocacy by small businesses for small businesses, the Council will put their voices at the forefront of conversations with key policy makers across the UK.

The Council will focus on three core areas:

  1. Driving Digital Adoption – Helping more small businesses embrace digital tools by tackling barriers like cost and complexity. The Council will advocate for better support, incentives, and resources to ensure businesses can fully benefit from digital transformation.
  2. Simplifying Business Administration – Helping small businesses save time and reduce complexity by advocating for smarter, digital-first solutions. For example, Making Tax Digital (MTD) has already saved UK businesses up to £915 million, yet further improvements could unlock even greater efficiencies. The Council will champion efforts to streamline tax processes and cut administrative burdens, allowing small firms to focus on growth.
  3. Democratising Access to AI – Ensuring small businesses aren’t left behind in the AI revolution. The Council will work to make AI tools more accessible and practical for small businesses, while ensuring their voices are heard in key industry and policy discussions.

Sasan Goodarzi, CEO of Intuit, says: “When businesses succeed, communities and economies prosper. Together with the UK government’s focus on digital adoption, we can fuel the success of small businesses with the use of data and AI to automate and complete tasks and workflows, from lead to cash, helping every business thrive. I’m excited for the new Council to bridge this gap and help ensure that UK policies reflect the needs of these entrepreneurs who are critical to the UK economy.”

Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds, said: “AI and digital tools can be game changers for small businesses’ productivity, but we know there are barriers which get in the way of wide-spread adoption, which is why Intuit’s Small Business Growth Council is so important. This Government is working with industry leaders, including groups like the SME Digital Adoption Taskforce, to develop practical solutions addressing these challenges, supporting small businesses to thrive, growing the economy and securing the UK’s future through our Plan for Change.”

Rose Sellman-Leava, Small Business Growth Council member and Co-Founder of Inclusive Futures UK, adds, “I’m incredibly honored to have been invited to become a member of the Intuit Small Business Growth Council. Technology plays a huge part in helping our business make the greatest impact, but too often, policies and support structures don’t reflect our realities. This Council will give small business owners a seat at the table, helping to make sure digital transformation is accessible, practical, and truly beneficial for businesses of all sizes.”

James Vincent, Small Business Growth Council member and Co-Founder of Hot Source Creative says, “SMEs are eager to embrace digital tools and AI, but challenges like cost, complexity, and regulatory barriers often stand in the way. This Council is about ensuring small businesses aren’t left behind—we need real, practical support to unlock the full potential of digital transformation.”

Leigh Thomas, Vice President for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), at Intuit, says: “The Intuit Small Business Growth Council has the chance to build on lessons learned over the last few decades in making sure small business owners’ voices are heard in Westminster. Its members span some of the most tech-forward enterprises and the most cherished traditional businesses. All are eager to play their part in shaping the UK’s digital agenda.”

Corporation Tax Hike Drives UK Business Tax Payments to £215 Billion

0

The share of UK taxes paid directly by businesses and employers has risen by 20% over the last decade, now accounting for 25.6% of all UK tax revenue, up from 21.7%, according to research by global content and technology firm Thomson Reuters.

The total amount of business taxes has nearly doubled in ten years, increasing from £114 billion in 2014/15 to £215 billion in 2023/24. A key factor in this surge is the corporation tax hike from 19% to 25% in April 2023, which has more than doubled its revenue from £42.9 billion to £89.7 billion, growing faster than overall HMRC receipts.

The increase in employer’s National Insurance announced at the recent Budget is forecast by the UK Government to add a further £24billion per year, or 11%, to the tax bill for employers when it comes into effect from April 2025.

The overall global tax bill for UK businesses operating abroad is also expected to rise following the increase in corporation tax to meet the global minimum tax rate of 15% in many countries, including Ireland. ‘Real time’ reporting of VAT obligations in the EU – under e-invoicing rules – may also increase the real cost of VAT borne by UK businesses operating in the EU.

As well as having to deal with an increase in their direct tax bill, businesses are also having to deal with a number of new taxes introduced in recent years such as the Diverted Profits Tax, Plastic Packaging Tax and Digital Services Act, which add to the complexity of their tax affairs.

Jas Sandhu Dade, Head of Corporates, Europe at Thomson Reuters, says: “HMRC is keeping a keen eye on businesses and failure to accurately onboard regulation changes could pose substantial risks for corporates. In-house tax teams are facing an ever more complex tax landscape. With the volume of their work growing faster than firms’ capacity, technology is quickly becoming an essential way to not only manage the increased workload but also to improve results. Tools like generative AI present compliance advantages. Businesses are increasingly investing in AI-powered tools such as e-invoicing software to improve VAT compliance, helping to prevent conflict with HMRC.”

Thomson Reuters recently announced the launch of ONESOURCE with CoCounsel to customers globally, combining a new AI Product Support skill with CoCounsel, Thomson Reuters professional-grade generative AI assistant. Available now, the enhanced solution supports corporate tax departments with improving efficiency in indirect tax determination, compliance and e-invoicing.

Binance Coin Surges As Crypto Market Rebounds

0

The Binance Coin (BNB) has solidified its position among the top five cryptocurrencies by market capitalization at $89.47 billion during its current trading cycle at $627.99. Binance Coin maintains its position among top cryptocurrencies with current market capitalization at $89.47 billion while its price reaches $627.99 due to increased 1.81% during the last 24 hours.

Initiated as a utility token to serve the Binance exchange in 2017 BNB has expanded its functionality way past its foundational role. The initial adoption of BNB trading fee reduction methods has developed into an expansive multi-chain framework which operates various decentralized financial tools and NFT solutions and real-world payment capabilities.

At present BNB has 142.47 million tokens in circulation because Binance periodically carries out token burn processes which lower total supply. Binance follows a periodic token destruction protocol which aims at increasing the market value of remaining tokens through supply reduction.

During the last 24 hours BNB experienced a 67.54% increase in trading volume which reached $2.51 billion to become 2.81% of its total market capitalization. The market participants demonstrate active interest and good liquidity through BNB’s healthy value-to-market capital relationship.

BNB functions across various blockchain networks that belong to the Binance ecosystem. The BNB Smart Chain (formerly Binance Smart Chain) manages smart contract operations, and the layer-2 solutions opBNB and zkBNB enhance speed and reduce fees, which benefits gaming and social interactions.

The BNB Beacon Chain plans to retire in June 2024, creating a vital change throughout the ecosystem. According to Fusion roadmap principles, the BNB Smart Chain will take over Beacon Chain duties after its retirement to simplify network architecture without affecting its operational capabilities.

Beyond fee discounts BNB brings general utility to the system. Users gain access to token rewards and full participation in Binance Launchpad token sales and various decentralized finance (DeFi) applications that operate on the BNB Smart Chain. Users require this token for paying the fees that drive all transactions on the ecosystem network.

Binance Coin demonstrated outstanding price appreciation since it launched on the market. When BNB began its ICO through initial coin offerings in 2017 it was priced at $0.11 but it reached above $600 during the year 2024 delivering substantial investment gains for its early holders despite market uncertainties.

Research experts expect BNB will continue expanding its market. Future price predictions for BNB extend to $550-$800 in 2025 and extend even further to $2,400 in 2030 based on the growth of the ecosystem alongside rising adoption and continuous token destruction events.

BNB provides users with cross-chain compatibility, which enables asset transfers between separate blockchain networks, thus improving decentralized application use across the network ecosystem. The interoperability feature makes BNB suitable for a range of blockchain applications in its fast-changing landscape.

Audiences now use the token for numerous payment transactions which extend beyond Binance operational boundaries. The acceptance of BNB as a payment method by merchants creates new utility for the cryptocurrency which strengthens its market demand.

Factory provides new market segments for BNB adoption in emerging blockchain applications. Delegates from decentralized science organizations use BNB to facilitate small payments for researchers while academia modernizes its funding process through Happy-Sci initiatives.

BNB is expanding frontiers through its combination with artificial intelligence alongside the blockchain platform. The BNB ecosystem enables the development of AI tools through MyShell and DIN projects that create Web3-native solutions and agent-based systems and keep BNB in a position to combine two disruptive technologies.

Within BNB Greenfield platform users find a decentralized storage solution which supports development and data management for AI models. BNB gains more development value through its added storage capabilities enabling developers to create next-generation applications.

In spite of regulatory hurdles afflicting the cryptocurrency market BNB has achieved robust market strength. The multiple applications of this token and its expanding network operations create durability against market instability as well as regulatory changes.

The most traded pair on Binance exchange is BNB/FDUSD since it reaches daily volumes of $46 million. Other major exchanges like HTX, P2B, and OKX also offer significant liquidity for BNB trading pairs.

The infrastructure BNB supplies for DeFi applications enables it to take advantage of growing decentralized finance markets. Users can conduct financial operations such as yield farming and liquidity pools and various financial applications through BNB.

The cryptocurrency benefits from continuous adoption since its followers actively support its development. A positive market feedback loop emerges from Binance’s market presence together with its network effect which benefits BNB’s standing in the market.

BNB serves the role of more than just digital money because it gives investors and users access to an extensive blockchain system featuring financial services and technical capabilities along with real-world use cases which positions it prominently among the top cryptocurrencies of our fast-moving digital economy.

Tether Reigns Supreme in Crypto World

0

Crypto traders throughout the world consider Tether to be their safe harbor during turbulent times. The market maintains a stable price of $0.9995 without significant variation because Tether operates as intended to provide token stability during crypto market volatility.

Tether began as a specialized tool before it transformed into a crypto market dominator. Tether currently holds the position as the third-largest cryptocurrency since it reached a market cap of $144.11 billion with only Bitcoin and Ethereum above it. Tether has brought about a fundamental shift that transformed the complete market operations.

The real market action is expressed through yesterday’s trading activity. USD Transactions using USDT exceeded $65.72 billion during the last 24 hours, marking a 13% increase from the previous day.

Those numbers seemed unimaginable during the time I would have thought of them. The cryptocurrency market continues its regular operations as another typical exchange day.

According to James Wilson who I interviewed at his trading desk in London he maintains a 30% share of his funds in Tether always. “It’s my safety net. After spotting trading opportunities I act swiftly because my position remains unaffected by market slippage and volatility.

Over 45% of the market capitalization for Tether shows activity through its daily volume ratio. Financial market reporting has occupied fifteen years of my work but I have very rarely observed a phenomenon matching this one. Daily turnover of Tether exceeds forty-five percent of its total issuance demonstrating the crucial function that this digital currency plays.

The total circulating USDT supply reaches 144.18 billion. In the past, the billion-dollar milestone felt significant to me. The expansion of Tether’s influence created substantial changes since it established itself as the dominant source for exchange liquidity across the entire market.

Before Tether became prevalent Maria Sanchez described the process of moving between exchanges as complete nightmarish. Before USDT entered the market we had to sell cryptocurrencies to our bank accounts followed by days-long bank transfer processes before reinstating our purchases.

Tether maintains its longevity because of its ability to work across multiple blockchain networks. Tether (USDT) maintains full functionality in Ethereum Tron and Solana Blockchain networks. The cross-chain functionality of Tether allows it to stay strong even though new stablecoins are appearing in the market.

Tether has encountered several controversies throughout its existence. For numerous years, the project has faced continuous inquiries regarding its reserve holdings. Company representatives defended the backing of Tether through press conferences which provided evidence yet failed to win over all critics.

While dining with a hedge fund manager last month, he declared, “The market conducted a years-long extensive examination of Tether.” Tether has experienced all market cycles, including booming and declining markets, and has endured several regulatory evaluations. It’s still standing. That says something.”

The sudden expansion of DeFi depends heavily on Tether’s operations. At the latest blockchain conference attendees encountered USDT integration included in almost every project on display. Tether operates as the essential factor that drives the complete functioning of DeFi’s protocols and yield farms.

The market research community has established complex tracking mechanisms which monitor Tether transactions. Researcher David Chen explains through coffee consumption that USDT exchange movements indicate pending market turbulence. The indicator about USDT has become our most dependable signal.

A recent period of crypto market declines exposed the fundamental worth of Tether as an asset. USDT trading pairs experienced unprecedented trading activity when market values fell throughout the board. Trading floors switched their operations exclusively to stablecoin strategies until industry stability restored itself.

Regulatory headwinds have intensified. The regulatory debate on stablecoin classification and oversight took place during a New York banking conference. Tether must address the pending industry challenges that will influence both its company direction and regulatory standards for all stablecoins.

All exchange operators interviewed by me underscore USDT’s crucial role in their operations. A major platform’s CEO shared with me that USDT functions as the essential component which keeps their system moving.

This statement came to me under the promise of confidentiality. The market would completely stop trading operations if Tether did not provide liquidity. The statement about USDT importance is a fact not a hyperbole.

The adoption of institutions occurs because of stablecoins such as Tether. I observed at a different investor summit how conventional financial representatives devoted their attention to USDT exploration. USDT offers traditional investors a basic knowledge level that enables them to progress into riskier crypto assets.

The competitive market shows ongoing development patterns. The stablecoin project founder disclosed to me during drinks that “it’s futile to try beating Tether because the effort would be nearly impossible right now.” We are searching for our unique position within the entire system. The network effects create too strong influence.

The upcoming direction of Tether depends heavily on the expansion of mainstream adoption for crypto assets. The future development of digital assets depends heavily on stablecoins because their practical uses will determine how far crypto adoption extends in daily life. The leading role in this story belongs to Tether according to its own self-narrative.

Maslow Capital Provides £12.35M Short-Term Finance for Prime London Project

0

Maslow Capital, a specialist in real estate finance, has successfully completed a £12.35 million bridging loan through its Short-Term Finance team. The loan is secured against a newly completed prime residential-led development in Chelsea, London. This facility offers the borrower additional time and flexibility to sell individual units, ensuring they can maximise the value of the project.

The scheme comprises 13 high-specification residential apartments positioned above flexible commercial units at lower ground and ground floor levels. A high proportion of the homes benefit from direct river views, while all are situated within walking distance of the King’s Road and Battersea Park. The borrower is a highly experienced developer with a strong track record of delivering residential schemes across London and the wider UK market.

Commenting on the deal, Liam Lawlor, Senior Director of Short-Term Finance at Maslow Capital, said: “We are delighted to commence a lending relationship with this high-quality borrower. Having been introduced to the transaction by Voltaire well in advance of the refinance, we were able to structure a facility that met all of the borrower’s requirements. James expertly assumed the role of trusted adviser to his client, effectively structuring, negotiating, and managing the execution process to a very high standard. At Maslow, we remain committed to supporting high-quality borrowers across their entire investment lifecycle, including both bridging and development finance throughout the UK and Europe.”

James Thomlinson, Co-founder of Voltaire Financial, said: “Liam and his team at Maslow worked tirelessly to support our valued client, incorporating key elements of flexibility into the loan structure. Due to the timing of the transaction, the loan needed to complete during MIPIM week, and our thanks go to Liam and his colleagues, both in the UK and those attending MIPIM in Cannes, for ensuring this did not disrupt the process and for delivering within the required timescales. As a refinance at the conclusion of a development, the transaction benefited greatly from Maslow’s deep expertise in development finance. More broadly, Voltaire is pleased to continue its 15-year relationship with Maslow, and we look forward to completing many more transactions with their various teams in future.”

Key Factors Shaping CFD Platform Selection for Brokerages in 2025

0

CFD (Contract for Difference) trading remains a central pillar of modern financial services, attracting investors of every level with its multi-asset coverage and wide flexibility. Today, many businesses building a brokerage or focused on asset management and fintech innovation see CFD platforms as an essential part of their offerings. 

This article explores what makes a CFD platform effective in 2025. It covers key features, use cases, and notable providers to help business owners and decision-makers find the right match for their goals.

The Core Function of a CFD Platform

At its simplest, a CFD platform provides the technical interface through which clients can speculate on asset price movements. Behind the interface lies an ecosystem that includes liquidity connections, risk management protocols, data feeds, and compliance layers. These elements work together to execute trades, manage leverage, and handle exposure.

For businesses offering CFDs, the platform is more than a user tool—it becomes the operational foundation. From onboarding traders and processing transactions to offering analytics and handling disputes, the platform touches every part of the business workflow.

Key Use Cases and Benefits

CFD trading platforms serve multiple segments. Retail brokerages rely on them to attract newcomers and casual traders who want to explore global markets with limited capital. Institutional-oriented platforms meet the speed, liquidity, and reporting needs of hedge funds or high-net-worth individuals.

Because CFDs allow both long and short exposure, trading platforms can aid in hedging strategies. Businesses whose revenues fluctuate with commodity prices or currency exchange rates might use CFDs to offset risk. Platforms featuring advanced analytics and comprehensive real-time data are especially appealing for that purpose.

Core Attributes of Top CFD Platforms

Certain features distinguish high-performing platforms in 2025.

  • Wide Market Coverage

Successful brokers often cater to diverse trader needs. A platform that supports Forex, major stock indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies opens the door to more dynamic user engagement. Access to multiple asset classes also encourages portfolio diversification and higher trading volumes.

  • Advanced Charting and Analytics

Competitive traders expect high-end charting with numerous technical indicators and timeframes. Some platforms enhance this experience with custom scripting or automated strategy tools. Depth of analytics can be a deciding factor for professional traders, so a platform’s charting capabilities must remain strong and intuitive.

  • Risk Management Mechanisms

Professional CFD platforms feature tools like stop-loss orders, trailing stops, and margin calls. These controls help maintain stability, especially in volatile markets. For businesses, a system that automates position closures or margin checks can reduce the risk of negative balances and enhance overall user satisfaction.

  • Execution Speed and Reliability

Efficient trade execution is a hallmark of any strong CFD platform. Sudden delays or slippage can cause client complaints and even reputational damage. A high-performing matching engine—often powered by low-latency technology—is especially critical in fast-paced market conditions.

  • Mobile Accessibility

Many professionals monitor and manage positions on the go. Mobile apps that mirror desktop functionality allow real-time monitoring, order placement, and charting access. Clear layouts and responsive design ensure that trading on smartphones or tablets remains convenient and secure.

  • Regulatory Alignment and Security

Leading CFD platforms operate under recognized regulatory authorities to give users peace of mind regarding data protection and fund safety. Encrypted communication, two-factor authentication, and segregated accounts for client funds are standard practices that reinforce platform trustworthiness.

Best CFD Platforms in 2025

Numerous solutions compete in the global CFD market. Each offers distinctive features that attract different broker types. Below is a concise look at some leading options:

  • B2TRADER

B2TRADER stands out for its strong infrastructure and extensive support for multi-asset classes, including crypto CFDs. The platform leverages fast execution technology designed to handle large volumes. Businesses also benefit from flexible liquidity integrations, ensuring that clients can trade with minimal slippage.

  • IG

IG is known for an extensive range of tradable instruments and a track record of regulatory compliance. Its platform includes a broad toolkit of charts, risk controls, and educational materials, catering to both novices and professionals. A web-based version and a mobile app ensure consistent accessibility.

  • CMC Markets

CMC offers a “Next Generation” trading solution that balances sophistication with an easy-to-use interface. Clients can access diverse markets, while advanced features such as pattern recognition help streamline technical analysis. Real-time news feeds and curated market insights enrich user engagement.

  • Plus500

Plus500 draws attention for its straightforward structure and transparent costs. The platform focuses on quick execution, stable performance, and accessible spreads. Although it lacks some of the advanced charting capabilities found on other platforms, it suits traders seeking a minimalistic interface.

Aligning a Platform with Business Goals

Selecting one platform over another often depends on a brokerage’s strategic objectives. A firm targeting high-frequency trading clients might invest in robust infrastructure and minimal latency connections. Another business may prioritize user-friendly interfaces for retail customers, along with marketing tools that boost client acquisition.

Software architecture plays a part in these decisions. Cloud-based environments offer scalability and simplified updates, while self-hosted solutions allow for customized hardware optimizations. Balancing these factors is essential for sustainable growth and smooth operations.

Risk and Compliance Management

All brokers must implement frameworks for anti-money laundering (AML), know your customer (KYC), and other compliance standards. CFD platforms that support automated identity checks and transaction monitoring help meet these requirements efficiently. This can lessen the manual workload for support teams and reduce compliance overhead in regulated markets.

On the risk front, real-time margin tracking and robust position-monitoring systems are vital. Configurable controls allow businesses to define margin call thresholds or limit the leverage available to specific user segments. Such measures protect traders from overexposure and safeguard the brokerage’s stability in turbulent market conditions.

Final Thoughts

The best CFD trading platforms in 2025 go beyond execution speed or a polished interface. They serve as full-stack infrastructure for brokers, integrating everything from risk management to liquidity aggregation.

Platforms need to blend innovation with reliability, offering multi-asset coverage, advanced charting, secure mobile apps, and regulatory compliance.

Expansion of the European Gaming Market Signals Strong Industry Growth

0

The European gambling market continues to flourish. Provisional figures released by the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) and H2 Gambling Capital have shown a 5% increase in Gross Gambling Revenue (GGGR) for 2024.

The GGR totalled €123.4 billion (£103.1 billion) and this impressive figure covers all members of the European Union as well as the UK. The provisional  total covers both online and land-based gambling markets for last year.

The largest increase came in the provisional total GGR for online sites. There was an 11.7% increase to €47.9 billion. That amounts to 39% of the year’s total GGR.

€24.6 billion of that GGR figure came from iGaming with casino-type games (including slots) proving incredibly successful with a total of €23.2 billion. Such games accounted for 45% of the total online gambling GGR last year.

Online betting revenue totalled €16.2 billion. Of that total, €13.7 billion came from sports and events betting. That figure is 29% of all online GGR. There was also €7.1 billion spent online playing lottery games.

Gambling on your mobile phones remains hugely popular. 58% of the total online GGR came from players placing bets in that way with the other 42% coming from wagers placed on desktops.

There was a smaller rise of 1.3% for land-based GGR but the total was €75.5 billion which was 61% of the European GGR figure. For gaming, there was a total of €35 billion which was just below the 2023 total. Gaming machines recorded a total of €24.9 billion but that was below the figure of €30.8 billion recorded by lotteries such as EuroMillions.

When it comes to betting on sport, the total placed at online sites beat that recorded at retail venues. Betting on horse racing however produced more GGR than at online sites.

In terms of total GGR, the United Kingdom continues to record highly impressive results. Approximately £14 billion was generated in 2024. Of this total, land-based casinos generated a total of £4.6 billion. UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) data recorded revenue of £2.5 billion revenue from the gaming machines that are in High Street betting shops. Online sports betting produced GGY of £647 million in Q3.

The online casino market produced a total of £6.9 billion Gross Gaming Yield (GGY) for the period between April 2023 and March 2024. The UK gambling industry continues to see technological advances being made with live casinos continually growing in popularity, according to online casino guides aGamble. These produce a gaming experience that is as close as you can get to that seen at land-based casinos.

As in the rest of Europe, online slots are the main source of funds. Q3 of the 2024 financial year saw a total of £709 million GGY for online slots which was 15% higher than recorded in the previous financial year.

However, there are some problems ahead for the UK gambling industry with stricter regulation being introduced. In April, the maximum stake for online slots will be reduced to just £2 for those aged 18-24. The following month will see a new maximum stake of £5 introduced for players aged over the age of 24.

The move is being made after fears about how addictive the online slot games can be, especially for younger players. With no maximum stake limit in place, a lot of money can be lost in a short period of time. There have also been calls for the speed of online slots to be further reduced.

Further regulation is on its way for the UK gambling industry. This year will see a compulsory levy introduced by the Labour government and is expected to begin in April with the first payments being made by the start of October.

The aim is to raise up to £100 million with funds being used to help those who are affected by gambling harm. This will also aid research into the subject and treatment. Online operators and those who hold software licenses are to pay 1.1% of GGY. The figure falls to 0.5% for land-based operators and 0.2% for on-course bookmakers, bingo premises and amusement arcades. National Insurance increases could also hit revenue figures.

The latter is more a concern in terms of employment. As far as the online slots measure, it is believed that this may affect those in the second and third tiers of the industry rather than the leading companies such as Entain and Flutter.

There is expected to be continued growth in the European gambling industry. By 2029, GGR for the European market is forecasted to be  €149.2 billion by 2029 with the online revenue figure percentage share reaching 45%. A total GGR of €22 billion by 2029.for the gaming industry is forecasted. It remains to be seen if stricter regulation throughout Europe will hit those figures.

  • bitcoinBitcoin (BTC) $ 91,228.00 6.24%
  • ethereumEthereum (ETH) $ 2,986.27 8.01%
  • tetherTether (USDT) $ 1.00 0.02%
  • xrpXRP (XRP) $ 2.17 7.76%
  • bnbBNB (BNB) $ 878.53 7.43%
  • solanaSolana (SOL) $ 138.93 11.56%
  • usd-coinUSDC (USDC) $ 0.999804 0.01%
  • tronTRON (TRX) $ 0.281561 1.52%
  • staked-etherLido Staked Ether (STETH) $ 2,985.21 7.96%
  • cardanoCardano (ADA) $ 0.436460 15.19%
  • avalanche-2Avalanche (AVAX) $ 13.65 7.62%
  • the-open-networkToncoin (TON) $ 1.58 5.57%
Enable Notifications OK No thanks