Budget jitters

The recent falls in business and consumer confidence are undoubtedly due to the prospect of higher taxes in the Budget on 30th October. And the probable boost to demand from more public investment explains some of the recent rise in gilt yields. But there is little evidence that the financial markets are worrying about the government’s fiscal credibility.

We will be previewing what the Budget means for the economy and the financial markets in a 20-minute online briefing at 3pm BST on Wednesday 16th October. Register here.