UK is now the self-employment capital of western Europe, says IPPR report

Britain is dubbed the self-employment capital of western Europe in a report published on Tuesday that feeds concerns over the strength of the UK's economic recovery.

Banks to be forced to increase competition in SME lending

Britain's biggest banks are to be forced to increase competition in the SME loans market in a bid to ensure further growth in a key part of the economy.

Hopes pinned on private sector as Libya economy slumps

Tripoli (AFP) - Small businesses are prospering in Libya's major cities even as the economy at large is being throttled because of security problems and industrial action which has shrunk lifeline oil revenues.

Vince Cable confronts Lloyds over staff cuts in commercial banking

Vince Cable is demanding an urgent meeting with the boss of Lloyds Banking Group after the bailed-out bank made deep cuts to the number of its small business experts.

Greece Approves New Austerity Measures

ATHENS — Following two days of intense debate, Greece’s Parliament narrowly approved a barrage of new austerity measures early Thursday, including a contentious plan for thousands of layoffs and wage cuts for civil service workers.

Greece Seeks an Edge as Troika Returns to Athens

ATHENS — The international lenders overseeing Greece’s bailout were back in Athens on Monday for their latest audit, with Greek officials hoping that dissent in the lending group might allow them new negotiating room.