As UK inflation remains steady, market optimism about future interest rate cuts is rising. However, families are feeling the pressure from surging university tuition fees—now exceeding £10,000 per year. Meanwhile, the Elizabeth Line continues to transform London’s real estate dynamics, drawing buyers and investors to new hotspots along the route. In other news, Prince Andrew has formally given up his Duke of York title, a move sparking wide discussion about the Royal Family’s modernization and public image.

The UK is on track to record the second‐highest growth rate among the G7 this year, yet its per-capita output remains at the bottom. London faces a severe housing supply shortfall as the government plans to cut the social housing share from 35% to 20%. A nationwide university staff strike ballot is underway, visa rules will raise English language standards to B2 from 2026, and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex is once again pushing to restore Royal security protection amid a prolonged battle.

Recent reports suggest that Lucas Tse, the eldest son of actress Cecilia Cheung, has been admitted to the Department of Physics at the University of Cambridge, drawing wide public attention. The glory of UK physics departments stands in sharp contrast with their current challenges: an admission rate of just 7.3%, a shrinking student population, insufficient research funding, growing financial pressure on universities, and course reductions. As a fundamental discipline, the future of physics requires stronger support and investment to sustain its innovation potential.

In H1, UK commercial real estate investment reached £23.9 billion, up 49% YoY. Global capital and institutional investors are heavily entering the market, with residential property favored for its stable demand and returns. Falling interest rates and improved financing have boosted market activity, and the investment momentum is expected to continue in H2.

This week’s UK headlines span monetary policy, fiscal plans, migration cooperation, new entrants to the auto market and housing-price dynamics. The Bank of England held the base rate at 4% as inflation remains above target; Labour is reported to be preparing roughly a £30 billion tax package for the Autumn Budget; the UK and France began a migrant-exchange scheme with initial repatriations; China’s Changan brought its Deepal and Avatr brands to the UK; and new research shows London buyers are paying a substantial “location premium” to live closer to stations. Together, these developments bear on borrowing costs, household finances and property demand.