This week, the UK experienced a series of notable developments across social, economic, and policy fronts. Winter storm Goretti disrupted transport, power supplies, and daily life in several regions. A recent public survey revealed a significant gap between public perceptions of immigration trends and official data. At the same time, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system came into force, marking a new phase in the UK’s digital border management. Rising living costs continue to place financial pressure on households, while newly implemented EU fisheries regulations present additional adjustment challenges for the UK fishing industry.

As the UK enters the new year, major political, economic and social developments are in focus. Prime Minister Keir Starmer outlined key policy priorities for 2026, while illegal migration remained elevated. Financial markets marked a milestone as the FTSE 100 surpassed 10,000 points, amid cold weather bringing widespread snowfall and Cabinet discussions on a potential digital ID scheme for babies.

Looking ahead to 2026, the U.S. housing market is expected to remain stable with moderate growth, while regional and sector-level divergence becomes increasingly pronounced. As interest rates stabilize and buyer confidence improves, structural opportunities will play a critical role in long-term positioning. New York stands out as a core city for “study-and-invest” strategies, supported by top-tier universities and resilient rental demand. By combining owner-occupation, rental income, and long-term appreciation, families can effectively offset education costs while building sustainable real estate assets.

This report covers key UK developments in late 2025: the Pound remains steady amid strong PMI data, while precious metals surge as the USD weakens. London’s outward migration has hit a record low due to stabilising rates. Politically, the Health Secretary’s push for the EU Customs Union has sparked Labour infighting. Meanwhile, the Beckham family rift has gone public, and the Royal Family prepares for 2026 US visits to bolster trade relations.

In 2025, the UK residential market entered a phase of structural adjustment, with price corrections and increasingly polarised demand in Prime Central London. Investment shifted toward standing assets and multifamily housing, while the Autumn Budget restored policy certainty and improved sentiment. Despite these positives, supply constraints and tax-related pressures remain key challenges shaping the medium- to long-term outlook.