The UK’s Autumn Budget introduces measures affecting wages, living costs and consumption, with young people facing both opportunities and pressures. Immigration rules continue to tighten, moving towards a contribution-based framework for work visas and settlement. Meanwhile, New Bond Street tops global luxury retail rankings, ETA travel authorisation will soon be mandatory, and concerns over King Charles’ health are drawing renewed attention to the future of the monarchy.

The UK’s Autumn Budget adds £29.8 billion in new taxes, pushing the national tax burden to a record high. However, property-related measures are far milder than expected: only homes above £2 million face additional charges, while properties above £500,000 avoid new annual taxes and stamp duty remains unchanged. Despite higher landlord taxes, rising rents provide an effective buffer. With policy risks easing, the UK property market retains strong long-term investment appeal.

This week, the UK faced a series of major policy and social developments. Proposed reforms to the permanent residency system may significantly extend the qualifying period, drawing widespread attention from migrants. October inflation eased to 3.6%, yet rising food prices and expected tax increases continue to pressure households. New measures were introduced to address the youth employment crisis, while multiple regions experienced severe cold weather and ice warnings. Meanwhile, the global Cloudflare outage has largely been resolved, with internet services returning to stability.

The £19.5 million purchase of London’s former Italian Embassy by the wife of a Chinese billionaire has drawn significant market attention. The transaction reinforces London prime property’s role as a global safe-haven asset. Belgravia, as a traditional old-money district, continues to attract ultra-high-net-worth buyers with its scarcity, history, and prestige. Supported by strong economic fundamentals, stable rental income, and inflation resilience, London remains a core destination for global capital.

This week in the UK saw a series of major developments: Zhang Ying, wife of Alibaba founder Jack Ma, purchased a luxury home in Belgravia for nearly HKD 200 million; sweeping UK visa reforms officially took effect; three London districts crossed the £1 million average price threshold; Labour Party insiders reportedly plotted a leadership challenge against Prime Minister Keir Starmer; and the Princess of Wales will host her fifth annual Christmas Carol Service.