UK business confidence weakened and hiring fell at end of 2025, surveys find

The decline in business confidence and hiring signals a troubling trend for the UK economy, particularly as it contradicts the government’s optimistic narrative. The disparity between the government's message and the actual economic indicators raises questions about the effectiveness of current policies and the ability of businesses to navigate ongoing challenges. This situation may require a reevaluation of strategies to bolster confidence and stimulate hiring in the coming months.