United Kingdom: Corporate/Commercial Law

The Charities Aid Foundation's World Giving Report reveals that two-thirds of charities are experiencing increased demand for services while facing significant funding challenges. With restricted funding streams and depleting reserves, many organizations struggle to maintain operations, raising critical questions about the sector's long-term sustainability and the need for more flexible funding approaches.

The High Court recently examined whether former members of a charitable mosque could proceed with litigation after their membership was terminated following an altercation. Despite finding the claimants had standing and a viable claim regarding procedural irregularities, the court refused permission based on the charity's financial position.

The Upper Tribunal recently refused an appeal seeking to compel the Charity Commission to investigate charities for alleged harmful and discriminatory practices. The case centered on whether the First-Tier Tribunal has jurisdiction to force the Commission to make decisions about removing charities from the register, raising important questions about the scope of tribunal powers under the Charities Act 2011.

The FCA's new non-financial misconduct rule, effective September 1, 2026, creates a standalone prohibition against serious bullying, harassment and violence in individual conduct rules. Private credit firms face particular exposure due to lean compliance teams, limited HR infrastructure and performance-driven cultures where senior revenue generators may receive differential treatment. The regime is reinforced by expanded fitness and propriety frameworks and enhanced regulatory reference requirements...

GSK plc has entered into an agreement to acquire a trispecific T cell-engager from Chimagen Biosciences, targeting multiple myeloma treatment with improved tolerability. The innovative therapeutic approach aims to bind T cells while simultaneously targeting two tumor-associated antigens, potentially enabling broader adoption in earlier treatment stages. This marks GSK's second acquisition from Chimagen, following their October 2024 deal for a dual CD19/CD20-targeted TCE.

The UK is proposing a new regulatory framework for captive insurers that could transform how private equity sponsors manage insurance risk and capital across their portfolios. With global captive premiums projected to reach $161 billion by 2030, these reforms aim to make the UK competitive with established offshore domiciles like Bermuda and Guernsey. The consultation introduces streamlined authorisation, reduced capital requirements, and simplified governance that may particularly benefit sponsors seeking

This monthly update examines critical developments affecting DC pension scheme trustees, including HMRC's latest guidance on inheritance tax changes for pension benefits, implementation timelines for the Pension Schemes Act 2026, and new reporting requirements for pensions dashboards. The update also highlights ongoing consultations on small pots consolidation and auto-enrolment contribution increases that could reshape the DC pensions landscape.

UK banks and financial services firms face both opportunities and risks as AI adoption accelerates. This webinar explores the latest regulatory developments, including the UK Mills Review, and provides practical guidance on contracts, compliance, and governance frameworks. Leading experts from A&O Shearman share board-level insights on managing AI implementation in financial institutions.

Eversheds Sutherland provides essential legal information and disclaimers regarding the use of their website materials, clarifying the scope and limitations of the content provided. The firm outlines important considerations for users accessing their legal resources and general information, emphasizing the need for professional consultation on specific matters. Contact information for legal professionals Diane Gilhooley and Paul Fontes is made available for further assistance.

The latest Investing in Women Code Annual Report 2026 reveals significant progress in funding access for female entrepreneurs, with signatories directing 32% of venture capital to teams with at least one female founder—more than double the wider market rate. While women-led businesses now achieve equal loan approval rates to male-led businesses, they still apply less frequently and request smaller amounts, highlighting persistent gaps in funding confidence and scale.

The UK's first-time equity investment market has experienced a significant resurgence in 2025 and H1 2026, with more companies securing external funding than at any point in the last four years.

Investors often discover during due diligence that startups do not fully own, control, or protect their most valuable assets. From missing assignment agreements to undisclosed open-source obligations, these common intellectual property pitfalls can delay transactions, reduce valuations, or derail funding rounds entirely. Understanding these five critical IP issues before a funding round begins can help both investors and founders reduce risk and preserve value.