British businesses have heard a great deal about artificial intelligence. Much of it has been noise: bold predictions, vague promises, and a general sense that something important is happening somewhere.

For the average business owner, the practical question has gone unanswered. What does this actually do for me?

The honest answer is more useful than the hype suggests. The most valuable AI for a typical business right now is not a clever chatbot. An AI Agent that can carry out Practical tasks across existing Business systems can be far more useful. It is software that quietly handles the repetitive work sitting between the tools a company already runs.

The Cost Hiding in Plain Sight

Every business tracks what it spends on software. Very few track what it spends on staff moving information between those systems by hand.

The pattern is familiar across industries:

• A lead enquires, and someone retypes the details elsewhere.
• An order arrives, and several records get updated separately.
• A new hire starts, and setting up their access eats days of a manager’s week.

Each task is small. Across a month and a growing team, they add up to real salary spent on work that creates nothing new.

Why More Software Made It Worse

It seems backwards, but buying more tools usually increases manual work rather than reducing it.

The reason is structural. Each application works as its own island. Sales in one, finance in another, service in a third, and none of them naturally share information. So staff become the bridge, copying data from screen to screen all day.

What Actually Changed

The development worth understanding is AI automation that can be set up by describing a process in plain language, rather than writing code.

A manager says what should happen, and the system builds and runs it across the relevant applications. When a deal closes, the details move into finance, the record updates, and the follow-up gets scheduled, without anyone touching it.

The significant part is who can build it. The person who understands the business problem no longer waits behind technical staff. Given how competitive developer hiring has become across the UK, removing that bottleneck matters.

A Sensible Way to Start With AI

For a growing business, the temptation is to either ignore automation or try to do everything at once. The wiser path sits between:

• Start with one frequent, tedious task. The time saved is immediate and obvious.
• Insist on visibility. Every process should log what it does and flag failures.
• Secure access: Give each automation just the information it really needs.
• Measure the difference before growing. .

A single AI chatbot or automated process, handling one reliable job, proves the value before you scale.

Conclusion

The British businesses pulling ahead are not necessarily the ones with the biggest software budgets. Increasingly, they are the ones that stopped paying the hidden cost of work falling between their systems.

The tools have matured, and AI has brought them within reach of ordinary companies. For any business trying to grow without simply adding hours and headcount, that is worth a serious look this year.

FAQs

What is AI automation, to put it simply?

Answer: Software that connects your business tools and moves information between them automatically, without manual copying.

Do we need a technical team?

Answer: Usually not. Newer tools let you describe a process in plain language instead of writing code.

Where should a business start?

Answer: With one frequent, repetitive task, like logging leads or sending invoices, for the fastest return.

Is our data safe?

Answer: Yes, if you use reputable tools and limit each connection to the data it genuinely needs.

What size business does this suit?

Answer: Any size. Cost and technical skill were the old barriers, and both have dropped sharply.

Thailand faces a complex convergence of tragedy, natural disasters, security challenges, and economic transformation as the nation navigates multiple crises while pursuing modernization initiatives.

School Shooting Tragedy Grips Nation

The most devastating story dominating headlines involves a school shooting tragedy near Bangkok that has claimed at least nine lives. A student gunman first killed his grandparents before fatally shooting five teachers and students at a high school. The death toll rose incrementally as victims succumbed to injuries, with a 12-year-old girl’s death bringing the final count to nine. This represents Thailand’s deadliest school shooting in years and has ignited urgent national debate.

Millions of guns circulate throughout Thailand, and this incident has forced the country to confront the limits of its firearm control policies. Modern Diplomacy has examined how Thailand is responding to rising school shooting threats, with authorities and policymakers grappling with prevention strategies. The tragedy has left communities in mourning, with parents at local temples pleading for understanding, including one father publicly asking forgiveness on behalf of his son.

Natural Disasters: Flooding Crisis Escalates

Thailand is simultaneously battling severe flash flooding in Nan Province and surrounding northern and northeastern regions. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued warnings of heavy rain and flash floods, with Cell Broadcast alerts being deployed to warn residents in affected areas.

The flooding crisis gained international attention after harrowing videos showed tourists taking selfies being swept away by raging flood waters near a popular waterfall destination. These incidents highlight the dangerous intersection of tourism and natural disaster risk, prompting renewed calls for better safety protocols at scenic locations.

Security and Border Concerns

Thailand continues addressing long-standing security challenges, including its decades-long southern insurgency. A government negotiator has indicated Thailand is seeking a “new path” to end this deadly conflict, though specific strategies remain in development.

Additionally, Thailand plans to invest $13 million reinforcing border defenses, reflecting ongoing concerns about regional security. The country has also drawn scrutiny for its handling of Myanmar-related affairs, with human rights organizations urging Thailand to halt deportation of Karen refugees back to Myanmar, citing refoulement risks. Myanmar’s military chief has visited Thailand seeking expanded security ties, while ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights have condemned what they describe as Thailand’s “dangerous normalization” of Myanmar’s military junta.

Legal and Regulatory Actions

Thailand has taken decisive action against alleged criminal activity, issuing arrest warrants for 20 Israelis in a sweeping business crackdown centered on Koh Samui. This crackdown reflects broader efforts to address illicit business practices in tourist areas.

Meanwhile, authorities have dismantled cross-border scam operations through collaboration between Thai and Taiwanese police, part of broader regional efforts. US lawmakers have also joined Thai police in targeting scam gangs operating across Southeast Asia, indicating growing international cooperation on cybercrime and fraud prevention.

Economic Developments and Business Landscape

Thailand’s economy shows signs of strain, with second-quarter growth expected to slow sharply due to weak consumer consumption. This economic softening comes as the country simultaneously pursues ambitious digital and business initiatives.

In a significant technological push, Thailand has launched the TH-AI Passport, providing five million citizens with free access to premium AI tools for one year—signaling the government’s commitment to positioning the nation as a regional AI hub, as detailed by Thailand Business News.

The business sector shows continued international interest, with Blue Bottle Coffee making its Bangkok debut as part of broader Thailand expansion plans. Additionally, Thailand’s Minor Food Group and Serruya Private Equity are moving to acquire the Korean fried chicken chain Bonchon, reflecting continued foreign investment activity in the food and beverage sector.

The automotive industry is also adapting, with Chinese and Japanese carmakers adjusting strategies as Thailand implements new excise tax rules set to take effect in September, reshaping the competitive landscape for electric and traditional vehicles.

Tourism Sector Adjustments

Thailand’s tourism industry faces upcoming changes, with plans to implement a $13 tourist entry fee starting in 2027. This new policy aims to generate revenue while potentially funding infrastructure and environmental protection initiatives, though the exact allocation of funds remains under discussion.

The hospitality sector also received a boost with the opening of the first Grand Nikko-branded hotel in Thailand, incorporating advanced revenue management systems technology, reflecting the modernization push within the country’s tourism infrastructure.

Corruption and Governance Concerns

The South China Morning Post has highlighted concerns about widening corruption in Thailand, particularly relating to fake residency schemes for foreign children. This has raised questions about broader governance issues and regulatory enforcement in the country.

Energy Sector Transformation

Thailand is also examining its energy policy framework, with analysis suggesting reforming rooftop solar incentives could accelerate solar adoption while reducing dependence on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and gas imports. This reflects Thailand’s broader efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuel imports amid global energy market volatility.

Conclusion

Thailand currently navigates an unusually challenging period, balancing human tragedy from the school shooting and natural disaster response with ambitious economic and technological modernization efforts. The nation’s response to these overlapping crises—ranging from gun control debates to flood management, security reforms, and digital transformation—will likely shape its trajectory in the months ahead as it works to address both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term structural challenges.

Source : Google News – Search

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SAO PAULO — JBS SA has made an offer to acquire the remaining shares of poultry processor Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. (PPC), Greeley, Colo. The meat processor currently owns approximately 82% of the business.

JBS said it has offered $28.49 per share for the remaining outstanding shares of PPC stock for an implied valuation of $1.2 billion. The company also has offered 2.086 JBS Class A common shares for each PPC share. The per share offer price is in line with PPC’s closing price on Aug. 18.

“For over 16 years, JBS and PPC have worked together as PPC has expanded its operations, strengthened its global presence and significantly grown revenue,” said Jeremiah O’Callaghan, chairman of the JBS board of directors. “We believe this proposal offers PPC stockholders the opportunity to continue participating in PPC’s future performance through ownership of JBS shares, with exposure to a larger and more diversified global business.

“Our long-standing relationship with PPC and familiarity with its team and operations should support continuity for employees, customers and business partners throughout the process.”

JBS bought the majority stake in Pilgrim’s Pride in 2009 for $800 million while the company was emerging from bankruptcy protection. In 2021, JBS proposed buying the remaining shares of PPC. 

Chery, the Chinese carmaker behind the Jaecoo and Omoda brands, is to open a research and development centre in Bedfordshire, describing the move as “the next step in our long-term plan” for Britain.

The company said on Wednesday that the facility would open in late autumn at UTAC Millbrook, an existing vehicle testing centre used by engineering and motorsport companies as well as the Ministry of Defence. The site offers more than 70km (43 miles) of purpose-built test tracks, which Chery will use to fine-tune its cars for UK roads. Further down the line it intends to use the site to work on self-driving cars and artificial intelligence.

Gary Lan, chief executive of Chery’s UK business, said: “We waited over 20 years for the right time to enter this market, and our ambition has always gone much further than simply bringing vehicles here.”

The announcement comes as Chery’s sales grow at a rapid pace in Britain. In July, the Chery, Omoda and Jaecoo brands together accounted for nearly 8 per cent of the UK market, up from 3 per cent a year earlier, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. The China-built Jaecoo 7, nicknamed the “Temu Range Rover” for its low price and technology-heavy specification, became the UK’s top-selling model in March.

All of those cars are currently imported. Chery, which is part-owned by the Chinese state, has signed a deal with Nissan to build its vehicles at the Sunderland plant, which would mark the start of mass-market Chinese car production in Britain from 2027.

Chery also launched Lepas, its fourth brand in the UK, last February, aimed at younger families in the European market.

Kirsty Andrew, vice-president of UTAC UK, said the new R&D centre was “a significant commitment to engineering and vehicle development in the UK”.

She added: “Creating a stand-alone engineering centre here means Chery Automobile can develop and validate vehicles against the particular demands of UK roads and UK drivers, with direct access to our engineering expertise and testing environments throughout that process.”

UTAC Millbrook is midway between London and Birmingham and specialises in testing electric vehicles, battery systems and automated and connected vehicle technology.

Chinese manufacturers’ arrival as a major force in the car industry has put pressure on traditional European rivals. Chinese companies have been able to undercut European competitors in building electrified cars because of state subsidies, lower labour costs and China’s dominance of the battery industry.

Chery said it eventually planned to recruit local talent and create engineering jobs in the area, but did not say how much it would invest in the site or how many jobs would be created.

Amy Ingham

Amy Ingham is a reporter at Business Matters, covering UK business news with a focus on breaking news, business policy, late payments and insolvency. She joined the magazine in 2026 after completing the NCTJ Diploma in Journalism at Harlow College’s journalism school. Her recent reporting includes British Steel’s nationalisation and its impact on SME suppliers, the decline in late payments by large firms, and Insolvency Service director disqualifications. Reach her at aingham@cbmeg.co.uk.

The founder of the world’s most-indebted property developer was sentenced to life in prison in China for fraud and bribery – five years after his China Evergrande Group collapsed, roiling the Chinese economy and financial markets.

Hui Ka Yan, 67, was convicted in a court in the southern city of Shenzhen on Thursday and the companies were fined a total of more than $2.3 billion for financial crimes, including inflating the group’s assets and concealing its liabilities that ran more than $300 billion.

“The amount involved is exceptionally large, the circumstances are particularly egregious, and extraordinarily heavy economic losses have been caused,” the court wrote in a statement. “The harm to society is extremely serious. Therefore, severe punishment should be given in accordance with the law.”

Hui, also known as Xu Jiayin, abused his position in orchestrating fraud and misappropriating company assets, the court found.

COURT ORDERS CHINA’S BANKRUPT EVERGRANDE TO LIQUIDATE

Hui Ka Yan, the founder of China’s Evergrande Group, was sentenced to life in prison for fraud and bribery in the Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court, in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, China on August 20, 2026. (Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court/Handout / Reuters Photos)

Evergrande group was fined 8.82 billion yuan ($1.31 billion) and Evergrande Real Estate Group was fined 7 billion yuan ($1.04 billion).

Hui’s sons, Xu Tenghe and Xu Zhijian, were also sentenced alongside senior Evergrande executives and others linked to the group, according to China’s official Xinhua News Agency. A total of more than 50 individuals were sentenced to imprisonment of between 22 months and 18 years.

Photos released by the court showed a gray-haired Hui standing between two officers in a navy collared shirt as the sentence was announced. He had largely disappeared from public view after Chinese authorities detained him in 2023.

His life sentence is a dramatic end to the career of a man who built one of China’s largest real estate empires in a rags-to-riches story. Born in 1958 into a rural family in central China’s Henan province, he worked in the steel industry in the 1980s before establishing Evergrande, which then prospered during China’s housing market boom. He was one of many businessmen who also gained political influence by joining a major advisory organization, the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Congress (CPPCC).

EMPTY BUILDINGS IN CHINA’S PROVINCIAL CITIES TESTIFY TO EVERGRANDE DEBACLE

The Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court, in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, China sentenced Hui Ka Yan, the founder of China’s Evergrande Group and once Asia’s richest man, to life in prison on August 20, 2026. (Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court/Handout / Reuters Photos)

The Shenzhen Intermediate People’s Court ordered the confiscation of Hui’s personal property after he pleaded guilty in April to eight charges that included fundraising fraud, illegally taking public deposits, fraudulently issuing securities and bribery.

Chinese authorities cracked down on excessive borrowing in the real estate industry in 2020, triggering a crunch among many developers that brought on a downturn in the property market.

Evergrande, founded by Hui in 1996, expanded aggressively during China’s decades-long property boom, borrowing heavily as it built projects across the country. At its peak, the company became China’s largest developer by contracted sales, while Hui amassed a fortune that made him Asia’s richest man in 2017, with an estimated net worth of more than $45 billion, according to Forbes.

Its collapse helped ignite a broader crisis in China’s real estate sector, where falling home sales, unfinished projects and developer defaults have weighed on economic growth and consumer confidence for years.

CHINA’S EVERGRANDE: WHAT TO KNOW

The fallout also reached millions of ordinary Chinese investors and homebuyers. Evergrande’s inability to repay wealth-management products prompted protests after investors saw savings wiped out, while buyers of unfinished apartments were left uncertain about whether their homes would ever be completed.

Comments by Evergrande homeowners in a social media group included: “All ordinary citizens have paid the cost,” “Imprisonment is meant to protect him. If he comes out, his life is in jeopardy,” and, “What about our money?”

Chinese authorities said revenues were overstated by tens of billions of dollars in 2019 and 2020.

Hui had already faced regulatory punishment before Thursday’s criminal sentence. In 2024, China’s securities regulator fined him roughly $6.5 million and barred him from the country’s securities markets for life over inflated financial results and other violations.

Evergrande’s corporate demise has continued even as Hui’s criminal case moved through the courts.

China Evergrande Group’s then-Chairman Hui Ka Yan attends a news conference on the property developer’s annual results in Hong Kong, China on March 28, 2017. (Bobby Yip/File Photo / Reuters Photos)

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A Hong Kong court ordered the company into liquidation in 2024, and its shares were later delisted from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.