Trade Barometer from Manchester Airports Group and Growing Together Alliance shows exporters are broadly upbeat

British exporters have started pivoting away from America as the uncertainty over Donald Trump’s tariffs and trade policies goes on, the latest edition of a national trade study has revealed.

And with the Spring Statement coming up, a Northern business leader has urged Rachel Reeves to help unleash “significant and ambitious growth” across the regions of the UK, including the North and OxCam corridors, through growing global trade.

The latest UK Trade Barometer, from Manchester Airports Group and the Growing Together Alliance of business groups, showed that in the last quarter of 2025 manufacturers in particular had pivoted away from the US towards other markets.

But the shift from the States was seen in all sectors, with just 24% of those polled saying they had increased US sales in Q4, a figure which has fallen steadily from 29% at the start of 2025. When asked which global market they had entered for the first time in Q4, just 14% said America – down from 20% in Q1. Some 13% of those polled said they expected to start trading in the US in the next three months – the same figure as Q1 in 2025.

Nine markets in particular have grown in popularity over the past year. In Q4, some 10% of firms said they planned to increase sales to Australia, up on 6% in Q1, with Spain (6% vs 5%) and New Zealand (6% vs 2%) also growing in popularity.

Some 46% of all manufacturers said they had increased exports over the period, but just 16% said they had increased sales to America in Q4 – down from 25% in Q1.

But 12% of manufacturers said they had grown sales to China, a rate that doubled from 6% in Q1. The number reporting increased sales to Japan rose from 4% in Q1 to 8% by Q4.

The study also looks at which markets manufacturers broke into for the first time. In Q1 2025, 15% of those polled made their first move into America, but just 8% said the same in Q4.

But in Q4 some 9% of those polled said they had sold to China for the first time, up from 4% in Q1, while 9% also said they had sold to Japan for the first time – up from just 3% in Q1. Other markets to see growth were Australia, France, Germany and Spain.

In construction, some 92% of firms polled said they had increased overseas sales. At an average of 79% across all four quarters, it was the sector that saw the most export increases.

Just 18% of those firms said they grew US sales in Q4, down from 43% in Q1. The biggest growth market was Japan, with other growing markets including Ireland, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and New Zealand.

Financial services had its strongest quarter in Q4 with 59% reporting increased overseas sales. Some 25% of financial services firms grew sales to the US in Q4 – the same share as in Q1 – while the biggest other growth markets were India and Canada.

While all parts of the UK had their weakest overseas sales quarter in Q4, the gap between London and the nations and regions widened in the second half of 2025. In the fourth quarter some 64% of London exporters said they grew overseas sales, compared with 50% in the North, 47% in the Midlands and 44% in the East of England. The gap has widened since Q1, when 76% of London firms were growing exports compared to 69% of firms in the North.

Looking ahead, some 44% of London firms expected to grow exports, with 33% expecting to enter a new market for the first time. Those figures were 27% and 18% respectively in the North, 19% and 13% respectively in the Midlands, and 18% and 16% in the East of England.

All regions expect sales to America to bounce back in the first part of this year. The most upbeat region was the Midlands, with 49% expecting an uplift in US exports, with 43% in London and the East expecting rises. The North was the only region to see fewer firms forecasting fewer US export increases to America – 46% compared to 50% in Q3 – but that was still up on the first quarter of 2025, when just 40% expected sales growth.

The barometer, run in partnership with YouGov, is created from a survey of 2,000 businesses across the country every quarter. Business leaders answer questions about their global trading habits in the past quarter and their expectations for the quarter ahead.

Manchester Airports Group (MAG) is the largest UK airports group, owning and operating Manchester, London Stansted and East Midlands Airports as well as global travel services business, CAVU.

MAG CEO Ken O’Toole said: “As an island trading nation, we know how important our export performance is to the overall economic health of the UK.

“This full-year data shows the direct impact global events can have on businesses’ order books – but it also shows that British exporters are skilled at diversifying and pivoting to new markets – harnessing the resilience and innovation of our globally trading firms will be important if we want to kick-start growth.

“While some economic indicators point to a potential upturn in growth during the course of 2026, the fact fewer than one in three exporters expect to increase sales in the first part of this year paints a slightly different picture.

“As Government looks to deliver its Industrial Strategy, there is a clear opportunity to be grasped: by growing the number of firms that trade globally, we can boost productivity and living standards in regional growth corridors across the UK, from the Northern Growth Corridor to the Ox-Cam Arc. It is vital Government works with business to understand the steps it could take to help more firms trade internationally, including encouraging investment in the infrastructure that unlocks international connectivity.”

Henri Murison, chair of the Growing Together Alliance, said: “Over the course of 2025 we’ve seen a clear recalibration in UK trade patterns. While America remains a vital market, particularly for manufacturers, exporters have increasingly diversified as conditions have shifted. This reflects geopolitical realities, but also the adaptability and resilience of UK firms.

“The pivot to markets like Asia and Europe is notable – and if the Prime Minister can negotiate it then further reduced trade barriers with the latter it would make trade with countries in the European Union easier without allowing accusations of Brexit betrayal that a full-blown customs union could lead to.”

“The continued strength of London is welcome, and the priority should now be ensuring that export-led growth is not confined there but supports further increasing productivity across all regions.

“With the Spring Statement next week, there is an opportunity to reinforce the economic fundamentals which the Chancellor has focused on. This will allow her to continue backing significant and ambitious growth across the North and OxCam corridors underpinned by infrastructure.”

Harrison Ford, the enduring Hollywood icon known for portraying Han Solo, Indiana Jones and countless other unforgettable characters, celebrated his 83rd birthday milestone in recent months while delivering one of the most poignant moments of the 2026 awards season: an emotional acceptance of the SAG-AFTRA Life Achievement Award at the Actor Awards on March 1.

Born July 13, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, Ford turned 83 last summer and remains a vibrant force in entertainment at an age when many peers have long retired. The veteran actor, who has spanned seven decades on screen, used his acceptance speech to blend trademark dry humor with genuine gratitude, tearing up as he thanked his wife, Calista Flockhart, and reflected on his improbable journey from carpenter to global superstar.

“It’s a little early, isn’t it?” Ford quipped to the cheering crowd at the Shrine Auditorium, joking that receiving a lifetime achievement honor felt premature at what he called “the halfway point of my career.” The line drew laughter and a standing ovation, underscoring his refusal to slow down. “I’m still a working actor,” he emphasized, highlighting his ongoing commitment to the craft.

Presented by longtime friend Woody Harrelson, the award recognized Ford’s contributions to acting and humanitarian causes. Harrelson praised Ford’s resilience, noting how he “thinks working more is the antidote to aging.” The tribute highlighted Ford’s recent renaissance, including Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for his role as therapist Dr. Paul Rhoades in Apple TV+’s “Shrinking,” where he portrays a man navigating Parkinson’s disease with sharp wit and vulnerability.

Ford’s speech grew visibly emotional as he acknowledged the support of his peers and family. He called Flockhart “beautiful” and credited her for being a constant source of strength. “I am a lucky guy,” Ford said, fighting back tears while expressing appreciation for the “love and support” from fellow actors who watched him grow from a young performer to a cultural legend.

The honor caps a remarkable period for Ford, who has defied conventional retirement narratives. In recent interviews, he has insisted he has no plans to step away, famously declaring that Hollywood needs “old people to play old people’s parts.” His work in “Shrinking”—now heading into its third season in 2026—has earned widespread acclaim, marking his first Emmy nomination and revitalizing discussions about ageism in the industry.

Ford’s career trajectory remains one of Hollywood’s most improbable success stories. After early bit parts and carpentry work to support his family, he broke through in the late 1970s with George Lucas’ “Star Wars” (1977), where his portrayal of the roguish smuggler Han Solo made him an instant icon. He reprised the role in sequels and spin-offs, including “The Force Awakens” (2015) and “The Rise of Skywalker” (2019).

The 1980s solidified his status with the “Indiana Jones” franchise, beginning with “Raiders of the Lost Ark” (1981). Ford’s whip-cracking archaeologist became synonymous with adventure cinema, leading to four more films, including the 2023 finale “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” where he bid farewell to the fedora at age 80.

Beyond blockbusters, Ford has excelled in dramas like “Witness” (1985), “The Fugitive” (1993) and “Air Force One” (1997), earning critical praise and box-office dominance. His highest-grossing films have collectively earned billions worldwide, cementing his place among the all-time top earners.

In recent years, Ford has expanded into television with “1923,” a “Yellowstone” prequel, and made his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut in “Captain America: Brave New World.” These roles showcase his versatility, blending action-hero charisma with nuanced dramatic depth.

Off-screen, Ford is a dedicated pilot and environmental advocate, serving on Conservation International’s board and using his platform for conservation efforts. His humanitarian work factored into the Life Achievement recognition, honoring not just his performances but his broader impact.

Ford’s personal life has also drawn attention. Married to Flockhart since 2010, the couple maintains a relatively private existence, making their joint red-carpet appearance at the Actor Awards a rare and cherished moment for fans. Flockhart stood by his side, beaming as photographers captured the couple’s affection.

At 83, Ford shows few signs of slowing. Spotted biking in Los Angeles earlier this year and actively promoting projects, he embodies resilience in an industry often youth-obsessed. His recent outings, including casual trips to car lots and continued work on “Shrinking,” demonstrate vitality that belies his age.

As tributes poured in following the Actor Awards, colleagues and fans celebrated Ford’s enduring legacy. The standing ovation and emotional speech served as a reminder of why he remains one of cinema’s most beloved figures—charismatic, authentic and unwilling to fade into retirement.

With new seasons and potential projects on the horizon, Harrison Ford continues proving that great performances know no expiration date. At 83, the man who once quipped “It’s not the years, honey, it’s the mileage” shows the industry—and the world—that the adventure is far from over.

Global market volatility has left investors searching for direction. Veteran investor Ramesh Damani said that while the market’s sharp swings can be shocking, dips often present buying opportunities. He noted that the Sensex opened 2,500 points down before recovering, suggesting that markets may be overreacting. “Over the last 10–20 years, significant dips have always been buying opportunities. The world is changing, but there are always pockets of profit and loss,” Damani observed.

When it comes to safe havens, Damani pointed to commodities, defence, and pharmaceuticals. He said that while he is not particularly bullish on oil, defence spending is set to rise as countries pursue economic nationalism. Commodities and so-called anti-AI plays, such as infrastructure and pharma, are likely to perform well. However, he cautioned that AI is a transformative force, creating both winners and losers in the market.

Damani also addressed concerns about the IT sector. He emphasized adaptability, saying, “The species that survive is not the strongest or smartest, but the most adaptable. The IT sector will change, and companies that embrace it will prosper. Writing off IT in three weeks is like throwing the baby out with the bath water.” He highlighted examples of companies like TCS that are actively embracing change, even at the cost of cannibalizing existing revenues.

The shift toward self-sufficiency in defence globally presents a major opportunity for Indian companies. Damani explained that rising defence budgets, combined with India’s technological capabilities, could open doors for exports and domestic growth. While he acknowledged that extreme multi-bagger returns may be unlikely at current valuations, he said private sector companies focusing on technology, drones, and optical fibre offer promising opportunities.

On the intersection of AI and enterprise software, Damani noted that IT services will continue to perform, though the market is evolving rapidly. Enterprise software, which requires scalability, robustness, and auditability, remains essential, and those companies willing to adapt to the new environment are likely to thrive.

Finally, Damani emphasized consumption trends, which he believes the market is underestimating. While AI-driven unemployment could impact consumption, other shifts such as the GLP trend are changing consumer behavior in areas like food permanently. He recommended that investors consider sectors like pharma, infrastructure, defence, and AI-benefiting companies such as optical fibre firms. According to Damani, seizing opportunities in this transforming landscape requires fresh eyes and a willingness to anticipate where the market is heading, rather than simply reacting to current conditions.

Shares of Tejas Networks surged as much as 15% to hit the day’s high of Rs 503 on the BSE on Monday, marking their fourth consecutive session of gains. With today’s rally, the stock has delivered an impressive 60% surge over the same period.

Volumes were strong in today’s session as 7 crore shares changed hands, significantly higher than the 1 week and 1 month average of 4 crore and 1 crore shares, respectively.

Last week, the company announced that it has signed an agreement with NEC Corporation to manufacture and supply 5G massive MIMO radios. With today’s rise, the stock has snapped a 4-day losing streak.

MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) is a wireless technology that boosts data speed and signal reliability by using multiple antennas at both the transmitter and receiver, rather than just one.

Tejas Networks is a leading manufacturer and supplier of a versatile mobility product suite comprising 4G and 5G radio access network (RAN) offerings, including high-capacity 32TR and 64TR massive MIMO radios that comply to both 3GPP and O-RAN standards.

Sanjay Malik, Chief Strategy and Business Officer of Tejas Networks said, “We are delighted to win this deal in partnership with NEC as we expand our business internationally. We are looking forward to building on this momentum and replicate this success in other 4G/5G mobile networks across emerging and established markets.”

Tejas Networks Q3 snapshot

The domestic telecom equipment maker reported a consolidated loss of Rs 196.55 crore for the October–December quarter, marking its second consecutive quarterly loss. The weak performance was largely driven by a sharp decline in sales, including the deferment of purchase orders from state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL). In the same quarter last year, the company had posted a profit of Rs 165.67 crore.
Consolidated revenue from operations fell sharply by about 88% year-on-year to Rs 307 crore in the December 2025 quarter, compared with around Rs 2,642 crore reported in the December 2024 quarter.

During the reported quarter, around 85% of the company’s revenue mix, excluding operating revenue, came from the domestic market, while the remaining 15% was contributed by international operations.

The company said it maintained inventory worth Rs 2,363 crore as of the December 2025 quarter, which it expects to convert into finished goods and ship over the coming months. Cash balances stood at Rs 537 crore during the quarter.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times.)

Michael B. Jordan solidified his place among Hollywood’s elite on March 1, 2026, when he captured the Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role at the Actor Awards for his dual portrayal of twin brothers in Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners.” The upset victory over frontrunners like Timothée Chalamet shocked the Shrine Auditorium crowd and injected fresh momentum into his Oscar campaign for the vampire horror epic set in the Jim Crow-era South.

Jordan, 39, described the win as a lifelong dream fulfilled in an emotional acceptance speech. “I don’t even know where to begin. I wasn’t expecting this at all,” he said, thanking director Coogler, his mother Donna Jordan for her sacrifices and fellow actors for making him “feel seen.” The triumph, his first Actor Award in the lead category, came alongside “Sinners” claiming the night’s top prize for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.

Here are 10 key things to know about the versatile actor, producer and director whose career has spanned television breakthroughs, blockbuster franchises and critical acclaim.

1. **Born Michael Bakari Jordan on February 9, 1987, in Santa Ana, California.** Raised in Newark, New Jersey, as the middle of three children, Jordan’s middle name “Bakari” means “of noble promise” in Swahili. He attended Newark Arts High School, where his interest in performing arts took root early.

2. **His first major role came as Wallace on “The Wire” in 2002.** At just 15, Jordan portrayed the tragic young drug dealer whose death became one of the HBO series’ most heartbreaking moments. He later revealed he asked his mother not to watch the filming of his character’s final scene to shield her from the intensity.

3. **Frequent collaborator with director Ryan Coogler.** The pair first teamed on “Fruitvale Station” (2013), where Jordan played real-life shooting victim Oscar Grant. They reunited for “Creed” (2015), “Black Panther” (2018), “Creed II” (2018), “Creed III” (2023)—which Jordan also directed—and now “Sinners” (2025), his fifth project with Coogler. The ongoing partnership has defined much of his career.

4. **Iconic as Erik Killmonger in “Black Panther.”** Jordan’s charismatic villain stole scenes in the 2018 Marvel blockbuster, earning praise for bringing depth and complexity to the antagonist role. The performance helped the film become a cultural phenomenon and gross over $1.3 billion worldwide.

5. **Named People’s Sexiest Man Alive in 2020.** The honor highlighted his widespread appeal, with the magazine calling him a “modern-day Renaissance man” for his acting, producing and philanthropy.

6. **Co-owner of English Premier League club AFC Bournemouth.** In December 2022, Jordan became a minority owner of the soccer team, expanding his interests beyond entertainment into sports ownership and demonstrating his growing business acumen.

7. **Directed “Creed III” in 2023.** Stepping behind the camera for the first time on a major feature, Jordan helmed the boxing drama, which grossed over $275 million worldwide and received positive reviews for his storytelling and visual style.

8. **Estimated net worth around $50 million as of early 2025.** Earnings from blockbuster roles, producing credits, endorsements and his Bournemouth stake contribute to his wealth, positioning him as one of the industry’s top-earning actors.

9. **Time 100 honoree twice.** Named among the world’s 100 most influential people in 2020 and 2023, Jordan’s inclusion reflects his cultural impact, from representation in film to advocacy for social issues.

10. **Recent triumph with “Sinners” reshapes awards season.** Jordan’s dual role as bootlegging twins Smoke and Stack—who battle vampires in 1930s Mississippi—earned him the Actor Award upset on March 1, 2026, over heavyweights including Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke and Jesse Plemons. The win, coupled with the film’s ensemble victory and 16 Oscar nominations—the most in Academy history—positions Jordan as a serious contender for best actor at the March 15 Oscars.

Jordan’s acceptance speech emphasized gratitude, particularly to his mother and Coogler, whom he called a “visionary who believed in me when others didn’t.” Backstage, he told reporters he “feels the love” from the outpouring of support, calling the recognition from fellow actors especially meaningful.

As “Sinners” continues generating buzz—turning early controversy into awards momentum—Jordan’s latest achievement underscores his evolution from child actor to one of Hollywood’s most respected and bankable stars. With the Oscars approaching, the industry watches to see if his “Sinners” performance will add an Academy Award to his growing list of accolades.