Firms freatured include Mrs Bucket, Deloitte, Savills, UWTSD , Lumen SEO and voco St David’s Cardiff.

Swansea headquartered commercial cleaning company Mrs Bucket has announced key changes to its senior management team.

Kate Ablett has been promoted to managing director. Previously people and operations director, she now steps into founder Rachael Flanagan’s former role. Ms Flanagan, who founded the business in 2005, moves into the position of chief executive allowing her to focus on the strategic direction of the business and continue as a brand ambassador.

Swansea-born Ms Ablett, who now lives in Caerphilly, has been with Mrs Buckét for four years. She joined as Head of People, where she played a key role in introducing the company’s senior leadership team. She later progressed to people and operations director, managing that team and overseeing operational performance.

In her new role as managing director, she will continue to lead the senior leadership team while focusing on driving efficiency and productivity across the business.

She said: “I’m thrilled to step into the role of managing director. One of the things I love most about Mrs Buckét is that anything is possible – you can grow ideas, you can change and you can try new things, and Rachael is fully supportive of all of this. It’s an environment where people can genuinely contribute and make a difference.

Moving into the senior leadership team is Siwan Morgan, who has been appointed senior business development manager. Previously business development manager at Mrs Buckét, her promotion comes at a pivotal time as the company accelerates its growth strategy.

She said “I’m really looking forward to stepping into this new role. I really enjoy the diverse nature of my work, which enables me to speak with a wide range of clients from different sectors – no two days are the same!”

Ms Flanagan said: “This is an incredibly exciting time for Mrs Buckét. After achieving 30% growth in 2025 and welcoming more than 30 new clients, it’s vital we have the right leadership structure in place to support our continued expansion.

“Kate has been instrumental in shaping our senior leadership team and strengthening our operations over the past four years. Her passion for people, performance and progress makes her the ideal managing director to lead the business day-to-day.

“I’m also delighted to welcome Siwan onto the senior leadership team. Her drive, energy and commitment to delivering an outstanding client journey will be pivotal as we continue to grow.”

She added: “Moving into the CEO role allows me to focus on the strategic direction of the business and continue championing our brand, our people and our purpose. We are building something very special at Mrs Buckét.”

Lumen SEO

Former chief executive of Populate Social Daniel Simmons has been appointed a non executive director of Lumen SEO as it targets expansion and the US market.

With over ten years of experience in founding and scaling a Cardiff-based agency, his appointment will support Lumen SEO through its next growth phase as it plans to expand internationally.

Now in its sixth year of trading, Lumen SEO has become the largest SEO (search engine optimisation) agency in Wales with consistent year-on-year growth.

Lumen SEO’s founder and chief executive Aled Nelmes, said: “Despite continuous yearly growth, it’s been at the expense of my being incredibly overworked in the business when I should be working smartly on the business.”

His appointment has come at a pivotal moment for Cardiff-based Lumen SEO, as the company aims to become one of the UK’s largest SEO agencies.

Mr Nelmes said: “I believe we can double in revenue in 2026, but it’s more about how we get there.

We must be able to get there by maintaining our cultural values that make Lumen one of the greatest places to work, and we need to get there by making sure I confidently delegate more and hire some great leaders during the year.”

Mr Simmons said “I truly believe culture and leadership are two of the most important things when running a people-powered business.

It’s important to still have a strong commercial focus to sit alongside this, and having the right balance is integral.”

Mr Nelmes believes moving into the US market is the next natural step. He added: “The very culture that runs through SMEs in the USA is more experimental, more pro-risk, and more ambitious compared to the UK, where businesses tend to act more conservatively.”

Deloitte

Professional advisory firm Deloitte has appointed Andrew Wright as its new practice senior partner for the south west and Wales.

Mr Wright, who has close to 30 years of experience at the firm, will lead a combined team of 2,300 people, succeeding Dave Tansley.

He joined the firm in 1996 and became a partner in 2012. He leads Deloitte’s audit business in Bristol and Cardiff and is also part of the national Deloitte Private leadership team and the global audit transformation group. In his new role Wright will oversee the firm’s strategic direction across the South West and Wales.

Mr Tansley has led the firm in the region for the past two years. He will continue his work as partner at Deloitte leading key initiatives until his retirement in May.

During his two-year stint as practice senior partner, Mr Tansley spearheaded the firm’s move into its new Bristol headquarters in the Halo Building in Finzel’s Reach. He also accelerated the growth of the firm in Wales, including its Cardiff Delivery Centre.

Mr Wright said: “The South West and Wales stands on the cusp of a vibrant future, powered by innovation in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and a thriving digital economy, offering unparalleled opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

“My career has been rooted in the South West and Wales, and I know first-hand the depth of talent, expertise and potential that we have here. I am committed to developing that talent.

“I want to thank Dave for his exemplary leadership. He has fostered a real sense of collaboration across the firm, leaving a strong foundation for future growth.”

Voco St David’s Cardiff

The five star voco St David’s Cardiff has appointed Carl Davies-Phillips as its new general manager.

He joins the Cardiff Bay hotel after a successful 2025, which saw the hotel welcome 67,463 guests and achieve record turnover.

Born and raised in Swansea, he brings more than 25 years’ experience in the hospitality industry He joins Voco St David’s Cardiff from Castlebridge Hospitality, where he held the role of operations director.

Mr Davies-Phillips said: “This is an iconic property that the whole of South Wales is proud of – everyone knows voco St David’s. “Combined with its location in the capital city it was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down as a proud Welshman.“To be joining the hotel on the back of such a strong year makes it even more exciting. The foundations are incredibly solid, and my focus now is on working with our talented team to elevate the hotel even further.”

UWTSD

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) has appointed managing director of Exercise3, Elliott Atkins, as a professor of practice. His appointment strengthens the University’s engagement with industry leaders and provides students with direct access to cutting‑edge expertise in cyber security and digital resilience.

The title of professor of practice is awarded to recognise individuals of significant academic and professional distinction whose expertise aligns with the strategic intentions and mission of the university. Mr Atkins’ appointment reflects his outstanding contribution to the field of cyber security and his commitment to advancing professional practice, education, and industry collaboration.

A fellow of the British Computer Society he was appointed the first chief information security Officer to the Royal Household in 2021. Since 2014, he has served as managing director of Exercise3, a National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) assured provider of cyber incident exercising. The company uses realistic, scenario-based simulations to help organisations test and strengthen their cyber incident preparedness and resilience.

Prior to founding Exercise3, he held several senior leadership roles across government and industry. These included head of the UK Government’s computer emergency response team at GCHQ, head of cyber Intelligence at QinetiQ, and head of incident Response at Nominet, the UK’s top-level domain registry.

Kapilan Radhakrishnan, academic director (applied computing)at UWTSD said: “Elliott’s appointment as Professor of Practice reflects our commitment to bridging academic excellence with real-world professional leadership. His experience at the highest levels of national and international cyber security, from government to critical infrastructure and global incident response communities, brings exceptional insight to our students and staff.

“We are proud to welcome Elliott to the University and look forward to the impact his expertise will have on our teaching, research, and industry partnerships.”

Mr Atkins said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed as a Professor of Practice at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. I’m really looking forward to sharing real-world insights and experience with students, early-career academics, and staff, as well as contributing to curriculum development across the Applied Computing, Cyber Security, and Digital Forensics programmes.”

Savills

International real estate advisor Savills has announced four promotions within its Cardiff office

The promotions will see one person become director and one take on the role of associate director, and two become associates. Wayne Farnell, who specialises in property management has become a director, Cerys Hulbert-Scott, planning, an associate director, Tina Owen, property management, an associate and Emma Lewis, property management, also an associate.

Jonathan Latham, head of Savills Cardiff office, said: “It is with great pleasure that we can announce the promotion of four outstanding individuals in our Cardiff office. Each has demonstrated exceptional commitment, expertise and drive in supporting our clients and contributing to the continued success of our office. Congratulations to all on this well‑deserved recognition.”

LISBON, Portugal — Cristiano Ronaldo has repeatedly confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set for June-July across the United States, Canada and Mexico, will be his final appearance in the tournament. The Portuguese superstar, who turns 41 in February 2026, stated unequivocally in late 2025 interviews that the expanded 48-team event will mark the end of his World Cup journey, though he remains committed to playing at a high level with Al Nassr and Portugal in the lead-up.

In a November 2025 CNN interview at the Tourise Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo addressed the question directly: “Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old and I think that will be the moment in the big competition.” He reiterated that retirement from football overall would come “soon,” clarifying it as “probably one or two years” after the tournament. Similar comments appeared in outlets like BBC Sport, Sky Sports, ESPN and Al Jazeera, where he emphasized enjoying the present while acknowledging age as a factor.

Ronaldo’s stance has held steady into 2026. As of March 2026, no reversal or new statements contradict his earlier declarations. Portugal qualified comfortably for the finals, with Ronaldo contributing five goals during the UEFA qualifying phase. Recent reports, including from Sports Illustrated in January 2026, affirmed he “will play at the 2026 World Cup” but described it as his “final international tournament.” The consensus across major sports media — including Fox Sports, CBS Sports and Yahoo Sports — positions the event as his sixth and last World Cup, a record for any player.

A minor injury scare surfaced in early March 2026 when Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute during an Al Nassr match due to a muscle issue, prompting speculation in outlets like SportBible about potential risks to his 2026 readiness. However, no long-term concerns emerged, and he has continued featuring regularly in Saudi Pro League action. Al Nassr’s medical updates indicate recovery without setbacks, aligning with his goal to arrive fit for Portugal’s campaign.

The 2026 tournament holds special significance for Ronaldo. He has scored in five consecutive World Cups — a unique feat — and holds the all-time international scoring record with 143 goals (as of late 2025 figures, with additions possible in friendlies or remaining qualifiers). Despite never winning the World Cup, Ronaldo has downplayed its singular importance to his legacy. In a November 2025 Piers Morgan interview, he said winning it “isn’t a dream” and wouldn’t solely define him as one of history’s greatest, given his club achievements, Ballon d’Or wins and goal tallies.

Portugal enters the finals as a strong contender, bolstered by a talented squad including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and younger stars. Ronaldo’s role may shift toward leadership and impact off the bench or in targeted spells, given his age and physical demands. Coach Roberto Martínez has expressed confidence in his captain’s contributions, and Ronaldo’s work ethic — maintaining elite fitness at Al Nassr — supports expectations he will feature prominently.

The expanded format offers more matches and potential for deeper runs, raising hopes among fans for a fairy-tale ending. Discussions on platforms like YouTube and social media speculate on scenarios where Portugal lifts the trophy with Ronaldo as the hero, potentially reshaping the GOAT debate with Lionel Messi (who won in 2022). Ronaldo has dismissed retirement pressure, focusing on enjoyment and family time post-career.

Recent off-field activities reinforce his ongoing commitment. In February 2026, reports noted Ronaldo investing nearly $8 million in new projects ahead of the tournament, signaling preparation rather than wind-down. He denied full retirement rumors, stating he aims to play “for the next couple of years” beyond club duties.

As the World Cup draw approaches (scheduled for December 2025 but with updates ongoing into 2026), anticipation builds for what many view as Ronaldo’s farewell stage. At 41, defying conventional timelines, his participation would extend an extraordinary international career spanning over two decades.

Whether Portugal advances far or Ronaldo adds to his goal record, the 2026 World Cup appears set as his final chapter on the global stage. Fans worldwide await what could be emotional, historic moments from one of football’s most iconic figures.

Alan Ritchson, the towering actor best known for portraying Jack Reacher in Prime Video’s hit action series, found himself at the center of controversy on March 22, 2026, after video surfaced allegedly showing him assaulting a neighbor in Tennessee in front of children. The incident, reported by TMZ, has drawn widespread attention amid Ritchson’s rising profile, fueled by the massive success of his Netflix sci-fi thriller “War Machine” and upcoming developments in “Reacher.”

The altercation reportedly occurred Sunday in a residential neighborhood. According to the complainant, identified as Taylor, Ritchson allegedly sped through the area multiple times, once with two young children on motorbikes. On the day in question, Taylor confronted Ritchson, leading to a physical scuffle captured on video. The footage appears to show Ritchson striking the neighbor repeatedly. No arrests or charges have been confirmed as of March 23, and Ritchson’s representatives have not issued a public comment. The video’s release has sparked debate on social media, with some fans defending the actor’s actions as self-defense while others criticize the escalation.

The timing coincides with Ritchson’s career peak. His Netflix film “War Machine,” released March 6, 2026, has dominated streaming charts, holding the No. 1 spot for nearly two weeks and officially becoming the most-watched Netflix movie of the year so far. Directed by Patrick Hughes and positioned as Netflix’s sci-fi answer to “Predator,” the film follows Army Ranger recruits hunted by an extraterrestrial killing machine during a final training mission. Ritchson stars as a haunted combat engineer leading the unit.

Early reviews praised the high-energy action, practical stunts and Ritchson’s physical presence. A behind-the-scenes featurette highlighted grueling sequences, including Ritchson undergoing Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP) bootcamp simulations, dragging co-stars through mud and navigating glacial rapids. Collider and other outlets noted its record-breaking debut, surpassing January’s “The Rip” starring Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. Discussions of a sequel have intensified, with Ritchson and Hughes confirming ideas for continuation.

The success builds on Ritchson’s momentum from “Reacher,” Prime Video’s flagship action series based on Lee Child’s novels. In a Collider interview promoting “War Machine,” Ritchson confirmed “Reacher” Season 4 wrapped production and will premiere on Prime Video in 2026. “It’s by far the best season we’ve had yet,” he said, teasing roughly 30 fight sequences across eight episodes — a franchise record. The season adapts “Gone Tomorrow,” one of Child’s most acclaimed entries, promising intense action and character depth.

A “Reacher” spin-off centered on Frances Neagley, played by Maria Sten, has also completed filming, with Ritchson expected to appear. No specific dates have been announced for either project, but the updates have thrilled fans awaiting more from the muscular, no-nonsense hero.

Ritchson’s path to stardom accelerated with “Reacher,” which launched in 2022 and quickly became Prime Video’s most-watched series. His 6-foot-3, 235-pound frame and commitment to practical stunts — often performing his own fights — have made him a go-to action lead. Previous roles include Aimes in “Fast X” (2023) and comedic turns like “Playdate” with Kevin James. Upcoming credits include “Motor City” and an untitled Amazon MGM Studios project as Navy SEAL Mike Thornton, plus “The Man with the Bag,” listed as completed.

Off-screen, Ritchson maintains a low-key family life. He married high school sweetheart Catherine in 2006 after meeting in a ballet class. The couple shares three sons: Calem (born 2012), Edan (2013) and Amory (2015). For years, they lived nomadically in Airbnbs and hotels to stay together during filming, but recent reports indicate they’ve settled more permanently, with the children in school and Ritchson traveling solo for work. He frequently shares humorous family moments on social media, including the chaos of raising boys and tattoos honoring them.

The Tennessee incident has overshadowed these positives for now. Legal experts suggest potential charges could range from assault to disorderly conduct, depending on investigation outcomes. Ritchson’s clean public image — often described as humble and family-oriented — contrasts sharply with the allegations, prompting calls for more details.

As “War Machine” continues streaming dominance and “Reacher” Season 4 approaches, Ritchson’s star power remains undeniable. The actor, 43, has transformed from supporting roles in shows like “Smallville” and “Blue Mountain State” to leading major franchises. His dedication to fitness and authenticity in action roles has earned praise from co-stars and directors.

Fans await resolution on the neighbor dispute while anticipating more high-octane performances. Whether defending himself or facing consequences, Ritchson’s 2026 trajectory — marked by blockbuster streaming success and franchise expansions — positions him as one of Hollywood’s premier action stars.

With “Reacher” loyalists counting down to Season 4 and “War Machine” sparking sequel buzz, the year promises continued momentum, even amid personal headlines.

Columbia Threadneedle Investments is a leading global asset management group that provides a broad range of actively managed investment strategies and solutions for individual, institutional and corporate clients around the world. Columbia Threadneedle Investments is the global asset management group of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. (NYSE: AMP). For more information please visit columbiathreadneedleus.com.

The 10-year government bond yield was trading at 6.8173 per cent around 11 am on Monday, as compared to Friday’s close of 6.737 per cent. The yield is highest since January 14, 2025, according to the data compiled from market participants.

“Bond yields are rising in response to crude oil prices climbing above USD 110 amid escalating tensions between the US-Israel and Iran. Foreign institutional investors who were net buyers of government bonds in January and February, have also turned net sellers in March,” said Mataprasad Pandey, vice-president at Arete Capital (Choice Group).
He added that higher crude prices are not only fuelling inflation concerns but also putting pressure on India’s trade and current account balances, which is a big negative for the already depreciating rupee moving towards 94.
“These factors not only dampen expectations of a rate cut but raise the possibility of a rate hike if geopolitical tensions persist for long. As a result, increased supply relative to demand is weighing negatively on bond prices,” he added.

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The conflict in the Middle East has entered into the fourth week, which led to a sharp surge in the Brent crude oil prices in the international market, which stoked a fear of higher inflationary pressure.
Oil prices rose sharply after Iran said it would strike energy and water systems of its Gulf neighbours if US President Donald Trump followed through with a threat to hit Iran’s electricity grid in 48 hours.Brent crude oil prices are trading at USD 112.66 per barrel. It has risen nearly 50 pet cent since the conflict started late in February.

Higher crude oil prices have also put pressure on the rupee, which also dampened sentiments of traders and investors in the market.

The rupee is trading at 93.9075 against the US dollar, which was up 20 paise since previous close.

The 15,000-home development is already underway with first residents having moved into new council homes in Collyhurst

Manchester’s massive Victoria North development has been included in a Government list of seven ‘new towns’, hailed as the ‘most ambitious housebuilding programme in more than half a century’.

Victoria North, set to see 15,000 homes constructed across 390-acres of land, is already well into its development phase, with initial plans having surfaced seven years ago. Last year it hit a significant milestone when the first residents moved into their brand new council homes in Collyhurst.

This weekend the Government revealed that the National Housing Bank will commence operations on April 1, and will be supported with up to £16bn of financial capacity, aiming to deliver over 500,000 new homes.

The regeneration scheme will result in up to 15,000 new homes being built between Victoria Train Station and Queen’s Park in Collyhurst over the next 15 years across seven new and existing neighbourhoods. Each neighbourhood will be connected by high quality green spaces that will enhance and celebrate the River Irk, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “We are glad to see Victoria North getting this backing from the Government. It is one of the UK’s most ambitious regeneration projects right at the heart of its fastest-growing city-region. Victoria North will see the building of 15,000 new homes, including many for social rent, alongside high-quality green spaces close to our city centre.

“We believe it is the model of what a new town should be, with modern homes linked to high-quality public transport. Only this week we agreed to invest £60m in a new tram connection for Victoria North from our ground-breaking Good Growth Fund.

“Greater Manchester is ready to deliver a decade of good growth, giving people quality jobs and truly affordable homes, and Victoria North is a crucial part of that.”

Victoria North extends from Angel Meadow in the city centre through to Queen’s Park in Collyhurst. It represents one of the largest regeneration schemes in Manchester’s history – last year, it received official endorsement as one of Labour’s new towns.

Manchester council has additionally partnered with Hong Kong-based Far East Consortium (FEC) on an even more substantial scheme featuring seven new neighbourhoods stretching from the New Cross quarter near Ancoats, along Rochdale Road to Smedley Dip in Collyhurst. The scheme would transform Red Bank, deliver a new tram stop at Sandhills, create a 46-hectare park alongside the River Irk and provide substantial ‘affordable’ housing. Fresh businesses are anticipated to establish themselves beneath the Red Bank railway arches.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed said: “People want real homes they can actually afford and infrastructure that really works – this government is making that a reality for communities across the country. For Greater Manchester, that means at least 15,000 new homes and a new Metrolink stop that will connect communities to jobs right across Greater Manchester.

“Alongside this, our 40% affordable housing target will mean homes will work for ordinary people, not just those who can already afford it. Greater Manchester is ready to build, and together with the new National Housing Bank, we’re laying the foundations our communities deserve.”

Seven sites have been selected for new towns: Tempsford, Leeds South Bank, Crews Hill and Chase Park, Manchester Victoria North, Thamesmead, Brabazon and West Innovation Arc, and Milton Keynes. The Government also evaluated six additional new town sites – Adlington, Heyford Park, Marlcombe, Plymouth, South Barking and Wychavon Town – but concluded these would not proceed. The Government stated that no final decisions have been taken regarding the names of new towns. The potential names under Government consideration include Elizabethtown, honouring the Queen, Pankhurst, commemorating suffragette Emmeline, Attleeton, recognising former Prime Minister Clement Attlee, Athelstan, celebrating the first King of England, and Seacole, paying tribute to nurse Mary, the Times reported.

Manchester council anticipates the initial results of its £4bn scheme in Collyhurst will help promote the broader ambition for the area, which would essentially extend the city centre across predominantly vacant land and increase the local population by 40,000 over a 20-year timeframe.

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