Valleys to Coast has launched a new development company and it confirms its first development in Cardiff

Housing association Valleys to Coast Group has confirmed plans to build 500 new homes through its new commercially development company.

Its subsidiary, Sylfaen, has acquired a site with planning for 200 homes in north-east Cardiff, with a potential for 300 additional homes in future years. The development will offer homes for private sale, rent, and shared ownership alongside traditional affordable social housing.

The site has been acquired from Taylor Wimpey. The value of the deal has not been disclosed. The first 200 homes are expected to be delivered over a five year period. The housing association will seek to raise between £50m to £60m to fund the phase. A further second phase of 300 homes is expected to be delivered over the next 10 to 15 years.

READ MORE: The South Wales compound semiconductor cluster targeting 6,000 jobs by 2030READ MORE: The verdict on Plaid Cymru’s plans for the Welsh economy

The first phase, located near J30 of the M4 at Pontprennau, will feature mix of house types, from affordable to executive homes.

The development is expected to generate an income stream of £20m for Valleys to Coast Group, creating an additional source of revenue for improvements and maintenance of its existing 6,000 homes in the Bridgend local authority area.

Sylfaen has been established to drive the Valleys to Coast Group’s ambitious growth strategy.

Joanne Oak, chief executive of Valleys to Coast Group, said:“The launch of Sylfaen is a defining moment for us, and enables us to drive our growth ambitions whilst remaining truly rooted in social purpose.

“We’re incredibly proud to expand beyond our Bridgend heartland and into the Cardiff region as part of our ambitious growth plans.

“For us, this isn’t just about building new homes, it’s about creating financial stability that allows us to reinvest in our existing communities, ensuring that everyone has the support they need to thrive.”

James Griffiths, managing director of Sylfaen, added: “We are thrilled to begin Sylfaen’s journey with such a landmark development. The north east Cardiff site perfectly embodies the Sylfaen philosophy, every home we build starts with a strong foundation.

“Building a thriving new community of this scale in the capital is an exciting challenge that demonstrates our intention to make our mark in the sector. We’re hitting the ground running to show that a commercially driven business can have a social purpose, delivering high-quality, modern homes that help people and places truly thrive.”

A version of this article first appeared in CNBC’s Inside Wealth newsletter with Robert Frank, a weekly guide to the high-net-worth investor and consumer. Sign up to receive future editions, straight to your inbox.

New York’s proposed tax on second homes worth more than $5 million is likely to spark costly legal battles over how to value the city’s most expensive real estate, according to appraisers and attorneys.

The city’s so-called “pied-à-terre” tax, announced last week by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, would impose an annual surtax on non-primary residential real estate worth more than $5 million. The governor and mayor said the levy will raise about $500 million a year to help pay off the city’s budget deficit.

Officials haven’t released any details, including the tax rates or timing. Yet real estate appraisers and attorneys said the tax sets the stage for a massive legal fight over how to value high-end real estate in one of the most expensive markets in the world. Because New York’s antiquated property tax system dramatically undervalues co-ops and condos, experts said the city will have to come up with a new system for valuing  high-end second homes.

Among the questions: Will it be up to the property owner, or the city, to set the taxable value? Will pied-à-terre owners have to hire appraisers to value their apartments every year? How will the city handle the barrage of legal challenges over values?

“The administrative costs haven’t been thought through,” said Jonathan Miller, CEO of Miller Samuel, the appraisal and research company. “This tax could give birth to a whole new cottage industry, where I get to do a lot of appraisals.”

The tax is expected to be part of the state’s annual budget and still has to be approved by the state legislature. It faces strong opposition from the real-estate industry and similar proposals have failed in the past. Citadel on Thursday rebuked Mamdani for singling out CEO Ken Griffin in his push for the tax.

Previous proposed pied-à-terre taxes included graduated rates based on value. A 2019 proposal, for example, imposed a 0.5% tax on the value of a pied-à-terre over $5 million, 1.5% over $10 million and 4% over $25 million.

Imposing a new surtax on the value of second homes will require two new forms of verification by the city: non-residency and value. Hochul estimates that about 13,000 non-primary homes in New York City valued at $5 million or more will be subject to the tax.

Miller said 4,146 Manhattan apartments sold for $5 million or more over the past five years. He estimates that about 70% of properties sold for $5 million-plus are second homes (or even third, fifth or 10th homes).

Proving nonprimary residence should be straightforward, based on tax rolls. If the owner of a $5 million-plus property is not a New York City tax resident, they will be subject to the levy. Those who purchase condos through LLCs, which are likely the vast majority of high-end buyers, may be difficult to identify. And since second-home owners who rent to long-term tenants may be exempt, some LLC owners might be able to rent to themselves and possibly avoid the tax, according to real estate experts.

The greater problem will be valuation. Real property taxes are the largest source of revenue for New York City, accounting for over 40% of total tax revenue in recent years, according to the city’s Independent Budget Office. Yet the city’s assessment system values properties far below their market value. Thanks to a complex legal history that values certain kinds of real estate based on their rental value, the assessed values for New York City apartments are often a fraction of their market value.

“The assessed values are absurdly low,” said Robert Pollack, senior partner at Marcus & Pollack LLP and an expert on New York real estate taxes. “They are not representative of market values.”

Griffin’s penthouse at 220 Central Park South, which Mamdani used as a backdrop to announce the tax, was purchased in 2019 for $238 million. Yet the city assesses it at $6.99 million and lists its market value at $15.5 million, according to Pollack. Few apartments in the building, among the most expensive in the city, would have to pay the pied-à-terre tax under the city’s current values. 

The 2019 pied-à-terre proposal called for valuations to be based on recent sale prices. Yet brokers said that since every apartment is different, and markets change quickly, using recent sale prices can distort the values. To hit the revenue target of $500 million a year for the new tax, city officials will likely have to create a new system for determining market values, according to experts.

Miller said one option would be for the property owners to get regular appraisals, which would be create a flood of demand for appraisal companies like his.

“I would be thrilled if every apartment in New York City will have to get an annual appraisal,” he said.

Even with owner appraisals, however, there will be pressure to value apartments just below their nearest tax thresholds. There could wind up being a large number of apartments valued at $4.98 million, for example, to avoid the tax. Or someone with a $26 million apartment could get it appraised for $24.9 million to avoid the top 4% rate.

“You could have wind up having these big clusters of valuations around each tax bracket,” Miller said.

Choosing the best CFD trading platform in Australia is a crucial step for both beginners and experienced traders. With so many brokers competing for attention, it can be challenging to identify which platforms offer genuine value rather than just impressive marketing.

This guide cuts through the noise. We have reviewed and ranked the best CFD brokers trading platform Australia 2026 has to offer — assessing everything from spreads and fees to regulatory standing, asset coverage, and beginner-friendly features. Whether your focus is forex, commodities, indices, or crypto, there is a platform on this list suited to your goals.

1. What to Look for in the Best CFD Trading Platform in Australia

Before diving into individual reviews, it is worth understanding what separates a genuinely excellent CFD platform from a mediocre one. Here are the core criteria every Australian trader should assess:

Regulation and Safety

The most critical factor. Any reputable platform operating in Australia should be regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). ASIC oversight means the broker must adhere to strict financial standards, including negative balance protection and segregated client funds.

Costs and Spreads

CFD trading costs are not always transparent. Look beyond the headline spread to assess overnight financing charges, inactivity fees, and withdrawal costs. Lower spreads directly impact your profitability, especially if you are an active trader.

Asset Coverage

The best platforms offer a broad range of instruments — forex pairs, indices, commodities like gold, shares, and cryptocurrencies — so you are not locked into a single market.

Platform Usability

For beginners especially, the interface matters. A cluttered or unintuitive platform can lead to costly errors. Look for clean charting tools, one-click execution, and solid mobile app performance.

Education and Support

Access to quality educational resources, live chat support, and demo accounts can make or break the experience for newer traders.

2. How We Evaluated the Best CFD Brokers

Our evaluation methodology was designed to reflect the real-world needs of Australian traders. We assessed each broker across the following dimensions:

We also considered user reviews, independent audits, and hands-on testing of each platform’s interface across both desktop and mobile.

3. Our Top Picks at a Glance

Here is a quick-reference summary of our top-rated platforms for 2026:

4. In-Depth Reviews of the Best CFD Trading Platforms

4.1 Mitrade — Best Overall CFD Platform for Beginners

Mitrade consistently ranks as one of the most beginner-friendly and well-rounded platforms available to Australian traders. Founded in 2018 and regulated by ASIC (AFS Licence No. 460734), Mitrade has built its reputation on simplicity, transparency, and genuine value.

What Makes Mitrade Stand Out?

Mitrade offers access to over 700 instruments, including forex pairs, global indices, commodities, shares, and cryptocurrencies — all from a single, unified platform. There are no commissions charged on trades; instead, costs are built into the spread, which keeps the fee structure straightforward and easy to understand.

The platform’s interface is clean and highly intuitive, making it one of the strongest choices for traders who are new to CFD trading. Advanced charting tools, real-time price alerts, and risk management features such as stop-loss and take-profit orders are all available without overwhelming the user.

For those interested in forex trading, Mitrade provides competitive spreads on major pairs like AUD/USD and EUR/USD. Traders interested in commodities can also trade gold and other precious metals with leverage of up to 20:1 (for retail clients under ASIC regulations).

Mitrade also provides a free demo account with AUD 50,000 in virtual funds — a valuable feature for beginners wanting to practise strategies without risking real capital.

Mitrade Key Details:

Pros:

• No commission structure is highly transparent
• Excellent mobile trading app
• Strong educational content for beginners
• ASIC regulated with negative balance protection
• Competitive spreads on major instruments

Cons:

• Does not support MetaTrader 4 or MetaTrader 5
• Fewer advanced analytical tools compared to platforms like IG

Verdict:Mitrade is our top pick as the best trading platform for beginners and intermediate traders in Australia. Its combination of low costs, strong regulation, and an approachable interface makes it an outstanding starting point.

4.2 IG Markets — Best for Advanced Traders

IG Markets is one of the most established names in global CFD trading, with a presence in Australia spanning decades. Regulated by ASIC, IG offers an extraordinary range of over 17,000 markets, including Australian and international shares, indices, forex, and commodities.

IG’s flagship web-based platform and the ProRealTime charting package provide institutional-grade tools that advanced traders will appreciate. However, this depth of functionality comes with a steeper learning curve that may overwhelm complete beginners.

Pros:

• Massive range of tradeable instruments
• Professional-grade charting and analysis tools
• Excellent educational academy
• Competitive spreads on major markets

Cons:

• Platform can be complex for beginners
• Higher minimum deposit for some account types

Verdict:Best suited to experienced traders who want maximum market access and sophisticated tools.

4.3 CMC Markets — Best for Active Traders

CMC Markets is another stalwart of the Australian CFD landscape. Its proprietary Next Generation platform is widely praised for its depth of analysis tools, including a pattern recognition scanner and advanced order types.

CMC offers competitive spreads, particularly on forex and index CFDs, and has no minimum deposit requirement. Its product range covers over 10,000 instruments, which is more than sufficient for even the most diversified trader.

Pros:

• Powerful proprietary trading platform
• No minimum deposit
• Extensive research and analysis tools
• Strong range of CFDs across all major asset classes

Cons:

• Platform can feel overwhelming for new traders
• Inactivity fees apply after a period of dormancy

Verdict:CMC Markets is an excellent choice for active and analytical traders who want deep functionality and competitive pricing.

4.4 Pepperstone — Best for Forex-Focused Traders

Pepperstone is an Australian-born broker that has grown into one of the most respected CFD and forex platforms globally. Its primary appeal lies in its ultra-tight raw spreads (from 0.0 pips on the Razor account), fast execution speeds, and full support for MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader.

For traders whose primary interest is forex trading Australia, Pepperstone is a particularly compelling option. It also offers CFDs on indices, commodities, shares, and ETFs.

Pros:

• Industry-leading raw spreads
• Multiple platform support (MT4, MT5, cTrader)
• Fast trade execution
• Strong ASIC regulation

Cons:

• Commission charges apply on Razor account
• Less beginner-friendly than Mitrade
• Limited educational resources

Verdict:Pepperstone is ideal for intermediate to advanced forex traders who prioritise tight spreads and execution quality.

4.5 Plus500 — Best for Simple, No-Fuss Trading

Plus500 takes a different approach from most of its competitors — its proprietary platform is deliberately simple. There is no MetaTrader support and no complex analytical tools, but what it does offer is a clean, clutter-free experience that is easy to navigate.

Plus500 covers CFDs on shares, indices, forex, commodities, ETFs, and options, making it reasonably well-rounded despite its streamlined approach. It is ASIC regulated and offers a free demo account.

Pros:

• Very easy to use for beginners
• ASIC regulated
• No commission on trades
• Free demo account

Cons:

• No MT4/MT5 support
• Limited advanced tools
• Customer support is primarily chat-based

Verdict:Plus500 suits traders who want a simple, fuss-free entry point into CFD trading without being overwhelmed by complexity.

5. Key Features to Compare Across Australian CFD Platforms

When comparing CFD trading platforms, it is easy to get lost in the marketing language. Here are the features that genuinely matter:

Trading Platform Quality

Is the platform responsive, reliable, and easy to navigate? Does it offer the tools you need — advanced charting, technical indicators, economic calendars, and price alerts? Test any platform with a demo account before committing real funds.

Asset Coverage

Do you want to focus purely on forex, or do you want the flexibility to trade indices, commodities, and shares in the same account? Ensure your chosen platform covers the instruments you intend to trade. For example, if you’re interested in gold trading, check the spread and leverage available on gold CFDs specifically.

Mobile App Performance

Most Australian traders use mobile apps at least part of the time. A poor mobile experience can lead to missed opportunities or execution errors. Evaluate both the iOS and Android versions before committing.

Risk Management Tools

Look for platforms that offer guaranteed stop-loss orders (GSLOs), trailing stops, and negative balance protection. These features are particularly important for beginners who are still developing their risk management discipline.

Demo Account

A free, unlimited demo account allows you to practise your strategies in real market conditions without risking capital. This is a non-negotiable feature for beginners.

Educational Resources

Does the platform offer tutorials, webinars, articles, or in-platform guides? Quality education accelerates the learning curve significantly.

6. Fees, Spreads and Costs: What Australian CFD Traders Need to Know

Understanding the true cost of CFD trading Australia is essential for profitability. Here is a breakdown of the primary cost types you will encounter:

Spreads

The spread is the difference between the buy (ask) and sell (bid) price. It is the primary cost on most retail CFD platforms. Tighter spreads mean lower costs per trade.

Overnight Financing (Swap Rates)

If you hold a CFD position overnight, you will be charged or credited an overnight financing fee. This is calculated based on the notional value of your position and the relevant interest rate benchmark. For longer-term CFD holders, these charges can accumulate significantly.

Commissions

Some platforms (like Pepperstone’s Razor account) charge a per-trade commission in exchange for raw spreads. Mitrade and Plus500, by contrast, use spread-only pricing with no commissions.

Inactivity Fees

Several platforms charge a monthly fee if your account remains dormant for a set period (typically 3–6 months). Check the fee schedule carefully.

Deposit and Withdrawal Fees

Most reputable Australian platforms do not charge deposit fees, but some impose withdrawal fees. Always verify the terms before funding your account.

Quick Comparison of Estimated Spreads on Major Instruments:

Note: Spreads are variable and may differ during periods of low liquidity or high volatility.

7. Regulatory Considerations for CFD Trading in Australia

Australia has one of the most robust retail trading regulatory frameworks in the world, largely thanks to ASIC’s proactive stance on consumer protection. Here is what you need to know:

ASIC Oversight

ASIC regulates CFD providers under the Corporations Act 2001. Brokers must hold an Australian Financial Services (AFS) Licence and adhere to strict conduct obligations, including best execution policies and clear disclosure of risks.

Product Intervention Orders

In 2021, ASIC introduced Product Intervention Orders specifically targeting retail CFD trading. Key restrictions include:

• Leverage caps: Maximum 30:1 on major forex pairs; 20:1 on commodities like gold; 2:1 on cryptocurrencies
• Negative balance protection: Retail clients cannot lose more than their account balance
• Margin close-out: Positions must be closed if the account margin falls below 50%
• No monetary trading incentives: Brokers cannot offer bonuses or gifts to incentivise trading

These rules exist to protect retail traders from excessive losses, particularly given the high-risk nature of leveraged products.

Why ASIC Regulation Matters

Choosing an ASIC-regulated broker means:

• Your funds are held in segregated client accounts
• You have recourse through ASIC and the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) if disputes arise
• The broker is obligated to provide clear, non-misleading information about risks and costs

Always verify a broker’s ASIC licence number on the ASIC Connect Professional Registers before depositing funds.

8. Final Verdict: Choosing the Best CFD Trading Platform for Your Needs

There is no single “best” CFD platform that suits every trader. Your ideal platform depends on your experience level, trading style, preferred instruments, and cost sensitivity.

Here is a quick summary to help you decide:

For most Australian beginners, Mitrade represents the strongest starting point. It balances ease of use with genuine functionality, keeps costs transparent and low, and provides the regulatory protection of full ASIC oversight. As you gain experience, you may want to explore additional platforms that offer more advanced toolsets.

Regardless of which platform you choose, always start with a demo account, develop a clear risk management strategy, and never risk more capital than you can afford to lose. CFD trading carries significant risk, and informed, disciplined trading is the foundation of long-term success.

For those also exploring cryptocurrency alongside CFDs, you may wish to look at options to buy bitcoin through reputable Australian platforms that align with your broader investment strategy.

9. FAQs

What is the best CFD trading platform for beginners in Australia?

For beginners in Australia, Mitrade is widely regarded as one of the best options. It offers an intuitive, commission-free platform with access to over 700 instruments, a free demo account, and full ASIC regulation. Its clean interface and quality educational resources make it particularly well-suited to traders who are just getting started with CFD trading.

Is CFD trading legal in Australia?

Yes, CFD trading is entirely legal in Australia. However, it is heavily regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Retail traders benefit from important protections including leverage caps (up to 30:1 on major forex pairs), negative balance protection, and mandatory margin close-out rules. Always ensure your chosen broker holds a valid AFS Licence issued by ASIC.

How much money do I need to start CFD trading in Australia?

The minimum deposit varies by platform. Some brokers such as IG Markets, CMC Markets, and Pepperstone have no stated minimum deposit for standard accounts, while others like Mitrade require a minimum of around AUD 50 and Plus500 requires AUD 100. That said, it is generally advisable to start with at least AUD 500–AUD 1,000 to allow adequate margin buffer and meaningful position sizing, even if a lower amount is technically sufficient to open an account.

What is the difference between CFD trading and share trading?

When you buy shares, you take direct ownership of the underlying asset. With CFD trading, you are speculating on the price movement of an asset — up or down — without owning the underlying instrument. CFDs offer leverage (meaning you only need to deposit a fraction of the full trade value) and the ability to go short (profit from falling prices). However, leverage also magnifies losses, making CFDs a higher-risk product than traditional share investing.

Are there any hidden fees in CFD trading?

While reputable ASIC-regulated brokers are required to disclose all fees clearly, it is still important to read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) carefully. Common costs to watch for include overnight financing fees (swap rates), inactivity fees, and potential withdrawal charges. Spread-based platforms like Mitrade build all costs into the spread, which simplifies cost tracking compared to commission-plus-raw-spread models.

Can I trade CFDs on a mobile app in Australia?

Yes. All of the platforms reviewed in this article offer dedicated mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices. Mitrade’s mobile app, in particular, is praised for its clean design and full feature parity with the desktop version, making it a strong choice for traders who prefer managing positions on the go.

As cyber threats continue to evolve in sophistication and frequency, organizations must strengthen every layer of their security strategy. One of the most fundamental yet often overlooked components of cybersecurity is patch management.

In 2026, where vulnerabilities are exploited faster than ever, timely updates and system maintenance are no longer optional—they are essential for protecting digital assets and maintaining business continuity.

The Growing Threat Landscape

Cybercriminals are constantly scanning for weaknesses in software, applications, and operating systems. When vulnerabilities are discovered, attackers often move quickly to exploit them before organizations can respond. This creates a narrow window for businesses to secure their systems.

Unpatched software remains one of the most common entry points for cyberattacks. Even a single overlooked update can expose an entire network to risks, making effective patch management a critical defense against modern threats.

Closing Security Gaps Before They Are Exploited

Patches are designed to fix known vulnerabilities, strengthen system defenses, and improve overall performance. Applying them promptly ensures that security gaps are closed before attackers can exploit them.

With a structured approach to Microsoft patch management, organizations can prioritize updates based on risk levels and ensure that critical vulnerabilities are addressed without delay. This proactive strategy significantly reduces the attack surface and enhances overall security.

Reducing Downtime and Operational Disruptions

Cyber incidents caused by unpatched systems can lead to significant downtime, disrupting business operations and impacting revenue. Recovery efforts can be time-consuming and costly, especially if critical systems are affected.

Effective patch management helps prevent such disruptions by maintaining system stability and reliability. By keeping software up to date, businesses can minimize the risk of unexpected failures and ensure that their operations continue without interruption.

Supporting Compliance and Regulatory Requirements

Many industries are subject to strict requirements that require organizations to maintain secure and up-to-date systems. Failure to comply with these standards can result in penalties, legal issues, and reputational damage.

Implementing consistent Microsoft patch management practices helps organizations meet compliance requirements by ensuring that systems are regularly updated and vulnerabilities are addressed. This not only protects the organization but also builds trust with customers and stakeholders.

Enhancing Overall IT Efficiency

Patch management is not just about security—it also contributes to improved IT efficiency. Automated patching processes reduce the burden on IT teams, allowing them to focus on strategic initiatives rather than manual updates.

A well-managed patching system ensures that updates are deployed consistently across all devices, reducing inconsistencies and improving overall system performance. This streamlined approach leads to better resource utilization and a more efficient IT environment.

Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Strategy

In 2026, cybersecurity requires a proactive and layered approach. Patch management serves as a foundational element that supports all other security measures. Without it, even the most advanced defenses can be compromised.

By prioritizing timely updates, implementing automation, and maintaining continuous monitoring, organizations can build a resilient security framework. Effective patch management not only protects against current threats but also prepares businesses to להתמודד future challenges in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

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At the heart of its Senedd manifesto are plans for a new at arm’s lenght National Development Agency

So, to the final assessment of the political parties’ plans for the Welsh economy, and it would be fair to say that Plaid Cymru’s manifesto is the most detailed document produced in this Senedd election.

That does not mean that every proposal within it is convincing, but it is attempting to build a recognisable economic philosophy around a simple question that Welsh politics has avoided: not just how much economic activity takes place in Wales, but who benefits from it, and how much of the value generated here actually stays here.

READ MORE: Senedd Election manifesto from the Tories far more pro-business than Labour

OPINION

Dylan Jones-Evans

Plaid argues that Wales has plenty of economic capability, but that too much of its economy remains externally owned, too much profit leaks out, and too much of its policy focuses on managing symptoms rather than building long-term strength.

Its answer is a more interventionist and more explicitly development-oriented model, built around more strategic public investment, more active use of procurement, and an institutional framework designed to support business growth in ways that reinforce Welsh communities rather than bypass them.

At the centre of this sits the proposal for a new business-led National Development Agency for Wales that can provide a clearer front door for business support, promote Wales internationally, and coordinate regional economic development in a way that Whitehall-style departmentalism and Cardiff Bay fragmentation have often failed to do.

In this respect, Plaid is right to recognise that economic development in Wales has too often lacked institutional clarity and sustained focus, although any new body should not be just another rehash of the Welsh Development Agency, as some have suggested.

Plaid is also right to signal that the Development Bank of Wales needs reform because, despite its rhetoric, there is a growing sense that it is not yet performing to the level Wales needs.

If Plaid is serious about creating more indigenous growth, stronger supply chains and better-paid jobs, then a review of the bank has to ask harder questions about whether its products are fit for purpose, whether it is taking enough strategic risk, and whether it is genuinely helping to reshape the structure of the Welsh economy rather than simply supporting activity at the margins.

There is a seriousness to the manifesto’s treatment of procurement. Welsh public bodies spend more than £8bn each year on goods and services, and Plaid wants a much larger share of that spend retained within Wales, from around 55% to at least 70%. That is not a marginal adjustment but a deliberate attempt to use the public pound to strengthen Welsh firms and build capacity in local supply chains.

One can debate whether the target is achievable and whether it will create as many jobs as claimed, but the underlying instinct is sound, as public procurement in Wales has, for too long, been discussed as an administrative function rather than a strategic economic tool.

The proposal for a comprehensive national skills audit is not particularly glamorous, but employers, colleges, schools and training providers have all complained for years that there is insufficient clarity about future skills demand, too much fragmentation in provision, and too little alignment between policy and labour market needs.

The attempt to connect skills, apprenticeships, vocational routes and economic opportunity is sensible, especially when linked to sectors such as renewables, digital technology, medtech, agritech and the creative industries.

READ MORE: The Greens, Liberal Democrats and Reform on plans to boost the Welsh economyREAD MORE: Wales risks becoming dependent on gas and electricity from England

On digital and connectivity, there is support for superfast broadband rollout to the rest of Wales, for the semiconductor cluster in South Wales, for digital innovation, and for more coherent transport planning linked to wider economic development.

With regard to rail, they make the case that Wales has been chronically short-changed, particularly in relation to HS2 and wider infrastructure classifications, but (and excuse the pun) the train has probably left the station on this particular issue, and the UK Government is unlikely to change its mind.

The manifesto is less convincing in its assumptions about what follows from it. At times, Plaid seems to believe that if Wales had the right institutions, stronger tax powers and a fairer funding settlement, a stronger economy would naturally emerge.

Yes, Wales has been held back by weak tools, poor institutional design and a settlement that often leaves it underpowered, but stronger institutions are not, in themselves, a substitute for a stronger economy, nor do they automatically solve the harder questions around export intensity, business scale-up, and commercial competitiveness.

Indeed, focusing on structure rather than strategy is one of the most common mistakes that governments make in their approach to economic development and as I’ve said so many times in the past, entrepreneurship, innovation and productivity must be the beating heart of Wales’s future economic direction.

There is also, inevitably, a degree of political optimism embedded in the document and in proposals such as a Wales Wealth Fund, greater use of pension assets for local investment, and deeper fiscal reform. Each depends on institutional capacity, political leverage and execution that should never be assumed, especially given the weakness of a civil service that has served one party for over a quarter of a century.

Even so, it can be argued that Plaid Cymru has produced a manifesto that seeks to grapple with the drawbacks of the Welsh economy. Whether you agree with it or not, at least it understands that the question is not merely how to attract more activity, but how to build an economy that is more rooted and beneficial to the people who live here.

Of course, that does not answer the question, and there will be much more to do if they form a government, but it could present a serious economic offer that is long overdue, although that may also depend on the person they appoint as the economy minister.

Certainly, that individual should be totally committed to developing the massive potential within our private sector here in Wales. If not, as we have seen too many times since the start of devolution, the good intentions in this manifesto may lead to nothing.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Folk-pop superstar Noah Kahan will launch his highly anticipated The Great Divide Tour on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the Kia Center in Orlando, marking the start of a major North American run that has already seen both opening nights sell out due to overwhelming demand.

The Vermont singer-songwriter, whose heartfelt storytelling and anthemic choruses have made him one of the biggest breakout artists of the decade, will perform two consecutive nights in Central Florida alongside rising star Gigi Perez. The June 11 show sold out rapidly after going on sale, prompting organizers to add a second date on June 12 that also quickly sold out.

Kahan announced The Great Divide Tour in early February 2026 in support of his forthcoming album of the same name. The 23-date North American leg features a mix of arena and stadium stops, showcasing his evolution from intimate folk rooms to large-scale productions capable of filling venues like Fenway Park and Citizens Bank Park later in the summer.

Fans can expect a set heavy on tracks from the new album alongside staples like “Stick Season,” “Dial Drunk” and “Northern Attitude.” Kahan’s live performances are known for their emotional intensity, sing-along energy and raw connection with audiences, often turning arenas into massive campfire gatherings.

Gigi Perez, whose viral hit “Sailor Song” propelled her into the spotlight, will open both Orlando shows. The pairing reflects Kahan’s commitment to elevating emerging talent while delivering nights packed with emotional depth and singable melodies.

The Orlando kickoff comes at a pivotal moment in Kahan’s career. Two-time Grammy-nominated and with multiple platinum certifications, the 28-year-old artist has built a devoted global fanbase through authentic songwriting that explores mental health, small-town life, relationships and personal growth. His “Stick Season” era catapulted him to new heights, and The Great Divide promises to expand on that foundation.

Tickets for the Orlando shows initially went on sale in February following an artist presale. Resale markets have seen strong activity, though official channels remain the recommended source. VIP packages and Mastercard preferred access offered early opportunities for fans seeking premium experiences.

Beyond Orlando, the tour will hit major markets including Philadelphia (June 26 at Citizens Bank Park), Boston (multiple nights at Fenway Park in July), Chicago, New York and others before wrapping the North American leg in Seattle on August 30 at T-Mobile Park. International dates in Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Europe follow in the fall.

Kahan teased the tour on social media with the message: “I’m hitting the road this summer. Can’t wait to bring The Great Divide Tour to stadiums across North America!” The announcement generated massive excitement, with fans praising the artist’s decision to start in a city with strong Southern support rather than traditional coastal markets.

Orlando’s vibrant entertainment scene and the Kia Center’s modern facilities make it an ideal launchpad. The venue, home to the Orlando Magic and major concerts, has hosted numerous high-profile acts and offers excellent sightlines and acoustics for Kahan’s intimate-yet-epic style.

Industry observers see the tour as a testament to Kahan’s sustained momentum. After years of steady growth, he has become a streaming powerhouse and live draw capable of selling out arenas and stadiums. The addition of stadium dates reflects his ambition to connect with fans on the largest stages while maintaining the emotional core that defines his music.

For Orlando-area fans, the shows represent a major summer highlight. Many plan to travel from across Florida and the Southeast for the back-to-back nights. Local hotels and restaurants anticipate a boost from the influx of concertgoers, adding to the city’s reputation as a live music destination.

Kahan has spoken openly about the personal significance of touring. His music often draws from experiences in rural New England, yet it resonates universally. Live shows become communal spaces where fans process their own stories through his lyrics. Expect emotional highs, heartfelt sing-alongs and possibly a few surprise covers or guest moments.

As the June 11 launch approaches, anticipation continues to build. With both Orlando dates sold out, waitlists are active for those hoping for last-minute tickets. The tour’s success so far underscores Kahan’s status as one of modern music’s most compelling live performers.

Beyond the music, Kahan’s commitment to mental health advocacy and genuine fan interaction has strengthened his bond with audiences. Many attendees describe his concerts as therapeutic experiences as much as entertainment.

The Great Divide Tour represents the next chapter for an artist who has already reshaped the folk-pop landscape. Starting in Orlando on June 11, Kahan will bring his signature blend of vulnerability and celebration to thousands of fans eager to experience the emotional journey together.

For those unable to attend the launch, the tour’s extensive routing offers multiple opportunities across the country and internationally later in 2026. Whether in a packed arena or under stadium lights, Noah Kahan’s live shows promise to deliver unforgettable nights of connection and catharsis.

As summer 2026 nears, all eyes turn to the Kia Center for what promises to be a memorable opening chapter in one of the year’s most exciting tours. Noah Kahan is ready to bridge the great divide — one powerful performance at a time.