One reason for this is the stronger dollar, which reduces multinationals' foreign profits when converted back into greenbacks. Lacklustre growth in emerging markets and Europe's slow recovery aren't helping either. Meanwhile, the plummeting oil price also undermines sales because the energy sector comprises around 10% of the index.Investors have also noticed that large US firms have relied on cost-cutting and buybacks to spur earnings growth in recent years. With margins at record highs, there is scant scope for squeezing out cost reductions, especially with a tighter labour market implying higher salaries. So boosting revenues has become all the more important. Yet with the economy having softened slightly in recent weeks, that looks unlikely for now. Indeed, sales are expected to slide by almost 3% in the first quarter.
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Should the income protection age cap be lifted?You can only get income protection cover if you are below age 59. With people now working for longer, should the limit be raised?
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UK interest rate cut all but ruled outRates are expected to remain at 4.25% when the Bank of England announces its decision tomorrow
