Tesla’s Cybercab, a two-seat autonomous vehicle without a steering wheel or pedals, was displayed in Hong Kong yesterday amid an Asia tour following the launch of limited commercial rides in Austin, Texas. The showcasing comes as U.S. authorities have initiated an investigation into the vehicle's certification and its adherence to federal safety regulations.

In the auditing sector, Deloitte has formally reprimanded its fellow auditor BDO for maintaining “sloppy standards.” This follows a repeated Financial Reporting Council evaluation that ranked BDO as the worst-performing major auditor for the fifth consecutive year. Facing increased regulatory scrutiny, BDO risks losing Deloitte’s business if the issues persist.

Retailer Currys reported a 6 percent increase in like-for-like summer sales in the UK and Ireland, outperforming a generally flat market. The uplift is attributed to strong demand for large-screen televisions and beer pumps during the FIFA World Cup, as well as air conditioning units driven by hot weather conditions. Overall group sales rose 7 percent, with the company on track to meet its full-year profit target.

The recent disruption in oil markets, intensified by conflict involving Iran, has led to renewed global interest in clean hydrogen as a means to achieve energy independence. Air Liquide, a Paris-based supplier, noted a significant surge in demand from European Union and Asian import-dependent countries, despite hydrogen’s higher cost compared to traditional fuels.

London-based e-bike operator Forest has called on the city’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, to expedite the establishment of a unified licensing framework. The move aims to prevent further business closures caused by inconsistent local borough regulations and rising council fees, referencing the recent collapse of Zipcar as an example of the sector’s vulnerabilities. The appeal has gained support from cycling advocacy groups.

The International Monetary Fund replaced economist Ricardo Reis as its lead candidate for chief economist following his public criticism of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs. Under pressure from the United States, the IMF’s largest shareholder, the organization appointed former Bank of England policymaker Silvana Tenreyro in his stead.

Dorset-based brewer Hall and Woodhouse reported a doubling of its annual profit to £8.9 million, driven by increased demand for its Outland stout. The group, which operates over 130 pubs across England and will mark its 250th anniversary next year, also launched a new cask ale named The Spanner, developed in collaboration with pub owner and television presenter James May. Annual turnover increased by 6.7 percent to £131.1 million.