Oil prices rise as US-Iran ceasefire ends; UK wage growth slows amid cost of living squeeze – business live

Brent crude climbs above $91 a barrel The data showed UK wage growth, excluding bonuses, in the private sector slowed to 2.8% – the weakest growth rate since October 2020. Pay growth in the public sector accelerated to 6.1%, reflecting the payment of NHS staff pay rises earlier in 2026 compared to 2025, which distorts the figure. On the face of it, the latest labour market report looks relatively benign. Unemployment, employment and inactivity remain broadly stable, while vacancies edged down but are essentially levelling off. The jobs market remains soft, but it isn’t collapsing. Regular wage