England unlocks (a bit)

The 1-minute read to get all the money news plus expert adviser views.

Step out of lockdown

Picnics, barbecues, and afternoons on the golf course or football pitch are all back on the cards, as England takes its latest baby step out of lockdown. Groups of 6 are allowed to meet up outside, and organised sports are starting up again. Northern Ireland will follow suit on Thursday and Scotland on Friday, while Wales already lifted its “stay local” rule over the weekend.

EU exports stalled

1 in 5 small British exporters have paused sales to the EU amid Brexit disruption and delays. Companies trying to export to the continent have been struggling with the new paperwork and unfamiliar rules. British exports to the EU fell by a record 40.7% in January, and imports fell by 28.8%.

Ever Given freed

The mega-container ship lodged in the Suez Canal is finally floating, after nearly a week of blocking £6.5 billion a day of global trade. She is still stuck though, so the job’s not done yet. The traffic jam has pushed up global freight and oil prices, and forced ships to take the long way round the Cape of Good Hope. Oil prices have slipped back 2% on today’s news.

Al fresco takeover

Towns and cities across the UK are getting ready to turn streets into al fresco dining rooms once again. Outdoor hospitality is slated to reopen on 12th April, but just 40% of pubs and restaurants have their own outside space. 60 roads will be closed in central London, and Manchester and Birmingham are also planning to pedestrianise some areas.