Vince Cable tells Insider: growth needed in 2011

Last year was a "turbulent year" - that's according to business secretary Vince Cable, who spent the latter part of 2010 embroiled in a media furore over comments made to undercover reporters. Today, he exclusively blogs for Insider, emphasising that the coalition government's top priority in 2011 is to create growth driven by the private sector.

Deal of the Month launched - December winner announced

Insider is today launching its Deal of the Month, which is our take on the top transactions happening in the region. The aim is to gauge the very best of corporate finance activity in the North West and compile a potential shortlist for our Dealmakers Awards in November.

M&A activity in 2011 'will be stronger' - PwC

This year will be a stronger year for M&A activity than 2010. That's the view of Andy Parker, corporate finance partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers in the North West.

Perspective buys another business

Wilmslow-based Perspective Financial Group has bought Marlborough-based IFA business Equilibrium Wealth Management. Finance company Perspective has now bought 19 companies in the past year.

2011 will be a 'dreadful year' - Sir Richard

Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester Council, is getting ready for a "dreadful year". Sir Richard told Insider of his fears for how the private sector will cope with government cuts and urged the private sector to provide jobs to improve economic activity in the city.

Growth will be slower this year - Memmott

Growth will continue in 2011 but at a slower pace than first thought and a double dip recession is likely in some areas. That's the view of Clive Memmott, chief executive of Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, who has shared his predictions for 2011 with Insider.

Stable environment for this year - Barclays NW chief

A boost in business and consumer demand should ensure the economy keeps growing in 2011. That's the view of North West-based Michael Hartig, who heads the Barclays Corporate banking operation in Manchester.

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Oglesby awarded CBE

Michael Oglesby, the chairman of North West property group Bruntwood, has been awarded a CBE in the New Year's honours list. He has been recognised for services to business and charity in the North West.

Challenges await property sector - Downing

Insider's Property Personality of the Year 2010, George Downing, says the property market will remain slow during 2011. But the chairman of the North West-based property group Downing says infrastructure improvements in the region as well new projects such as the Liverpool embassy in London should drive investment.

Turnover down, profit up at Trafford Centre

The Trafford Centre, which has been at the centre of a takeover battle, has reported an increase in profit but a fall in turnover in its newly published annual accounts to 31 March 2010. Peel Holdings said the 12-month period was "very challenging for the retail industry" though its Trafford Centre shopping centre experienced a rise in visitor numbers.

Talking Point: Looking forward to growth

Exclusive: Business secretary Vince Cable tells Insider of how 2010 has been a "turbulent year" for the world of business in the UK and how creating growth through the private sector is the government's "top priority" in 2011.

Talking Point: Who will be the Pets at Home in 2011?

Insider's North West Dealmaker of the Year 2010 Andrew Thomas, of Rothschild, shares his thoughts on what awaits the dealmaking community in 2011.

Talking Point: How to get 110 per cent out of your employees

In 2011, it has never been more important to ensure you’re getting 110 per cent out of your employees. That's the view of Peter Done, managing director of Manchester-based Peninsula, an employment law and health and safety consultancy.

Insider: Free tickets and Royal Exchange Theatre membership

For this month only Insider Members can benefit from free tickets and a free trial Membership to the Royal Exchange Theatre. Offer expires 31 January 2011

Presenting to financial providers

Robert Jackson, chief executive of Montpelier Chartered Accountants, discusses making presentations to financial providers in his next section of Insider's guide to Buying a Business.

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