

The early bird catches the worm
Sep 5, 2025
Vic Stewart, CFO at the Alchemist Bar and Restaurant Group, shares insights on the hospitality industry's challenges amid economic pressures. Tinneke Fricke, Senior Fund Manager at W1M, discusses how financial markets are adapting to shifting consumer trends and cybersecurity threats. James Wallace, owner of Nyewood Express, reveals the disruptive impact of the Jaguar Land Rover cyber attack on his repair garage. The conversation also explores the benefits of early rising on productivity and the implications of upcoming budget announcements.
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Hospitality's Margin Squeeze
- Hospitality margins are squeezed because employment costs rose but consumers can't fully absorb price increases.
- Vic Stewart warns businesses can't pass April national insurance costs straight to customers.
Markets Demand Fiscal Discipline
- The Chancellor must balance markets' demand for fiscal discipline with growth needs.
- George Lagarias says bond markets force adherence to fiscal rules to avoid market panic.
Listeners' Early-Riser Routines
- Listeners report varied early routines: 4.20am for exercise and house tasks, 4.25am commute for long shifts.
- These routines give quiet time for exercise, headspace and prep before busy family or work evenings.