Marketplace Morning Report Is the UK becoming un-investable?
Sep 11, 2025
The impact of government support is under scrutiny as Merck pulls over $1 billion in investment from the UK, prompting concerns about the country's appeal for pharma research. Meanwhile, Mexico's move to impose hefty tariffs on cars from China highlights rising global trade tensions. On a different note, the World Health Organization stresses the pressing need for better protections against extreme heat for workers, advocating for systemic changes in vulnerable industries like construction.
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Pharma Pullback Signals Investment Risk
- Merck (MSD) cancelled a planned London life-sciences hub citing lack of UK government support.
- That cancellation follows other pharma pullbacks and signals a broader investment erosion in the UK.
Access Problems Undermine UK Pharma Appeal
- Richard Torbett says the Merck pullback is an "incredible blow" and a wake-up call for the UK life-sciences sector.
- He highlights that many approved EMA medicines still aren't available in England, worsening access and investment incentives.
UK Firms' Gains Realised Mostly Abroad
- Sir Nigel Wilson cites Verona Pharma and Arm as examples of UK firms whose value gains largely accrued abroad.
- He argues Britain captured a tiny fraction of Arm's later value, illustrating capital flight from UK tech and biotech.