The internet can have many benefits and disadvantages, some affecting the financial world in a variety of different ways. Whilst on work experience, Nyasha Nhanga (Year 10 student) from the Herts and Essex High School explored this topic and the impact technology has on the world.

At the end of 2014, we looked towards the year ahead and the risks which could have an impact on UK economic growth. Now that we are over half way through 2015, we thought it was a good time to revisit and update our thoughts. UK political uncertainty has gone, however the other highlighted risks noted remain largely the same.

In 2014, the UK economy grew 3%. Forecasted growth rates for 2015 and 2016 have faced cuts following a slowdown at the start of the year. Official figures indicated the UK’s growth rate halved in the opening months of 2015. In July, The OBR revised its 2015 GDP forecast downwards to 2.4% from the previous forecast of 2.5%. Other forecasters have made similar cuts. This year’s rate of growth is likely to be lower than 2014 but still a respectable 2.3-2.5%.

Here we revisit some of the domestic and global risks which could have a knock on impact on the UK growth outlook for the remainder of 2015.

GM or Genetically Modified crops are widely used around the world to aid agriculture, but not in the UK. Whilst on work experience Carl Ijeoma (Yr 11 student) from Bishop's Stortford College explored the UK's agricultural predicament and the possible benefits of implementing GM crops in the UK.