Regulatory and Legal Affairs

💸 Bank of England cuts interest rates to 3.75% from 4% on 3 December 2025, marking the lowest since February 2023. The Monetary Policy Committee's decision was split 5-4. Inflation fell to 3.2% in November, driven by decreases in food, alcohol, and clothing costs. Despite this, the rate remains above the 2% target. Budget measures such as energy bill reductions are expected to aid further inflation decline. Governor Andrew Bailey emphasizes ongoing vigilance regarding inflation and labor market trends.

🏨 AHLA, led by CEO Rosanna Maietta, supports the American Franchise Act, introduced in the Senate to protect hotel franchises, which sustain 3 million U.S. jobs. Senators Marshall and King championed the bill. AHLA, representing 30,000 members including 80% of franchised hotels and the 16 largest U.S. hotel companies, advocates from its Washington, D.C. base. The move is crucial for economic growth and supporting small business hotel owners nationwide.

🏨 Senators Marshall and King introduced the American Franchise Act in the Senate to protect the hotel franchise model. This act is crucial for nearly 3 million jobs nationwide, supporting small business hotel owners and economic opportunities across the U.S. The American Hotel & Lodging Association CEO, Rosanna Maietta, emphasized its importance for the American Dream and urged quick legislative approval. Washington, D.C., is the focal point for these legislative efforts.

🎮 Atari has launched a public equity offering for its first hotel in Phoenix's Roosevelt Row Arts and Entertainment District. The development, led by Intersection Development and designed by räkkhaus, has seen a $14 million investment and aims to raise $35-$40 million more. It will feature 91 tech-enhanced rooms, creator studios, dining venues, and an e-sports arena for 2,000+ people. Construction begins in early 2026, with opening planned for late 2028. Minimum investment is $500.

💰 Over 1,000 German hotels can claim damages from Booking.com, confirmed by the Berlin Regional Court on Dec 17, 2025. Between 2013 and early 2016, 1,099 hotels were affected by anticompetitive price parity clauses that restricted pricing freedom. Booking.com’s liability is established, but compensation amounts are undetermined. This ruling is part of a European trend reinforcing hotels' distribution strategies. Despite some claims being rejected, Booking.com maintains its clauses benefited both travelers and partners.

💨 Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced that due to Hurricane Melissa's impact in October, its Jamaican properties will remain closed until November 1, 2026. Affected hotels include Breathless Montego Bay, Dreams Rose Hall, and Hyatt Zilara. Guests can rebook at other Inclusive Collection resorts or cancel without penalty. Hyatt is committed to Jamaica's recovery and renovation efforts, assisting guests through their Global Care Center. As of June 30, 2024, Hyatt's portfolio included over 1,350 hotels globally.

🌐 In 2024, around 44,000 companies were publicly listed globally, valued over EUR 100 trillion, growing 28% since 2022. However, since 2005, over 35,000 companies exited stock exchanges. In Europe and the USA, delistings outpaced listings, with 12,000 and 5,000 delistings, respectively. Asia, excluding China and Japan, saw positive net listings from 2022-2024. Sustainability disclosures are mandated in 79% of jurisdictions, and 62% require transition planning. Notably, 60% have assurance requirements for sustainability data.

🛂 U.S. Travel Association expresses concern over CBP's proposed ESTA changes, potentially requiring social media history from Visa Waiver Program travelers. This could deter millions from visiting the U.S., impacting the economy. While the administration has made positive strides like modernizing TSA and reducing visa wait times, this policy might counteract efforts to boost tourism. All eyes are on the U.S. ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, emphasizing the need for balanced travel facilitation.

🏠 Scottish hospitality businesses could face a £69m rise in business rates in 2026/27 due to a 23% increase in rateable values. The 40% relief may not extend for properties valued under £51k. A rural pub’s rateable value rose 160%, leading to layoffs, while a west Scotland hotel saw a 40% hike. An Edinburgh restaurant closed after a 54% increase. UKHospitality urges the Scottish government to freeze valuations and seeks a reduced rate of 30p per pound.