What are the risks of mini‑bond investments? Why was Boohoo fined €2m? Get the latest on the Tesla Semi launch, FCA warning and Scottish EV mandate.

FCA warns investors about high‑risk loan notes and mini‑bonds

Online adverts that portray loan notes and mini‑bonds as simple, high‑return investments can mask a serious danger: investors may lose every penny they put in, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) says.

The regulator highlighted the particular risk of loan notes and mini‑bonds issued by companies that are not regulated by the FCA. These products involve lending money to a firm for a set period in exchange for interest. If the issuing company collapses, the investor has no recourse and could lose the full amount invested.

What exactly are loan notes and mini‑bonds?

A loan note is a debt instrument that records a loan made by an investor to a company, promising repayment with interest at a future date. A mini‑bond works similarly but is typically marketed to retail investors and may carry even less regulatory oversight. Both rely entirely on the financial health of the issuing company.

Is the Tesla Semi finally arriving in Europe? FCA warns on risky mini‑bonds, Boohoo fined €2m and Scottish EV targets consulted

Boohoo fined €2m (£2 million) by French watchdog over false discount claims

The French Directorate‑General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) has imposed a €2.3 million fine – roughly £2 million – on fast‑fashion retailer Boohoo. The sanction follows an investigation that found the company gave shoppers a misleading impression of discounts on its French website.

According to the DGCCRF, Boohoo failed to consider earlier promotions or price increases before applying a discount, effectively overstating the value of the deal offered to consumers. Boohoo, which is now part of the recently rebranded Debenhams Group listed in London, must adjust its pricing communication to comply with French consumer‑protection rules.

Tesla Semi confirmed for European sale after almost a decade

Tesla has announced that its battery‑powered Semi truck will finally go on sale in Europe. The company shared the news on X, stating that specifications and launch details will be revealed at the IAA Transportation show in Hannover, Germany.

First unveiled in November 2017, the Semi is designed to deliver the long ranges required by heavy‑goods operators while offering zero‑emission performance. The upcoming European launch marks a significant milestone for the electric‑truck market, which has been waiting for a viable alternative to diesel‑powered hauliers.

Market snapshot: UK and European indices

The FTSE 100 closed virtually unchanged on Thursday, edging up 4.81 points to 10,748.16. Miners and oil stocks provided some support, offsetting a sharp drop in JD Sports Fashion after the retailer issued a profit warning.

By contrast, the FTSE 250 fell 134.86 points (‑0.6%) to 24,508.66, while the AIM All‑Share rose 2.55 points (‑0.3%) to 804.09. Across the Channel, France’s CAC 40 slipped 0.6% and Germany’s DAX fell 0.4%.

Dealer news roundup

Listers Group profits decline 15%

Listers Group reported a pre‑tax profit fall of almost 15% to £12.7 million, driven by a 2.5% drop in turnover to £1.3 billion. Gross profit held steady at £197.4 million and margins improved, helped by a stronger after‑sales operation and agency sales.

City West Country posts £6.1 million loss

City West Country announced a pre‑tax loss of £6.1 million for 2025 after turnover plunged 27% to £160.2 million. The company cited pressures from Mercedes’ agency model, broader economic conditions and a £7.65 million exceptional provision. Excluding that item, the group generated an operating profit of £1.63 million.

MG ZS Hybrid becomes August’s fastest‑selling used car

According to Autotrader, the MG ZS Hybrid topped the August used‑car leaderboard, selling in just 13.5 days. EVs dominate the top‑ten list, accounting for six models, and three‑to‑five‑year‑old electric cars were the quickest segment at an average of 20 days.

Cazoo strengthens its leadership team

Cazoo has hired former Motorway executive Brook Bishop as chief commercial officer. Bishop will oversee revenue, commercial operations and strategic partnerships as the online marketplace pursues further growth.

Autoguard Group turnover jumps to £27 million

Autoguard Group disclosed a 36% rise in turnover to £27 million, driven by more than double the international revenue and a direct‑to‑consumer division that grew by over 200%. Pre‑tax profit rose to £1.7 million, and the company expanded its workforce by 22%.

Skoda dealership in Salisbury faces closure

The Hendy Group’s Skoda franchise in Salisbury will close after the manufacturer ended its partnership with the dealer. The site is expected to be taken over by Renault and Dacia, leaving Skoda customers to travel roughly 25 miles to the nearest dealer in Southampton or Winchester.

Chinese carmaker Chery opens UK R&D centre

Chery is set to launch a new UK research and development centre at UTAC Millbrook this autumn. The facility will focus on chassis development, advanced driver‑assist systems (ADAS) and UK‑specific vehicle tuning, and will have access to 43 miles of test track at the Bedfordshire site.

Investigation into collapsed litigation funder Woodville Consultants

An investigation has revealed that Woodville Consultants, a car‑finance litigation funder that collapsed, raised more than £300 million from investors despite FCA intervention. Promoters were able to earn commissions of up to 15% as the fund continued to solicit money. Administrators are now reviewing the failed business and the losses suffered by investors.

Scottish ZEV mandate consultation runs to 23 October

Scotland is consulting drivers and manufacturers on whether the targets to phase out new petrol and diesel vehicles remain “practical and achievable”. The consultation, part of a UK‑wide review of zero‑emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates, will close on 23 October. Transport Secretary Stephen Flynn reiterated the government’s commitment to a decarbonised transport system that supports the economy and reduces living costs.

Meta glasses banned by many UK cinemas

Several cinema chains are restricting the use of Meta smart glasses after concerns over privacy and piracy. The UK Cinema Association (UKCA) confirmed that many venues are reviewing their policies to decide whether to prohibit the devices outright.

Weather outlook

Much of northern England and Scotland can expect mostly cloudy skies with scattered showers, while Northern Ireland will see similar conditions. Wales and the Midlands are likely to enjoy sunny spells interspersed with afternoon showers, and southern England should remain largely dry and brighter. Across the country today will be cooler, breezy and unsettled, with temperatures around 17‑19 °C.

The post Aug 21: FCA fires warning; Scottish ZEV mandate consultation; Tesla Semi Truck appeared first on Car Dealer Magazine.

Is the Tesla Semi finally arriving in Europe? FCA warns on risky mini‑bonds, Boohoo fined €2m and Scottish EV targets consulted