Hedge funds have amassed a £1.4bn bet against high street stores as economists warn that a crucial Christmas period will hinge on a Brexit deal.
Pets at Home, Marks & Spencer and Debenhams have become top short seller targets on London’s stock market after struggling to cope with subdued consumer spending and more nimble online competition.
Economists have predicted shoppers could tighten their belts over the Christmas period after splashing out during the summer. The latest retail footfall data from Springboard last night showed a 2% decline in October, a steeper decline than in September.
