Opinion

John Rodger discusses the challenges faced by the housebuilding sector in Scotland, following the closure of Stewart Milne, recent cutbacks by other firms, highlighting the need for innovative funding solutions from both the UK and Scottish governments to prevent a housing crisis. Last month’s

Marcus Di Rollo examines the impacts of the Scottish Government's rent cap on investors, developers, and tenants, and explores the upcoming challenges and potential changes in rent control policies. The Scottish Government’s rent cap divides opinion. On one hand, it has arguably protected

Sharon McDougall, a DAS-approved money adviser at Scotland Debt Solutions, part of Begbies Traynor Group, outlines the implications of company administration for employees. Company administration is a statutory process that provides respite from creditor pressure for companies in financial dist

Paul Hilton explains why, even in a slightly slower market, homeowners shouldn’t hold off on selling their homes. Homeowners who are considering moving on to a new property in 2024 are in a powerful position to influence the market, which shouldn’t be underestimated.

Laura Falls discusses the challenges Scottish businesses face in funding growth ambitions, particularly the underutilisation of private equity (PE), and provides tips for companies considering PE investment to address potential misunderstandings and mistrust. Addleshaw Goddard partners with the Fras

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has announced proposals to ensure that consumer credit scores will now better reflect individuals’ financial situations, writes Venetia Jackson. The proposals set out a range of measures aiming to improve the information collected by credit reference

Consumer credit and payment services expert Andrew Barber discusses the FCA's recent proposals to ensure public access to cash in the UK by requiring banks, building societies, and other businesses to maintain reasonable access to cash services. Banks and building societies will be required to maint

Neil Wilson discusses the performance of Scottish auction markets in 2023, highlighting increases in livestock sales and prices, the challenges and successes of island auctioneers, the introduction of new professionals in the Institute of Auctioneers, and the impact of auction markets on the Sc

Shaun Barton, partner at Company Closure, highlights the warning signs of a company insolvency. When it comes to the impending, or actual, insolvency of a limited company, taking swift action is critical. Seeking the services of a business turnaround expert such as a licensed insolvency practitioner

Michael Reid discusses the complexities and challenges of trade credit, focusing on retention of title issues, the role of credit reporting agencies, and the difficulties faced by suppliers in reclaiming goods in the event of a buyer's insolvency or liquidation. It is an accepted feature of the busi

Johnston Carmichael's chief people officer Martin Osler discusses career progression at the firm, and how it is working hard to promote social mobility in the profession. Given all of the conversations about how allegedly challenging it is to engage millennials in the workplace you’d be forgiv

In recent days Colombian pop star Shakira has settled a long running dispute with the Spanish authorities on her tax residence between 2012 and 2014. The singer has paid over 7.5 million euros to bring the case to an end, writes Kevin Winters. The Spanish authorities reportedly argued that Shak

Insolvency practitioner Michael Reid provides an overview of the financial implications for unsecured creditors during a company's liquidation process, highlighting the changes in legislation that have influenced the distribution of assets and the potential for creditors to receive dividend pay

Vishal Chopra, head of tax for KPMG UK in Scotland, discusses the expected fiscal measures in tomorrow's Autumn Statement, highlighting the economic challenges and potential tax policy changes in both the UK and Scotland. The Autumn Statement looks set to be as gloomy as the current economic ou

Emma Barclay and Emily Couchlin introduce the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, highlighting its provisions for enhancing UK authorities' powers to combat fraudulent trading and economic exploitation, and discussing its implications for companies and limited partnerships. On 2