Opinion

R&D tax expert David Philp discusses the effectiveness of the UK government's R&D tax relief scheme, and what upcoming changes to the scheme will mean for SMEs, giving critique and emphasising the need for more consultation to ensure the scheme's success in driving innovation in UK companies

Continuing from last week's blog, Michael Reid, a licensed insolvency practitioner and managing partner of accountancy firm MHA, discusses common questions faced by directors seeking advice, addressing topics such as buying company assets during liquidation, the court-driven nature of the proce

The glass is more than half full in the West Highlands, writes Alastair Nicolson, Highlands and Islands Enterprise area manager for Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross. When we look for problems and faults, we’re guaranteed to find them. But the same can be said of strengths and opportunities.

Ahead of the introduction of the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023, known as the Tipping Act, in Scotland, accountant Matthew Hutton outlines the necessary steps for hospitality businesses to ensure fair distribution of tips to qualifying employees and agency workers in compliance with the ne

Michael Reid, a licensed insolvency practitioner and managing partner of accountancy firm MHA, discusses the implications of liquidation. The ongoing impact of interest rates at a level higher than we have been used to for many years, coupled with sluggish demand due to the cost-of-living crisis, me

The Scottish fintech sector continues to see success after success, its growth goals outlined in the fintech Scotland Research & Innovation Roadmap, however some firms are faced with challenges posed by a recent decline in investment activity, writes fintech specialist Fiona Henderson. With

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