Optimism back on the menu as economy expands
Households and businesses are both positive about the period ahead – but housing costs are still rising. The second quarter has seen a continued steady expansion in the economy with...
Philanthropy: Time for a national strategy?
The concept of voluntarily giving something to help others may be as old as civilisation itself. The later development of the concepts of the ‘common good’ and philanthropy help to...
Why rural areas are no longer just a political afterthought
The focus of late has been very much on the rural parts of Scotland, an indication of their importance in the future prosperity of the nation. If evidence was needed...
Economy revving up but still waiting on signal to go
With inflation steadying, business activity bouncing back and positive growth forecasts, the economic outlook is improving. However it will take time for the benefits to be widely felt – and...
Why raising our productivity has never been more important
National Productivity Week probably passed most of us by, but there are good reasons why we should care. Economist and New York Times columnist Paul Krugman’s observation that “Productivity isn’t...
Inflation falls but it’s still a hard slog for households
Cost pressures ease slightly but concern remains over business confidence and forecasts of weak future growth Following the UK Government’s autumn statement, the Scottish Government will be reflecting on its...
Why we must seize the opportunity of a green strategy
Representatives of Scotland’s world-class offshore industry gathered at the 50th Offshore Europe conference in Aberdeen recently to collaborate on accelerating the transition to a sustainable energy future. They met at...
Soft landing for economy in prospect
Energy prices offer respite for households but recession risk remains and food inflation remains high There has been some respite this quarter for households as energy prices in the UK,...
Shining excellence on regional excellence
The SCDI Highlands and Islands Business Excellence Awards is an annual highlight in the region’s business events calendar. Senior leaders from business are joined by politicians and officials from national...
New name, same purpose
In common with small countries around the world, Scotland faces many challenges which call for bold, collective action. The Scottish Council for Development and Industry’s (SCDI) annual Forum that took...