Colin McLean

3 weeks ago | heraldscotland.com | Colin McLean

For decades, international investors have treated US government bonds as the safest place for their money. A long bull market in shares has been supported by American bonds and a sound US dollar. Since the global financial crisis of 2008, the underpinning of a ‘safe haven’  has helped stock markets to cope with other uncertainties. Now, investors are demanding much higher returns to lend money to the US government long-term.

2 months ago | heraldscotland.com | Colin McLean

Evidence is building on the dangers of digital platforms and social media for children. Growing up as digital natives, they navigate complex online environments that may not have their best interests at heart. Now, adding to smartphone risks comes the challenge of AI. How can we create a safe digital environment and respect children's rights when parents and policymakers are struggling to understand all the implications? Scotland faces a critical moment in approaching children's online safety.

2 months ago | heraldscotland.com | Colin McLean

The financial wellbeing of Gen Z will have profound long-term implications for social equity and the sustainability of pension systems (Image: Unsplash) Financial challenges for Generation Z need urgent attention. Young people in their twenties, or about to enter the work force, face a combination of soaring housing costs and a fragile job market. All this has undermined a generation’s confidence that they can ever secure their financial future.

Feb 18, 2025 | heraldscotland.com | Colin McLean

By Colin McLean Europe is entering a period of economic instability and readjustment, as growth is derailed in its two largest economies. Will Scotland’s trade with Europe suffer as our export markets slow down? Typically, politics is the lens through which the EU (European Union) is viewed, but the alarm is now coming from stock markets. The budget deficit in France – running well above the level required by the EU – has finally unnerved investors.

Feb 14, 2025 | heraldscotland.com | Colin McLean

Should we care about how long individual companies last? Economic change in recent years is driving a dramatic shift in corporate lifespan. In the US, accounting for two thirds of total global stock market value, the average listed company boasted an 85 year history in 2000, but that has since more than halved. The UK shows a similar trend, though less extreme. In the longer term the attrition is clear.