Scott Reid

1 week ago | scotsman.com | Scott Reid

Last autumn’s hike in alcohol prices in Scotland has had little impact on overall consumption, with no significant shift to low and zero alcohol products, analysis has suggested. Some seven months on from the increase in minimum pricing, from 50p to 65p per unit of alcohol, average volume prices have risen more in Scotland than in the UK as a whole, notably for spirits. However, consumption levels north of the Border have not dropped off significantly, according to industry data.

1 week ago | scotsman.com | Scott Reid

“The stars are aligning for NatWest and this latest quarter has added to the growing momentum” – Richard Hunter, Interactive InvestorRoyal Bank of Scotland parent NatWest Group received a share uplift after revealing a jump in profits as the lending giant insisted its customers were “resilient” against global economic uncertainty. The group, which also incorporates Coutts, reported an operating pre-tax profit of £1.8 billion for the first three months of 2025.

1 week ago | scotsman.com | Scott Reid

“With cyber threats evolving daily, we urgently need to create networks that are secured by the laws of physics” – Dr Ross DonaldsonA cutting-edge £2.5 million facility that will help in the fight against cyber attacks and online hacking is set to officially open today in Edinburgh. The Quantum Communications Hub Optical Ground Station - or HOGS as it has been dubbed - will be based at Heriot-Watt University’s research park in the city.

1 week ago | scotsman.com | Scott Reid

“Lloyds is the most exposed of the UK banks to Britain’s economy, which could present challenges if growth doesn’t pick up”Bank of Scotland owner Lloyds Banking Group has reported a fall in profits as the lending giant sets aside additional money for bad debts amid ongoing economic uncertainties.

1 week ago | scotsman.com | Scott Reid

“We remain focused and confident in our ability to deliver on our strategic goals and continue supporting our members’ financial wellbeing” – Alan Rankine, CFOScottish Friendly has notched up the second highest sales in its 163-year history following another period of strong performance. The Glasgow-based mutual reported overall full-year sales of £50.6 million, on an industry standard annual premium equivalent (APE) measure.