Axel Piper

Confirmation that Scotland's rent caps will be lifted next month has sparked optimism in the private rented sector (PRS). Industry insiders believe the cap’s removal will unlock billions in investment, particularly in the build-to-rent market. But beyond large-scale projects, Scotland’s tax reliefs offer compelling advantages for smaller investors that are no longer available elsewhere in the UK. Scotland’s Unique Tax Benefits for Investors Unlike England and Northern Ireland, Scotland still provides tax reliefs that can make a significant difference for landlords and property investors. One of the most notable is Multiple Dwellings Relief (MDR), which allows buyers of multiple properties…

The UK Government's National Wealth Fund (NWF) has made its first-ever investment in Scotland, committing £43.5 million to Pulpex, a sustainable packaging firm. The move is part of a broader effort to drive economic growth, create jobs, and support the country’s transition to greener industries. A Major Boost for Scotland’s Green Economy Pulpex, a company pioneering fibre-based bottle technology, is set to establish its first commercial-scale manufacturing facility near Glasgow. The project has secured an additional £10 million from the Scottish National Investment Bank and further backing from existing investors, bringing the total investment to £62 million. The facility will…

Oceania Cruises is taking its food-centric travel experiences to new heights with the introduction of 12 exclusive Culinary Discovery Tours in 2025. From Japan to Scotland, these chef-led excursions promise an immersive dive into local flavors, cooking traditions, and hands-on gastronomic adventures. Global Expansion of Culinary Discovery Tours The latest expansion covers destinations across Europe, Asia, and North America, adding vibrant food experiences in cities such as Amsterdam, Belfast, Invergordon, Valencia, and Valletta. Asia sees new culinary excursions in Kobe, Kochi, Shimizu, and Busan, while North America welcomes fresh experiences in Halifax, Quebec City, and Victoria. This brings Oceania Cruises’…

Labour’s new National Wealth Fund (NWF) has made its first move into Scotland, joining the Scottish National Investment Bank to co-fund a £62m support package aimed at producing biodegradable bottles. The investment will enable Cambridge-based Pulpex to establish its first commercial-scale manufacturing facility near Glasgow. A Major Investment in Sustainability The NWF is contributing £43.5m in direct equity, with £10m from the state-owned Scottish bank and the remaining funds from existing investors. The initiative is expected to create 35 jobs and marks a significant step towards sustainable packaging. Pulpex has developed a unique, fibre-based bottle manufactured from wood pulp. These…

Murphy has been awarded a significant contract by National Gas to lead a multi-million-pound infrastructure upgrade at the St Fergus Gas Terminal in Scotland. The project, known as the Medium Combustion Plant Directive (MCPD) Compressor Project, is set to enhance the terminal's compliance with strict emissions regulations while reinforcing the UK's energy security. St Fergus Gas Terminal: A Critical Energy Hub The St Fergus Gas Terminal plays a vital role in Britain's energy network, handling between 25% and 50% of the country’s natural gas supply. Positioned on the northeast coast of Scotland, the terminal is a crucial gateway for gas…

Scotland, the birthplace of golf, boasts some of the world's most legendary courses. But not all of them live up to their reputations—or their hefty price tags. While some are truly world-class, others feel more like tourist traps, capitalizing on history and exclusivity rather than providing an exceptional golfing experience. Here’s a look at a few that might not be worth your time and money. High Prices, Underwhelming Returns Many golfers dream of teeing off on Scotland’s most famous greens, expecting a premium experience that justifies the sky-high fees. Unfortunately, the reality can be quite different. Some courses charge upwards…

The potential benefits of reintroducing wolves to the Scottish Highlands have captured the attention of environmental researchers, suggesting that these predators could play a pivotal role in expanding native woodlands and significantly contributing to carbon storage. A new study from the University of Leeds models how reintroducing wolves could reduce red deer populations, allowing for natural tree regeneration and capturing approximately one million tonnes of CO₂ annually. Wolves and Red Deer: A Natural Solution for Woodland Regeneration Researchers have long observed that the burgeoning red deer populations in Scotland have been preventing the regeneration of native trees, as these deer…

Secretary General of Commonwealth Nations, Patricia Scotland, recently visited Heartfulness International School in Hyderabad, where she emphasized the importance of instilling environmental consciousness in students at an early age. A Sustainable Focus for Future Leaders On February 17, 2025, Patricia Scotland visited the Heartfulness International School at Kanha Shanti Vanam, Hyderabad, as part of the two-day ‘Sustainability in Classroom’ initiative. The event, hosted by Heartfulness Institute, highlights the school’s commitment to training students to think critically about sustainability and environmental issues from an early age. The visit, which was accompanied by Anna Rajkumar, the principal of Heartfulness International School, included…

A Scottish entrepreneur is taking agriculture to new heights—literally. James Braid, founder of Sky-Pin Drones Ltd, has secured £48,000 in funding to introduce state-of-the-art drone technology for crop spraying and land management, marking a major first for Scotland’s farming sector. Operating out of Melrose, Braid will use the funds, granted by the Investment Fund for Scotland, to deploy a 110kg drone with a wingspan of over two meters. This supersized aircraft is capable of spreading up to 150kg of material per minute, offering farmers a precision tool to improve sustainability and efficiency. From Finance to Farming Innovation Braid’s journey into…

A groundbreaking report on Hinduphobia in Scotland has drawn significant attention, shedding light on the systemic challenges faced by the Hindu community. The study, presented by the Gandhian Peace Society (GPS), marks a pivotal moment in the recognition and discussion of anti-Hindu discrimination in the UK. Historic Report Gains Parliamentary Attention On February 14, 2025, the Scotland Holyrood’s Cross-Party Group (CPG) on Challenging Racial and Religious Prejudice officially accepted the comprehensive report titled “Hinduphobia in Scotland: Understanding, Addressing, and Overcoming Prejudice.” This marks the first UK parliamentary-recognized study addressing Hinduphobia, a term that encapsulates anti-Hindu prejudice and discrimination. The report…