Insights

Drowning in debt

Corporate debt is at record levels, fuelled by years of low borrowing costs and liquid markets. But there are fears that the market may be heading for a fall.

8 minute read

Standards at the end of the supply chain

Investment Managers Alan Lander and Des Armstrong travelled to Vietnam and Bangladesh to revisit apparel and footwear factories in South-East Asia.

12 minute watch

Talking ESG in Texas

Few issues energise environmental campaigners more than fracking. Investment Manager Des Armstrong recently visited Texas to see how one producer is working to improve its operations environmentally.

10 minute read

Living the dream

The urgent need to address climate change tends to inspire fear, even panic. Dr Gabrielle Walker, a recognised expert on the topic, argues that a more positive approach is required.

9 minute read

Looking back to look forward

Walter Scott’s Non-Executive Director Alex Hammond-Chambers has worked in the investment industry since the 1960s. He shares some of the insights he has acquired during more than half a century of asset management in both the UK and the US.

11 minute read

Banking Blues

The banking sector might be a vital cog in the functioning of an economy but we prefer to look elsewhere for sustainable long-term returns.

8 minute read

A Joker in the Pack

Market cycles have been a feature of economic life for centuries; why so many practitioners think it could be different this time.

7 minute read

Keeping It Lean

Lean manufacturing traces its roots back to the early 20th century. But its principles, developed and honed in Japan, remain as relevant today.

8 minute read

Opening Minds to Diversity of Thought

Diversity comes in many forms. One of the most influential is cognitive diversity, which ensures that teams include individuals with different views.

7 minute read

A Healthy Balance

The rising demand for healthcare creates new pressures for the industry, forcing companies to balance profitability, productivity, the patient and public service.

10 minute read