Increase of Scotland’s foreign direct investment

A new study shows that Scotland’s increase of foreign direct investment (FDI) reached more than double that of New York City and almost equal to London.

Over half the growth in the Scottish economy is down to foreign-owned business

Richard Marsh

Associate Director of Consulting and Research

DTZ

The research, from property consultancy DTZ, reveals that FDI in Scotland is now valued at around £41 billion, while foreign businesses create one in seven of the country's jobs, the Sunday Herald reports.

Richard Marsh, Associate Director of Consulting and Research at DTZ in Edinburgh, noted Scottish government initiatives such as the Fresh Talent scheme and promotion of the country's standard of living as being attractive to overseas investors.

In addition, he called for more to be done in encouraging sovereign wealth funds to Scotland, but said the flow of FDI towards Scotland is good even when compared to London.

Mr Marsh also told the newspaper: "Over half the growth in the Scottish economy is down to foreign-owned business and the worth of that to growing Scotland's economy needs to be recognised.

Last week, the Independent reported that the Scottish government is in talks with two Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds to finance a £4.8 billion offshore energy grid.