News
October 09, 2025
What do revelations about failed Glasgow firm say about Scotland's investment bank?
Scottish National Investment Bank under scrutiny again after collapse of M Squared Lasers
**What do revelations about failed Glasgow firm say about Scotland's investment bank?**
The recent collapse of M Squared Lasers, a Glasgow-based photonics company, is throwing a harsh spotlight back onto the Scottish National Investment Bank (SNIB) and its investment strategies. The failure of the firm, which received significant funding from the bank, has raised serious questions about the SNIB's due diligence processes and its ability to effectively support Scottish businesses.
M Squared Lasers, once hailed as a promising innovator in the laser technology sector, entered administration recently, leaving a trail of job losses and financial uncertainty. The company had received a substantial investment from the SNIB, intended to fuel its growth and expansion. This investment was part of the bank's broader mission to support businesses that contribute to Scotland's economic and social development.
However, the company's subsequent downfall has prompted calls for greater transparency and accountability from the SNIB. Critics are questioning how the investment was approved in the first place, and whether adequate risk assessments were conducted before committing public funds. The collapse also raises concerns about the SNIB's monitoring of its investments and its ability to identify and address potential problems before they escalate.
The Scottish National Investment Bank was established with the aim of providing patient capital to businesses that align with Scotland's strategic priorities, such as tackling climate change, promoting innovation, and supporting communities. It operates independently from the Scottish Government, but is ultimately accountable to the Scottish Parliament.
The M Squared Lasers situation is not the first time the SNIB has faced scrutiny. Previous investments have also come under the microscope, with some questioning the bank's investment choices and their alignment with its stated objectives. This latest development is likely to intensify the pressure on the SNIB to demonstrate its effectiveness and ensure that its investments are delivering tangible benefits for Scotland.
The Scottish Government has so far defended the SNIB's overall mission, emphasizing the importance of supporting innovative businesses. However, they have also acknowledged the need for continuous improvement and learning from past experiences. An investigation into the M Squared Lasers case is likely, and the findings could have significant implications for the SNIB's future investment strategies and governance. The public will be looking for assurances that lessons have been learned and that robust safeguards are in place to protect taxpayer money and ensure the long-term success of the bank’s investments.
The recent collapse of M Squared Lasers, a Glasgow-based photonics company, is throwing a harsh spotlight back onto the Scottish National Investment Bank (SNIB) and its investment strategies. The failure of the firm, which received significant funding from the bank, has raised serious questions about the SNIB's due diligence processes and its ability to effectively support Scottish businesses.
M Squared Lasers, once hailed as a promising innovator in the laser technology sector, entered administration recently, leaving a trail of job losses and financial uncertainty. The company had received a substantial investment from the SNIB, intended to fuel its growth and expansion. This investment was part of the bank's broader mission to support businesses that contribute to Scotland's economic and social development.
However, the company's subsequent downfall has prompted calls for greater transparency and accountability from the SNIB. Critics are questioning how the investment was approved in the first place, and whether adequate risk assessments were conducted before committing public funds. The collapse also raises concerns about the SNIB's monitoring of its investments and its ability to identify and address potential problems before they escalate.
The Scottish National Investment Bank was established with the aim of providing patient capital to businesses that align with Scotland's strategic priorities, such as tackling climate change, promoting innovation, and supporting communities. It operates independently from the Scottish Government, but is ultimately accountable to the Scottish Parliament.
The M Squared Lasers situation is not the first time the SNIB has faced scrutiny. Previous investments have also come under the microscope, with some questioning the bank's investment choices and their alignment with its stated objectives. This latest development is likely to intensify the pressure on the SNIB to demonstrate its effectiveness and ensure that its investments are delivering tangible benefits for Scotland.
The Scottish Government has so far defended the SNIB's overall mission, emphasizing the importance of supporting innovative businesses. However, they have also acknowledged the need for continuous improvement and learning from past experiences. An investigation into the M Squared Lasers case is likely, and the findings could have significant implications for the SNIB's future investment strategies and governance. The public will be looking for assurances that lessons have been learned and that robust safeguards are in place to protect taxpayer money and ensure the long-term success of the bank’s investments.
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Business