Leeds College of Building and leading technology firm Collsys have joined forces to pioneer a new software package for the further education sector. 

The Collsys ‘Academic Suite‘ is designed to track knowledge, skills, and behaviours across all academic disciplines. It combines with their ‘Employability Suite‘ to provide a comprehensive single platform solution including work placement, enrichment, apprenticeships, and careers.

The project began when Leeds College of Building reviewed its existing systems post-pandemic and asked for staff feedback. Increasingly complex requirements and software that was no longer fit for purpose meant that investing in a new college-wide system became a priority.

Steve Connell, Assistant Principal at Leeds College of Building, said:

“As a busy further education college, we deliver a host of construction specialisms from plumbing, carpentry, and brickwork to civil engineering and transport planning. As such, we needed software that could not only track student work placements and enrichment, but also monitor progress, hold Individual Learning Plans (ILPs), link well with maths, English and support areas, hold student reviews and exam results and monitor attendance and punctuality.

“However, little is available to the FE sector which can manage data for both employer placements and student progress, and which is also user-friendly. Market leaders tend to offer solutions for one or the other but not together and can also be difficult to retrieve the correct information. We needed software that would be a one-stop-shop and present data quickly and consistently. 

“Our old systems were labour intensive and lead to silos or pockets of good practice, so I began talking with one of our existing software suppliers, Collsys. Their CEO, Brian Varley, was keen to explore this further and use expertise in his team to expand existing Collsys software parameters.” 

The College Work Based Learning and Employer Engagement teams already used Collsys modules for tracking work placements, enrichment, and employer engagement data. The aim was to extend this to a bespoke management platform used by all Leeds College of Building staff.

Brian Varley, CEO Collsys, said:

“This project has been a great opportunity to enhance our existing Employability Suite offering. Together with Leeds College of Building, we designed the Academic Suite to be easy to use with additional options for tracking ‘Knowledge Skills and Behaviours’ of vocational courses. This means staff can monitor if students are on track at any point in the year and put in earlier interventions. 

“We also included a joint training plan and review system that is not readily available on the market, given products are often not specifically designed with colleges in mind. A benefit of our system is that because we offer our Employability Suite alongside the Academic Suite, all data is in one place. Tutors can easily look at all aspects of a student’s data without having to switch between systems for reports.”

Over the last 12 months, a joint project team spent time researching, developing, designing, testing, and eventually rolling out the Academic Suite project. The new system is now live at Leeds College of Building and manages all aspects of students’ learning. 

Users can drill down to faculty, departmental, course, or individual student level data. Staff can quickly access vital data, generate reports, and view insights using a RAG (Red, Amber, Green) rating to quickly identify at-risk students, monitor progress, and tailor interventions.

Adam Sharpe, system super-user and Leeds College of Building carpentry and Joinery lecturer, said:

“The new system has great potential. The fact that Collsys has been made to suit our needs as a college is really pleasing, as this means that people like me and others within our organisation can make this new system the best it can be. Working with the Collsys team has been a pleasure; they have been so responsive when we have had technical issues and very patient when delivering training.”

Work is now underway on the next phase of development. The project team has hosted drop-in staff training sessions, created champions and super users, and helped with data transfer to the new system. Plans also include a portal and mobile app to allow employers, parents and carers to monitor a student’s attendance, progress, results, and staff feedback.

Steve concluded:

“This was an ambitious project, but it paid off. We’ve never had this level of data before! It’s fantastic to have everything in one place and quickly access data in real-time. It’s very user-friendly and is a much more efficient use of precious staff time. This bespoke platform will be crucial for external assessors moving forward as it ties together all aspects of apprenticeships and study programmes. Thanks to Collsys for listening to our needs and building a bespoke system for us. “

Visit www.collsys.co.uk to find out more about Collsys Academic and Employability Suites or email customerservices@collsys.co.uk to learn how Collsys can support other Further Education providers.

In the dynamic healthcare landscape of Türkiye, Medicana Health Group is pioneering patient care with a cutting-edge technology-driven approach. Rooted in a profound commitment to understanding and fulfilling patient needs, this approach leverages smart technologies to craft personalised and well-coordinated care experiences for each individual.

As technological innovation reshapes healthcare, Medicana Health Group leads the charge by integrating telemedicine, wearable technologies, artificial intelligence, and genomics into its patient care offerings, setting a benchmark for excellence.

This strategic embrace of technology enables Medicana to effectively use data to refine its services, with the objectives of enhancing patient satisfaction, optimising service delivery, and advancing health education.

Dedicated to delivering customised care, Medicana ensures that every phase of a patient’s healthcare journey, from the first consultation to follow-up care, is characterised by personalised attention, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored care experience.

Exploiting Technology for Superior Patient-Centered Care

Anticipating significant growth in the healthcare IT market, expected to reach USD 1,834.3 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 15.8% from 2024 as reported by Grand View Research, Medicana Health Group is seizing this opportunity through strategic IT investments and the digitisation of healthcare services. This initiative enables offerings such as online consultations, efficient appointment scheduling, and immediate access to medical histories, substantially reducing typical wait times in healthcare. Medicana’s digital efforts also include streamlined online payments, fast-track prescription services, and instant access to diagnostic results.

Additionally, Medicana Health Group is at the forefront of innovative healthcare services, including digital second opinions for surgical procedures and comprehensive online rehabilitation and physical therapy programs, enhanced by AI. The Group’s digital offerings also comprise a wide range of online home care services, providing educational resources for individuals from infancy to old age, ensuring consistent, accessible healthcare support throughout all life stages.

Commitment to Environmental Sustainability and SDG 3

“Digital transformation facilitates quicker, more targeted, and cost-effective patient outcomes, significantly contributing to the betterment of society and aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being at all ages. In tandem with these efforts, our commitment to environmental sustainability, evident in our adoption of eco-friendly practices across our operations—from utilising green energy like wind and solar to implementing paperless hospital systems—further underscores the belief that a healthy planet is foundational to sustaining healthy populations,” remarked Reha Özkaya, a Member of the Board at Medicana Health Group.

Focusing on Value-Based Care for Optimal Patient Outcomes

Medicana’s approach to patient-centered care is comprehensive, addressing the full array of patient needs, both physical and emotional. This involves patient participation in care decisions, the development of personalised care plans, and ensuring a seamless and empowering experience throughout the healthcare system.

Responding to the demographic trend towards an aging population and the preference for home-based care, Medicana provides a broad spectrum of services for elderly patients, including home-based post-treatment care, telemedicine consultations, and remote monitoring, aimed at offering convenience and ensuring continuous, effective health management for the elderly.

With 16 hospitals situated in seven key cities across Türkiye, Medicana Health Group annually serves a diverse demographic of over 5.5 million people, both from Türkiye and from around the world.

Amrax reports 2700 customers joined its B2B ecosystem in 2023 as businesses embrace spatial design to make their buildings more efficient 

Salzburg, Austria; 16 January 2024: Amrax, a 3D modelling and spatial data capture company, has revealed that over 10,000 rooms have been scanned with the Metaroom app since the app’s launch in June 2023. 

Over 7,300 users, including key players in the lighting, wireless planning and AEC industries, have registered through the Metaroom app and joined the Amrax B2B ecosystem dedicated to spatial design and 3D modelling. Notable new additions to the customer base include Siemens, Tulux, LTS and Voglauer. 

The Metaroom app is an advanced 3D scanning app, driven by the power of AI, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) technologies. The tool enables professionals in spatial planning industries to envision and redefine spaces. 

Through the Metaroom app users can scan rooms using an iPhone Pro or iPad Pro*. These scans are then uploaded to the cloud, generating true-to-scale 3D models within seconds. Users can then use the web application, Metaroom Studio, to enrich these 3D models with additional information, ensuring project-specific customisation and precision.

The news follows the closing of a successful Pre-Series A financing round in October 2023. The funding round will enable Amrax to continue investing in its team in 2024 and developing its platform and wider product offering. 

The past year has also seen Amrax establish fruitful partnerships and integrations with Relux Informatik AG (software integration for lighting industry), Autodesk Inc. (spatial design integration for AEC industries) and Siemens among others. 

Martin Huber, CEO of Amrax, said: “As we step into 2024, these accomplishments fuel our determination to push boundaries, innovate relentlessly, and continue shaping the future of spatial planning. We thank our incredible team, partners and customers for being a part of the Metaroom journey.”

*The Metaroom App is currently compatible with all LiDAR enabled Apple devices (iPhone Pro 12 or higher or iPad Pro from 2020 or later).

AGI Technology, a Taiwanese storage leader, is concluding 2023 with a significant breakthrough in the storage product arena. They have introduced the Supreme Pro TF138 2TB microSD card, which combines unparalleled efficiency with immense capacity, creating a new global standard in microSD technology.

The Supreme Pro TF138 2TB is a groundbreaking product from AGI Technology, being the first microSD card globally with a 2TB capacity. Featuring the latest UHS-I U3 V30 A2 specifications, it is ideal for 4K UHD video recording and superior app functionality. This card includes StorArt’s newest SA3309 controller, providing swift and dependable read-write speeds. When combined with AGI’s custom card reader, the card achieves transfer speeds up to 170MB/s read and 160MB/s write, surpassing the usual UHS-I limits.

Perfectly suited for the growing demands of digital storage, this 2TB memory card is an excellent fit for the latest handheld gaming devices, iPhone 15, and high-resolution Android smartphone cameras.

AGI Technology’s introduction of the mass-produced 2TB microSD card solidifies their innovation leadership in the global storage market.

Specifications for the Supreme Pro TF138:

• Standard: SD6.1
• Speed Classification: UHS-I U3 / V30 / A2
• Capacity: 2TB
• Speed: Attains peak read/write speeds of 170/160 MB/s with the dedicated card reader.

To learn more or purchase in the UK, check www.agi-gear.com or email sales@agi-tech.com.tw.

Multinet Up announces the launch of KurumsalSeyahatCozumu.com, a cutting-edge website developed after scrutinising over 300 AI tools, to showcase its MultiTravel solution. This platform marks a significant advancement in managing corporate travel, offering intelligent solutions to users.

KurumsalSeyahatCozumu.com is a fully AI-integrated platform that highlights the MultiTravel corporate travel solution by Multinet Up. It is designed to assist companies in efficiently managing accommodation requirements during business trips and offers an in-depth exploration of the benefits provided by MultiTravel.

This user-centric site, equipped with automated features and API integrations, is the product of over a thousand hours of analysis and the application of more than 300 AI tools by Multinet Up’s Marketing Team. The website provides easy-to-use features such as hotel bookings, budget management, and reporting, all part of the MultiTravel suite.

“MultiTravel allows companies to effortlessly arrange accommodation for business trips directly, bypassing any need for intermediaries or meetings. It provides benefits such as effective budget control, access to the best accommodation options, and the convenience of consolidated invoicing,” shared Ali Emre Sever, CEO at Multinet Up.

“At Multinet Up, our digital offering is provided via a website entirely crafted using end-to-end artificial intelligence, culminating in the creation of KurumsalSeyahatCozumu.com. This website stands as a testament to our technological advancements. Through it, we aim to introduce MultiTravel to a wider audience, highlighting our solutions that streamline corporate travel planning,” he further elaborated.

Multinet Up, a significant player in the industry, boasts a wide reach with over 1.5 million card users, 60,000 merchants, and nearly 40,000 customers. The company offers various services, ranging from meal cards to corporate gift cards, enhancing the procurement experience for its business partners. Committed to innovation and meeting customer needs, Multinet Up continues to lead the way with projects like KurumsalSeyahatCozumu.com.

Real estate expert shares advice on questions to ask when buying a house to make sure it’s not already inhabited by someone else…

• A quarter of Brits (25%) believe that their home is haunted, or that they have previously lived in a haunted house
• Almost half of adults in the UK (43%) believe that ghosts are real, and those aged 18 – 34 the most likely to say they believe in paranormal activity (39%)
• Property expert reveals that “a home with a story” can fetch up to £28,800 more than its true market value, based on the “unique desirability of the property”

The property market can be scary for first time buyers at the best of times, even more so when you don’t entirely know what hidden secrets you’re supposed to be looking out for in potential properties. 

Now, as research shows that a quarter of Brits believe that they have lived in a haunted house, and almost half of the UK’s adults (43%) admitting that they believe in the paranormal, property expert Ryan Fitzgerald of Raleigh Realty, reveals how having a resident ghost can actually increase the value of a property.

“Specific types of people are looking for specific types of properties and they want to own a unique property that has history, or interesting stories behind them. A home with a story can fetch up to 10% more than the true market value based on the unique desirability of the property.”

For an average UK home, a resident ghost could add up to £28,800 in value.

According to Ryan, homes with interesting stories naturally have the ability to increase the value of the property simply through the marketing of the unique home. However, not all homebuyers are keen on buying such unique properties, so he has shared advice on the questions to ask to find out if there are unwanted lodgers in a potential new home.

Know Your Rights

“While the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading regulations that are applied to property sales in the UK mean that sellers are obliged to disclose information to potential buyers that pertain to things like failed surveys, structural faults and building works, there’s nothing in there about haunted houses”, says Ryan.

“It does, however, say that sellers have a duty to avoid making false or misleading statements. So in theory, this means that if a seller is asked outright if the house is haunted and they lie about it, they will have to prove their case in court. So it definitely pays to ask the question, if this is something that is a concern for you.”

Do Your Research

“It’s always a good idea to do plenty of research on a property you’re thinking about buying. Even though a lot of details regarding the history of the property will come out during the conveyancing, some things – like local folklore – won’t be included in those reports.

“I’d check historical records of the area and the street address to see if anything untoward has been reported that you should know about. You might also want to look at online groups which document reports of paranormal activity or tragic events to see if anything may have occurred on the premises.

“Failing that, local history societies and long-time neighbours will be able to provide invaluable information about a property’s history. If you happen to spot any of the locals walking their dogs or working in their front gardens, introduce yourself as someone thinking of moving to the area, and ask what you need to know before you move!”

Check the Sales Records

“Something else you can do yourself, outside of what a conveyancer will do as part of a purchase, is look at the buy and sell history of the property. If the house has lost value, or has a history of being bought and sold several times in quick succession, it could be that there’s something suspicious about the property that keeps people from wanting to stick around.”

Consider the Resale Impact

“Even if living in a haunted house isn’t something that bothers you too much, or the thought of residing with a ghost is something that intrigues you, you should still consider how it could impact future sales.

“Not all buyers will be happy about living in a haunted property, which will severely reduce the pool of prospective buyers down the line. One study I read found that 83% of estate agents had claimed that a property with noticeable history can lose between 11-20% of its value, because Brits are scared of buying property with questionable history.

“Yet, another study claimed that properties in ‘paranormal postcodes’ were priced 12% higher than the average home in the same area, and that living near a well known haunted location could actually add over £50k to a home’s asking price.”

Negotiate on Price

“Because of the resale challenges you might face trying to sell your haunted house down the line, I would always recommend negotiating hard on the sale price.

“You have to consider the unique challenges of this sort of property, and the additional costs you might incur when dealing with paranormal activity. Investigations, exorcisms, renovations and repairs all add up, so definitely think about these costs when making your final offer on a property.”

For more property buying tips, please visit: https://raleighrealtyhomes.com/blog/buying/ 

With 85% of jobs secured thanks to networking with personal and professional connections, media law firm Tan Ward offers its top advice for those looking to perfect the art of connection.

In today’s competitive business landscape, networking has become an indispensable tool for professionals looking to advance their careers. This rings particularly true for women striving for success, especially in traditionally male-dominated industries such as the legal sector.

“Embracing the power of networking not only helps women build valuable connections but also opens doors for mentorship, career opportunities, and personal growth.” – Daniela Korn, co-owner and Head of Employment at Tan Ward.

An essential tool for anyone looking to thrive and progress within their chosen sector, knowing how to nurture relationships and engage with online communities is a skill we should all have.

“Knowing how to network efficiently is crucial for building knowledge and growing your career prospects. It also creates a supportive community that propels women forward professionally and personally,” adds Daniela.

Exploring the importance of networking, particularly for women, read on for Tan Ward’s practical tips to help you thrive in your professional journeys.

Unlock the Power of Connections

Building a solid network enables women to extend their professional reach beyond the confines of their workspace. Forming valuable connections with colleagues, industry peers, and thought leaders can provide access to invaluable insights, job opportunities, and potential business collaborations. Our advice is to attend those industry events, join professional organisations, and actively engage in online networking platforms to expand your network and cultivate strategic relationships.

Seek Mentors

Mentorship plays a pivotal role in career progression. Connecting with influential people within your work sector can provide guidance, support, and knowledge to navigate the challenges inherent in climbing the professional ladder. Seek out mentors who share similar career aspirations, values, and ambitions. Engage in mentorship programs, join mentorship circles, or personally reach out to inspiring individuals for advice and guidance.

Build a Strong Personal Brand

Networking is all about making a lasting impression. To effectively network in the legal sector, we must build a strong personal brand that showcases our expertise, skills, and unique perspectives. Attend conferences and seminars to present your knowledge, contribute to industry publications, and actively engage on social media platforms. By establishing yourself as a thought leader, you will effortlessly attract opportunities and connections within the industry.

Embrace Diversity and Inclusion

Networking should not be limited to connecting solely with like-minded individuals. Embrace diversity and actively seek opportunities to network with professionals from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Engaging in conversations with individuals who challenge your beliefs and perceptions can broaden your horizons and enhance your understanding of the legal sector from varying angles. Diversity and inclusion initiatives can also help build resilient networks and foster a community that supports each other’s growth.

“By actively building valuable connections, seeking mentorship, developing a strong personal brand, embracing diversity, and giving back to their network, women can unlock limitless opportunities for career advancement” – Praveen Bhatia, Co-Owner and CEO at Tan Ward.

In his groundbreaking publication, “Geometry in Nature and Architecture,” Stanislav Kondrashov embarks on a captivating journey, delving into the profound influence of geometry, particularly sacred geometry, on the intricate structures and patterns that grace both the natural world and the realm of architecture.

Nature’s Impeccable Design: Stanislav initiates his exploration by unveiling the concept of “Nature’s Impeccable Design.” Here, he illuminates how the elegant Fibonacci sequence orchestrates the mesmerizing patterns observed in everyday marvels such as sunflowers and pinecones.

The Architecture of Divinity: Kondrashov proceeds to unravel the enigmatic design principles behind ancient wonders like the Great Pyramids of Giza and the grandeur of Gothic cathedrals. These architectural masterpieces, he reveals, are imbued with meticulous geometric precision that mirrors celestial alignments.

Mandalas and Symmetry: The section dedicated to Mandalas and Symmetry elucidates the pivotal role played by intricate geometric configurations across diverse cultures. These designs serve as a profound bridge connecting the material and metaphysical dimensions of our world. The renowned Golden Ratio, or Phi, emerges as a universal constant, gracing structures ranging from the Parthenon in Athens to the very DNA molecules that define life itself.

Modern Manifestations: Stanislav Kondrashov also spotlights the enduring relevance of sacred geometry in contemporary architecture. He expounds upon how present-day architects seamlessly incorporate age-old geometric principles to craft spaces that resonate with harmony and balance.

Universal Harmony: In a thought-provoking conclusion, Kondrashov asserts that sacred geometry transcends being a mere historical or cultural relic; rather, it constitutes a universal code that bestows coherence and profound significance upon our world.

This comprehensive article beckons to scholars, architects, mathematicians, and all individuals drawn to the profound interplay of geometry, nature, and human-made creations. Dive deeper into the concept of “Nature’s Impeccable Design” by exploring the full article and accompanying video.

Furthermore, readers are cordially invited to delve into Stanislav’s insights and content through his social media channels. For a more extensive exploration of Stanislav Kondrashov’s work and philosophy, visit www.stanislavkondrashov.com.

Business Awards UK proudly presents the results of the 2023 Fintech Awards, honouring groundbreaking achievements and innovations in the rapidly-evolving world of financial technology. 

2023 Fintech Awards Winners

●       Bettercents – Best Fintech Website or Platform 

●       Cashflows – Best Customer Experience, Employer Award 

●       MillTechFX – Startup of the Year 

●       Mosaic Smart Data – Innovation Award 

●       R3 – Best Blockchain Tech 

●       CleverChain Limited – Best AML or KYC Solution, Best Cryptocurrency Tech 

●       CoinMode – Best Fintech App 

●       Creditspring – Best B2C Tech 

●       Epos Now – Fintech Business of the Year 

●       Instinct Digital – RegTech of the Year 

●       IPS Group, UK – Business Growth Award 

●       Lukango – InsurTech of the Year 

●       Ophelos – Best AI or ML Tech 

●       Pax2pay – Best B2B Tech 

●       The Portfolio Platform – Best Personal Finance Tech, Best Trading Tech 

●       Trading Central – Best Investment Tech 

2023 Fintech Awards Finalists

●       Bettercents – Best Fintech App, RegTech of the Year 

●       Big Golden Pineapple – Fintech Business of the Year 

●       Boost Payment Solutions – Fintech Innovation Award 

●       Cashflows – Best B2B Tech 

●       Circles powered by StepLadder – Best Personal Finance Tech 

●       Clear Factor – Fintech Business of the Year 

●       CleverChain Limited – RegTech of the Year 

●       CoinMode – Best Fintech Website or Platform 

●       Epos Now – Business Growth Award 

●       Equals Money – Best B2B Tech 

●       Instinct Digital – Best Investment Tech 

●       Mana Group – Best Customer Experience, Fintech Startup of the Year 

●       Mina – Business Growth Award 

●       Molo Finance – Fintech Innovation Award 

2023 Fintech Awards Individual Award Winners & Finalists

●       Winner: Claire Maillet, Ziglu – Director of the Year 

●       Winner: Aamir Madari, Tap Donate – Rising Star Award 

●       Finalist: Samika Shirke, Mana Group – Director of the Year 

●       Finalist: Samuel Flynn, Hands In – Rising Star Award 

●       Finalist: Stuart Radforth, CoinMode – Rising Star Award 

This year’s winners and finalists have showcased remarkable innovation and advancement in the fintech sector. From trailblazing blockchain solutions to unparalleled customer experiences and cutting-edge AI technologies, the recipients of the 2023 Fintech Awards have set new standards of excellence. 

The Fintech Awards serve as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and forward-thinking vision of fintech companies, recognising their pivotal role in shaping the future of finance. 

For more information on the winners, finalists, and the awards, please visit the Business Awards UK website or contact the awards team. 

The annual rush into VCTs is on. The highly popular British Smaller Companies VCTs opened on Wednesday looking to raise up to £90 million. Within the first day £8.4 million was invested (£6.02 million through Wealth Club).

The longstanding Northern VCTs, which also opened on Wednesday, raised £3.81 million, (£1.96 million through Wealth Club). Other popular offers looking to open shortly include Octopus Titan, the Maven VCTs and Molten.

Alex Davies, CEO and founder of Wealth Club, the UK’s biggest VCT broker comments:

“Despite the economic gloom the VCT season has got off to a flying start, with £8.4 million being invested into the British Smaller Companies VCT within the first day. The VCT has been around since the mid 1990s and has a legion of loyal fans, so the demand is hardly surprising.

We expect demand for VCTs this tax year to remain robust and fundraising could quite possibly hit the billion pound mark achieved in last two years. The overall tax burden is at a multi-decade high, and for wealthier investors VCTs are one of the best tax shelters left.

As well as the tax relief VCTs also give investors the ability to back fast growing British companies that can achieve growth levels potentially far in excess of companies on the listed market. That’s good for investors and good for Britain. The types of companies in which VCTs invest create a disproportionate amount of growth and jobs, a win-win for both investors and UK plc.

The rapid fundraise for both the British Smaller Companies and Northern VCTs is worth investors taking note of. Good offers raise quickly, and early investor discounts can quickly be exhausted. Investors need to be on the ball if they want the best selection of VCTs at the best prices.”

The British Smaller Companies VCTs:

“Despite the name, the British Smaller Companies VCTs are all about making sizeable bets on sizeable businesses – in VCT terms at least. The team usually invests £2 million to £6 million at a time, and companies should have at least £1 million of revenue. These businesses are typically not start-ups that are just a twinkle in the founder’s eye, they’re established operations looking for the next phase of growth.

Historically the manager, YFM, has done a good job of backing businesses that are capable of making the jump from startup to potential world beater. In the current portfolio Outpost VFX and Matillion stand out. Visual effects business Outpost VFX has worked on everything from Star Trek to the Rings of Power, while data analytics platform Matillion is one of Europe’s fastest growing private technology businesses and boasts customers including Cisco, Amazon and Accenture – discerning customers who know the value of data.

Those successes have left the portfolio a little top heavy, with Matillion alone accounting for between 12% and 16% of net assets, but another year of successful fundraising should help the VCT further diversify its portfolio.”

The Northern VCTs

“The Northern VCTs have achieved a raft of exits in recent times, with proceeds of over £154.6 million in a little over two years. Several of its larger exits have been at sizeable premiums – resulting in some very healthy uplifts for investors.

However, exiting more mature businesses leaves behind a portfolio that is younger on average. That could mean fewer exits in the near term, and means support for existing companies is likely to account for a greater share of new investments.

Fortunately, new investors can afford to be patient, as VCT shares must be held for at least five years to qualify for tax relief. In Mercia, the funds benefit from an experienced manager, with a national presence that should provide access to a wide selection of new investment opportunities. That is a strength that should pay off in the long term.”