Here are the business stories making the headlines across Scotland and the UK this morning.
Serica welcomes Budget ‘clarity’ for North Sea
Serica Energy says the Autumn Budget has given the business “much needed clarity” around investment allowances in the North Sea.
In an update to investors this morning, the operator said the remainder of its Triton well campaign will continue to benefit from full tax relief, and that the retention of allowances “opens up opportunities in the wider portfolio”.
CEO Chris Cox added: “Our subsurface team are continuing to work up options for the untapped potential around the Bruce Hub.”
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250,000 sign petition against Reeves inheritance tax
More than 250,000 people have signed the National Farmers' Union petition campaigning against Rachel Reeves’ tractor tax.
The news comes after economic experts claimed fewer than 500 farms a year will be impacted by the Government’s reforms to inheritance tax.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) said “significantly fewer” than the 500 farms a year estimated by the Government will be impacted by the changes.
Costco planning new petrol station in Westhill amid major expansion plans
Wholesale giants Costco could soon bring its bargain petrol prices to the North-east.
The American retailer is looking to build a new filling station near its mega store at the Arnhall Business Park in Westhill.
It would be located on Endeavour Drive, just a stone’s throw from the one at Tesco.
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Invergordon energy firm to create 30 jobs with new Aberdeen office
An Invergordon energy services provider is opening a new Aberdeen office after adding to its leadership team.
Aventus Energy has appointed Donny Marshall to the newly created role of business director.
The firm is a specialist inspection, repair and maintenance provider for the renewables and oil and gas sectors. The new office is at Neospace on Riverside Drive.
New cash for job centres in plan to boost workforce
The government is promising major reforms in order to reduce the benefits bill by getting more people into work.
It has unveiled plans entitled "Get Britain Working" which include a £240m investment to overhaul the current network of job centres across Britain, and more funding for mental health services.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the reforms would tackle the "biggest drivers of unemployment and inactivity".
Read the full story here.