Why exit planning matters – even in the early years of your business
Starting and growing a business is an exciting and demanding challenge. It is easy to focus all your energy on immediate goals like winning customers, generating income, and keeping cash flow under control. But at some point, every business owner will exit, whether through sale, succession, or
Are you ready for Companies House ID checks?
From 2025, Companies House is rolling out new identity verification requirements for directors, people with significant control (PSCs), and anyone forming or managing a UK company. These changes form part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act and are designed to reduce fraud and
How AI is changing your business
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer something for big tech firms alone – it is becoming a practical tool for small businesses, especially when it comes to financial management and forecasting.
We can now harness AI tools to speed up data capture, analyse financial trends, and identify
Redress for Post Office Capture victims
In a significant update, the UK government has unveiled a new compensation scheme targeting individuals affected by the earlier “Capture” software, used in over 2,000 Post Office branches during the 1990s. This programme aims to redress those who suffered financial losses prior to the
BT Eyes Deeper Job Cuts as AI Reshapes Telecoms
BT has announced that it may exceed its previously stated target of cutting 40,000 jobs by 2030, as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more central to its operations. The move comes as the company accelerates its cost-cutting programme and seeks to reorient itself in a changing telecoms
Four critically important KPIs
Gross profit margin
This measures the profitability of your core operations by comparing gross profit (sales minus cost of goods sold) to total revenue. A stable or improving gross margin indicates pricing, production, or service delivery is efficient. A declining margin may signal rising costs or
Government sells last Nat West shares
The UK government has officially concluded its involvement with NatWest Group, formerly known as the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), by selling its remaining shares. This move ends nearly 17 years of public ownership that began during the 2008 financial crisis.
In 2008 and 2009, the government
How working capital is funded
Working capital refers to the day-to-day funds a business uses to manage its operations. It is the difference between current assets (such as cash, stock, and trade debtors) and current liabilities (such as trade creditors and short-term loans). Efficient working capital management is crucial for
Buying a business – a simple due diligence checklist
Before you agree to buy a business, it is essential to carry out due diligence. This means carefully checking the facts and risks so that you can make an informed decision. Here is a basic checklist to guide you through the process.
1. Review financial records
Ask for at least three years’ worth of
Top 10 skills every business owner should acquire
Running a business involves wearing many hats. Whether you are just starting out or looking to grow, developing the right skills can make all the difference. Here are ten practical skills that will help you manage your business with greater confidence and success.
1. Financial