UK businesses are facing growing financial pressures as concerns over rising energy and fuel costs reach record levels, while the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to accelerate across the economy. The latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlights the challenges facing businesses as they navigate increasing operating costs, supply chain uncertainty […]
Late payments can have a significant impact on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), affecting cash flow, limiting growth and, in some cases, threatening the future of the business. With the Department for Business and Trade estimating that late payments cost the UK economy billions of pounds each year, having an effective invoicing and credit control […]
Chancellor John Healey’s first Budget was delivered on 28 October 2026 with a clear focus on driving “growth in every postcode”. While many expected major tax reforms, the Budget instead combines a series of targeted measures aimed at encouraging investment, supporting entrepreneurship and maintaining stability for businesses while increasing certain taxes in specific areas. For […]
One of the biggest myths in cybersecurity is that small businesses aren’t targeted. In reality, attackers often look for easy opportunities. Outdated software, unsupported systems and neglected websites can all present vulnerabilities. Many cyber-attacks are automated rather than targeted. The software simply searches the internet for websites running known vulnerabilities. Your business doesn’t need to […]
Why Strategic Business Advice Matters More Than Ever for Growing SMEs Many business owners initially appoint an accountant to prepare annual accounts and tax returns. As businesses grow, however, they often need much more than just compliance support. Beyond the numbers The most successful owner-managed businesses use financial information as a foundation for better decision-making. […]
It is now confirmed that neonatal leave and pay will come into force from 6 April 2025, providing parents with a right to up to 12 weeks’ leave and pay when their baby requires neonatal care. New right to neonatal care leave and pay confirmed from 6 April, expected to benefit around 60,000 new parents. […]
Current tax legislation tends to incentivise farmers and other business owners to retain ownership of their business until death. When passed on through inheritance, the assets are transferred at their market (probate) value for Capital Gains Tax (CGT) purposes, effectively providing a tax-free uplift in value. Combined with 100% Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business […]
Help to Grow: Management is an initiative designed to bolster the resilience and performance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which are crucial to the UK’s economy. Addressing the productivity gap in the UK, this program offers comprehensive training for SME leaders, equipping them with the skills necessary to drive growth and efficiency in […]
Written by Begbies Traynor Unpaid invoices have the potential to disrupt financial stability for limited companies and create a challenging operational environment. The cash shortages that commonly result from overdue or unpaid invoices can be minimised by adopting robust debt collection processes, however. If debt recovery isn’t prioritised and assigned the required urgency, it hampers […]
When in business, it’s not uncommon to be approached by another business with a view to you buying the business or entering a partnership deal. It might be a competitor that approaches you, or it could be a customer or supplier. Alternatively, you might identify a business that you would like to acquire as part […]
