AI and GenAI: Preparing Your Business for the Future
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (GenAI) are transforming the business landscape. These advanced technologies are capable of learning, analysing, and generating new outputs, acting as powerful tools to improve efficiency and decision-making across all industries.
Using Financial Metrics to Make Smarter Business Decisions
Many businesses already track financial metrics like profit margins, debt ratios, or cash flow. But knowing what these numbers are isn’t enough. To truly benefit, business leaders must use them to inform strategic decision-making, from hiring and pricing to expansion and investment.
Navigating Reinvention: Insights from New Balance
When we think of reinvention, we often imagine scrappy startups pivoting to survive. But for mature companies with legacy reputations, reinvention is more complex. It’s less about radical change, more about careful recalibration. A recent segment on Bloomberg’s Wall Street Week offered a timely look into how one such business, New Balance, is managing this ongoing challenge.
Getting Your Finances Ready for 2025 A Simple Guide
CFOs and finance teams are under considerable pressure to ensure smooth operations, make better decisions, and support company growth. However, traditional methods—such as extensive spreadsheets and outdated software—are increasingly ineffective.
Budgeting Implications of Pension Auto-Enrolment
The introduction of pension auto-enrolment on 30 September 2025 presents significant budgeting challenges for Irish employers. Clearly understanding and proactively planning for these implications is essential for maintaining financial stability.
Financial Planning for Business Expansion
Expanding a business is an exciting opportunity, but it requires careful planning to avoid financial pitfalls. Whether you're opening new locations, diversifying your offerings, or scaling operations, ensuring financial stability is key. However, it also carries financial risks, such as cash flow shortages, increased debt burdens, and operational inefficiencies, which must be carefully managed.
The Comparative Advantage Approach to Time Management
We often hear that great leaders delegate, but what if we're delegating the wrong way? A recent article in the Harvard Business Review caught my attention; it challenges some long-held beliefs about time management and leadership. The piece, titled Leaders Shouldn’t Try to Do It All, presents an approach that moves beyond simply prioritizing important tasks.
Show Your Appreciation: Maximizing the Small Benefit Exemption Scheme
Recognizing and rewarding employees is key to fostering a positive and productive workplace. While cash bonuses are a common way to show appreciation, they often lose impact due to tax deductions. The Small Benefit Exemption Scheme provides a smarter alternative—allowing businesses to reward staff with tax-free benefits.
Financial KPIs Every Manager Should Monitor
A company's financial performance can make or break its success. Business managers, whether leading a small startup or a well-established enterprise, need a clear understanding of key financial performance indicators (KPIs) to maintain stability and achieve growth.
Updates to Sick Pay Scheme - 2025
Ireland’s statutory sick pay scheme is a vital step in protecting employees' well-being and financial stability during periods of illness. This legislation ensures that employers provide a minimum level of paid sick leave, offering essential financial support when employees are unable to work due to illness or injury.
Important Updates to Irish R&D Tax Credit Claims
The Irish R&D Tax Credit is a valuable program that incentivizes companies to invest in research and development (R&D) activities. This blog post summarizes the qualification criteria for the credit and highlights recent changes implemented in January 2024.
Long-term Financial Planning: Preparing for Future Growth
Long-term financial planning is essential for businesses aiming to achieve sustainable growth. Taking control of your financial future allows you to navigate challenges with confidence and seize opportunities as they arise. It’s about more than just looking at the numbers; it’s a commitment to shaping the future you want for your business.
Building Bank of America Back from the Brink
Leadership in times of crisis requires vision, determination, and a capacity to prioritize amidst chaos. Brian Moynihan, CEO of Bank of America (BOA), exemplified these qualities when he assumed leadership during one of the most tumultuous periods in the bank’s history.
Looming Energy VAT Hike: A Perfect Storm for Irish Small Businesses?
The Irish government's decision to extend the reduced VAT rate on gas and electricity for small businesses until April 2025 offers a temporary reprieve. However, the looming increase to 13.5% in May 2025 threatens to deliver yet another blow to already struggling small businesses.
A New Year, New Rules: Key Budgetary Changes for Irish Businesses in 2025
As we step into a new year, it’s essential for Irish businesses to stay informed about the significant budgetary changes coming into effect in 2025. These updates have been designed to stimulate innovation, support entrepreneurship, and address challenges in sectors like housing and creative industries.
2025 Tax Year: A Breakdown of Key Changes for Employers
The 2025 tax year introduces a variety of changes that employers need to be aware of to stay compliant and manage their payroll processes effectively. While some updates provide tax relief, others bring new responsibilities.
A Tax-Smart Way to Reward Your Employees: The Small Benefit Exemption Scheme
As the festive season approaches, many businesses are looking for ways to show their appreciation to employees. While cash bonuses might be a tempting option, the tax implications can significantly reduce the net value.
Integrating New Business Ventures into Your Financial Plan
Starting a new business venture can be exhilarating, but it also comes with a range of financial challenges. Whether you’re expanding into new markets or launching a completely new product line, integrating the venture into your existing financial plan is crucial for ensuring long-term success.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Compliance
As part of your ongoing personal tax compliance, it's important to be aware of Capital Gains Tax (CGT). CGT is a tax that individuals in Ireland need to pay when they make a profit from selling certain assets.
Budget 2025: A Closer Look at Implications for Businesses
Budget 2025 has delivered a significant boost for workers and households, addressing the cost-of-living crisis. However, the implications for businesses are more nuanced. While some sectors will benefit, others face challenges.