Auto-Enrolment for Pensions Savings Scheme
The government has announced details of new legislation for the auto-enrolment pensions savings scheme. It’s designed to encourage workers to save for their retirement and make it more straightforward for businesses to offer a workplace pension option.
Strategic Insights for Business Resilience: A Leadership and Technology review
In times of significant global uncertainty that include geopolitical tensions and rapid technological changes, it's crucial for leaders to strategically plan for the long term. This is why I read with great interest Jamie Dimon’s letter to shareholders that was circulated in recent weeks.
Increased Cost of Business Grant (ICOB)
As part of Budget 2024, the Government signed off on a package of €257m for the Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) Grant as a vital measure for small and medium businesses.
Energy top-up payment for businesses
Businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors are in line for a top-up payment of up to €3,000 in the Energy Efficiency Grant. Businesses in these sectors, who employ up to 50 people, are already eligible for a capital grant of up to €5,000 and now they will be eligible to apply for up to €8,000 in capital grant assistance to improve their energy efficiency.
Debt Warehousing Scheme Update
The Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath T.D., has announced that the interest rate applicable to warehoused debt will be reduced to 0%. Revenue has confirmed that it will operate the reduced interest rate on an administrative basis pending the legislative change.
Revenue Information Campaign for PAYE Taxpayers
New figures published recently by the Revenue show that over 472,000 PAYE Income Tax Returns have been processed for 2023, an increase of almost 30% on the previous year.
Revenue said a total of €203m has already been refunded to people's bank accounts as a result of the 2023 returns filed by PAYE taxpayers so far, while a further €480m may have been overpaid during the year.
Mortgage Interest Tax Credit
One of the big money-saving measures announced in the most recent Budget was the mortgage interest relief initiative - temporary Mortgage Interest Tax Credit (MITC).
Although it was announced last year, it was only in the last few weeks that people could apply for the relief. Potentially it could see homeowners getting up to €1,250 back in their pockets.
The Red Sea Crisis: Strategic Implications for Irish Businesses
In the evolving landscape of global trade, the escalating conflict in the Red Sea presents significant challenges and opportunities for Irish businesses. A geopolitical maelstrom with the power to disrupt the very currents of international commerce. This is not merely a distant skirmish but a clash that sends waves crashing onto the shores of Irish enterprise.
Economic Insights for 2024: Understanding the Trends
As we step into 2024, understanding the economic landscape becomes crucial for businesses and individuals alike. We look at the anticipated economic patterns affecting Ireland and the broader global market, based on insights from various expert analyses and forecast reports.
Employer Reporting of Benefits: Enhanced Reporting Requirements (ERR)
The Finance Act 2022 introduced mandatory real-time reporting of certain ‘reportable benefits’ provided to employees and directors. The introduction of this reporting requirement is subject to a commencement order but it is due to go live on 1 January 2024.
The Ripple Effects of Israel-Hamas Conflict on the European Economy
In the chessboard of global geopolitics, localized conflicts can have far-reaching economic impacts. The flare-up of hostilities between Israel and Hamas is no exception. As an observer of the unfolding events, it’s crucial to distil the complexities into a cogent analysis of potential economic repercussions, particularly for Europe’s economy.
8 Tips for Filing Your Self-Assessment Tax Return
You may not necessarily need an accountant to prepare your tax return– it really depends on the complexity of your business and your financial knowledge. But one way or the other, if you’re self-employed, you’re obliged to file a return. Here are 8 practical tips to make the process as smooth as possible.
Interest Rates and Their Implications for Economic Growth
In the world of economics and finance, interest rates are often viewed as the pulse that gauges the health of an economy. Their current structure and cost undoubtedly have a profound influence on economic growth. When we consider the landscape today, one can't help but ponder the long-term ramifications of persistent high interest rates, especially given the vast deficits that many nations carry on their ledgers.
BUDGET 2024
The 10th of October marked the announcement of Budget 2024 with some significant changes coming into effect over the coming months. Download our budget summary below to read what changes may impact you and your business.
Employer Reporting of Benefits: Enhanced Reporting Requirements (ERR)
The Finance Act 2022 introduced mandatory real-time reporting of certain ‘reportable benefits’ provided to employees and directors. The introduction of this reporting requirement is subject to a commencement order but it is due to go live on 1 January 2024.
Steering Through the Storm: Larry Culp’s Transformation of General Electric
In the tumultuous waters of corporate America, the story of General Electric (GE) under the leadership of Larry Culp stands out as a beacon of resilience, strategic vision, and operational excellence. Facing $140 billion of crushing debt and significant operational issues, Culp’s leadership in navigating these challenges offers invaluable lessons for all, especially those in the SME sector.
Update on VAT Rates in the Hospitality Sector
Effective from the end of 31st August 2023, the special 9% VAT rate for certain services in the industry has been discontinued. As we transition into this new phase, these specific services will be subject to the standard VAT rate of 13.5%.
Payroll Updates
We're committed to keeping our clients informed about the latest changes in employee compensation and benefits. Below, you'll find a summary of recent updates, including changes to pension enrollment, tax guidelines for pension lump sums, mandatory employer reporting details, and new provisions for leave related to medical care and breastfeeding. Staying updated with these changes is essential for smooth business operations and ensuring the well-being of employees.
When Global Warming Hits Close to Home: A look into Its Economic Impacts
When you're sipping a drink by the beach, the last thing you expect is to be urgently evacuated. But that was our reality this summer in Rhodes. Our family's holiday was abruptly cut short, not because of some security threat or health scare, but due to the alarming realities of global warming. It was an eye-opener to witness how it directly impacted the lives of the locals.
Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS) Update
The claim period for the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS) ended on Monday, 31 July. Qualifying businesses have until 30 September 2023 to make claims for the calendar months from September 2022 to July 2023. Claims cannot be made after this date.