Latest News

Are ISAs past their best-before dates?

The role of Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) has changed since they were launched more than 20 years ago, so are they still worth having?

Since ISAs were introduced in April 1999 the portfolio has been extended to include:

Selling your business – the importance of good advice and support

Whether it’s director fatigue, feeling trapped in your business or simply the time is right to go, many see the sale of their business as a key step in the process of their financial planning for retirement - the final task in preparing for the next stage of their journey and a leap towards the personal and financial freedom it may bring.

What are the proposed tax changes for the self-employed, sole traders and partnerships?

Unincorporated businesses could see significant changes to the way they are taxed following the launch of a consultation by the Government – which could lead to some facing higher tax bills than expected.

Farming survey highlights focus is needed on planning for the future 

A number of potential risks to agricultural businesses have been highlighted in a recent survey by the Rural Agriculture Group (RAG UK).  

Armstrong Watson’s respondents, from across the north of England and Scotland who run livestock, dairy and arable farms, highlighted the future of subsidies among their top three challenges, which also included climate change and the environment as well as cashflow.   

Scams are getting more sophisticated (and common) so beware…

Unfortunately, we are continuing to hear of more people falling victim to scams during the pandemic. These can take many different forms with some about pensions or other high-return investment opportunities. Scammers can be sophisticated, opportunistic, appear authentic, using Covid-19 as an opportunity to persuade people to disclose personal or financial information either online or verbally, and whilst they may be likely to target the vulnerable, anyone can be affected or taken in.

Trusted advice is more important now than ever…

Trusted advice is more important than ever in times like these

Xero Tips and Tricks - Keyboard shortcuts

Did you know that there are a large number of keyboard shortcuts available to help you navigate around Xero, add new invoices, contacts?

Xero User News - Changes to e-commerce VAT in the EU

From 1st July 2021 the VAT rules on business to customer (B2C) e-commerce sales have changed. 

The changes, referred to as the ‘EU VAT E-commerce Package,’ aim to reduce barriers for e-commerce businesses selling across borders to end customers within the European Union, and can be used by businesses worldwide including those based in the UK.  It also aims to ensure that VAT is paid correctly to the member state in which the supply takes place.

Adjusting the numbers – the future of finance in law firms

I was recently honoured to be asked to write part of a new book by Globe Law and Business on the future of finance in law firms.

Details of the book can be found at:

https://www.globelawandbusiness.com/books/adjusting-the-numbers-the-future-of-finance-in-law-firms

Exit from Lockdown – Implications for Businesses

The lifting of restrictions will come as a relief to many, especially those in sectors such as hospitality and tourism, however the exit from lockdown also coincides with the withdrawal of support for businesses.