Navigating the Mortgage Maze: Tips for Small Business Owners

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Owning a small business comes with a myriad of challenges, and one of the most daunting tasks can be navigating the maze of mortgages. Whether you’re looking to buy a property for your business or a personal residence, finding the right mortgage can seem like an overwhelming task. But fear not! In this article, we will delve into the world of mortgage brokers and offer you practical advice on how to find the best mortgage brokers, manage your finances effectively, and overcome common hurdles in the mortgage process.

Understanding the Mortgage Broker’s Role

Before we embark on the journey of discovering top-notch mortgage brokers, let’s delve into the intricacies of their role. A mortgage broker assumes the vital role of serving as a bridge between you, the borrower, and a diverse array of lenders. Their primary objective is to assist you in locating the mortgage product that aligns seamlessly with your needs by meticulously exploring the market for the most advantageous offers. Here, we present a series of essential aspects to ponder:

1. Expertise Matters

The first step in finding the best mortgage broker is to look for expertise. An experienced broker will have a deep understanding of the mortgage landscape, including the latest market trends, interest rates, and lending criteria. They can provide valuable insights tailored to your specific needs.

2. Ask for Recommendations

One of the most reliable ways to find a reputable mortgage broker is to ask for recommendations from fellow small business owners or colleagues who have gone through the process. Personal referrals can give you peace of mind and help you build trust in your broker.

Managing Your Finances Effectively

Effective financial management is crucial when applying for a mortgage. Lenders will scrutinize your financial health, so it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here’s how to get your finances in order:

1. Review Your Credit Score

Your creditworthiness wields considerable influence over mortgage approval and the interest rates you’re offered. It’s imperative to meticulously review your credit report for any inaccuracies and diligently endeavor to enhance your credit score if it’s in need of improvement. A superior credit rating can be a key asset in securing more favorable mortgage terms.

2. Create a Detailed Business Plan

Small business owners should have a well-structured business plan that outlines their financial stability and future prospects. Lenders may request this as part of their evaluation process, so having a comprehensive plan can work to your advantage.

3. Build a Strong Financial History

A consistent history of financial responsibility is crucial. Make sure your business and personal finances are in order by paying bills on time, reducing debt, and maintaining healthy cash flow.

Overcoming Common Hurdles

Small business owners often encounter unique challenges when applying for mortgages. Here are some common hurdles and strategies to overcome them:

1. Limited Documentation

Small businesses may not always have the same level of documentation as larger corporations. To compensate, provide thorough financial records, tax returns, and business financial statements to demonstrate your creditworthiness.

2. Irregular Income

Many small business owners have irregular income streams, which can make lenders wary. Be prepared to explain your income patterns and provide projections that showcase your ability to repay the mortgage.

3. Debt-to-Income Ratio

Lenders assess your debt-to-income ratio to determine your ability to manage mortgage payments. Pay down existing debts and avoid taking on new ones to improve your debt-to-income ratio.

Read also: Saving Small Businesses, Saving the Economy

Conclusion

Navigating the mortgage maze as a small business owner may seem challenging, but with the right approach and by finding the best mortgage broker, you can secure the financing you need. Remember to focus on improving your financial health, providing documentation, and addressing unique hurdles in the process. With determination and the right guidance, you’ll be well on your way to owning your dream property and achieving your business goals.

Social Media, Finance, and Business Growth: A Holistic Approach

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In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to expand their reach and drive growth. One powerful avenue for achieving this is through the strategic integration of finance and social media. This article delves into the holistic approach to business growth, highlighting the remarkable synergy between finance and social media, with a specific focus on Instagram Reels and Instagram Reels likes. We’ll provide actionable steps for businesses to seamlessly blend their financial strategies with Instagram marketing to not only attract but also retain a thriving community of followers.

The Holistic Approach to Business Growth

Business growth is more than just increasing revenue; it’s about evolving, adapting, and thriving in a dynamic environment. In today’s interconnected world, businesses must recognize that growth is multidimensional. It extends beyond conventional financial strategies to encompass brand image, customer engagement, and online presence. To truly flourish, a holistic approach is essential.

Bridging the Gap: Finance and Social Media

Traditionally, finance and marketing have been seen as distinct departments within an organization. However, in the digital age, these boundaries are becoming increasingly blurred. Finance is no longer just about managing budgets; it plays a pivotal role in shaping marketing strategies and assessing their effectiveness.

Social media, on the other hand, has revolutionized the way businesses interact with their audience. Instagram Reels, a short-form video feature, has emerged as a game-changer in this arena. It offers a unique opportunity for businesses to engage their followers through visually captivating content.

Leveraging the Synergy

The synergy between finance and social media, particularly Instagram Reels, lies in the ability to create content that resonates with the audience while staying within budget constraints. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Set Clear Financial Goals

Start by establishing clear financial objectives for your Instagram Reels marketing campaign. Determine how much you’re willing to allocate for content creation, advertising, and other associated expenses. This ensures that your social media efforts align with your overall financial strategy.

2. Create Engaging and Authentic Content

Instagram Reels thrives on creativity and authenticity. Craft compelling short videos that tell your brand’s story and connect with your audience on a personal level. Be sure to integrate your financial messages seamlessly, whether it’s showcasing cost-effective products or demonstrating financial literacy.

3. Monitor Performance Metrics

Finance and social media should work hand in hand to assess the impact of your efforts. Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as engagement rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates. Analyze the financial implications of these metrics to refine your strategy continually.

4. Budget Optimization

Based on the performance data, reallocate your budget to maximize ROI. If certain types of Instagram Reels content perform exceptionally well, consider investing more resources in them. Conversely, if some aspects underperform, adapt and allocate resources accordingly.

5. Educate and Engage

Educational content often performs well on Instagram Reels. Consider creating short tutorials or financial tips that provide value to your audience. Encourage engagement by asking questions, conducting polls, or hosting Q&A sessions on financial topics.

Read also: Success Strategies for Business & Finance

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving landscape of business growth, the integration of finance and social media, particularly through Instagram Reels, offers a promising path to success. By taking a holistic approach, setting clear financial goals, creating engaging content, monitoring performance metrics, optimizing budgets, and fostering educational engagement, businesses can tap into the powerful synergy between finance and social media. In doing so, they can attract and retain a dedicated following while driving sustainable growth.

As you embark on this journey, remember that the lines between finance and marketing are increasingly blurred in the digital era. Embrace this convergence, and watch your business thrive in the dynamic world of social media-driven growth.

How To Make Money From Real Estate Business

The real estate market is an important part of today’s economy. Many people invest in real estate to make money. However, it is important to understand the basics of the real estate market like cash offer in every property before investing.

The first thing to know about the real estate market is that it is a very volatile market. House and apartment prices are constantly rising and falling. If you want to invest in real estate, you should be prepared to live with the price changes.

How does investing in real estate work?

In order to make money with real estate, you first have to know how investing in real estate works. Investing in real estate usually works by investing in a property and then renting it out. The rental income that you earn can then be reinvested to buy more properties or improve existing properties.

If you want to take the plunge into investing, there are a number of ways you can go about it. You can either buy a property directly, for example, or you can invest in a so-called real estate fund.

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Tips for beginners: How to get started in the world of real estate investments

Real estate investments have become increasingly important in recent years. This is primarily due to historically low interest rates, which prompted investors to allocate their capital to real estate. But even if the returns have been very attractive in recent years, there is still a certain risk with any type of real estate investment.

It is therefore advisable, especially for beginners, to be well informed and to start with small investments.

Do your research

There are different types of real estate and different ways to invest in them. So first, research the different options and then decide which one is right for you.

Set your budget

Think carefully about how much money you want to invest and make sure that you actually have that money available. You should also keep in mind that real estate investments are long-term investments and it is therefore not advisable to invest everything at once.

Look for suitable properties

Once you have determined your budget and researched the different options, you can start looking for suitable properties. Pay particular attention to the location of the property as well as the size and furnishings of the house or apartment. You should also consider whether the property could possibly increase in value in the future or whether it has already almost reached its maximum.

How You Can Benefit From Bitcoin Boom In Several Ways

Bitcoin is known as one of the most unstable asset classes. For you to benefit from Bitcoin as an investor, you must observe the following.

  • Rationality beats impulse action
  • Profit from Bitcoin without buying it directly
  • Bitcoin is not yet past the zenith

Know the risks and avoid common mistakes

Before you jump into trading the cryptocurrency like bitcoin360ai, it is necessary to understand that the Bitcoin behaves much more volatile in the market than established financial instruments.

Therefore, the top priority is to keep calm and control emotions. Anyone who already holds Bitcoin must of course keep it when prices rise and not buy irrational units. With rapidly rising courses there is always the danger of investment bubbles, which correct the course in a short time as soon as they burst. Here you risk losing a lot of capital in a very short time. Another maxim is that you should only trade with your own capital. It is not advisable for any investor to take out loans to buy cryptocurrency, because the risks of financial bankruptcy also increase here.

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Long-Position against Short-Position

As in all markets, it is important to observe and estimate the right timing before making any purchase. If the investor assumes that the price will rise, he should take a long position. An example of this is to buy Bitcoin and hold it until the desired price in order to sell it again later with a profit, the so-called margin. The ongoing observation of the market is a prerequisite.

If the investor takes the short position, he is betting against Bitcoin, i.e. he suspects falling prices. With this technique, the investor borrows a certain total of cryptocurrency and immediately sells it. If prices fall as forecast, the same amount is bought back and returned to the actual owner. The difference between the original sale price and the later purchase results in the margin for the short position.

Bitcoin is becoming more serious

Bitcoin trading is constantly evolving. With the increasing relevance of the cryptocurrency, politicians and regulators are increasingly turning their attention to the cryptocurrency in order to curb future price manipulation through control mechanisms. As a result, Bitcoin would be recognized as a legitimate financial instrument and accepted by the general public.

In order not to miss the opportunities of the crypto market, major banks are already under pressure to start their own digital currencies, and conversely, the demand for the original cryptocurrencies could increase.

Steps To Starting A Small Towing Business

If you have had a lifelong dream of living independently and financially, starting your own small business can be a good solution. But there are several little things you need to know.

How can you become a small business owner?

Small businesses can enjoy several benefits. For example, you don’t have to pay sales tax and you don’t have to include this tax in your invoices. But of course you are not exempt from all other costs. Here are the regulations and costs associated with self-employment. These are, for example, health and pension insurance.

You, as a small business owner, are not your own legal form. Self-employed, freelancers can start a small business. You must pay attention to your turnover.

Possible mistakes you can avoid

If you have already decided to start a small towing san jose business, you should pay attention to common mistakes that you can avoid.

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Estimate your sales correctly

Keep an eye on your sales. It is the first tip for all small business owners. Estimate how much revenue you want to make monthly. It’s easy to give such a tip, but it’s really complicated to calculate. Your tax advisor can help you here. It is always better to discuss all the little things with a good accountant to be sure everything is in order.

Pay attention to the 5-year period

It’s important to know how long you want to be a small business owner. If you exceed this period, you are obligated not to be able to use the small business regulations for the next 5 years.

Exemption from sales tax

If you’re looking to make money as a small business owner, it’s important to watch your bills.

You run more than one small business

You can run multiple small businesses, but always look at total sales. Always keep an eye on this turnover, it is very important. If you cross the line, you could lose your small business status.

You can achieve your dream and it’s not as difficult as you thought. Starting a small business is easier if you follow small steps. You must come up with a great idea, create a business plan and take your first step as a small business owner.

The Best Budget Apps For Business & Finance

Are you saving for a new project for your business? Then best budgeting app can help you reach your savings goal faster.

How do budget apps work for your business?

If you want to save effectively in the long term, the first step is to get an overview of the company’s expenses and income. What used to be laboriously done with pen and paper in a household book, you can now conveniently record on your smartphone or computer. In this regard, the budget planner app comes into play.

Features of a budget app

With a budget app, you always have an overview of your costs. This way you can see where your money is going and where you can use savings in the future. They work like a household book, simply digital. However, the apps take over the tedious calculation work and automatically compile a comprehensive overview of your finances for you. For example, budgeting apps help with:

  • Track daily expenses.
  • Creating a sensible budget.
  • Creating a savings and investment plan.

best budgeting app

Business & Finance: What makes a good budget app?

Depending on what exactly you need the budget app for, the application must also have other properties. It certainly makes sense if the app allows you to easily record expenses and income of your business. The free version of the app can be sufficient for this. However, for many, only the premium version allows additional functions. Then you can, for example, connect your own bank account to the app. Thus, income and expenses are automatically recorded. Furthermore, charts can also be created for a better overview and budget limitation for certain expenses. You have to weigh up whether it is worthwhile to spend money or whether the free versions and their features are enough and serve their purpose.

Business & Finance: Tips for budget apps

A budgeting app keeps you from the paperwork. However, you should be aware that you are providing sensitive information to third parties. Thus, always ensure that the app you use always comes from a trustworthy source or offers an offline version.

Many apps allow you to connect right to your bank account. Therefore, you don’t have to manually enter anything. However, it can still be worth entering the expenses manually, as this will give you a better idea of ​​what your business is spending the money on.

Make sure the app provides at least one free trial. Paying for a worthy budgeting app could be worth it, yet you should have a chance to thoroughly test all the features beforehand.

Tips For Maximizing Cabinets Business Profitability

Return on Investment is an extremely important aspect for any business. This ensures that every dollar invested generates a return. Ultimately, what you want is a tangible improvement in your finances.

Improving profitability is a long-term strategy where you make a wise investment now for bigger profits later. For example, you could invest in a renovation for your restaurant or an upgrade of key equipment for your salon.

Define what kind of profitability you want

Many companies looking to improve their profitability simply want to enjoy bigger profits or higher sales, but it can be measured in other ways as well.

Perhaps improving your workplace or equipment will lead to better employee retention. This saves time and money because, for example, the costs of recruiting and hiring new employees do not arise in the first place.

Before you make the investment, think about what kind of return you want. It might change your approach.

Take a look at your expenses

You should know where your RTA cabinets business is already making or losing money. This allows you to increase profitability by addressing these areas first.

Perhaps your team is inefficient when it comes to managing appointments, resulting in double bookings and disappointed customers.

Investing in software that does the hard work for you can improve appointment tracking, increase efficiency, and ensure clients keep coming back.

RTA cabinets

Find support using software

There are various tools that can be used to make every day work more efficient.

Appointment management software – such as booking tools that improve time efficiency and client relationships. This increases client retention and therefore profits over time.

Inventory Management Software – Use this software to keep track of your inventory and increase profits. This ensures that no unnecessary stock is created. It also allows your staff to meet customer expectations by checking what’s available.

Task Management Software – Tracking tasks online allows teams to gain a better view of workload and capacity, improving time efficiency and increasing ROI.

Improve your content marketing

Content marketing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve profitability in today’s business world.

Millions of potential customers use the Internet when looking for recommendations for a service or product. By creating quality content for your company’s website and social media platforms, you can increase the number of website visitors, which in turn could turn into paying customers.

What You Need To Know About Bonds

Regardless of whether ‘s the Dax, Dow Jones, or MSCI World: When it comes to stock market reporting, the focus is usually on the stock markets. The bond markets are also interesting. Some private investors are also interested in bonds (bonds UK) because they are generally suitable as a relatively safe investment for long periods of time. On average, bond prices fluctuate less than stocks. Bonds that are traded on an exchange can be resold by investors. This is a key advantage compared to fixed deposits, where you are tied to your bank.

What You Need To Know About Bonds

At its most basic, a bond is a security that promises you regular, fixed interest payments. However, many new types of bonds have been developed and introduced to the market in recent decades. At first glance, bonds appear to be complicated securities. On closer inspection, however, they can be easily understood if you know the most important properties:

Yield – The most important indicator is the expected annual yield, which results from the term, the specified interest payments, the purchase price, and the repurchase price of the bond. The return is given as a percentage. It is the annual interest that an investor can expect if he keeps the bond in his portfolio until the end of the term. The most important factors affecting returns are market interest rates, the remaining life of the bond, and the financial strength of the issuing government or company. The longer the term and the lower the credit rating, the higher the return you can expect.

Coupon – Most bonds pay out periodic interest payments, also known as a coupon. However, coupons and yield are not the same. While the coupon is fixed, the yield on bonds fluctuates daily with their prices. When bond prices go up, yields go down, and when they go down, they go up.

Face Value – The face value is the amount written on the bond and at which it will usually be redeemed. Bonds that are also to be sold to private investors often have a nominal value of EUR 1,000.

Market Value – Bonds are priced as a percentage of their face value. A price of 100 percent corresponds exactly to the face value. A price of 110 means that the bond’s value is about 10 percent higher than its face value.

Remaining term – The remaining term indicates when the bond will be repaid.

Price Fluctuations – Bond prices fluctuate. This is because the yield adjusts according to the current interest rate level. When interest rates fall, bond prices rise. When interest rates rise, they fall. Interest rates are influenced by many factors. The most important are economic growth, expectations about inflation, and the monetary policy of the central banks. If the central banks lend money cheaply, this usually pushes down interest rates.

Trading – You can buy and sell bonds on the stock market. Bonds are traded at different rates. In technical jargon one also speaks of liquidity. If the securities are traded less frequently – i.e. are less liquid – you can expect a higher return. In the event of a possible resale, however, you must expect deductions, since it is not so easy to find a new buyer.

Single purchase or fund – You can buy bonds either individually or as a fund. A fund has the advantage that you invest in several bonds. This reduces the risk of loss due to non-payment. However, the fund manager charges an annual fee for this. We prefer the fund solution, especially for riskier bonds, since you spread the risk over a large number of individual securities.

Currency fluctuations – With bonds that are not issued in euros but, for example, in US dollars, you run a currency risk. This can be higher than the interest in the security itself. So be aware that possible currency fluctuations can significantly affect your profit or loss – even if you buy a safe bond.

Read also: Financing Options For Start-Up Business

Final Thoughts

At present, however, interest rates on bonds are low. The expected return on a ten-year federal bond was even negative for a long time and was still a good 1 percent per year in the summer of 2022. You currently get similar returns for good one-year time deposits.

Ways to Improve Your Company’s Cash Flow

A company’s cash flow is one of the most important aspects of its financial health. The time it takes for the company to receive payment for its products or services is a major factor in determining how much money it will have to operate over a given period of time.

Ways to Improve Your Company’s Cash Flow

Some businesses use Net 30 accounts. Net 30 is a credit arrangement that allows a customer to have their account paid in full on the 30th day following the date of invoice. Net 30 accounts are often used by businesses as it reduces their risk of carrying unpaid balances. This arrangement is most commonly found with retailers and wholesalers who sell goods on credit.

A major factor to consider when looking at a company’s cash flow is the time it takes for that company to receive payment for its products or services. So it is critical to always monitor it. Here are ways to improve cashflow:

Don’t wait to send invoices

Cash flow is the difference between invoices you’ve sent and invoices that have actually been paid. Don’t let that invoices just sit on the table. Send invoices as soon as possible so that you will have the cash needed when it comes time to cover supplies and other business needs.

Adjust your inventory as needed

If you find that your inventory isn’t selling well, it can be a sign that something else needs to change. When you can’t sell the products you’ve obtained, it harms your cash flow and puts stress on your budget. Sell products that are not selling well. Selling these products could be a challenge but you can sell them with huge discounts. Refrain from reordering or restocking them. Doing this will help your business be more efficient, as it saves on the costs of storage and handling. Invest more in items that are in demand.

Lease your equipment instead of buying it

Buying new equipment can be a costly endeavor, and many companies end up with outdated or unused equipment. Leasing equipment is a great way for businesses to conserve resources and avoid having to purchase outdated equipment. This also lowers your tax burden.

Borrow money before you need it

If you are a small business owner with a strong financial history, then now is the time to open a business line of credit. Your current credit score will determine your interest rate and potential fees. You can also use it as collateral for a loan should you need it in the future.

Read also: Financing Options For Start-Up Business

Reevaluate your business operations.

Businesses should always be on the lookout for efficiency gaps and opportunities to implement cost-saving measures. There are many ways in which your business can save money. For example, you can redesign the process of a task using a different technique that has fewer steps and uses fewer resources. You can also look at your current staff to see who is performing the tasks that are no longer needed.

Financing Options For Start-Up Business

If you become self-employed, you have a wide variety of financing options available, especially for founders. However, not all variants are equally suitable for every entrepreneur. The amount of financing, the purpose of financing, the nature of your company, your willingness to take risks and other factors play a role in planning and implementing the right financing strategy.

Self-financing your business

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Financing from your own resources is of course only an option if you have the appropriate financial means. Then, however, self-financing has several advantages. Your company remains completely independent of credit institutions or external investors. In addition, there are no interest or repayment instalments. A self-financed company can also appear more creditworthy or impress some investors. This is beneficial if you intend to take out a loan or work with investors in the future.

However, self-financing can also have disadvantages. Financing from family or friends in particular harbors some potential for conflict. Self-financing is therefore most appropriate for businesspersons with strong nerves.

Loans and subsidies for founders

The usual financing options for start-ups probably include loans; in particular the classic loan from the house bank. However, it is difficult, especially for the self-employed, to provide evidence of the necessary security. A guarantee bank can provide support. It takes over the guarantee so that the house bank is more inclined to grant a loan.

A good alternative is loans from development banks, which offer significantly more favorable conditions to promote business start-ups.

Financing options from external investors

Investors support young companies because they believe in their idea and potential. They bring in their own capital, often their own experience and/or their network. This is an enormous help for entrepreneurs. Business angels are of particular interest to start-ups. In addition to the term “investor”, the terms “incubators” and “accelerators” have also become established. Both are at the entrepreneur’s side, for example by making their own production facilities or office space available to them or by providing intensive advice and coaching on setting up the company.

Another form of working with investors is a crowd investing. Start-ups can present their project here and investors have the opportunity to invest even the smallest amounts. Due to the number of contributions, considerable sums can nevertheless come together.

Auto Loan: Check Now What Is A Business Loan?

In the jungle of corporate loans, it can be difficult to identify the differences between the individual loan types. In addition, there is the inconsistent use of terminology and the use of technical terms. When looking for a suitable auto loan for your investment project, you will stumble across various terms. You have to Check Now before getting an auto loan for your business.

What is an auto company loan?

A company loan is a liquidity procurement for a time and is granted to the company by a creditor, the service owner, in return for a payment. This is a very broad definition that bundles all types of credit, including guarantee credits and loans, for example. From a purely legal point of view, the lending business is considered an agency agreement. Exceptions to this, however, are special forms such as guarantee credits.

A company loan is defined as a money loan according. It stipulates that the lender undertakes to provide the borrower with a certain amount of money in exchange for interest and school repayment. The loan is thus allocated to the lending business. Therefore, the term credit is the more comprehensive term. It is a generic word for the fact that outside financiers offer you liquid funds.

What are the benefits of loan financing for your company?

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Are you planning to invest in your company car but you do not have sufficient equity available? Or are all of your resources tied up in the company? Loan financing is often chosen by companies as a type of financing for various reasons. Because with a company loan you can take out the necessary outside capital to finance planned acquisitions for your company. A business loan or commercial loan for the self-employed gives you the opportunity to drive the growth of your company.

Funding is usually earmarked. This means that the purchase of business inventory is included in the balance sheet as current or fixed assets and increases the total capital of your company. The resulting liabilities are recorded in the balance sheet under the item “Debt capital”. You can also deduct the interest charges for tax purposes and write off business purchases over their entire useful life.

Strategic Growth Plan For A Business

We help your organization to get a grip on business growth with a realistic growth strategy.

Business growth: how does it work?

Without a growth strategy, business growth is just an illusion. Business growth can be expressed in different ways: more employees, more customers, more turnover, or more profit. But for the healthy growth of an organization, the ability to continuously attract new customers is crucial. To create this capability, we focus on developing a growth strategy for marketing and sales. After all, these departments are primarily responsible for generating new customers. If you are interested, visit this site LA Century Law.

 

Business growth with a realistic growth strategy

Our focus is on natural, organic growth; sustainable growth under its own power and with its own people through marketing and sales optimization. Our growth strategy is focused on analyzing and optimizing marketing, sales, and the collaboration between these two teams. We know from experience that if marketing and sales are a well-oiled machine, lead generation becomes an effortless process. If these are performed by teams that are perfectly aligned, you can build a well-oiled lead generation machine.

Strategy

For this pillar, we look at whether a strong positioning has been determined and whether there is an insight into the market. We zoom in on the strategy of marketing and sales, and what it is now based on.

Synergy

The collaboration between marketing and sales is examined: are common goals being pursued? Our regular meetings are scheduled in which feedback and action points are formulated?

Excellence

This pillar deals with the implementation of the strategy and maps out the use of the current marketing and sales resources.

Technology

Which software and tools are used by marketing and sales? Do these fit the organization and the formulated strategy and goals? Are they used correctly and are the desired results achieved?

Processes

In order to reach and convince prospects, processes must be efficiently set up. Are all marketing and sales processes transparent and recorded within the teams? Is there predictable marketing and sales funnel? Do the processes have a clear structure?

Data & insight

It is important to make your marketing and sales campaigns measurable! Ask yourself to what extent data is collected and analyzed within your company. Is the strategy also continuously optimized based on the data? Through data analysis, you can provide insight into the marketing and sales funnel and find out what a certain activity yields to customers. This way you can base your strategic decisions on facts.

Growing through a repeatable & predictable process

Business growth is therefore not a ‘black box, or only dependent on the persuasiveness or goodwill of the sellers, but it consists of concrete steps that you can follow and that leads to concrete growth results. By introducing structure to the marketing and sales process, we ensure growth and continuity at the same time. It ensures that the organization grows in a scalable and predictable way and that setbacks are absorbed, without sacrificing growth in the long term. That is the basis for years of growth and in our view the ultimate goal of every organization.

Finance: The Blood Of Economic Activities

Finance and economic activity

Finance is generally considered to be the “blood” of economic activity. Not only is the economy not possible without the circulation of money, but if it stagnates, it will cause great turmoil in society. As a result, in every country, nations used to make a number of arrangements to control most of their financial activities. Even in the latter half of the 20th century, such a system did not change, and governments prepared various laws to limit the activities of financial institutions.

The financial big bang started in the late 1990s
So what about your current financial business? First of all, it’s a big change from 20 years ago. Financial institutions have gained great freedom regardless of the type of business due to the major reform of the financial system (Japanese version, Financial Big Bang) that has been gradually implemented since the end of the 1990s in line with the global trend of “financial liberalization”. The attitude of the country (administration) has also been replaced from “supervision” to “surveillance.”

Not only is the movement of funds free to move globally, but interest rates, fees, insurance premiums, etc. can now be freely decided by each company like ‘Singapore forex broker’. The barriers that separate activities by business type are also lowered and banks can sell not only traditional products such as deposits and loans but also securities and insurance. It has also become possible for financial holding companies to operate financial groups. For this reason, major banks called Mega Bank have set up financial holding companies and have banks, trust banks, securities companies, leasing companies, asset management companies, consumer finance companies, etc. under their umbrella. Of course, finance is an important infrastructure that supports the world and national economies, so many efforts require notifications and permits. Still, I’m much freer than before.

“Finance” and “information” are very closely related. Most modern financial businesses are established by “rewriting information” without moving money. In other words, the financial industry can be said to be an industry that is established by handling vast amounts of information.  Banks and other financial institutions have been actively introducing computer systems over the past half-century, focusing on improving the speed, efficiency, and convenience of information processing. You can withdraw deposits at convenience stores without going to the bank, you can easily shop with your card, and you can buy and sell securities on your computer or smartphone because the “information rewriting” mechanism has evolved.

How has the financial business changed?

Next, let’s sort out what has changed in the field of financial business.

  • Efforts have been made to strengthen competitiveness, such as improving product and service capabilities and thoroughly reducing costs.
  • In addition to the awareness of being a public job that supports economic activities, the awareness of making oneself a “service industry” has increased.
  • Unprecedented initiatives such as market research and marketing have become more important.
  • In addition to the role of providing financial functions to support living and industry, expectations and roles as a device that actively produces profits have increased.
  • The financial industry is evolving into a globally competitive industry that produces enormous profits.
  • Being free means more responsibility, so in addition to increasing capital, governance and compliance are being strengthened.

Three Useful Tips For Billing and Accounting

Many businesses get anxious when they think about invoicing and bookkeeping – although it is only through the paid invoice that the wages earned for the service provided can be obtained. This may seem complicated but really, it is not. Here 6 important tips for billing and accounting.

Record Keeping Tips for Small Business Owners

1. Write the invoice correctly. The invoice documents the service performed, delivery and payment terms. In most cases, customers are entitled to it. For example, you can refuse payment under VAT law until you have a proper invoice. But when is an invoice “correct”?

For private customers, invoices are particularly important in order to deduct certain services from the tax, to safeguard any guarantee claims or to secure other evidence. This does not result in any special requirements for the content – apart from the fact that craftsmen should report the proportion of work separately.

The situation in the business environment is different. The input tax deduction plays a major role here – and it only exists if the invoice complies with tax law requirements.

While the tax office examines the input tax deduction meticulously, the requirements for the deduction are less strict as operating expenses. It can happen that an invoice is excluded from the input tax deduction, but is nevertheless recognized as an expense.

2. The small business regulation is not always sensible. Small businesses can be exempted from VAT on request. The small business rule according to the sales tax law is linked to two conditions:

sales in the current financial year are expected to amount to a maximum of EUR 50,000 and
sales in the past financial year were below 22,000 euros.

The emphasis is on the “and” because both conditions must be met. Start-ups can estimate the expected sales in the year of foundation. But be careful, if you start in the middle of the year, the tax-free amount will decrease proportionately. The small business rule eliminates VAT advance registrations and VAT returns. Determining profits is also easier. After all, there is no need to distinguish between gross and net. In addition, small businesses in business with private end customers – who are excluded from the input tax deduction – can offer cheaper services without tax.

On the other hand, there is no input tax deduction. This increases operating costs. Many small business owners also fear that the invoice information could have a negative impact on their image – especially in a business with corporate customers.

3. Advance registration for VAT: meet deadlines! There are taxes that the tax office is after like the devil behind the holy water. Sales tax falls into this category. If you do not submit the advance tax return on time, you will quickly be charged hefty late payment surcharges.

In principle, all companies, self-employed, and freelancers are affected. The only exceptions to VAT are exports, certain health services, real estate, and financial transactions. Those who do not fall into this category or who are exempt from VAT as a small business owner must collect and pay the VAT for the State.

As part of the advance tax return, companies explain to the tax office the VAT burden as the difference between VAT and input tax. As a rule, it must be drawn up on a monthly basis – and must be received by the tax office by the 10th of the following month at the latest.

Those who find it difficult to meet the deadline can save themselves four weeks more with an application for a long-term extension. In return, however, a special advance payment must be made.

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Tips in Starting a Legal Cannabis Business

In just a short span of time, the marijuana industry is growing big. Few years back, the idea of legalization of the weed plant for both medical and recreational use is too hard to achieve. But, when 2018 comes in, there is a booming market of this luxurious weed. Most states in the US have already legalized medical and recreational marijuana.

Moreover, in Colorado, aside from cannabis legalization, they also implemented the regulation and taxation of it. And based on records, around $247 million revenue has been made by Colorado from marijuana taxes, fees, and licenses in just one year. Even the Stocktrade’s ranks of Canadian weed stocks are also on the rise. That’s why more and more entrepreneurs are taking the opportunity to penetrate into this kind of industry.

With its vast growth, the appearance of cannabis can be seen mostly everywhere. From edibles to restaurants, from clothing lines to lifestyle brands – all these are invading the industry with a blast. However, how easy it is to put up a legal business out of this controversial product? What are the strategies that those business enthusiasts are doing to successfully get into the loop?

Strategies to Start-up a Marijuana Business

In business, it is important to know the factors that influence the success of every business financing. Here are two of the most important tips on how you can penetrate the cannabis market and start-up your business legally.

  • Find your interest

In all kinds of business, it is essential that you know the things that really caught your interest. So do with the marijuana market as lots of products may be listed down under the cannabis roof. You may be interested with apparels, production and development of strains, weed cultivation or analytical testing. Actually, the potential product to introduce into the market is really countless.

Yet, the main key is to do the things that you really love the most and incorporate marijuana in it. Then analyse if it can be feasible to penetrate the business industry or not. In case, you think it can work well, then go for it and push it on the market. If not, then you’ll have to keep on thinking and moving on for another. Just keep going until you find the one that really fits.

  • Analyse the flow of the industry

It is very important to check on your environment. Look for your competitors, analyse their businesses, and know the strategies that works for them. Basically, try to consider some factors like the level of competition, the startup costs that you need, or other areas for funding.

Invest more time and effort in studying the ways on engaging into that specific area of the industry.

7 Factors That Influence The Success Of Every Business financing

For a successful application for corporate finance, seven corporate finance success factors are decisive. Whether an application for business credit is filed with a bank, or venture capital is requested from an informal investor, a private equity fund, crowdfunding or a credit union, it is precisely these success factors that pave the way for corporate finance. These are plan, experience, knowledge, perseverance, flexibility, passion and commitment. What that means for a successful credit application becomes clear.

Business Loan Application Process

1. Business financing plan

The application for business financing is always dependent on a plan. Not only a business plan but also a financial plan. That financial plan must meet certain conditions. Different financiers apply to different requirements regardless if it is a no-guarantor loan or a guarantor loan. In essence, it means that there must be sufficient profitability. That seems obvious. But in practice, financial plans prove to be insufficient. After the investment, the profitability appears to decrease. Not a good starting point for corporate credit!

Such a financial plan must above all be based on realistic assumptions and estimates of the prices such as the following:

  • market size
  • market shares
  • costs for producing and delivering the product (or service)
  • the general costs that are necessary to get the business model up and running. keeping, etc.

Within a conservative (cautious) financial forecast, there must be sufficient room to meet the financial obligations. But the financial impact must also be related to the existing market conditions. What are the market prices of competitors, what are realistic cost levels, etc? And: where do they appear?

The nature of the business case is of course also important here. Is this an existing company in a market with undiscovered market potential? A company where a good benchmark is available? Or are we talking about a ‘startup’ in a risky and dynamic business environment with an international market reach? That makes a big difference between the different types of financiers. A credit bank is more likely to be convinced based on the proven financial performance over the past 3 years. While a risk financier is more stimulated by market potential and scalability.

Many informal investors only step into a new business model with – potentially – 5 times better products or services. Or: a cost-effective proposition: that costs 5 times less for a comparable product. A business model with only a marginal or comparable financial performance does not have to rely quickly on support from risk financiers for a starting company. Because experience shows: gradually there are setbacks. Then additional costs and investments must be made. With a marginal business case, the return on investment ROI is ultimately too tight. With all the financial problems that entail.

2. Knowledge for business credit

It helps if a business financing applicant has the right knowledge. And this knowledge also displays in a good way. Knowledge of the products, the markets, the competitors, the trends, the most important suppliers, the customers, the opportunities and the threats. Thorough knowledge arises from experience but also preliminary studies. A financier entrusts his money to entrepreneurs with solid preparation. Who has prepared well? Who has studied the market? Who can take timely measures based on that knowledge? Who can adjust the business case? The ability to interpret the dynamics of the market and to be able to develop the right steps from there is an important plus.

3. Display experience for business financing

For a business credit, displaying the right experience is a big plus. Experience with a comparable role in business. Is the correct commercial, operational and financial experience available !? And if not: how is that solved? And is the experience also within the same or comparable industry? Leading a development project for innovative technical products is different from running a construction company or a transport company.

4. Perseverance

But the perseverance of the credit applicant is also essential. And also to what extent is that supported by his team. The road to success has many obstacles. The business goals are on paper directly behind the horizon. But there are many obstacles on the path there. And they must be taken. If things go wrong, management must have the resilience to get through it. No business financing without perseverance. Because the provider of business financing does not want an active role in business operations.

5. Passion for corporate credit

Passion also counts firmly. The passion for the product or service is crucial when applying for business credit. An absolute confidence in a distinctive position in the market. Added value for customers and a decisive distinctive character compared to the existing and competitive offer. And the passion shown is also contagious: the financier is positively influenced. The passion is carried as fast. And if the financier feels that way too, then the customers and suppliers will also notice it. The basis for solid profitability has then been laid.

6. Flexibility

Flexibility is an essential basis in the borrower’s thinking and actions. Perseverance and passion are good qualities. But an open attitude to the environment and the ability and willingness to bend along with new developments is just as important. Because in the period between the start and a mature operation, the internal and external operating conditions change. This almost always affects the flexibility of companies. If the original plan is maintained too persistently, the right opportunities will not be used.

7. Commitment for business financing

The borrower’s own commitment is always expressed by a substantial contribution of its own financial resources. Some applicants for business financing say with too much ease: that investor only has to do 100%. We contribute our knowledge and experience. That is a nice idea. But no chance with the application for working capital. It is the question of the tear in the pants at a so-called discomfiture.

Summary

The seven success factors for business financing are plan, experience, knowledge, perseverance, flexibility, passion and commitment. Evaluate your own score on all these aspects. Where are the blind spots and points of attention? The preparation of an application for business financing therefore requires a fair reflection on these success factors. This helps considerably to build the right bridges to corporate finance.