Latest news with #BusinessOwners
RNZ News
3 days ago
- Business
- RNZ News
Dairy and Business Owners Group on scrapping card surcharges
Small businesses say the government's payment surcharge changes are unfairly targeting them and it should instead be putting pressure on banks. Dairy and Business Owners Group chairperson Ankit Bansal spoke to Charlotte Cook. Tags: To embed this content on your own webpage, cut and paste the following: See terms of use.
Forbes
23-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Financial Feminism And Why It's Important For Business Owners
Financial Feminism And Why It's Important For Business Owners Money is power, whether you like it or not. And for too long that power has been out of the hands of women. Financial feminism is a movement that challenges that imbalance and strives for women to have equal access to money, financial literacy, and financial opportunities. Financial feminism is rewriting the rules of money to ensure that women can build profitable businesses that build wealth for them. For business owners, financial feminism isn't just a movement to feel good about, it's a strategy for success. Women entrepreneurs face challenges such as equal access to funding, lower revenue levels in their businesses, and lower business exit values. When we embrace financial feminism, we can break through these barriers and confidently build profitable businesses and create lasting wealth for ourselves and our families. The Gender Wealth Gap in Business Despite being one of the fastest-growing segments of the economy, women-owned businesses still receive less than two percent of venture capital funding. And we're still underearning when it comes to revenue. This is often due to systemic barriers such as the lack of funding, lack of mentorship, and lack of access to high-value networks where major deals and opportunities are made. Financial feminism aims to break down these inequities and encourages women to confidently seek funding, raise their prices, and own their financial power. The more we challenge outdated systems and create ways for women to thrive financially, women can generate wealth for themselves, families, and communities. Why Financial Feminism Matters for Small Business Owners When women can look at business ownership not only to make money but as a way to create lasting wealth and influence, then we have financial control. Here's why it matters: Women are reshaping the business landscape and proving that profit and purpose can coexist powerfully. They are building companies that not only generate wealth but to enforce values like sustainability, equity, and community impact. Financial feminism isn't just about fairness, it's about creating a thriving economy where women succeed, lead, and set new standards for what successful businesses look like. Practical Ways to Practice Financial Feminism as a Business Owner Take the time to understand financial statements, cash flow, and profitability so you can make profitable decisions and confidently grow your business. Apply to women-focused grants, pitch competitions, and venture funds designed to support female entrepreneurs and help close the funding gap. Strengthen the ecosystem by supporting women-owned businesses, hiring women, and mentoring other female entrepreneurs. Treat your business as a financial asset by focusing on increasing its value, creating systems that can run without you, and developing an exit strategy that allows you to sell for long-term wealth. The bottom line is that financial feminism is more than closing gender gaps; it's about taking care of ourselves. With financial literacy skills you can build not just a source of income from your business but a profitable asset that creates long term wealth. When women rise financially, they transform future generations.
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
What is a fast business loan and how does it work?
Key takeaways Fast business loans are a type of financing that can provide funding often within 24 to 48 hours. Fast small business loans often come with higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms than other business loans. Fast business loans are typically offered by online lenders that often have lenient eligibility requirements. When your business is facing a money crunch or requires cash quickly for a time-sensitive issue, a traditional business loan may not necessarily be your best bet. Three-in-four banks take five business days to approve a loan and many other banks take as long as 10 business days, according to the 2024 Small Business Lending Survey published by the FDIC. The good news is there's an alternative: Fast business loans. These loans can often provide funding much more quickly, sometimes in one business day. Before signing on for this type of loan, however, it's important to understand how they work and where you can find the best options. What is a fast business loan? A fast business loan is a type of funding for business owners who want fast access to capital. Many fast business lenders can provide funding within 24 to 48 hours, much faster than the week or longer that most lenders take. Lenders may use technology to determine if you're eligible, sometimes providing you with a loan decision in minutes. These loans also tend to offer quick online applications and minimal documentation requirements, helping you get through the application process quickly. How does a fast business loan work? You typically need to apply for fast business funding through an online lender specializing in quick applications as well as fast approvals and funding. The lender will usually advertise its quick approval process on its website. These lenders often have relaxed eligibility requirements and even offer fast business loans for business owners with bad credit. Once approved, the lender will provide you with a loan agreement that you will want to read thoroughly. To offset the convenience of quick funding, the lender may charge higher interest rates and fees than other lenders. You will want to fully understand the loan costs that you're responsible for before signing. Then, once you sign the agreement, you'll repay the loan with interest and fees over the specified term. Many fast small business loans will have short repayment terms, such as 24 months or less. These short terms mean that you will have higher monthly payments. You may also see higher interest rates than you'd find with other business loans. Fast business loans may be worth the extra cost if you have an emergency or need to capitalize on an opportunity. However, if cost is a factor, you'll want to compare multiple loans for their interest rates, fees and terms required for the loan before you sign. What are fast business loans used for? Fast business funding can serve various purposes, including: Cash shortfalls: Covering temporary cash shortages ensures bills are paid on time and avoids disruptions or negative impacts on credit. Debt consolidation: Debt consolidation loans can help you streamline your debt repayments into one loan. It potentially lowers your loan costs if the new loan offers faster repayment or lower rates than the previous loans. Disaster recovery: Aid in quickly rebuilding a business after a disaster. Emergencies: A fast small business loan can help address an unexpected financial crisis, such as equipment breakdowns or inventory losses, to avoid business closure. Seasonal / short-term borrowing: Loans can support businesses with seasonal fluctuations, aiding during slower periods. Time-sensitive opportunities: Capitalize on growth opportunities quickly with access to immediate funds. For example, you may have an influx of product orders but not enough capital to buy inventory to fill the orders. Unplanned expenses: Fast business funding provides a buffer for unforeseen costs that may impact cash flow. Are you eligible for a fast business loan? Fast business lenders tend to have lenient eligibility requirements, which can work in your favor if you're a startup or have bad credit. Requirements include: Credit score: Most fast small business loans accept fair personal credit of 600 or higher, though you can find loans accepting scores as low as 500. Current debt: Lenders will consider your current debt load to determine if you have a healthy level of debt and can take on new debt. They may use your debt-to-income ratio or debt service coverage ratio to assess your debt load. Revenue: Lenders want to see ample revenue usually at least $100,000 to qualify for a loan. You can find fast business lenders like Fundbox accepting revenue as low as $30,000. Time in business: Fast business lenders typically want to see at least six months in business. Some lenders require more, such as one to two years. Where can you get a fast business loan? If time is of the essence, online lenders typically provide the best route to fast business funding. Many online lenders can disburse funds in as little as 1 to 2 days. In some cases, banks may also be able to provide funds quick, depending on the bank. According to the 2024 Small Business Lending Survey, three-in-ten banks are able to approve a straightforward loan for a small business within one business day. That figure includes both large and small banks. However, many more banks take anywhere from five to 10 days for processing and approval, which is important to bear in mind if you need cash more quickly. If you're ready to apply for a fast business loan, the first step is finding a lender you'd like to work with. Once you've done that, you'll likely need to complete an online application that includes providing information about how long you've been in business, annual gross sales, debt and business formation documents. You may also be asked to provide a balance sheet, profit and loss statement or financial forecasts. Typically, you'll need to provide both business and personal information in order to be considered for a fast business loan. Business credit cards as an alternative To avoid having to take out a small business loan to cover short-term needs, consider keeping a business credit card on hand. Business credit cards may have useful perks like a 0 percent intro APR and rewards on every purchase. Plus, if you can pay your balance in full each month, you can avoid interest charges. Should you get a fast small business loan? Fast business loans work well if you need funding in 24 hours to 48 hours for emergencies or another pressing reason. Since these loans typically come from online lenders, you're more likely to be eligible for fast business funding even with subprime credit or little business experience. You're also more likely to pay higher interest rates than a traditional business loan in exchange for the convenience of fast loan approval. You can also expect short terms, like 24 months or less, and an aggressive repayment schedule. For example, repayments could be on a daily or weekly basis. Because of this, you'll need to know how to manage a tight repayment schedule and high loan costs — and be sure that the benefits of getting a fast business loan are worth it. If you can wait a week or two for funding, you may be able to get a lower-cost loan from a lender that doesn't fund business loans as quickly. Bottom line The best fast business loans can help your company overcome financial setbacks or expand operations. But before applying, carefully review the pros and cons of fast business funding to decide if it's worthwhile or if you should explore other options. If you decide to apply, use a business loan calculator to figure out how much of a business loan you can afford. Consider prequalifying with multiple lenders to see which one offers you the best interest rates and terms. Frequently asked questions How fast can you get a business loan? Many fast small business loans can be in your business checking account in as little as 24 to 48 hours, as long as you're approved. Can you get a fast business loan with bad credit? You can get a fast bad credit business loan. Many lenders are willing to work with business owners with personal credit scores of 600 and above. Some like Fundible are even willing to help people with even lower scores. Expect hefty borrowing costs, and collateral may be required to secure funding. You'll also generally have limited funding options than you would with a higher credit score. What is the fastest SBA loan? The SBA Export Express and Express loans are known to have faster turnaround times compared to other SBA loans; however, the lender determines the processing and funding for these loans. You can also work with an SBA Preferred Lender to receive other SBA loans with faster funding timelines than the usual 30 to 90 days. How do fast business loans affect your personal credit score? As a business owner, it is possible for a fast business loan to affect your personal credit score if you personally guarantee the loan. If you're late making loan payments or default on the loan altogether, your personal credit score will decline. What are alternatives to fast business loans? If a fast business loan isn't right for you there are many other options. Some of the common alternatives included a business credit card, business line of credit, crowdfunding and peer-to-peer funding. Invoice factoring and microloans are still other options to consider.
Entrepreneur
15-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
The Seller's Survival Guide to M&A Deals
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur United Kingdom, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Selling a company is a complex process that requires care and preparation by the owner to mitigate any risks and to protect confidential data. Sellers often get swept up in the process, particularly in the case of a high valuation, and can lose focus on important issues. It's crucial for sellers to take the time needed to protect their interests and pre-empt any risks. In the negotiation stage of mergers and acquisitions [M&A], the target company is expected to disclose information regarding key areas of interest to the potential buyer and to the company's legal and financial advisors. It is the seller's responsibility to organise and manage this information and the required access. During negotiations and the subsequent due diligence process, there is a risk that the potential buyer could be a competitor attempting to acquire valuable information for its own purposes. It's therefore vital that the company being acquired is protected against common risks before entering the negotiation process. But what steps can business owners take to protect their interests during M&A? NDAs and protecting commercially sensitive information Confidentiality agreements, otherwise known as non-disclosure agreements [NDAs], are invaluable legal instruments targeted to protect commercially sensitive information. They are particularly useful in commercial transactions, such as the selling of a company, and it is standard practice to include such provisions in the early stages of a transaction. Confidentiality obligations should be added into the Letter of Intent [also known as a pre-contract protocol], which is a preliminary document showing the intentions of both sides entering a business transaction. If the NDA was not in place before the negotiation process started, the company can enter into a standalone NDA retrospectively, prior to or during the due diligence stage. What terms should be included in the NDA by the seller? The seller needs to clearly define "confidential information", as well as the potential uses and purposes of the information acquired. One common example is stating that confidential information can only be used for the acquisition, negotiation andadjacent processes. The agreement should include a list of the parties who can access the information, such as professional advisors, solicitors or accountants. A number of provisions should also typically be present, including agreement from the buyer not to disclose any confidential information for any other purposes, terms requiring the potential buyer to destroy all the information acquired if the transaction is unsuccessful, and terms preventing the buyer from poaching employees. Due diligence Carrying out due diligence is an important part of the M&A transaction process and helps to increase the chances of a successful sale, from the perspective of both the buyer and the seller. A large amount of information if often needed for a thorough due diligence process, including company documents, shareholders' agreements, articles of association, copies of annual and management accounts, key business contracts, information regarding intellectual property owned by the company, contracts of employment, and any ongoing or threatened litigation procedures against the company. Providing accurate and thorough information helps the buyer build a clear picture of the business. This can also give the seller peace of mind and confidence that the new owner has all the required information on the company's past and present situation. Safe sharing of information Data rooms are often used for efficient information sharing between two parties. In most cases, it is set up and administered by the seller. A data room is typically a virtual repository where all the documents related to the target company are stored. It is usually represented by a secure website, which allows authorised users to obtain documentation. It is vital to ensure that access is only provided to the authorised individuals, and that all those using the secure website link have agreed to the terms and conditions, including confidentiality undertakings. The seller is solely responsible for administering all the information in the data room, including the duty to refrain from sharing any information that is restricted by GDPR or other regulations. Ensuring confidential data does not end up in the hands of the wrong people is vital in protecting the seller during the M&A process. SPAs and mitigating risksA sale and purchase agreement [SPA] can be highly beneficial for both buyers and sellers. An SPA provides a legal framework that details the sale process, allowing both the seller and buyer to understand their rights and obligations. Warranties, indemnities and other provisions in an SPA also help to manage and allocate risks associated with the sale. Buyers, who are often seeking protection from the caveat emptor principle known as "buyer beware", commonly require warranties to be included in an SPA to reduce the starting disadvantage. These warranties usually include the absence of any ongoing or threatened litigation, financial issues and other risks. It is essential for the seller to also include warranty limitations to reduce liability in the event of a dispute. For instance, sellers can set terms stating that all claims must be made within a certain time period, typically up to 24 months after the sale, as well as detail any exceptional conditions upon which warranties do not apply, or set a limit on the aggregate liability for breach of warranties. Selling a company is a complex process that requires the seller to take numerous precautions, many of which can be taken care of with robust and well-established legal instruments. Confidentiality agreements are an effective approach to protect sensitive data, while well-designed sales and purchase agreements should greatly reduce financial liabilities. Due to the complexities of legal structures and the wide variety of risks involved, it is vital to engage legal and financial advisors throughout the process to ensure that all potential issues are covered and a smooth process is achieved.
Wamda
14-07-2025
- Business
- Wamda
MENA founders: stop obsessing over profit. start tracking cash
The income statement, often regarded as the pinnacle of financial reporting, may be deceiving you. Yes, it's one of the Big Three: the Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement. And yes, it tells you how much "income" your company has made. However, most business owners overlook the fact that it doesn't provide a complete picture. Let me explain. Revenue is not always cash The income statement starts with revenue. That's the number everyone gets excited about. But revenue is not cash. Just because you've 'earned' income doesn't mean you've received it. In sectors like construction, SaaS, and wholesale, it's common to recognise revenue months before you get paid. That's where Accounts Receivable shows up, but not on the income statement. It's on the balance sheet. So, you could show strong revenue growth and still be cash-starved. This is not a theoretical risk. Many businesses end up raising funding just to survive the gap between delivering a project and actually getting paid. That's called a working capital crunch, and it can kill a growing business faster than lack of demand. The mismatch between revenue recognition and cash collection is one of the most dangerous traps for fast-growing businesses. You're scaling, taking on more clients, maybe even hiring, but the cash just isn't there yet. And by the time you realise it, you're deep in a liquidity problem. Not all expenses are cash Take depreciation. It's an expense that reduces your net profit, but it doesn't touch your cash that month. You're simply spreading out the cost of an asset over its useful life, an accounting trick that's important for reporting but not for managing your liquidity. So if your net income looks low, don't panic. Look deeper. You might be doing just fine on cash, which is what really keeps the business alive. Timing differences skew reality The income statement operates on the accrual basis of accounting. That means it matches revenues with related expenses, regardless of when the cash changes hands. That sounds appealing in theory, but it creates a disconnect. You might incur expenses in one period and get the revenue in the next. Alternatively, it could be the other way around. Either way, it distorts the picture, especially if you look at one period in isolation. For example, a large one-time expense can tank your profit this quarter even if your business is performing well over the year. Without context, you might make a hasty cut or pull back on investment unnecessarily. Should we consider moving away from using the income statement? The answer is no. The income statement is still a powerful tool — especially for comparisons. It allows you to benchmark your company against others in your industry using standard metrics. If I tell you my revenue grew by 15%, that might sound great. But if everyone else grew by 25%, now we're having a different conversation. It also gives you visibility into how you're spending. The split between COGS (direct costs) and operating expenses is vital. If your gross margin is healthy but your net margin is weak, you may be overspending on admin, marketing, or headcount — which are management decisions, not production issues. The structure of the income statement helps you understand profitability at different levels: gross profit, operating profit, and net profit. Each one tells you something different. Gross margin helps you assess your pricing strategy and production efficiency. Operating margin reveals how lean or bloated your operations are. Net margin wraps it all up, but again, keep in mind what's behind it. The real compass: The cash flow statement Are you a founder or CEO seeking to maintain control? Focus on cash. How much cash is coming in, where is it coming from, and how much is going out? That's what the cash flow statement tells you. And it's the most honest reflection of your company's health. Ultimately, profit is merely a theoretical concept whereas cash represents actuality. Your cash flow statement answers critical questions: Are we generating enough cash from operations to sustain ourselves? Are we relying too much on financing? Are we investing wisely? These answers don't show up in your income statement. Cash is also what investors care about, especially in tough markets. If you're not regularly monitoring your burn rate, cash runway, and operational cash flow, then you are not managing your finances; instead, you are gambling with them. Final thought Every financial statement matters. But don't fall in love with your income statement. It tells one part of the story, and sometimes, it's the most flattering part. The best CEOs I have worked with understand this very well. They employ all three statements and comprehend their interconnectedness. But they know that if you want to truly understand the strength of a business and make smart decisions, you start with cash flow. That's where the real story lives. So next time someone waves a profit figure at you, smile politely — and ask to see the cash.
