Author: Invested Advisory

While it may be challenging to predict what the future holds, history shows us that economies will eventually recover from major disruptions. It’s useful to reflect on how your business can adapt to global challenges, whether they stem from economic downturns, natural disasters, or unexpected changes in the marketplace. The goal is to prepare your business for the future, reducing the impact of any major disruptions that could arise. It’s…  Read more

A business can survive for a short time without sales or profits, but not without cash. It is cash which pays the bills and allows trading to continue. If you are growing and extending credit to more customers, the need for cash is even greater. Progress payments When you negotiate contracts with customers be aware of setting payment terms that help your cash flow, such as deposits or progress payments.…  Read more

Here are 5 important metrics to pay attention to when it comes to the success of your business, including ways you can improve them. 1. Gross margin Gross margin is the difference between what you pay for a product and what you sell it for. Increasing your prices. If it’s small enough, it may not cause too much disruption, but it may result in significant gain. Reducing cost of goods…  Read more

An up-to-date business cash flow forecast can help you manage your business more efficiently. It’s an estimate of the amount of money you expect to flow in and out of your business. It includes all your projected income and expenses and usually covers the next year, though it can also cover a shorter period such as a week or month. Ideally you should develop at least three scenarios for your…  Read more

As a small business owner, it can be incredibly difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The obligations and responsibilities of running your own business often take priority over any personal pursuits, no matter how important they may be for your overall well being. But, with the right strategies and mindset in place, it is possible to strike an effective balance between working hard on your business and making time…  Read more

Starting a business is a thrilling adventure, filled with dreams of innovation and success. But let’s be honest—it’s also a bit of a gamble. Many startups face obstacles that, if not navigated carefully, can lead to failure. While vision and leadership are often highlighted as crucial elements, it’s the relentless grind of hard work and experimentation that truly makes the difference. Let’s dive into some common pitfalls that every budding…  Read more

Managing cash flow is crucial for small business owners. Even if your business is profitable, poor cash flow management can create significant challenges. In this guide, we’ll share practical tips to help you avoid a cash flow crisis and ensure your business remains financially healthy. Understanding cash flow Cash flow refers to the money moving in and out of your business. Cash inflows come from sales, interest earned, and investments.…  Read more

Marketing can feel like a daunting task for small business owners. If you’re new to the game, or maybe you’ve been in business for a while and just haven’t quite cracked the code, navigating the world of marketing can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. Your business deserves to be seen, heard, and thriving – and with the right guidance, you can make marketing work for you. Let’s…  Read more

As a business owner, you often find yourself pulled in different directions by competing responsibilities. It can feel daunting to classify tasks and tackle the most time-consuming ones first. But why is it so hard for us to start – or even finish – seemingly insignificant tasks? Why do these tiny tasks become the bane of our existence, tempting us into procrastination limbo? Let’s explore why we get stuck on…  Read more

Be wary of discounting on a regular basis to gain sales. It can be a sound strategy if you are aiming to find new customers and sell loss leaders, or you have a cost or price advantage. Discounting can also work in certain circumstances, for example, selling off old stock or to release working capital if funds are required more urgently elsewhere. But if you’re fighting a price war with…  Read more

Restructuring your business can feel like a daunting task, but in times of economic uncertainty or shifting markets, it can be the key to long-term success. The idea is to focus on what works and making tough decisions about what doesn’t. It’s how you can build a stronger, more agile business. Here’s how to approach restructuring with confidence and purpose. Audit your business with honesty To strengthen your business, it’s…  Read more

Criminals are impersonating the ATO to steal identities, access bank accounts, and defraud Australians, often using highly convincing emails, SMS messages, and phone calls. There has been a dramatic increase in phishing scams that pretend to be from the ATO. These scams take advantage of the busy tax season to catch people off guard. Whether you’re expecting a refund or preparing to lodge your return, staying alert could save you…  Read more

Equity capital involves selling a portion of your business in exchange for cash. It’s often ideal for startups or businesses in high-growth phases that need significant funding for expansion. There are various types of equity investors, including angel investors, venture capitalists (VCs), and corporate investors. Talk to us early about your options and how we can help. Each source its own approach and requirements, but not all can provide the…  Read more

If you currently owe money to the ATO, it’s about to get more costly. From 1 July 2025, the two most common interest charges the ATO applies to late or underpaid tax will no longer be tax deductible. That means both individuals and businesses will soon face a higher real cost of holding tax debt. What types of ATO interest will no longer be deductible? General Interest Charge (GIC) This…  Read more

If you need to sell more items than expected to reach your break-even point, there are several steps you can take to lower that point. Step 1: Develop premium products and services If you can increase the average value of each sale, you’ll widen the difference between the sale price and labour and materials. Developing premium products and services allows you to start selling items where you can charge more…  Read more

Debt can be a crippling problem for small businesses wanting to grow or just break-even during difficult times. By reducing debt you’ll improve the value of your business, its financial situation, and its ability to continue operating into the future. Assess your debt situation Take a detailed look at all of your debts – both current and long term. Evaluate which ones are more urgent and which can be parked…  Read more

According to recent research, a staggering two thirds of US millionaire-owned businesses are operating without a succession plan—and even fewer small business owners around the globe are prepared for their CEO’s eventual exit. Recent stats from PWC Global show that family owned businesses are no more prepared: 43% don’t have a succession plan in place, and only 12% survive to the third generation. No matter whether your company has one…  Read more

Whether you handle online payments, store customer data, operate remote teams, or rely on SaaS platforms to run your company, you’re exposed. From stolen credentials to ransomware, cybercrime can disrupt your business, cost you real money, and damage your reputation. It’s important to pay attention to anything the seems out of the ordinary, such as: Unusually large transactions from new or unverified customers. Multiple credit cards used by a single…  Read more

Starting a business is an exciting time. Maybe you’re launching a dream project with a close friend or teaming up with a few like-minded partners to bring an idea to life. But as thrilling as the early stages of running a company can be, it’s essential to think ahead – especially when it comes to setting up a shareholders agreement. Wondering, “Is this something my business really needs?”. The answer…  Read more

High inflation affects both businesses and individuals, as rising prices reduce profitability and buying power. Staff shortages, freight challenges, and bad weather add more layers to the cost-of-living crisis. As a business owner, you need to adapt to these changing conditions to survive. Consider the following strategies to prevent inflationary pressures from causing a rise in your business costs. Option 1: Wait until the market recovers Maintain current prices and…  Read more