Predictions for 2017
In 2016 we saw Leicester City win the premier league, our Olympians shine in Rio and our footballers and fans showed their class in France. It was turbulent and uncertain for the business community but the economists were proven wrong and the sharp decline predicted as a result of the Brexit vote hasn’t materialised. Already in 2017 we are heading for an Assembly election in Northern Ireland and Theresa May is bullish but positive about her Brexit plans. As Donald Trump prepares to take residence in the White House it seems the USA might be only 140 characters away from all-out war or an economic melt-down.
Read full articleAutumn Statement Update 2016
Philip Hammond delivered his first Autumn Statement this afternoon and it turns out this is also going to be the last Autumn Statement. The first statement since the referendum to leave the EU, it offered no surprises and no major new tax changes were announced.
Read full articleDirectors – Duty to the Company and Creditors
Operating in a corporate structure often gives Directors a sense of freedom from any personal liability or responsibility for their actions. At its very basic level, Shareholders delegate the day to day management of their Company to its’ Directors. Often Directors and Shareholders are the same people and this causes the common misunderstanding that Directors are not liable for their actions.
Read full articlePartnerships – when the going gets tough
Many company advisors and professionals consider tax implications, cost of accounting and other practicalities in advising clients and businesses on their trading structure. It is often easier for a Partnership to raise much needed capital for start-up business. Some partnerships form naturally between families and even close friends. Like many relationships, they work very well until the cracks begin to show and as in life - the break-up of a business relationship can be just as messy.
Read full articleCharities – the risk of the Trustee
Trustees of Charities, particularly unincorporated charities, should be aware of the extent of their potential liabilities should a charitable organisation face insolvency. In light of significant and immediate cuts to grant funding and reduced income from donations, more and more Charities are coming under financial pressure.
Read full articleUlster Bank Loan Sales
Following the further disposal of the most recent tranche of Ulster Banks "non-performing debts" by Ulster Bank to Cerberus Capital Management it is likely that you or someone you know has been affected by these transactions. This tranche was previously non-performing agricultural debt with the majority of the debt Republic of Ireland based.
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