AI for business, and the landscape for exiting your business as we head into Autumn

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Achieving Growth?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept confined to science fiction. In recent years, it has emerged as a transformative force across industries worldwide. For small and medium-sized enterprises in the UK, AI represents both a challenge and an opportunity - a powerful tool that can drive efficiency, innovation, and growth. However, for many SMEs, the path to adopting AI can seem daunting. Nick Hunt explores the rapid growth of AI, its practical applications for small businesses, and actionable steps to integrate AI with minimal costs and maximum impact. Read more.?

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Tackling Challenges?

Being a business owner can be a lonely occupation. External help and support to tackle challenges is incredibly valuable. Even more so from someone who knows just how you feel. New herd member Brady Last, helped to build and prepare for acquisition a business that was sold to EY in 2020. She tells us more about her experience and how she’ll be working with business owners.?

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Preparing for Exit?

Martin Brown looks at the landscape for exits as we head into the Autumn:?

“The first half of 2024 is fueled with the green shoots of recovery, yet tempered by challenge in certain sectors. Private Equity (and Corporate Finance) remain significantly focused on high probability deals with robust and demonstrably growing businesses. The London Stock Exchange has been active with five main and seven AIM listings. The TMT sector, ESG and Technology plays, in particular AI representing key trends. Working capital, capital re-structure, modelling and data analytics are important in business thinking. Buy and build opportunities in key sectors appear to be gaining impetus and this market momentum appears to be building.?

“It is also that time of year that following holiday and a period of reflection. We anticipate business leaders returning to initiate work on the business and a heightened focus on Exit. Assemble your exit team, understand the sale process, know how attractive your business is and start, preparation is everything. Join the 1% club of businesses that move from inception to exit, let us help you enjoy the largest payment possible!?

“It is the most wonderful time of the year!”?

An addendum, speculation around the Autumn statement and next budget, are leading to lots of questions around CGT and BADR, what is your position??

Source BDO; Deals Market Review, First Half 2024?

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A business that is fit and ready for sale is a business worth owning. Find out how to build such a business by joining this webinar in September. Martin Brown is one of the guest speakers.?

Register for this SAS Accountants webinar using this link?

As always get in touch with the herd and our expert partners for support with your business growth journey and preparations for exit.?