How do I grow my business?

It can be difficult to make growth happen without the help of experienced financial advisors. Vertiqo can help you assess your current position and identify your strengths and weaknesses. We can also help you make the most of any growth opportunities that are available to you and determine whether additional funding is required. As your journey progresses, you’ll need to look at new products and markets, get a real advantage over your competitors and strengthen your branding. You
may need to make improvements to your leadership team and improve the way that you sell to your customers.

How do I start a new business?

The duties you carry out during the initial stages can pay back in dividends further down the line. However, it’s much harder to achieve your goals at this stage if you don’t have the support of expert business advisors behind you. One thing that can make your enterprise more credible is stringent business planning. A convincing business plan should include information on the kind of customer you’re targeting, what your expectations are, how you aim to meet them and why you think your
business will be profitable.

How do I raise alternative finance?

Most of the credit used by businesses in the UK comes from major banks, but it’s now increasingly common for businesses to look elsewhere when they need access to cash. Crowdfunding is just one example of alternative finance that’s become incredibly popular with businesses over recent years and has helped a huge number of start-ups to hit the ground running. Although alternative finance has become more popular over recent years, accessing funds via these methods can still be very challenging. You’ll still need to work hard to convince others that your business or idea is worth investing in. You’ll also need to provide evidence of a strong, convincing
business plan and model if you wish to win potential funders over.

How do I protect my cashflow?

Owner-managed businesses frequently struggle to maintain a healthy cash flow but there are things you can do to minimise the risk. When taking on a new customer, it’s essential to carry out research/credit checks. This will help you find out whether you’re dealing with a credible client. It may be possible to get paid in advance or at least on delivery. It’s also wise to get the customer to approve your payment terms before you start selling to them. In some cases, it can be helpful to offer small discounts to customers who pay promptly or even early. However, avoid discounting too much as this could have a considerable impact on your finances.

How do I purchase an investment property?

We can provide you with advice on structuring your asset acquisition, raising capital, property income tax, property disposal tax, VAT compliance and tax on estates which include property assets. We can also provide in-depth information on stamp duty land tax, due diligence, restructuring your property portfolio and reducing the tax burden when you’re investing in property. Support is available whether you’re based in the UK and are buying overseas or vice versa.

How do I manage VAT?

VAT management doesn’t have to be as daunting as you might think. Although Vertiqo can complete a host of VAT-related duties on your behalf, there are a few things you can do to make things even simpler. Paying VAT on time is essential for the financial health of your business. Setting up a direct debit can help you avoid missing payments and also means the funds will be taken from your business account automatically. You also need to make sure you’re charging the right amount of VAT. There are four VAT rates, these are exempt, zero-rated, 5% and 20% (the standard rate). It’s also essential that you’re using the correct VAT scheme. Some of the non-standard VAT schemes could be particularly beneficial for your business.

How do I expand my business internationally?

Many entrepreneurs decide to avoid the common pitfalls by setting up joint ventures. Mergers and acquisitions can help you achieve more global success too and can help you acquire the in-house expertise you need to expand. We have vast experience when it comes to helping businesses with overseas expansion, and we can provide you with expert advice that helps you avoid many of the problems associated with moving into new territories.