Archive for March 2026
The Tax Implications of Selling Shares in an Irish Company
For many Irish business owners, selling shares in their company is the moment where years of work are finally realised financially. Yet it is also one of the most misunderstood stages of the business lifecycle. The focus is often placed on achieving the highest possible price, but in practice, what matters is the amount retained…
Read MoreWorking Capital Pressure in 2026: Why Profitable Businesses Still Run Out of Cash
At Lombard Accountants we know many Irish SMEs assume that profitability guarantees financial stability. In reality, a business can be profitable on paper and still run out of cash. In 2026, working capital pressure remains one of the most common reasons businesses experience financial strain, even when sales are strong. Working capital is the cash…
Read MoreThe Real Impact of Payment Terms on Cash Flow and Business Stability
At Lombard Accountants we know for many Irish SMEs, payment terms are seen as a routine part of doing business. In reality, they are one of the most powerful factors influencing cash flow and overall financial stability. Small changes in how and when customers pay can have a significant impact on how a business operates…
Read MoreBreaking the Revenue Ceiling: Financial Barriers That Limit SME Growth
At Lombard Accountants we know many Irish SMEs reach a point where growth slows, despite strong demand and a solid reputation. Turnover plateaus, opportunities feel harder to convert and progress becomes inconsistent. This is often described as hitting a “revenue ceiling”, and in most cases, the cause is not external. It is financial. One of…
Read MoreThe Risk of “Busy but Not Profitable”: How to Spot and Fix It Early
At Lombard Accountants we know many Irish SMEs fall into the same trap. Sales are strong, the team is busy and the business appears to be growing. Yet at the end of the month, there is little left to show for it. Being busy is often mistaken for being successful, but the two are not…
Read MoreSelling to a Third Party vs Management Buyout: Key Considerations
When planning an exit, Irish business owners are often faced with a fundamental decision: sell to an external buyer or pursue a management buyout. Both routes can deliver value, but they differ significantly in structure, risk and outcome. A third-party sale typically involves selling to a trade buyer or investor. This route can maximise price,…
Read MoreResolving Shareholder Deadlock: Practical Options for SME Directors
Shareholder deadlock is a common risk in Irish SMEs, particularly where ownership is evenly split or decision making requires unanimous agreement. What often begins as a difference of opinion can quickly escalate into a situation where the business cannot move forward. In 2026, with increased pressure on performance and governance, resolving deadlock efficiently is critical…
Read MoreBusiness Valuation Before Exit: What Drives Price in the Irish Market
For Irish business owners planning an exit, valuation is often the most important and most misunderstood element of the process. Many assume that a profitable business will automatically achieve a strong price. In reality, buyers look beyond headline profit figures and focus on a range of factors that determine both value and risk. One of…
Read MoreAvoiding Shareholder Disputes: Governance Steps Every SME Should Take
Shareholder disputes can be one of the most damaging challenges an SME faces. In many Irish businesses, ownership is concentrated among a small group of founders, family members or investors. While this can create strong alignment in the early stages, differences in expectations often emerge as the business grows. Without proper governance, these differences can…
Read MorePlanning Your Exit in 2026: Where Irish Business Owners Should Begin
For many Irish business owners, exiting a company represents one of the most important financial events of their career. Whether the intention is to retire, sell to a third party or transfer ownership to the next generation, a successful exit rarely happens by accident. In 2026, early and structured planning is essential to maximise value…
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