Posts by splash
The 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…
Read MorePreparing for Share Transfers: Tax and Legal Considerations for Shareholders
Transferring shares in a company is a significant step for any business owner. Whether the transfer is part of succession planning, bringing in new investors or restructuring ownership, it carries both tax and legal implications. In 2026, Irish shareholders must approach share transfers with careful planning to ensure the process is efficient and compliant. One…
Read MoreCompany Secretarial Compliance: Key Filing Deadlines Directors Cannot Miss
For Irish company directors, staying on top of company secretarial obligations is not optional. Compliance with filing deadlines is a core responsibility, and failure to meet these requirements can result in penalties, reputational damage and, in some cases, legal consequences. In 2026, with increased focus on transparency and governance, maintaining accurate and timely filings is…
Read MoreThe Hidden Cost of Slow Decision-Making in Growing Businesses
At Lombard Accountants we know growth is often seen as a positive signal of success, yet it brings complexity that many SMEs underestimate. As businesses expand, decision-making tends to slow. More people are involved, more information is required, and more caution is exercised. While this may feel like responsible management, slow decision-making carries a real…
Read MoreCash Is Not King Without Control: Strengthening Financial Discipline in Your Business
At Lombard Accountants we know cash flow is often described as the lifeblood of a business. Many SME owners focus heavily on maintaining healthy bank balances, believing that strong cash reserves alone provide security. In reality, cash without control can create a false sense of stability. Businesses can hold significant cash while still facing financial…
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