Posts by splash
Preparing for Expansion: Financial Checks Before Hiring or Investing
Growth is an exciting stage in the life of any business. Whether you are planning to hire new staff, invest in equipment or expand into new markets, expansion often signals that your company is gaining momentum. However, growth also introduces financial risk if it is not carefully planned. Before committing to major hiring or investment…
Read MoreAre Your Overheads Working Hard Enough for Your Business?
At Francis O’Kennedy & Co Accountants we know overheads are often viewed as a necessary cost of doing business. Rent, utilities, insurance, software subscriptions, administration and professional fees can quickly become accepted as fixed and unavoidable. Yet in 2026, with margins under pressure for many Irish SMEs, it is worth asking a more challenging question.…
Read MoreIs Your Business Structure Still Fit for Purpose in 2026?
We regularly meet business owners who established their company structure many years ago and have rarely revisited it since. While the structure may have suited the business at the start, growth, changing tax rules and evolving commercial goals can mean that what once worked well may no longer be the most effective arrangement in 2026.…
Read MoreTop 5 Financial Red Flags SME Owners Should Not Ignore
We believe that many financial problems in businesses do not appear suddenly. In most cases, warning signs emerge gradually. For Irish SME owners in 2026, recognising these red flags early can prevent small issues from becoming serious financial difficulties. Here are five warning signs every business owner should watch closely. 1. Declining Cash Flow Despite…
Read MoreThe Hidden Financial Risks in Long-Term Supplier Contracts
At Francis O’Kennedy & Co Accountants we know long term supplier contracts can provide stability, predictable pricing and security of supply. For many Irish SMEs, they feel like a sensible way to reduce uncertainty. However, beneath the surface, these agreements can create financial risks that quietly undermine profitability if not reviewed carefully. One of the…
Read MoreManaging Rising Costs: Practical Margin Protection Strategies for Irish Businesses
We believe that rising costs remain one of the most significant challenges facing Irish SMEs in 2026. Increased wages, energy bills, supplier pricing and borrowing costs can quietly erode margins if not addressed proactively. Protecting profitability requires more than short term cuts. It demands strategic oversight and disciplined financial management. The first step is understanding…
Read MoreSuccession Planning for SME Owners: Where to Start in 2026
We believe that succession planning is not a one off event but a strategic process that should begin long before you intend to step away from your business. For many Irish SME owners in 2026, the business represents years of effort, personal sacrifice and financial investment. Failing to plan properly can put that legacy at…
Read MoreFunding Growth in 2026: Grants, Bank Finance and Alternative Options Compared
We believe that access to the right funding at the right time can transform a business. In 2026, Irish SMEs have more funding options than ever before, yet choosing the most suitable route requires careful planning and a clear understanding of the costs and obligations involved. Grants remain an attractive starting point. Supports from bodies…
Read MoreCapital Allowances in 2026: Maximising Tax Relief on Business Investments
We believe that well timed investment decisions can significantly improve both operational efficiency and tax outcomes. In 2026, capital allowances remain one of the most valuable tools available to Irish companies seeking to reduce their corporation tax liability while reinvesting in growth. Capital allowances allow businesses to claim tax relief on qualifying capital expenditure. Instead…
Read MoreDirectors’ Responsibilities in 2026: Avoiding Personal Liability Risks
We regularly remind directors that running a limited company does not remove all personal responsibility. In 2026, Irish company law and Revenue compliance standards continue to place clear duties on directors. Failing to meet these obligations can expose individuals to personal liability, financial penalties and reputational damage. Under the Companies Act 2014, directors have a…
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