#BusinessFinance

Beyond Planning: December Actions for a Strong Start to 2025

As we wrap up our series on year-end planning, we’re shifting the focus from “planning” to “doing.” December is the time to put your strategy into action, ensuring that your business enters the new year on solid ground while making time for those important relationships that sustain your business.

A well-executed December can mean a more relaxed holiday season and a confident start to January. Here’s a quick recap of the steps we’ve covered and some final actions to consider for December.

December’s Key Financial Actions

  1. Solidify Cash Flow
    December often brings extra expenses, whether it’s stocking up for the new year or addressing seasonal needs. Check your cash flow for the upcoming months and set aside reserves to cover predictable expenses. If your projections reveal any gaps, work with your broker on a short-term financing option to ensure you have what you need without dipping into emergency funds.
  2. Confirm Tax and Payment Strategies
    Tax management is one area where taking early action can make a big difference. Review your planned tax payments, and touch base with your accountant or broker to confirm any deductions or prepayments. The goal is to wrap up with as few surprises as possible, freeing you up to enjoy the holiday break.
  3. Evaluate Debt and Financing Options
    December is also a good time to review any debt obligations you may have. Consider whether restructuring or refinancing any loans could help reduce interest expenses or align payments more closely with your revenue cycles. Having a proactive conversation with your finance broker now can give you options for better terms and free up cash for growth-focused investments in the coming year.
  4. Set 2025 in Motion
    The close of the year is the perfect opportunity to align your team around next year’s goals. Take a moment to refine your targets for growth, cash flow, and strategic priorities. December’s review of what’s worked well can guide where you focus your time and resources in the new year, ensuring that January kicks off with clarity.

Value Your Relationships This Month

December is also the time to show appreciation to the people who make your business possible. Reach out to your valued clients and suppliers, express your thanks, and strengthen those relationships. This small gesture helps build loyalty and sets the stage for continued collaboration.

At Proteger, we’re here to help you complete your year-end financial actions and make December productive and meaningful. Connect with us for support as you close out 2024 with clarity and purpose, ready to start the new year strong.

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Why a Year-End Financial Health Review Matters for Every Business Owner

With the end of the year approaching, it’s a perfect time to conduct a financial health review to set your business up for growth in the months ahead. Even though we’re only halfway through the financial year, a year-end review helps you proactively manage cash flow, evaluate performance, and refine your strategy. This is the third article in our series and our aim is to show how, with a few targeted steps, you can move into January with greater stability and insight.

Benefits of a Year-End Financial Review

A year-end review goes beyond simply looking at your accounts—it’s a powerful tool for positioning your business for future success. Here’s why it’s essential:

  • Spot Growth Opportunities: Reviewing your financial performance over the past six-months helps you identify areas for growth and double down on revenue-driving strategies.
  • Refine Financial Strategies: Use insights from cash flow trends and profit margins to set goals for budgeting, cost management, and revenue improvement.
  • Manage Tax Implications: Proactively addressing financials now can minimise tax surprises down the line and position you to manage tax obligations strategically when the financial year ends.

Key Areas to Focus on in Your Financial Review

To make your year-end check-up impactful, focus on these crucial areas:

  • Cash Flow: Identify seasonal cash flow patterns and set aside reserves where needed. This understanding will improve liquidity and prepare you for seasonal shifts.
  • Expenses: Conduct an expense audit to uncover excessive costs. Look for recurring expenses that might be reduced or eliminated to streamline your budget.
  • Debt Position: Review outstanding debts and repayment schedules. Assess if refinancing could improve cash flow and allow for more flexible financial planning.
  • Profit Margins: Analyse profit margins across products or services to understand what drives profitability, guiding smarter investment and pricing choices.

Take Action for a Strong New Year

Laying a financial foundation now can translate into momentum in the coming months. Proteger is here to support you in closing out the year with confidence and setting your business on a path for success—reach out to explore how we can assist with your year-end financial review.

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