News Desk | Page 464 Of 997

Global water scarcity is ‘code red’ for humanity, the answer is private finance

Finance

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5 July 2022

Global water scarcity is ‘code red’ for humanity, the answer is private finance

Half the world is now facing droughts, floods and filthy water – and the problem urgently requires huge amounts of private finance, warns the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory, asset management and fintech organisations.

The warning from deVere Group’s Nigel Green comes as Italy declares a state of emergency amid the worst drought in 70 years.

Elsewhere, Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, which provides water for tens of millions of people and countless acres of farmland in the southwest, is now just one-quarter full.

Meanwhile, once again Sydney is flooded as the impact of the climate crisis becomes the new normal for Australia’s most populous state.

Nigel Green says: “There’s no doubt that all around the world the fallout of the growing climate crisis is accelerating.

“The UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has warned in a report that more than half the world’s population faces water scarcity for at least one month every year, others will be hit by regular severe floods, previously only seen once-in-a-generation, while others have access to only dirty water.

“This is now being played out in real-time every time you look at the news.”

He continues: “A failure to get a grip on this emergency is going to produce catastrophic, irreversible consequences later.

“The response will require political and social determination on a global scale.

“But, critically, it will also require tens of trillions of dollars. As governments alone cannot afford this now, especially with slowing economic growth amongst other headwinds, the solutions demand private financing.”

As such, notes the deVere Group CEO, the financial sector needs now needs to become more proactive to “unleash and mobilise” the funds required.
He is calling for never-before-seen levels of cooperation between financial advisories, insurance firms, banks, wealth and asset managers, investment companies, fintech groups, banks, and auditors in the fight against climate change.

“Governments around the world have proven themselves to be slow – at best – at responding to the urgent ‘code red’ situation’ we’re facing.

“Therefore, the financial industry must step-up. If we don’t, the level of funding will not be available, nor at the pace necessary, to mitigate human-created global warming.”

Nigel Green concludes: “Climate change is the greatest risk multiplier to our planet, to our communities, and to our way of life.

“It will take huge amounts of private financing to halt its impact.

“The onus now falls on the financial sector to help mobilise and unlock the necessary funds through education and robust, impactful investment solutions.”

Some Property Features Buyers Are Looking For In 2022

Property

Sam Allcock

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5 July 2022

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Some Property Features Buyers Are Looking For In 2022

A brand new year means there are new buyer trends and preferences. The key is staying ahead of the curve. This is especially true if you plan on selling your home anytime soon.

Here are some of the major things that a lot of prospective buyers and investors will be looking for in 2022. Knowing these things can help you get as much money as possible from cash house buyers or on your next home sale.

1. Open Kitchen

One of the top things a lot of new buyers are looking for is an open kitchen. A lot of prospective home buyers are looking for homes that have open kitchen concepts that make the space look bigger. This not only improves the perceived size of the kitchen but also makes it easier to entertain guests. While this may mean you need to knock down some walls to make it happen, it could be something worth considering.

After all, your kitchen is typically the major selling point for your property. Because of this, it’s going to be a deal-breaker for a lot of prospective buyers. You want to ensure you are putting the most effort into making your kitchen as marketable as possible. A lot of buyers have specifics they are looking for when it comes to kitchen features. Look to add complete water filtration systems, walk-in pantries, an island, and even a double sink.

2. Better Laundry Room

A lot of buyers in the past may have glossed over the laundry room. However, that’s no longer the case. Nowadays, more and more buyers are looking for full-sized laundry rooms because they spend so much time in them. They don’t want small laundry closets anymore. These days, those won’t cut it. A laundry room can be a good place to add a lot more practical storage space. For instance, you can add some cabinets on top of the washer and dryer appliances. You can use these areas to store a lot of stuff including various household essentials that you normally might have to throw in your bathroom cabinets.

Some of the other features that a prospective buyer might value in a laundry room would be a large sink tub for hand washing any clothes. Another good thing would be an ironing board to get some ironing done while you are doing the laundry. A fold-out folding board is another good option. All of these things can significantly reduce the total amount of time it takes to finish chores which is the number one factor a lot of prospective buyers want.

3. Completely Separate Home Office

A lot of new buyers are looking at the changes happening within the workplace. More and more people are working out of the office. With more people working remotely, it’s important to consider whether or not your home is conducive to having a quiet and productive workspace. Nearly 1 in 4 Americans are currently working from home nowadays. They will want a completely separate office space that they can use to get work done in their homes.

You cannot simply turn a part of the family room into an office. They want separate rooms that can be turned into a quiet home office. The good news is this isn’t necessarily difficult. You can stage a lot of rooms to be a home office and you can make subtle changes to make it more conducive to being a home office. Some of the best things to add to a home office would be Internet cabling, natural light, bookshelves, and more.

4. Multi-Use Garage

This is another major change a lot of prospective home buyers are looking for when it comes to the features they want going forward. A lot of buyers want to get the most out of the space they have available. They are looking to take advantage of every part of their homes. A lot of times, a garage is wasted space. It can be very difficult to see the value of a normal garage with so much clutter.

You want to showcase the potential of the garage by clearing everything out. You also want to add a lot of cool elements that can help them realize the full potential of the garage. This includes using vertical space for adding storage, bringing in practical cabinets, and even adding a workbench. All of these things can help you showcase the space as an extension of the home that adds value. Another good idea that could be marketable is turning some of the garages into a home workout area as more and more people are looking to stay healthy and fit at home.

5. Adding An Outdoor Feature

The curb appeal of your home is essential. If people don’t like the look of your home from the outside, they are never going to come for a look inside. You need to have stellar curb appeal if you want to pin buyers against one another and generate a lot of interest in your home.

Because of this, adding outdoor elements and improving the outdoor space is a must. You want to utilize the space outdoors as well as possible to showcase its potential. Adding a pool could be a good option, albeit a pricey one. You could even add an outdoor kitchen if you truly want to market your home as a high-end option in the marketplace. However, you don’t have to spend a fortune to add more value. Every detail matters and you could add a walkway, a small patio, or even a deck to help open the space and give prospective buyers something to visualize themselves using.

6. Complete Guest Suite

A lot of prospective buyers are looking to entertain their friends and family. They want to be able to invite people over for dinner and house their guests while they are visiting during the holidays. You want to have a guest suite if possible to attract these buyers.

7. Half Bathroom

Buyers nowadays are also looking for half bathrooms. These bathrooms are much more functional than they are appealing. They are designed to be clutter-free and functional spaces where people can go to the bathroom. Half bathrooms may have been seen as outdated in the past, but a lot of prospective buyers see the value they add to a home and they are actively looking for homes with them.

Most Important Factors to Consider When Buying a House

Property

Sam Allcock

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5 July 2022

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Most Important Factors to Consider When Buying a House

Buying a house is a considerable investment and one of the most important decisions ever. Knowing what you’re looking for and what to avoid is essential. The only variable is what’s important to you and your family.

However, we’ve compiled a list of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a home.

1. Location

Location is everything when it comes to real estate. The neighborhood, commute, schools, and other amenities should all be considered. You want to find a place you’ll be happy with for years.

2. Size

The size of the house is also essential. You need to ensure it’s big enough for your family and all your belongings. But, you also don’t want to overspend on a house that’s too big for your needs.

3. Budget

Your budget is one of the most important factors when buying a house. You need to make sure you can afford the mortgage, repairs, and other costs associated with homeownership. When purchasing properties in Port Andratx, staying within your means is essential.

4. Maintenance and repairs

Another vital factor to consider is the cost of maintenance and repairs. Older homes will likely need more work than newer ones. It’s important to factor in these costs when budgeting for your new home.

5. Warranties and insurance

When buying a house, get warranties and insurance for the home. This will protect you from any unforeseen repairs or damages.

6. Curb appeal

The curb appeal of a house is the first thing you’ll see when you drive up. It’s essential to ensure the house’s exterior is well-maintained and looks its best. Your real estate agent can help you find a place with excellent curb appeal.

7. Home inspection

Before you buy a house, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional. This will help you identify any problems with the property before you make your purchase.

8. Resale value

When buying a house, you should also consider its resale value. You may not plan on selling anytime soon, but it’s crucial to consider the future. You’ll want to make sure you can sell the house for a profit if you decide to move.

There are numerous benefits of working with real estate agents; namely;

a) To find a suitable property, it is essential to consult with a real estate agent. They have the experience and knowledge to help you find the perfect home.

b) A real estate agent can also help you negotiate the price of the house. They will fight for you to get the best deal possible.

c) A real estate agent will also help you with the paperwork and other technicalities involved in buying a house. This can be confusing and overwhelming, but it will make it much easier for you.

d) Working with a real estate agent is an excellent way to ensure you get the best possible deal on your new home.

e) Real estate agents are also a good source of information about the local market. They can tell you about upcoming developments, schools, and other essential factors to consider when buying a house.

If you are planning on buying a house soon, be sure to keep these factors in mind. They will help you find the perfect home for your needs and budget. And, if you work with a real estate agent, they can assist you throughout the process.

5 ways to fight inflation as a SaaS business

Business

Sam Allcock

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5 July 2022

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5 ways to fight inflation as a SaaS business

The consumer prices index (CPI), which is used to measure inflation, is linked to the prices consumers pay for everyday goods – as the name implies.

But businesses are being hit by inflation as well, even in software. Chances are, you’re paying more for computer hardware, office supplies, and labor than you were a year ago.

And since other SaaS businesses face the same pressures, you might be paying more for accounting and HR software than you used to.

Here are five ways you can fight inflation as a software as a service business.

1. Lock into longer-term contracts, and pay upfront

If your business is growing, and you have cash available, it often makes sense to lock into longer term contracts with your suppliers. And if possible, it’s also beneficial to pay upfront.

By doing this, most vendors will give you access to around a 5-10% discount, depending on the size of the contract and the nature of the product.

In this economic environment, there is a lot of value in locking in customers for longer. If you can provide this sort of certainty to your suppliers, whether it be for software, hardware, insurance, or anything else, you can usually get a lower price, even with annual inflation at 7-8%.

2. Don’t be afraid to switch suppliers

If your suppliers aren’t willing to offer discounts for extended commitments, or you feel that they’re not providing enough value, consider switching to a different vendor.

CRM software is one area that companies often end up overpaying. These types of products often have all sorts of add-ons that you have to pay for, but which don’t add a whole lot of value at the end of the day.

For example, if you mostly use your CRM for sales, are you paying more for customer service functionality that you don’t really need? In this case, a more simple CRM solution might be a better choice.

If you’re looking to cut costs, sit down with stakeholders who interact with these suppliers and their products, and ask some difficult questions about what it’s really necessary for their teams to have, in order for the business to hit its growth targets.

3. Shop around when buying hardware

For SaaS companies that are back in the office, hardware is an important cost to consider.

For the average SaaS business, you’ll need to buy, maintain, and eventually upgrade equipment like:

Computers
Printers – maybe only one or two per twenty employees, in this day and age
TVs, for presentations
Phones, especially if you have a large sales team
Computer peripherals, like mice and keyboards
Computer monitors

These expenses can really add up, especially with the chip shortage we’re facing at the moment.

To save money on hardware, there are a number of things you can do:

Buy refurbished computers and phones. This is a great way to get powerful hardware that will enable your team to maximise its productivity, without spending a fortune.
Compare phone deals in-depth, and consider buying phones on a contract, just like you were buying a plan for yourself. This way, your monthly cost on the phone with a SIM plan will be lower overall. If an employee leaves, you can reset the phone and give it to a new hire, so there’s usually no harm in committing to a 12 month or longer phone contract.
Buy items in bulk from larger distributors, if your business has enough employees to make this work.

You might also be able to save money by leasing computers, printers, and other equipment. If you’re not already doing this, it’s a good idea to speak to your accountant, because leasing may or may not be tax-optimal, depending on where your company is based.

4. Don’t be afraid to raise prices

If you’ve wanted to raise prices for a while, but are afraid of customer backlash, now is a great time to do it. Because of the inflation we’re experiencing at the moment, you have a good reason to make your product more expensive.

If you’re still worried about potentially upsetting customers with a price increase, you could try to release a new product tier with a higher cost and more functionality, and push your best customers towards this option. This works best if you know that some customers have a higher willingness to pay, and will get more value out of the increased functionality.

Alternatively, you could release more features on your existing pricing tiers, and then raise prices. Just ensure that the new functionality will have value for the majority of customers, before using this to justify a price increase.

5. Consider outsourcing/offshoring non-core tasks

If the labor market is driving your costs higher, you could consider outsourcing or offshoring certain tasks that are not mission-critical.

There are companies known as business processes outsourcers that manage tasks such as customer service, collections, and even software development, potentially helping you to lower costs.

Just ensure that you avoid outsourcing business functions that are key value drivers for your company. In SaaS businesses, it’s generally not a good idea to use external developers, as this will increase the time it takes to deploy new functionality, and may reduce the quality of the code you’re shipping.

Beginners Tips & Tricks for Using Laser Wood Cutting Machine

Lifestyle

Sam Allcock

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5 July 2022

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Beginners Tips & Tricks for Using Laser Wood Cutting Machine

In this day and age, there is no shortage of options when it comes to purchasing woodworking tools. It is more difficult for beginners because they have less info about using the laser wood cutting machine.

Undoubtedly, these wood-cutting laser machines come with the ability to cut through even the densest of wood stock. It can save time and frustration when crafting your projects.

But what will be the mess if you are a beginner and do not know how to do your cutting work perfectly and effectively? Do not worry; this blog will inform you about some fantastic tricks and tips for efficiently using the laser wood cutter.

What are Laser Wood Cutter Machines & Their Purposes?

Laser wood cutter machines are tools used to cut pieces of wood by using a laser beam. The laser beam is directed at the wood, and the machine moves the beam around to cut the desired shape. There are many different types of laser wood cutting machine, each with specific purposes.

One type of wood cutting machine is a commercial-grade machine. These machines are designed for industrial use and can be very large. They are typically used to manufacture furniture or other large wooden objects.

Another type of wood cutting machine is a hobbyist or DIY machine. These machines are smaller in size and are designed for personal use. They can be used to create small projects, such as wooden signs or picture frames.

Advanced Tips and Tricks for Wood Cutting Laser Machine

There are a few things you need to take into account when using a wood cutting machine.

Thickness of Wood

The most crucial factor is the thickness of the wood. You need to make sure the laser can cut through the material thickness without difficulty. If the wood is too thick, it will not be cut properly and could potentially cause damage to the machine.

Type of Cutting Material

Some woods are more complex and can be more challenging to cut with a laser. Make sure you select a variety of wood compatible with the machine.

Wear Safety Gears

The beams emitted by the lasers are mighty and can cause significant eye damage if they come into contact with your eyes.

Prepare Yourself by Reading Instructions

Most importantly, increase your knowledge about the machine by reading the manual or instructions provided by the manufacturer. By knowing the valuable tips from the makers, you can use them without any haphazard. Moreover, it will increase the chances of working as a pro simultaneously.

Take Away

In conclusion, using a wood cutting laser machine can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it is essential to keep the following tips in mind:

Always wear safety goggles.
Avoid contact with the beam.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful pieces of woodwork that you can be proud of.

Strong Investment in CX Sees Sabio Group Drive Record Growth

Sam Allcock

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5 July 2022

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Strong Investment in CX Sees Sabio Group Drive Record Growth

Sabio Group, the digital customer experience (CX) transformation specialist backed by Horizon Capital has announced strong financial and operational performances in its annual report and accounts, published today.

In the year to Sept 30^th 2021, the Group’s turnover increased by 52.8% to £152.5m (2020: £99.8m) while gross profit jumped 43% to £54.5m.

The Group’s annuity services revenue – linked to its managed services, support, technology services and its own IP – also saw a healthy increase of 41% to £96.3m (2020: £68.5m).

Market momentum to consume capabilities ‘as-a-service’, an increase in strategic transformation engagements and revenues from the acquired Anana, Fonetic and makepositive businesses led to Sabio’s professional services revenue more than doubling in the year – rising to £36.5m (2020: £17m)

As a result, EBITDA – earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation – increased by 35% to £22m.

Nils Steinmeyer, Sabio Group’s Chief Financial Officer, said: “Despite a challenging trading environment, I am both proud and delighted to announce that Sabio Group excelled in its performance against our key financial KPIs.

“Our strong growth in turnover was a culmination of the positive organic growth of the business and from our inorganic growth strategy via acquisitions, which we continued.

“Organically, the Group’s professional services revenue also grew steadily as customers engaged on longer-term projects, with strategic clients in particular engaging more frequently in long-term, agile deployment projects.”

Nils added: “The Group intends to continue to invest heavily in the business, marketing our message out to the world and deploying better technology internally to empower our people. Our strategy of managing multiple complementary technologies for our customers wrapped in our own Intellectual Property (IP) has demonstrated clear differentiation in the market and helped to drive our continued growth.”

Operationally, Sabio successfully navigated challenges associated with the pandemic to build on the momentum of its 650-plus customer base continuing to evolve their remote working and digital transformation CX strategies.

That momentum was enhanced by the purchases of the ‘makepositive’ and Fonetic businesses, which saw Sabio continue with its strategy of adding complementary expertise, technology and IP required for both geographical growth and further market penetration. At FY21 year end, 76% of the Group’s top 50 customers use Sabio products to monitor, optimise and deliver CX.

Jonathan Gale, Chief Executive Officer at Sabio, said: “Despite the challenges associated with the pandemic, the Group’s position and propositions within the market strengthened during the year as our customers, and enterprises in general, continued their evolution further to more remote working and digital transformation projects.

“As a result, customer experience strategies grew exponentially in importance and developed to meet the changing needs of customers whose preferences for engagement changed significantly over the period characterised by a significant switch to digital channels with increased support from AI.”

Throughout the year, the Group successfully strengthened its partner network, nurturing relations with the likes of Twilio, Google Cloud, Amazon Connect and Salesforce, while re-enforcing its partnerships with established vendors such as Verint, Avaya and Genesys.

In alignment, it continued its own leadership evolution, appointing both Matt Tuson as Chief Commercial Officer and Nils Steinmeyer as Chief Financial Officer during the reporting period.

Jonathan added: “We established our position in the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) space through the acquisition of makepositive and further strengthened our capability around Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Automation, in particular our Bots-as-a-Service offering, via the acquisition of Fonetic. The acquisitions complement the Group’s existing portfolio, providing new and improved capability and strengthening its standing within the contact centre, customer experience, AI & automation and customer relationship management spaces.

“This now positions Sabio as one of only a handful of companies that possess such levels of expertise, and we believe we are now the largest that is focused on delivering globally for European headquartered companies.”

Sabio also officially launched its new brand and website in the reporting period ensuring greater clarity around the product and service offerings and a compelling visual identity that marked the significant and continued development of the business.

M&A expected to rise as US stocks suffer worst fall in over 50 years

Sam Allcock

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4 July 2022

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M&A expected to rise as US stocks suffer worst fall in over 50 years

Number of public-to-private transactions in early 2022 almost 50% higher than the same period last year

Business advisor, Claire Trachet – CEO and co-founder of Trachet, and CEO of accounting and consultancy advisory, Theta Global Advisors, Chris Biggs, discuss how dealmaking could increase amidst a spate of decreasing valuations

US stocks have experienced their worst fall in the first half of a year since 1970, marking the latest gloomy announcement from the financial world following the World Bank’s warning of a global recession last month. Specifically, the benchmark S&P index fell a staggering 20.6%, the Dow Jones more than 15% and the tech-heavy Nasdaq an even worse 30%. These falls have been mirrored by similar drop offs in markets across the UK, Europe and Asia. However, Chris Biggs, CEO of accounting and consultancy firm, Theta Global Advisors, and Claire Trachet, CEO of business advisory firm, Trachet, explain how this market could present a wealth of opportunities for deep-pocketed private investors looking to capitalise on plummeting valuations for both private and publicly listed companies.

The highest profile and recent example of a plunging valuation is Swedish Buy Now, Pay Later giant Klarna, falling from $46bn to just $6.5bn. These declines have also had a knock-on effect on the value of dealmaking in 2022, with the first quarter of this year being 20% down on the same period last year. However, the number of M&A has remained strong, and an analysis from PwC has highlighted that deals done during times of economic downturn often provide buyers with better returns, meaning there could be a strong flurry of activity in the second half of the year. There has also been an increasing number of public-to-private transactions so far in 2022, further highlighting the opportunities that can be found in the current market.

Ultimately, during times of high inflation, investors do not want to be sitting on their cash. This means that despite current market uncertainty, there will continue to be activity from VC houses and institutional investors – whether that is through acquisitions or funding. However, there has been a notable shift in the market away from late-stage startups with high cash burn, as a much greater emphasis is now being placed on sustainability. Therefore, it is the early-stage startups with this ethos in mind that stand in better stead amidst this challenging environment. In order for a deal or fundraising round to go smoothly, financial advisors are key in helping to facilitate the process and gain the best terms for the company involved.

According to data from Deloitte, nearly two-thirds (63%) of businesses report that the success of their M&A was moderately or highly dependent on a successful transformation – often led by a senior level and external advisor. In order for startups to take advantage of the exit opportunities, Claire Trachet and Chris Biggs outline the importance of bringing an experienced CFO or COO – in an interim capacity – to implement transformational changes to working capital, reorganisation, increasing cost reduction, and legal entity restructuring to secure the best deal possible.

Chris Biggs, CEO & Founder of Theta Global Advisors, explained how companies need to be agile in order order to complete an IPO or M&A in the current market:

“We’re trying to encourage companies to get themselves as ready as quickly possible. Because, if you have that little opportunity that comes up in six months’ time, you must take it and not push it out to 12 months. In an uncertain market you need to be ready to take the chance when it arises, as there may not be many more on the horizon – especially if the cash flow runway is limited.

“A key part of that is enlisting the help of experienced advisors that can help you get your business’ shop window in order, so to speak. This early and expert preparation gives companies the greatest chance of getting a deal, IPO or fundraise over the line.

“I think the private equity houses are looking for opportunities to invest in new companies, because it’s that first phase where you can start to invest and grow it – that’s where you can add the most value and see your overall investment grow. So, the problem is, if it’s a company they have already invested in for three, four or even five years they have already gone through that cycle. So, if they invest more in it they are going to get smaller returns for what they invest in.

“A lot of the PE houses would prefer to invest in companies where there is greater growth potential – i.e. that first round of funding that companies do. I think we are possibly moving into the environment where funding of private equity is going to become more common than funding through classic banks. Because these private equity houses need to get the cash out.”

Business advisor, Claire Trachet, CEO & Founder of Trachet comments on the current state of the dealmaking market in 2022:

“Venture capital tends to work as a reactive market, each startup depends on the next stage (either a subsequent round of financing or an exit) for their short-term success – usually every 16 – 18 months. The startup ecosystem has enjoyed a generation of businesses that have only experienced a bull market, where funds and good terms have been widely available. As the world enters a bear market, it is the late-stage startups with a negative cash flow (a lot of them) and that have raised money at high prices, that are going to be the most compromised – the well of free money has dried up.

“We’re entering unchartered territory, forcing a conversation across all management teams will help create communication and agility. Startups would benefit from having a process in place for sudden changes within their immediate competition, industry, or the global economy. It’s important amidst these challenging times to assess end goals – perhaps in light of what’s happening, a better course of action may be to consider an exit, or conversely there may be another company worth acquiring to fortify and expand existing operations.

“Then startups should focus on extending the runway, so to speak – be diligent with the business’s working capital by optimising cash flow, review the contracts you have with your clients and minimise accounts receivable. Applying this mentality to the whole of the organisation is going to be key in the next year, whether you’re entering a fundraising round or considering an exit, ideally startups should be doing both.”

FOODHUB FIGHTS COST OF LIVING CRISIS WITH EMBEDDED FINANCE LEADER

Sam Allcock

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4 July 2022

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FOODHUB FIGHTS COST OF LIVING CRISIS WITH EMBEDDED FINANCE LEADER

Pioneering tech company Foodhub has announced a new partnership with embedded finance leader, YouLend in a bold effort to support its partner restaurants and takeaways in their battle against the cost of living crisis.

Thousands of small and medium-sized businesses have been stretched like never before this year, with inflation, supply-chain issues and workforce challenges causing widespread problems.

That’s why Foodhub, one of the UK’s cutting-edge tech companies, is now offering its partner restaurants and takeaways additional support – through embedded finance.

YouLend provides innovative financial solutions, leveraging cutting-edge technology and forward-looking data sources to enable platforms like Foodhub to provide fast, flexible and most importantly, competitive financing to businesses struggling with cash flow, – all within a platform they already know and trust.

As a non-banking facilitator, YouLend is able to offer zero-interest merchant cash advances for an upfront, fixed fee, to small and medium-sized businesses which are more likely to have been turned away by big banks.

Repayments are made according to a predetermined percentage of a restaurant or takeaway’s weekly card takings, so businesses repay more on busy weeks and less on slower ones.

Meanwhile, YouLend bases financing amounts on client performance, instead of interest rates,– allowing businesses to budget effectively.

Foodhub’s partner restaurants and takeaways can spend this additional funding on anything from inventory purchases to marketing investments, and everything in between.

Foodhub CEO Ardian Mula was inspired to launch the partnership as part of the firm’s ongoing commitment to its partners and a desire to provide innovative solutions to combat the cost of living crisis.

He added: “Times are tough for many businesses, with the cost-of-living crisis causing widespread problems, but we want our takeaway and restaurant partners to know that we are here for them.

“That’s why we’re so excited to announce our new partnership with YouLend, which will give our restaurants and takeaways access to innovative financial solutions through flexible funding.

“We’re positive that this ethical financial support will help a number of our partners navigate these choppy financial waters – allowing them to come out stronger than ever on the other side.”

Kasper Larsen, co-CEO at YouLend, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Foodhub and eager to start supporting the company’s partners.

“Inflation is putting everyone under pressure, but it is hitting SMEs in particular from multiple angles, as their supply costs are rising faster than their sales. On top of that, SMEs are facing exclusion from traditional finance providers because of outdated approaches to risk assessment.

“We’re here to help, offering financial solutions that will help Foodhub’s partners in the short and long term.”

Foodhub’s partnership with YouLend comes just after the launch of a new company initiative called Love Local, which will see restaurants and takeaways providing free meals to local charities.

The scheme pledges that once a takeaway/restaurant receives a certain number of orders via the ordering platform, Foodhub will pay for a hot meal from one of its restaurant or takeaway partners and donate it to a chosen charity within the local community.

Start your business journey with MARS Capital

Blog

Sam Allcock

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4 July 2022

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Start your business journey with MARS Capital

The majority of people in a country rely on business as their primary source of employment. Making money and addressing society’s basic necessities are two important purposes of business. Different sorts of businesses exist, as well as smaller and larger ones.

In today’s world, there are a great number of educated but unemployed people who have unique company ideas but insufficient funds to launch their own ventures. There is a viable answer to their issue for those people. There are numerous sources of funding for both established and newly expanding businesses.

Startup business

The term “startup business” refers to the establishment of a new company that will benefit the public and meet all of their needs. When a business is first started, it has to grow and establish itself, which will lengthen its lifespan and raise its profitability. When a business is starting out or growing, its owners are concerned about finances.

For this reason, a large number of fundraising organizations are set up, which gives them the start-up money they need for their business or organization’s growth and expansion. Finance is provided by fundraising organizations in a variety of ways, including loans, investments, lenders, and aid funds. They will offer loans for a set amount of time that will be determined at the time that the money is given.

Fundraising organizations

There are more than hundred fundraising organizations which provide finance to the businesses or companies. The two famous and useful fundraising companies are growth financing for tech and the mars capital.

Growth financing for tech

Growth financing for tech is the best fundraising organization which provides equity funds to the business or companies which are already built and making maximum money but they wants to reestablished and expand them into new areas and locations. When a corporation or business is operating effectively and offering the greatest amount of helpful services to the public, and when the public requests more goods or services for their comfort, the business owners opt to expand their operations into a new market.

Many fundraising firms offer funding for this reason. For instance, Growth Financing for Tech would give the amount of money that the expansion requires. For the expansion and modification of business, a lot of money is required. These fundraising organizations invest in firms that are already profitable and have the ability to expand and thrive. When goods and services are modified or purchased using investment money, they are then sold at greater prices, generating significant profits for the investor.

One form of investment in a firm may be short-term, and the other may be long-term. Long-term investments, however, are more beneficial since when a business or market is invested in; its value will double after a few years, which will double the investor’s actual investment. As a result, the majority of investors and fundraising organizations invest for a long time in order to maximize their return on investment.

Is Growth Financing for Tech is a reliable source?

Yes, the most dependable form of funding is growth financing for tech. This is because the firm receiving the funds signs a contract outlining the terms of the financing as well as the timeline for repayment, which increases its dependability. The goal of growth finance for tech organizations is to assist those businesses or enterprises that have the potential to grow but lack the resources to do so. The growth financing for tech provides finance to the companies or business on easy terms and maximum return time, in that time period the company or business can easily expand to the new location and able to generate double money.

MARS Capital

Mars Capital, another well-known Singaporean source of investment, offers equity or capital finance to businesses or enterprises with a track record of providing effective services and the potential to expand into the most recent markets. When a firm or business needs to grow and asks Mars Capital for equity, they first conduct an audit of the organisation or business and review all prior work.

If a company has a track record of success and appears to have room for growth and alteration, a contract will be made with them. All of the guidelines, conditions, and funding timelines will be outlined in the contract. The organisation or business will return that money within the specified time frame. And the corporation will give mars capital the profit it makes during that time period.

Role of fundraising organization in business success

The fundraising companies are very helpful for the successful future of the business or companies. The role of fundraising organization is given below.

The fundraising companies help in startup new business.
It will financially support to the already existing business or company.
It will provide finance for the restructuring of business.
It helps those businesses or companies which required the expansion.
The fundraising organizations are helpful for the long term survival of the business or companies.
It helps those business or companies who want to make new franchisees to the new locations.
It will make long-term and short-term investments in different businesses.
It will give finance to those companies or businesses who want to enter in the new markets with latest products or services.
The fundraising companies are able to give fuel to the newborn business or company.
It helps those businesses or companies who have potential to expand internationally.

Conclusion

The people who own their own businesses or firms and have the ability to grow on a national and international level but lack the financial resources are the conclusion of the above discussion. The fundraising organizations were created for them, and they would finance any type of business, no matter how big or little. Firm owners who are concerned about the finances of their organization or business might borrow money from various fundraising organizations for the longest possible duration. The Mars Capital and the Growth Financing for tech are the two well-known fundraisers for helping business or companies.

The cost of a good night’s sleep has DOUBLED in the past year

Lifestyle

Claire James

-

4 July 2022

0

The cost of a good night’s sleep has DOUBLED in the past year

It’s no secret that the price of electricity has gone up in the past year, but a new campaign launch from Mattressman has revealed that electricity has had, on average across the country, a 49.74% increase compared to 2021.

As part of their ‘Cost of a Good Night’s Sleep’ campaign, which looked at the cost Brits are happy to fork out on music overnight, keeping a fan on overnight and charging a phone overnight, Mattressman discovered where in the UK is most expensive for electric, how much the UK is spending on their daily, monthly and annual bills, and how much electric has gone up by.

The average cost for charging a mobile phone overnight costs £2.10 per year, compared to £1.40 in 2021. This takes into account the average charge time of these phones, and the remaining time being on idle-mode.

However, the average sized-fan now costs £8.78 per year when used for three months of the year (summer) overnight, compared to £5.86 in 2021.

As for speakers for the likes of white noise and bedtime music, it used to cost £3.51 in 2021 to listen to music overnight, while new figures show the average speaker now costs £5.37 annually.

However, while these figures may not sound huge, the campaign revealed that the UK as a whole is spending over £760m each year on the three above factors; fan, a speaker and charging a phone.

The campaign was created with the idea that people will think again about charging their iPhone overnight, or playing “HOME” by BTS before bed (recently revealed as the world’s most popular sleep song) or whether that fan is really a necessity.

The data also shows that the cost of a good night’s sleep is different depending on which part of the UK you’re from. London has the most expensive electricity bill, while the North East is the cheapest.

Louis Kerry, Marketing Manager from Mattressman, says:

“While some of these amounts don’t equate to actually that much for a full year of usage, the jump compared to just last year is extortionate. We’ve all seen the panicky headlines in the news that we may try and brush off, but when the data is displayed in front of you like this, it’s quite worrying.

I was surprised, however, to see that charging my phone doesn’t actually use much in the year. Thanks to newer phones, they know to go to standby when they’ve reached their full charge, which is very helpful for our electricity bill!”

A survey of 3282 people, also by Mattressman, also revealed that 85% of Brits are worried about the rising energy costs.

However, the survey also revealed that 51% of Brits also leave household items on standby when not in use, a big factor in a household’s annual energy bill.

Majority of people won’t turn off their Playstation by the wall, or even their TV, but these small changes can really contribute to extra pennies in a bank account.

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The cost of a good night’s sleep has DOUBLED in the past year

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