Demand may spike as we speed towards the end of the year, but it’s also a time when cashflow can get squeezed, energy prices rise, and staffing pressures also increase. When speaking to business owners, we find that the most resilient businesses aren’t just riding the wave, they’re preparing for what comes after it.
Before things quieten in January, here are three proactive financial strategies to consider.
1. Don’t sit back on your Standard Business Account
When business is busy and time is short, it’s tempting to leave your hard-earned cash sitting in low-interest (or no-interest) accounts. With inflation still a factor and interest rates more competitive than they’ve been in years, it’s worth asking yourself, ‘is the money working as hard as I am?’
St. James’s Place Cash Deposit Service, powered by Flagstone* could be one of those solutions, offering access to a wide range of banks and deposit accounts from one easy-to-manage platform. It’s designed to optimise your returns while keeping your capital protected.
Every business faces quieter periods, but have you built protection against the unexpected? Even a short-term uplift in interest can make a meaningful difference over time.
2. Longer-term buffer
A Corporate Unit Trust can act as a strategic reserve – a longer term buffer. It's a flexible and efficient way for businesses to hold and grow funds outside of traditional accounts, with access to professional investment management.
Think of it as a long-term buffer - ready when you need it most!
3. Invest in your people
Staff retention remains one of the biggest operational headaches. Competitive wages are essential, but genuine loyalty comes from long-term support and wellbeing.
Here’s a few examples of what other employers are putting in place:
- Annual one-to-one financial wellbeing sessions with a qualified financial adviser - helping employees gain clarity and confidence over their financial futures.
- Private workplace pension schemes that go beyond the basics, helping staff plan for the future.
- Group medical insurance and healthcare options - often a tax-efficient benefit and a major differentiator in recruitment and retention.
Small enhancements can lead to longer-term staff retention, especially in sectors built on trust and repeat business.
Resilience isn’t reactive, it’s planned for…
The most resilient businesses we work with, have learnt from the past few years that agility is essential, but in order to do so, preparation is essential in helping them to better manage their capital, reward their teams, and prepare wisely for whatever lies ahead.
If you’d like to explore how these ideas could support your business, we’d be happy to offer a relaxed, no-obligation conversation with Chris Auld at H&H Wealth Management on 01228 406290
The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.
*Please note that the services provided by Flagstone are separate and distinct to those offered by St. James’s Place and Sage Wealth Management Ltd.
Sage Wealth Management Ltd is an Appointed Representative of and represents only
St. James's Place Wealth Management plc.
H&H Wealth Management introduces to St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products