Latest News

Farming survey highlights focus is needed on planning for the future 

A number of potential risks to agricultural businesses have been highlighted in a recent survey by the Rural Agriculture Group (RAG UK).  

Armstrong Watson’s respondents, from across the north of England and Scotland who run livestock, dairy and arable farms, highlighted the future of subsidies among their top three challenges, which also included climate change and the environment as well as cashflow.   

Scams are getting more sophisticated (and common) so beware…

Unfortunately, we are continuing to hear of more people falling victim to scams during the pandemic. These can take many different forms with some about pensions or other high-return investment opportunities. Scammers can be sophisticated, opportunistic, appear authentic, using Covid-19 as an opportunity to persuade people to disclose personal or financial information either online or verbally, and whilst they may be likely to target the vulnerable, anyone can be affected or taken in.

Trusted advice is more important now than ever…

Trusted advice is more important than ever in times like these

Xero Tips and Tricks - Keyboard shortcuts

Did you know that there are a large number of keyboard shortcuts available to help you navigate around Xero, add new invoices, contacts?

Xero User News - Changes to e-commerce VAT in the EU

From 1st July 2021 the VAT rules on business to customer (B2C) e-commerce sales have changed. 

The changes, referred to as the ‘EU VAT E-commerce Package,’ aim to reduce barriers for e-commerce businesses selling across borders to end customers within the European Union, and can be used by businesses worldwide including those based in the UK.  It also aims to ensure that VAT is paid correctly to the member state in which the supply takes place.

Adjusting the numbers – the future of finance in law firms

I was recently honoured to be asked to write part of a new book by Globe Law and Business on the future of finance in law firms.

Details of the book can be found at:

https://www.globelawandbusiness.com/books/adjusting-the-numbers-the-future-of-finance-in-law-firms

Exit from Lockdown – Implications for Businesses

The lifting of restrictions will come as a relief to many, especially those in sectors such as hospitality and tourism, however the exit from lockdown also coincides with the withdrawal of support for businesses.

Xero User News - Setting up Multi-factor authentication (MFA) without a smartphone or tablet

Xero have implemented a second layer of security to logins. MFA is designed to prevent anyone but you from accessing your account even if they know your password. Here we look at the easiest ways to access MFA.

Xero User News - Xero New Invoicing now includes packing slips!

Xero have now made it possible to print packing slips including a delivery address different to the billing address.  

Retiring in 2021 (or beyond)…make sure you have a plan

A recent survey of people who have already or plan to retire in 2021 provides some interesting insights, whether you intend to retire soon or in the future.