Articles

As we progress through 2025, the momentum behind the global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market is positive.

When raising finance, whether it be via traditional or alternative lending, private equity investment, or grant assistance, having well-constructed financial projections can make the difference between a successful fundraise and a missed opportunity.

Explore Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) for succession planning, employee rewards & business growth. Read our latest insight.

TEA is a measure of all entrepreneurial activity that is taking place in an economy at any given time. It is calculated by taking the sum of all entrepreneurship-related activities, such as starting a new business, expanding an existing business, and innovating within an existing business. TEA is an important metric for understanding the overall health of an economy, as it provides insight into the level of risk-taking and innovation taking place. High levels of TEA are generally seen as a sign of economic health and prosperity.

There remains a significant level of uncertainty for many Northern Ireland businesses, with high levels of inflation, rising interest rates increasing the cost of borrowing, and political uncertainty. These factors provide a timely reminder of the importance of managing cash flow.

Business owners should always have an eye on an exit strategy, even if it is not a short-term consideration.

While the four local Northern Ireland banks have printed money in an array of colours since 1929, the colour of money is now changing, not literally, but with the move towards green or sustainable finance. As Chancellor Rishi Sunak said recently, “the global financial system will be rewired for net zero”.

It is vital that business owners have a good understanding of the M&A process when contemplating or negotiating a transaction to acquire or dispose of a business.