Options for a profitable but insolvent company

As reports of company insolvencies come streaming in, it’s important for directors to weigh up business rescue options in advance. Panicking and making rash decisions under pressure could lead to a tragic , but wholly avoidable outcome. It is important to note that liquidation is not the only option available to you. One alternative is…

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50% increase to bankruptcy and liquidation fees

Just months after lifting the temporary restrictions on winding-up petitions, the Government has revealed plans that will make it harder for thousands of SMEs and microbusinesses to collect debts and force debtors into insolvency procedures. The Insolvency Service plans to hike in the cost of two key payments later this year. Firstly, the deposit a…

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What makes an independent insolvency expert?

An independent insolvency expert’s job can be tough, complicated, rewarding and at times exciting. It requires the application of several abilities, including intelligence, excellent people skills and technical knowledge. The ability to assess situations and how to attack each one is paramount. Of course, deep knowledge of insolvency law is vital. Insolvency is a fast…

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Remedies for Struggling Directors: CVAs and Renegotiating with Creditors

Company directors experiencing financial difficulties often consider terminating agreements and contracts to reduce the burden of their debts. A director in this position must avoid delaying decisions and rectify the situation as soon as possible; otherwise the business will experience a rapid decline in trade and become insolvent. Reducing staff and rented equipment will lower costs,…

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Suits You Administration is a Sign of Things to Come

British clothing retailer Suits You has collapsed into administration just eight months after entering a company voluntary arrangement (CVA), which aimed to save the Leeds-based business. Administrators Zolfo Cooper said they would wind down loss-making stores, but support the chain’s successful branches and sell as much of the business and assets as possible. The firm’s…

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Creditors Need to be Empowered in Company Voluntary Arrangements

Company Voluntary Arrangements (CVA) can make creditors feel alienated and powerless, so they tend to accept whatever repayment deal is being offered to them. A creditor with little knowledge of their democratic rights will see 30p in the £1 as better than nothing. The majority of creditors are often ill informed, and many think if…

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Time To Pay Arrangements Can Do More Harm Than Good

According to the most recent figures available, around 200,000 businesses have entered Time To Pay (TTP) agreements with the HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) in the past 18 months, deferring over £5bn in taxes.   TTP arrangements allow businesses that are unable to pay taxes on their due dates to make monthly payment over a period…

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Portsmouth Defeat HMRC in Landmark Legal Case

As I mentioned in an earlier blog, the reason most football clubs are facing financial difficulties is simple: their expenses exceed their income. Portsmouth FC are no exception and currently facing an uphill struggle to remain solvent. However, their battle became a little easier earlier this month after a high court judge rejected claims by…

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JJB Sports Complete Company Voluntary Arrangement

JJB Sports owners are ‘delighted’ to have concluded their company voluntary arrangement (CVA) last month. The sports equipment retailer entered into a CVA with creditors and shareholders in May 2009 to avoid collapse. But what is a CVA? Companies apply for CVAs when they’re overwhelmed by debt liability and, as a result, unable to trade.…

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