Doing business in exotic countries: exciting and full of opportunities!

Globe

The closer to home, the more familiar it seems. But this is not always necessarily so. Doing business in the Netherlands can also be risky. Yet doing business abroad often feels riskier. You will have to deal with different cultures, customs, political situations, currencies, payment and delivery conditions. It is therefore wise to research these elements thoroughly in advance before doing business in a particular country. There are organisations that can provide you with useful information in this regard, such as Fenedex. On the other hand, doing business abroad also offers new opportunities for growth.

Local insight and local expertise

Doing business across borders requires more than just ambition. It requires an understanding of local markets, strong relationships and a solid strategy to manage risk. By joining a global network of carefully selected partners, we have access to in-depth market knowledge and a wide range of solutions. This enables us to support entrepreneurs even better, wherever you operate or want to operate. Perhaps you want to enter new markets or expand your existing trade. Either way, local insight and international clout are indispensable. 

Lifting Pledge Prohibitions Act explained

Xolv

Many companies use their accounts receivable as security to obtain financing from the bank. In recent decades, however, more and more, mostly large, companies have started to prohibit this possibility. They do so by including a clause in their purchase conditions (which often take precedence over the SME supplier's sales conditions) that prohibits the supplier from assigning the rights and obligations under the agreement. A variant of this is simply to prohibit pledging ("encumbering") the receivables arising from the agreement. 

Banking covenants: a guide for entrepreneurs

Paper

Obtaining financing is essential for the growth and success of your business. One way to obtain financing is through a bank loan or overdraft. When taking out a bank loan, it is common for the bank to impose certain conditions, also known as bank covenants. In this brief guide, we will elaborate on what bank covenants are, what types there are and the consequences of not complying with them.

Cash flow now and in the future

Plant

Good cash flow planning helps ensure that your business has enough cash to meet operational needs, such as paying salaries, suppliers, taxes and debts. It also helps identify and capitalise on growth opportunities, such as investing in new equipment, expanding into new markets or launching new products. Good cash flow planning is also indispensable to avoid or mitigate risks such as cash shortages, liquidity problems or insolvency. It is an essential process for any business, from small start-up to large enterprise!

Filing your figures on time ensures a good reputation and financial reliability

Shaking hands

It is important for entrepreneurs to maintain a good reputation and financial reliability. A crucial part of this is filing your financial statements with the Chamber of Commerce on time. It is a legal obligation, but it also plays an important role in how your company is assessed by credit insurers and credit reference agencies.

A new year with new opportunities: happy new year!

Globe

Surely, 2024 was a turbulent year with many events. The Netherlands, for instance, chose a new direction politically and 2025 will show how the government will tackle the problems in the Netherlands. The US also chose a change of direction by electing Trump as its president. The German government has fallen and new elections are coming up there too. A change of course is also needed to boost the German economy again. Unfortunately, the conflicts in Ukraine/Russia and the Middle East are also still unresolved, let's hope there will be a final resolution to that in 2025.

Never syrupy

Flora Food Group and Xolv go way back together. The spin-off from Unilever continued as Upfield Group B.V. years ago and recently changed its name to Flora Food Group B.V. That name change is an important step in the company's evolution. The new name reflects the goal of providing future generations with delicious, natural and nutritious food that is more affordable and sustainable than its dairy equivalents. Think butter and spreads, creams, liquids and cheese. So that there is an attractive choice for everyone!

Get more out of your credit insurance policy

Tips-2025

Now is the time to take a close look at your credit insurance. What can you still arrange, or leave out, to gain maximum financial benefit? With these seven tips, you will be well prepared for 2025!

The market for SME business finance in the Netherlands in 2024 and 2025: a look back and forward

Alternative forms of financing

The Dutch economy is in a phase of cautious growth, but global uncertainty casts a shadow over the outlook for 2025. This also has an impact on the SME business finance market. Although banks still play a dominant role with traditional bank lending, alternative forms of financing are gaining ground. Entrepreneurs are increasingly looking at alternatives. Crowdfunding, factoring, leasing and direct lending are becoming increasingly popular, especially for loans under EUR 1 million.