Banking
No respite for exporters from lower AUD
Local exporters are still battling to remain competitive despite a recent dip in the value of the Australian dollar, a survey suggests.
The ultralight start-up: how to launch a business without clout or capital
David Wilson Launching a start-up is easier than ever. But, because entry barriers verge on non-existent and everyone wants to be the next Facebook, Twitter or Dropbox, competition is fierce.
Rates put big squeeze on small business
Clancy Yeates Small-business customers have received the least benefit from the latest cycle of interest-rate cuts, new figures show, despite moves by the major banks to target the SME market.
Buying a bargain could be risky business
Christopher Niesche Many small businesses are going cheap right now, but potential buyers shouldn't be seduced by low prices and the chance to be their own boss.
Minimum wage rises from Sunday
With the new financial year fast approaching, the federal government is reminding low-paid workers they will get a pay rise from July 1.
Online boom sparks credit card crimes
Eric Johnston The online shopping boom spawns a surge in credit card fraud, with about one in 15 Australian adults becoming victims last year and total losses blowing out to a record $278 million.
Planning
How to write an effective business plan
Christopher Niesche The research and analysis involved in writing a business plan can be more important than the document itself.
FINANCE
Build your brand without breaking the bank
Christopher Niesche Six low-cost tips from marketing experts on how to raise your business’ profile.
Pay tax at the lowest possible rate
Max Newnham We're opening a cafe in a few weeks' time. How can we maximise our tax claims?
How taxing is a second job?
Max Newnham If you're continuing to work full-time while starting a new business, beware of the tax implications.
Warning on carbon tax rorts
Adam Cooper The ACCC is warning small businesses to justify prices if they use the carbon tax to rort customers.
$17 pay rise for country's lowest paid
Clay Lucas The national minimum wage for Australia's 1.4 million lowest paid workers should be raised by $17.10 a week, Fair Work Australia has said.
Banks must pass on rate cut: ACCI
A leading business group has urged the big banks to pass on a cut in the official interest rate to their borrowers in full.
Special Report
A case of accidental debt
Workers' compensation insurance: if you aren't safe, you'll be sorry, writes Alexandra Cain.
FINANCE
Dealing with banks in times of crisis
Tony Featherstone Picture this: a family-owned retailer has a $40-million bank loan. The founder has had a good relationship with his banker for years, watched footy with him, and met the bank’s CEO at functions.
BUSINESS MAXIMS
A question of profits
Business Maxims Operating a business through a company can be a great idea when starting out. But the tax benefit can be outweighed when profits have built up.
Comm Bank, NAB to review business rates
Eric Johnston and Peter Martin Borrowers face further pain, with Commonwealth and NAB expected to review mortgage, business rates.
BUSINESS MAXIMS
The ABCs of GST
Max Newnham When you own a business there are countless rules and regulations that must be met.
Business demand for credit at four-year low
Peter Martin Latest NAB business survey shows two-thirds of businesses reported no need for finance in January.
ATO issues? Just ask small business
Henrietta Cook Small businesses welcomed a review of the Australian Taxation Office's cash-economy benchmarks.
