The strategic value of accounting in business Accounting is often perceived as a back-office necessity— primarily to manage cash flow and for regulatory purposes. However, this limited view can be costly. Misconceptions about the role of accounting can lead business leaders to neglect financial oversight, increasing their risk of cash flow and compliance issues. Beyond simply transactional record-keeping, accounting can provide valuable insights to highlight operational inefficiencies, drive business growth and stabilise long-term financials. This article examines common misconceptions about accounting, challenging the belief that it is only relevant for large corporations or that profitable businesses can afford to deprioritise financial oversight. By tackling these five prevalent myths, we highlight how accounting is essential, regardless of the size, stage of…
Everything Is Connected: A New Way to Think About Business and Nature Leaders today confront a level of uncertainty far greater than previous eras. From climate-related disruptions impacting supply chains to public health issues which affect workforce productivity, the degradation of natural systems directly translates into operational risks and diminished human capital. Amidst this complexity, a growing number of forward-thinking leaders are asking deeper questions to focus on resilience and the creation of long-term value. Within this dialogue, you may have encountered a term gaining significant traction in discussions: nature-positive. This article is an invitation to understand what nature-positive means, why it matters for you, and how embracing its principles can unlock new perspectives on the future of business. In…
Future-Proofing in an Uncertain World: Preparing for the Storm Before the Sun Economic conditions are shifting rapidly, with rising operating costs, supply chain instability and unpredictable shifts in consumer demand across most industries. Globalisation has accelerated growth and expanded market access for many businesses, but it has also made businesses more susceptible to external shocks - where geopolitical tensions and policy changes such as trade tariffs can rapidly disrupt entire value chains. The interconnectedness of global markets means that disruptions in one region can reverberate worldwide, amplifying financial risk and strategic uncertainty. The global economy no longer moves in cycles of calm and chaos; instead, instability has become constant. In this context, the ability to lead with clarity and composure…
Image by Lightspring via Shutterstock_Resized Startup culture is a term that encapsulates the attitudes, values, and behaviors that differentiate startup companies from their more well-established counterparts. It's the secret sauce, the mojo, the lifeblood that gives a startup the power to innovate and outperform even the largest of competitors. This lively and dynamic environment, typically marked by open communication, flexibility, and a passionate commitment to the mission, plays a pivotal role in shaping the startup's future. Let's be real, people are your cherished treasure, and when we talk about people, their collective approach shapes your company culture. Your startup culture, when cultivated thoughtfully and intentionally, can be the catalyst for extraordinary growth and success. Ignored or mishandled, however, it can…
With the enormous growth of wealth in Greater China, many wealth managers are focusing on capturing the High Net Worth (HNW) market in the region. Eric Phua is one of the Market Heads at Pictet Wealth Management who looks at this sector. With more than two decades of career experience in the wealth management space, spanning prestigious financial institutions such as Citibank and UOB, he and his team of bankers specialise in partnering HNW clients in Greater China to manage, preserve and help with the transfer of their wealth across generations. In this interview, Eric shares some insights on his career, the needs of HNW clients, methods of wealth transfer and management, as well as trends in Greater China. Mr…
