Director’s loans are a common feature of many Irish SMEs. In smaller companies, the line between personal and business finances can sometimes become blurred, particularly where directors inject funds into the business or withdraw money during the year. While director’s loans can provide flexibility, they also carry important tax and compliance risks if not properly […]

For many business owners, generating profit is only part of the financial equation. The next question is how to extract those profits from the company in the most tax efficient way. In Ireland, SME directors commonly use a combination of salary, dividends and pension contributions to access profits. Each option has different tax implications, and […]

Many Irish SMEs begin as partnerships between friends, family members or business colleagues who share a common vision. In the early stages, relationships are often strong and formal agreements may seem unnecessary. However, as businesses grow and circumstances change, having a clear shareholder agreement becomes one of the most important protections a company can have. […]

Serving as a company director in Ireland carries significant responsibility. While many SME owners focus primarily on growing their businesses, it is equally important to understand the legal duties that accompany the role of director. In 2026, Irish company law continues to place clear obligations on directors to act responsibly, maintain proper records and protect […]

For many SME owners, selling a business represents the culmination of years of hard work. Whether the sale is planned in the near future or remains a long term objective, understanding what buyers look for can help owners build a more valuable and attractive company. In 2026, investors and acquirers evaluating Irish SMEs are increasingly […]

Growth is an exciting stage in the life of any business. Whether you are planning to hire new staff, invest in equipment or expand into new markets, expansion often signals that your company is gaining momentum. However, growth also introduces financial risk if it is not carefully planned. Before committing to major hiring or investment […]

Running a successful SME requires more than strong sales and a busy workload. Financial health is what ultimately determines whether a business can grow sustainably or face unexpected pressure. Many financial problems develop slowly, and the early warning signs are often visible long before a crisis emerges. Recognising these signs early can help business owners […]

We believe that many financial problems in businesses do not appear suddenly. In most cases, warning signs emerge gradually. For Irish SME owners in 2026, recognising these red flags early can prevent small issues from becoming serious financial difficulties. Here are five warning signs every business owner should watch closely. 1. Declining Cash Flow Despite […]

We regularly meet business owners who established their company structure many years ago and have rarely revisited it since. While the structure may have suited the business at the start, growth, changing tax rules and evolving commercial goals can mean that what once worked well may no longer be the most effective arrangement in 2026. […]

At John P Burke we know for many Irish SMEs, monthly financial reviews are treated as a routine compliance exercise. Accounts are prepared, figures are noted and attention quickly shifts back to day t…