The document summarizes the findings of a survey conducted by Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions on the state of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the UK. The survey found that business confidence declined over the past six months, as measured by a new Business Health Index. Fewer businesses expect their company to expand in the coming months compared to last year. Generating new business and managing costs are chief concerns. Traditional sources of funding like overdrafts and credit cards remain popular among SMEs.
Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions' SME Trends Index for October 2011 found that UK business health improved over the past six months, though confidence continued to fall. While generating new business remained the top concern, businesses saw tax cuts and reduced VAT as the best ways for the government to facilitate growth. Cash flow and credit cards remained key financing sources, with asset and invoice finance users experiencing stronger performance.
The document summarizes Toronto real estate market statistics for May 2012. It reports that home sales increased 11% compared to May 2011, with 10,850 transactions. Average home prices rose 6.5% to $516,787. Price growth was strongest for low-rise homes, while new listings grew over 20% year-over-year, which may help moderate future price increases if the pace continues. Overall, the Toronto real estate market showed solid sales and price growth in May 2012 compared to the previous year.
The document summarizes real estate data for the Greater Toronto area in May 2012. It reports that home sales increased 11% compared to May 2011, with 10,850 transactions. Average home prices rose 6.5% to $516,787. While sales growth was strongest in areas surrounding Toronto, average price growth was driven by the low-rise market segment within the city. Strong competition between buyers for low-rise homes contributed to price increases, but annual price growth is expected to moderate as new listings rise substantially above year-ago levels.
GT Industry Intelligence Unit - Retail 2012 AustraliaGrant Thornton
The retail industry in Australia saw increases in sales in May and June 2012, with sales rising 0.8% in May and 1.0% in June, the highest increase in over two years. However, analysts are only forecasting flat growth over the next 12 months given ongoing economic uncertainties from issues like the carbon tax and European debt crisis. Several large retail chains also announced store closure programs. The results show the retail market remains cautious but any acquisitions could provide opportunities for growth. Customer service and experience will be key for retailers to succeed in this environment.
The document summarizes real estate data for the Greater Toronto Area in April 2012. It reports that home sales were up 18% compared to April 2011, with the strongest growth in single-detached homes which saw a 22% increase. The average home price rose 8.5% year-over-year to $517,556. While price growth was highest for single-detached homes, condominiums saw a more moderate 4% increase. Affordability remains good due to low mortgage rates, though rates are expected to rise in the next two years.
This document provides a summary of Susquehanna Bancshares' 2nd quarter 2013 investor presentation. It includes forward-looking statements and cautions investors that actual results may differ. Susquehanna is a super-community bank headquartered in Pennsylvania with over 260 branches in central PA, western MD, and the Philadelphia and Baltimore areas. The presentation discusses Susquehanna's strong positioning in these markets, focus on organic loan and deposit growth, defending its net interest margin, and growing noninterest income. Highlights of 1Q2013 results including loan, deposit, and earnings growth are also summarized.
Susquehanna Bancshares provides an investor presentation for the 3rd quarter of 2013. The presentation includes forward-looking statements and cautions investors that actual results may differ due to risks and uncertainties. It provides an overview of Susquehanna, including its market presence, financial information, and strategies to drive organic loan growth, defend its net interest margin, grow fee revenue, maintain efficiency, and accelerate capital generation and returns. Highlights from the 2nd quarter of 2013 include steady loan growth, continued focus on core deposit growth, strong profitability, and solid credit quality.
- US and European stock futures fell on worries over global growth and the outcome of Greece's debt swap. Asian stocks also declined.
- European stocks dropped, with a report showing the eurozone economy contracted 0.3% in Q4. Banks and resource stocks declined.
- Private investors holding about 20% of the bonds involved in Greece's debt restructuring have agreed to participate in the swap, which aims to reduce Greece's debt by 53.5% and help secure its bailout.
- Several North American companies reported earnings, with Aecon Group reporting a 143% rise in quarterly profit as margins improved on lower costs.
Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions' SME Trends Index for October 2011 found that UK business health improved over the past six months, though confidence continued to fall. While generating new business remained the top concern, businesses saw tax cuts and reduced VAT as the best ways for the government to facilitate growth. Cash flow and credit cards remained key financing sources, with asset and invoice finance users experiencing stronger performance.
The document summarizes Toronto real estate market statistics for May 2012. It reports that home sales increased 11% compared to May 2011, with 10,850 transactions. Average home prices rose 6.5% to $516,787. Price growth was strongest for low-rise homes, while new listings grew over 20% year-over-year, which may help moderate future price increases if the pace continues. Overall, the Toronto real estate market showed solid sales and price growth in May 2012 compared to the previous year.
The document summarizes real estate data for the Greater Toronto area in May 2012. It reports that home sales increased 11% compared to May 2011, with 10,850 transactions. Average home prices rose 6.5% to $516,787. While sales growth was strongest in areas surrounding Toronto, average price growth was driven by the low-rise market segment within the city. Strong competition between buyers for low-rise homes contributed to price increases, but annual price growth is expected to moderate as new listings rise substantially above year-ago levels.
GT Industry Intelligence Unit - Retail 2012 AustraliaGrant Thornton
The retail industry in Australia saw increases in sales in May and June 2012, with sales rising 0.8% in May and 1.0% in June, the highest increase in over two years. However, analysts are only forecasting flat growth over the next 12 months given ongoing economic uncertainties from issues like the carbon tax and European debt crisis. Several large retail chains also announced store closure programs. The results show the retail market remains cautious but any acquisitions could provide opportunities for growth. Customer service and experience will be key for retailers to succeed in this environment.
The document summarizes real estate data for the Greater Toronto Area in April 2012. It reports that home sales were up 18% compared to April 2011, with the strongest growth in single-detached homes which saw a 22% increase. The average home price rose 8.5% year-over-year to $517,556. While price growth was highest for single-detached homes, condominiums saw a more moderate 4% increase. Affordability remains good due to low mortgage rates, though rates are expected to rise in the next two years.
This document provides a summary of Susquehanna Bancshares' 2nd quarter 2013 investor presentation. It includes forward-looking statements and cautions investors that actual results may differ. Susquehanna is a super-community bank headquartered in Pennsylvania with over 260 branches in central PA, western MD, and the Philadelphia and Baltimore areas. The presentation discusses Susquehanna's strong positioning in these markets, focus on organic loan and deposit growth, defending its net interest margin, and growing noninterest income. Highlights of 1Q2013 results including loan, deposit, and earnings growth are also summarized.
Susquehanna Bancshares provides an investor presentation for the 3rd quarter of 2013. The presentation includes forward-looking statements and cautions investors that actual results may differ due to risks and uncertainties. It provides an overview of Susquehanna, including its market presence, financial information, and strategies to drive organic loan growth, defend its net interest margin, grow fee revenue, maintain efficiency, and accelerate capital generation and returns. Highlights from the 2nd quarter of 2013 include steady loan growth, continued focus on core deposit growth, strong profitability, and solid credit quality.
- US and European stock futures fell on worries over global growth and the outcome of Greece's debt swap. Asian stocks also declined.
- European stocks dropped, with a report showing the eurozone economy contracted 0.3% in Q4. Banks and resource stocks declined.
- Private investors holding about 20% of the bonds involved in Greece's debt restructuring have agreed to participate in the swap, which aims to reduce Greece's debt by 53.5% and help secure its bailout.
- Several North American companies reported earnings, with Aecon Group reporting a 143% rise in quarterly profit as margins improved on lower costs.
6- What's Old is New: Fixed-Rate Bonds are Back in Style- Catherine CrewsMassDevelopment
An overview of what the bond market is today, how it got hwere, and where it's headed in the future by Catehrine Crews of Bankof America Merrill Lynch.
- U.S. stock futures are trading higher as investors await Janet Yellen's testimony on monetary policy for hints about tapering.
- European stocks are trading higher led by strength in oil and metals stocks as well as solid regional economic data.
- Home Capital Group has named Yousry Bissada as its new CEO, taking over from interim CEO Bonita Then. OpenText is launching an AI platform called Magellan to compete with IBM Watson. Apple will store customer data in China with a government-owned company to comply with new rules.
The document discusses the performance of the Odey European Inc fund in December 2015. It summarizes the positive and negative contributions from various long and short equity positions. It then analyzes economic and market conditions, including concerns about bubbles in China, falling oil prices, and central banks' responses to risky lending behaviors through interest rate policies. The document warns that markets may be fragile given high valuations and falling corporate profits, and that a significant market correction is possible in the coming year.
The document provides an economic update for the week of July 30, 2012. Key points include:
- Consumer sentiment improved slightly but remains at a 2012 low. New and pending home sales declined in June from the previous month but were up from a year ago.
- Second quarter GDP growth was the slowest since late 2011. Durable goods orders unexpectedly increased in June.
- Stocks had their best three-day period of the year last week amid hopes that the ECB would take action to support the euro. The Dow, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 all rose around 2% for the week.
- US and European stock futures fell slightly on growth concerns while Asian markets also declined, with miners seeing large drops.
- In Europe, a report showed the eurozone economy contracted 0.3% in Q4 and banks and resources stocks declined.
- In the US, JPMorgan reported earnings that beat estimates but trading declines offset lending gains. Sears Canada received court approval to solicit buyers.
- Canadian housing starts rose more than expected in June while the Bank of Canada left rates unchanged and released its monetary policy report.
BoyarMiller Breakfast Forum: The Current State of the Capital Markets 2010BoyarMiller
This document summarizes a presentation on the current state of the capital markets given on September 10, 2010. It discusses 2010 market performance data for various asset classes. It then covers topics like the end of the recession, unemployment, credit availability, the housing market, government stimulus, and earnings estimates. The presentation outlines risks in 2010 like the withdrawal of stimulus, China slowing, and debt issues. It recommends investment strategies focused on capital preservation and diversification. Charts on interest rates, government and consumer debt, and corporate cash levels are also included. The next sections will cover private equity, debt markets, mergers and acquisitions, and conclusions.
- US stock futures fell slightly as investors awaited remarks from Fed Chair Janet Yellen and key economic data later in the week
- European markets were lower after the ECB president defended loose monetary policy and said a premature tightening could cause recession
- Asian markets closed mixed; Nikkei rose 0.36% while Hang Seng fell 0.12%
- Google was fined a record $2.7 billion by the EU for antitrust violations regarding its shopping search services
Red views inflation-linked-bonds-issuance-and-pensions-liabilities-january-2013Redington
This document discusses the growth of the UK inflation-linked bond market and pensions' inflation-linked liabilities. While the inflation-linked bond market has quadrupled since 2005, it remains much smaller than pension schemes' inflation-linked liabilities. This mismatch is pushing real yields lower and limiting pension schemes' ability to match inflation risk. The document examines alternative sources of inflation-linked assets that pension schemes should consider to better match liabilities, such as infrastructure investments.
Grant Thornton - UK Restructuring Outlook 2013Grant Thornton
The Grant Thornton UK Restructuring Outlook for 2013 survey provides key insights into the sectors considered to be particularly vulnerable and into the restructuring strategies that are commonly employed. It also considers how defaults and bank forbearance levels are likely to evolve in 2013.
Costco's fiscal year ends in August. This document provides detailed sales and location data for Costco from fiscal years 2004 to 2008. It includes information on merchandise sales, membership fees, operating expenses, margins, comparable sales, new and closed locations by country. International growth exceeded Costco's 5% annual expansion rate in the US, with locations growing 7% annually in the UK, Mexico, and Taiwan, and 19% annually in Japan. Sales per item averaged nearly $14 million annually in 2008.
The document provides an overview of CSU CARDSYSTEM S.A.'s cards markets, operational data, and financial performance. Some key points:
1) CSU's card base is growing faster than the overall market, at 18.4% growth in the last 12 months. There is an increasing trend of replacing private label cards with hybrid cards.
2) CSU issued over 6.4 million new cards in the last 12 months. Flex cards are taking a larger share of total card issues.
3) CSU's processing accounts grew 4.9% compared to the previous quarter, reaching 3.1 million accounts.
4) CSU's card processing revenues and margins
- U.S. stock index futures pointed higher ahead of the Fed decision, while European and Asian markets closed mixed.
- Many retail experts have predicted the demise of Sears Canada for over a decade as its sales decline, and it issued a warning about its ability to continue as a going concern.
- Panera Bread expects digital sales including online, mobile and kiosk orders to pass $1 billion annually this year and double to $2 billion by 2019 as digital ordering pays off for the company.
The document analyzes how credit constraints imposed by distressed banks in the UK following the 2008 financial crisis affected firm exit dynamics. Some key points:
- It uses differences in the impact of the crisis across banking groups to study whether credit constraints distorted the exit of firms from the market.
- It finds that firms maintaining relationships with distressed banks that tightened credit supply more after the crisis had a higher probability of exiting, especially mid-productivity firms.
- However, increased exit was not solely concentrated among the least productive firms, suggesting credit constraints may have limited the "cleansing" impact of the recession by forcing some productive firms to exit.
- Robustness checks using placebo crises support the identification strategy
U.S. Bancorp reported lower net income for Q3 2008 compared to Q3 2007 and Q2 2008. Earnings per share were down 48.4% from Q3 2007 due to challenging market conditions, including $411 million in securities losses and higher credit costs. However, the company's core banking business performed well, with growth in average loans, deposits, and fee income. Credit costs increased as expected due to stresses in the housing market and broader economy. The company maintained a strong capital position to support future growth.
- US and European stock futures fell, along with Asian stocks, as concerns over global growth and the outcome of Greece's debt swap weighed on sentiment.
- Eurozone GDP contracted 0.3% QoQ in Q4, confirming an initial estimate, as investment, exports and consumer spending declined. A default by Greece could cost the eurozone over 1 trillion euros.
- Private investors holding around 20% of Greek bonds involved in the debt swap have agreed to participate in the restructuring, which aims to cut privately held Greek debt by 53.5% and help secure Greece's bailout.
- Aecon Group reported a 143% rise in quarterly earnings but revenue missed estimates, as margins improved on lower
Mercer Capital's Bank Watch | October 2020 | Low Rates and Tighter NIMs Spur ...Mercer Capital
Brought to you by the Financial Institutions Team of Mercer Capital, this monthly newsletter is focused on bank activity in five U.S. regions. Bank Watch highlights various banking metrics, including public market indicators, M&A market indicators, and key indices of the top financial institutions, providing insight into financial institution valuation issues.
The Deloitte CFO Survey: 2015 Q4 A cautious start to 2016Deloitte UK
The quarterly CFO Survey is firmly established with media and policy makers as the authoritative barometer of UK corporates’ sentiment and strategies. It is the only survey of major corporate users of capital that gauges attitudes to valuations, risk and financing.
The Malaysian economy is stable despite domestic and external challenges. The authorities are making progress on their reform agenda including governance reforms and measures to improve the transparency and management of public finances. Policies should focus on medium-term fiscal consolidation, while safeguarding growth and financial stability. Structural reforms are needed to enshrine in law main governance measures, and to boost productivity to achieve high income status and inclusive growth.
Commercial finance broker Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions conducted its latest SME Trends Index in September 2014, questioning 238 business owners and finance directors on their challenges and expectations.
Here are the results, which include 50% of respondents labelling the level of funding support that's currently available to them as "inadequate".
Olive Garden proposes launching a delivery service and mobile app to target office workers, catering events, and app users in order to increase their sales and social media presence. They will promote the new delivery service through Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Google AdWords with a $400,000 budget over 6 months, and will measure success through surveys, Klout scores, and sales growth.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. reported fourth quarter 2014 financial results. Revenue and profits increased compared to the same period last year. The company owns, operates, franchises and manages hotels and resorts under nine brands worldwide. As of March 2015, Starwood had approximately 1,200 properties in 100 countries. Looking ahead, the company expects continued revenue growth in 2015 and announced plans to spin off its vacation ownership business into a separate publicly traded company.
6- What's Old is New: Fixed-Rate Bonds are Back in Style- Catherine CrewsMassDevelopment
An overview of what the bond market is today, how it got hwere, and where it's headed in the future by Catehrine Crews of Bankof America Merrill Lynch.
- U.S. stock futures are trading higher as investors await Janet Yellen's testimony on monetary policy for hints about tapering.
- European stocks are trading higher led by strength in oil and metals stocks as well as solid regional economic data.
- Home Capital Group has named Yousry Bissada as its new CEO, taking over from interim CEO Bonita Then. OpenText is launching an AI platform called Magellan to compete with IBM Watson. Apple will store customer data in China with a government-owned company to comply with new rules.
The document discusses the performance of the Odey European Inc fund in December 2015. It summarizes the positive and negative contributions from various long and short equity positions. It then analyzes economic and market conditions, including concerns about bubbles in China, falling oil prices, and central banks' responses to risky lending behaviors through interest rate policies. The document warns that markets may be fragile given high valuations and falling corporate profits, and that a significant market correction is possible in the coming year.
The document provides an economic update for the week of July 30, 2012. Key points include:
- Consumer sentiment improved slightly but remains at a 2012 low. New and pending home sales declined in June from the previous month but were up from a year ago.
- Second quarter GDP growth was the slowest since late 2011. Durable goods orders unexpectedly increased in June.
- Stocks had their best three-day period of the year last week amid hopes that the ECB would take action to support the euro. The Dow, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 all rose around 2% for the week.
- US and European stock futures fell slightly on growth concerns while Asian markets also declined, with miners seeing large drops.
- In Europe, a report showed the eurozone economy contracted 0.3% in Q4 and banks and resources stocks declined.
- In the US, JPMorgan reported earnings that beat estimates but trading declines offset lending gains. Sears Canada received court approval to solicit buyers.
- Canadian housing starts rose more than expected in June while the Bank of Canada left rates unchanged and released its monetary policy report.
BoyarMiller Breakfast Forum: The Current State of the Capital Markets 2010BoyarMiller
This document summarizes a presentation on the current state of the capital markets given on September 10, 2010. It discusses 2010 market performance data for various asset classes. It then covers topics like the end of the recession, unemployment, credit availability, the housing market, government stimulus, and earnings estimates. The presentation outlines risks in 2010 like the withdrawal of stimulus, China slowing, and debt issues. It recommends investment strategies focused on capital preservation and diversification. Charts on interest rates, government and consumer debt, and corporate cash levels are also included. The next sections will cover private equity, debt markets, mergers and acquisitions, and conclusions.
- US stock futures fell slightly as investors awaited remarks from Fed Chair Janet Yellen and key economic data later in the week
- European markets were lower after the ECB president defended loose monetary policy and said a premature tightening could cause recession
- Asian markets closed mixed; Nikkei rose 0.36% while Hang Seng fell 0.12%
- Google was fined a record $2.7 billion by the EU for antitrust violations regarding its shopping search services
Red views inflation-linked-bonds-issuance-and-pensions-liabilities-january-2013Redington
This document discusses the growth of the UK inflation-linked bond market and pensions' inflation-linked liabilities. While the inflation-linked bond market has quadrupled since 2005, it remains much smaller than pension schemes' inflation-linked liabilities. This mismatch is pushing real yields lower and limiting pension schemes' ability to match inflation risk. The document examines alternative sources of inflation-linked assets that pension schemes should consider to better match liabilities, such as infrastructure investments.
Grant Thornton - UK Restructuring Outlook 2013Grant Thornton
The Grant Thornton UK Restructuring Outlook for 2013 survey provides key insights into the sectors considered to be particularly vulnerable and into the restructuring strategies that are commonly employed. It also considers how defaults and bank forbearance levels are likely to evolve in 2013.
Costco's fiscal year ends in August. This document provides detailed sales and location data for Costco from fiscal years 2004 to 2008. It includes information on merchandise sales, membership fees, operating expenses, margins, comparable sales, new and closed locations by country. International growth exceeded Costco's 5% annual expansion rate in the US, with locations growing 7% annually in the UK, Mexico, and Taiwan, and 19% annually in Japan. Sales per item averaged nearly $14 million annually in 2008.
The document provides an overview of CSU CARDSYSTEM S.A.'s cards markets, operational data, and financial performance. Some key points:
1) CSU's card base is growing faster than the overall market, at 18.4% growth in the last 12 months. There is an increasing trend of replacing private label cards with hybrid cards.
2) CSU issued over 6.4 million new cards in the last 12 months. Flex cards are taking a larger share of total card issues.
3) CSU's processing accounts grew 4.9% compared to the previous quarter, reaching 3.1 million accounts.
4) CSU's card processing revenues and margins
- U.S. stock index futures pointed higher ahead of the Fed decision, while European and Asian markets closed mixed.
- Many retail experts have predicted the demise of Sears Canada for over a decade as its sales decline, and it issued a warning about its ability to continue as a going concern.
- Panera Bread expects digital sales including online, mobile and kiosk orders to pass $1 billion annually this year and double to $2 billion by 2019 as digital ordering pays off for the company.
The document analyzes how credit constraints imposed by distressed banks in the UK following the 2008 financial crisis affected firm exit dynamics. Some key points:
- It uses differences in the impact of the crisis across banking groups to study whether credit constraints distorted the exit of firms from the market.
- It finds that firms maintaining relationships with distressed banks that tightened credit supply more after the crisis had a higher probability of exiting, especially mid-productivity firms.
- However, increased exit was not solely concentrated among the least productive firms, suggesting credit constraints may have limited the "cleansing" impact of the recession by forcing some productive firms to exit.
- Robustness checks using placebo crises support the identification strategy
U.S. Bancorp reported lower net income for Q3 2008 compared to Q3 2007 and Q2 2008. Earnings per share were down 48.4% from Q3 2007 due to challenging market conditions, including $411 million in securities losses and higher credit costs. However, the company's core banking business performed well, with growth in average loans, deposits, and fee income. Credit costs increased as expected due to stresses in the housing market and broader economy. The company maintained a strong capital position to support future growth.
- US and European stock futures fell, along with Asian stocks, as concerns over global growth and the outcome of Greece's debt swap weighed on sentiment.
- Eurozone GDP contracted 0.3% QoQ in Q4, confirming an initial estimate, as investment, exports and consumer spending declined. A default by Greece could cost the eurozone over 1 trillion euros.
- Private investors holding around 20% of Greek bonds involved in the debt swap have agreed to participate in the restructuring, which aims to cut privately held Greek debt by 53.5% and help secure Greece's bailout.
- Aecon Group reported a 143% rise in quarterly earnings but revenue missed estimates, as margins improved on lower
Mercer Capital's Bank Watch | October 2020 | Low Rates and Tighter NIMs Spur ...Mercer Capital
Brought to you by the Financial Institutions Team of Mercer Capital, this monthly newsletter is focused on bank activity in five U.S. regions. Bank Watch highlights various banking metrics, including public market indicators, M&A market indicators, and key indices of the top financial institutions, providing insight into financial institution valuation issues.
The Deloitte CFO Survey: 2015 Q4 A cautious start to 2016Deloitte UK
The quarterly CFO Survey is firmly established with media and policy makers as the authoritative barometer of UK corporates’ sentiment and strategies. It is the only survey of major corporate users of capital that gauges attitudes to valuations, risk and financing.
The Malaysian economy is stable despite domestic and external challenges. The authorities are making progress on their reform agenda including governance reforms and measures to improve the transparency and management of public finances. Policies should focus on medium-term fiscal consolidation, while safeguarding growth and financial stability. Structural reforms are needed to enshrine in law main governance measures, and to boost productivity to achieve high income status and inclusive growth.
Commercial finance broker Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions conducted its latest SME Trends Index in September 2014, questioning 238 business owners and finance directors on their challenges and expectations.
Here are the results, which include 50% of respondents labelling the level of funding support that's currently available to them as "inadequate".
Olive Garden proposes launching a delivery service and mobile app to target office workers, catering events, and app users in order to increase their sales and social media presence. They will promote the new delivery service through Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Google AdWords with a $400,000 budget over 6 months, and will measure success through surveys, Klout scores, and sales growth.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. reported fourth quarter 2014 financial results. Revenue and profits increased compared to the same period last year. The company owns, operates, franchises and manages hotels and resorts under nine brands worldwide. As of March 2015, Starwood had approximately 1,200 properties in 100 countries. Looking ahead, the company expects continued revenue growth in 2015 and announced plans to spin off its vacation ownership business into a separate publicly traded company.
This document provides an overview of Hilton Worldwide brands for a roadshow in Chelyabinsk, Russia. It discusses Hilton's portfolio of 12 brands ranging from economy to luxury, and the competitive positioning of each brand in Europe. It highlights the strong performance of Hilton brands globally and in Europe/Africa specifically. The document also summarizes the key aspects of Hilton's commercial engine that drives brand performance, including their loyalty program, revenue management, sales and marketing support, and technology platforms.
Hilton has 3 brands in China with 2% market share, but plans to expand to 22 new hotels. Travel and tourism are growing rapidly in China, especially from foreigners visiting tier 1 cities. While the industry offers profit potential, it also faces intense price competition and many substitutes. Hilton performs slightly above competitors in customer surveys but seeks to strengthen brand loyalty through promotions and its loyalty program. The global economic downturn negatively impacted the hotel industry in 2009.
Brand Differentiation through Customer Relationship Management - HBR Case reviewAngga Kusumanegara
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms for those who already suffer from conditions like depression and anxiety.
Case Analysis of Hilton Hotels: Brand Focus: Customer Relationship Management Sandeep Patel
Hilton is a global hospitality company founded in 1919 that operates over 5,500 hotels across 78 countries. It established an early focus on customer relationship management (CRM) through its OnQ technology platform to maximize customer loyalty, drive organic growth, and create competitive differentiation through personalized service and analytics. Implementing CRM consistently across Hilton's large scale of operations, measuring its return on investment, and maintaining brand differentiation remain ongoing challenges.
The document is a team agenda for analyzing Starwood Hotels & Resorts. It includes an executive summary on Starwood provided by Ivy, a company analysis by Shinichi, an industry analysis also by Shinichi, an analysis of customers and competition by Pramod, a marketing plan by Pramod, details on the management team by Greg, and the financial plan and conclusion also by Greg. The team members will present on their assigned sections to complete the analysis of Starwood.
The document summarizes the key findings of Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions' fourth SME Trends Index survey of over 450 UK business owners and finance directors in April 2012. The survey found that the overall business health index, which measures factors like turnover and profitability, rose to its highest level since 2010. Additionally, the proportion of respondents expecting business expansion in the next six months increased. However, generating new business remains the top concern, and credit cards have surpassed cash flow as the most widely used form of financing.
The document summarizes the findings of Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions' October 2012 SME Trends Index survey of over 400 UK businesses. Key findings include:
1) The overall Business Health Index measuring financial health rose to its highest level since 2010, though fewer businesses expect expansion in the next six months.
2) Generating new business and managing cash flow are top concerns, while tax cuts are seen as the most helpful government action.
3) Uncertainty is a leading factor in low business and consumer confidence levels. Bank overdraft and credit card usage decreased while cash flow and asset financing increased.
Accenture: The Future of Fintech and BankingMiguel Mello
The document discusses the growth of financial technology (fintech) investments and how this digital disruption impacts traditional banks. It summarizes:
- Global fintech investment tripled to $12.21 billion in 2014, with the US receiving the largest share but Europe experiencing the fastest growth.
- While some established banks are taking steps to engage with fintech innovations, many have only a fragmented strategy for digital transformation and face challenges from legacy systems and skills gaps.
- Views are mixed on whether banks will survive the digital disruption. Some believe banks will thrive by acquiring startups or enabling overall market growth. Others believe banks could lose market share and margins as services are disaggregated or added to non-financial offerings.
The document discusses the growth of investment in financial technology (fintech) ventures. Global investment in fintech tripled to $12.21 billion in 2014, with the US receiving the largest share. While fintech presents challenges, some banks are taking steps to engage with emerging innovations through openness, collaboration, and investment. The document examines two potential scenarios for banks: being disrupted by new digital players, or reimagining themselves through embracing innovation. Senior banking executives believe open innovation, partnerships, and addressing legacy systems will help banks thrive in the digital future.
2015 banking outlook: The future is bright, but change your password Grant Thornton LLP
Organic growth will remain elusive, but banks can boost performance by focusing on honing operational efficiencies and shoring up risk management.
Learn more - http://gt-us.co/1uaqYal
As current growth rates reach a new low, competition for the future is on the...SimCorp
As growth rates came to a standstill in 2015, we took stock of expectations for the future. Surveying firms worldwide, we discovered them to be optimistic about long-term prospects, and found the pursuit of future profits gathering pace.
This document introduces a new dataset on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to fill gaps in cross-country SME data. The summary analyzes the dataset and finds:
1) Global SME lending is estimated to be $10 trillion, with 70% in high-income countries.
2) SME loans average 13% of GDP in developed countries and 3% in developing countries.
3) Differences in SME definitions across countries do not significantly impact cross-country comparisons of SME lending volumes.
This document summarizes a new dataset on small and medium enterprise (SME) lending across countries. It finds that many regulators collect SME financing data, though definitions vary. The estimated global SME lending volume is $10 trillion, with 70% in high-income countries. SME loans average 13% of GDP in developed countries and 3% in developing countries. While definitions differ, these differences do not significantly impact reported SME lending volumes.
This report provides an evidence-based overview of developments in capital markets globally leading up to the COVID-19 crisis. It then documents the impact of the crisis on the use of capital markets and the introduction of temporary corporate governance measures.
While retailers faced severe challenges from high inflation, VAT increases, and weak consumer spending, some strategies were working well. Certain online retailers focusing on technological innovation, such as kiddicare.com, were experiencing major growth. Meanwhile, private equity money remained available for investment in the retail sector. However, economic conditions continued to hamper the recovery, with many retail respondents believing financing conditions would deteriorate or remain static over the next year.
Ft partners research the rise of challenger banksChris Skinner
Challenger banks are gaining traction as alternatives to traditional banks. Traditional banks face issues like high fees, outdated technology, and lack of trust following the financial crisis. Challenger banks offer better rates, fewer fees, and more user-friendly mobile apps. While challenger banks are still small, increased funding and consumer dissatisfaction with traditional banks has created opportunities for their growth. Traditional banks are also launching their own fintech brands in response to the threat from challenger banks.
This document summarizes a journal article that investigates constraints on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) accessing bank finance in Cote d'Ivoire. It finds that information asymmetry and inadequate collateral are two major demand-side constraints. SMEs in Cote d'Ivoire struggle to provide adequate financial statements and records to banks, and many lack sufficient collateral to secure loans. The document also notes supply-side constraints, including a low level of foreign bank participation and poor economic freedom in Cote d'Ivoire.
This document summarizes key challenges and opportunities facing the financial services industry. It discusses the economic environment, industry consolidation, net interest margin compression, changing demographics, and regulatory changes like the Durbin Amendment and Dodd-Frank Act. Strategies are proposed for credit unions to optimize performance, including maximizing overdraft opt-ins, evaluating product lines, focusing on relationships, and improving operational efficiency. Generational trends and their implications are also examined.
Fee and Commission Management in Global MarketsBroadridge
Look at key trends, challenges and solutions in fee and commission management. The challenge for any global financial institution is the sheer complexity and number of relationships and fees. The ongoing financial crisis has intensified the need for transparency and risk reduction. Explore the potential benefits of automation of commission and fees management and consider ways to quantify costs savings and other gains.
Results of the 2011 Hampshire First Bank Business First Survey.
The Business First survey included participation from businesses located across Southern New Hampshire who were asked a series of questions relating to industry profile, economy, employee benefits, business expansion, business management, environmental concerns, and marketing practices. These business leaders primarily represented the small business community, which embodies the New Hampshire spirit.
The U.S. banking industry is overdue for consolidation as market structure is obsolete and profitability has been weak for a decade. Regulatory pressures and competition are making it hard for most banks to grow revenues and profits. Mid-tier banks with $10-250 billion in assets are expected to see significant consolidation through M&A to gain scale and lower costs. Consolidation can yield 30-35% cost savings by shedding excess capacity, spreading fixed costs over a larger base, and investing in digital capabilities. $600 billion in M&A among mid-tier banks is estimated to boost sector returns enough to reach banks' cost of capital.
This document provides an executive summary and introduction to a report on the top 10 risks and opportunities facing global companies in 2013 and beyond. The summary identifies pricing pressure and cost cutting/profit pressure as the top two risks based on a survey of companies. Emerging market demand growth and innovation are identified as the top two opportunities. The risks and opportunities are grouped into four clusters - cost competitiveness, stakeholder confidence, customer reach, and operational agility. The report aims to help companies benchmark their risks and opportunities and inform strategic decision making.
Brazil Digital Report: a first-edition dossier on the Brazilian digital economy. A comprehensive report on trends and facts for investors, public and private institutions, entrepreneurs, executives, students, and for digital savvy people who are curious about Brazil.
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Similar to Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions SME Trends Index April 2011 Report (20)
Pre-party planning is essential to ensure a successful and appropriate company Christmas party. Remind employees that the party is an extension of the office and they should act professionally. Have plans in place to deal with inappropriate behavior and limit any damage to the company's reputation from social media posts or discussions not suited for the workplace. Ensure all staff get home safely without drinking and driving.
If anyone deserves a holiday it’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. But excessive workloads and pressures mean that many business owners are failing to take a break, preferring to focus on pushing their company forward.
Taking time out can seem counterproductive but when working long hours and facing high stress levels, finding the time to relax and reboot can be beneficial for both individuals and the business.
So, if you’re in need of a break this summer but are worried about your business, we hope these 5 business mistakes to avoid help!
For more business news, tips and guides please visit www.hiltonbaird.co.uk
The document summarizes the key findings of Hilton-Baird Collection Services' 2014 Late Payment Survey of 361 UK businesses. The survey found that late payments continue to significantly impact businesses, with 88% affected in 2013. On average, businesses had to wait 22 days beyond agreed credit terms to be paid. Construction firms experienced the longest delays at 24 days. The majority of businesses believe proposals to fine late payers would not reduce the problem of late payments.
With all the doom and gloom merchants throughout the media, it’s sometimes difficult to see reasons for reasons to be cheery.
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Businesses reported a four day increase in the time taken for customers to pay invoices, to an average of 21 days beyond agreed credit terms. As a result, more firms classified over 10% of debtor books as over 90 days old, leading 63% to write off over 1% of turnover as bad debt. There was widespread support for proposals to name late paying companies, with 69% backing the plans. Privately owned companies took longest to pay on average at 44 days, while engineering/maintenance firms faced the longest delays of almost 26 days.
The survey found that the average delay in payment fell by 5 days to 17 days between July 2011 and January 2012. However, 62% of businesses still reported an increase in the time it takes customers to pay. Privately owned companies were cited as the worst offenders for late payments. Constant reminding emerged as the most commonly used credit management strategy.
Late payments have significantly increased over the past six months for many UK businesses, according to a survey by Hilton-Baird Collection Services. Two-thirds of respondents reported an increase in the time it takes customers to pay invoices, with businesses now waiting an average of 22 days beyond agreed terms. This is placing pressure on cash flows and forcing many businesses to pay their own suppliers later. While suspending customer credit and credit checking are common strategies, nearly a quarter of businesses aren't taking additional measures to manage credit risk.
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2. Introduction
“A year ago, Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions, the UK’s “The report combines soundings taken in Q4 2010
largest independent introducer to the SME sector, set and Q2 2011, indexing business confidence, concerns
out to take a temperature check of UK businesses in and sources of finance against initial findings back in
post-recession Britain. The results revealed the 2010. In addition, a selection of topical questions
nation’s 4.7 million SMEs to be bruised but unbowed have been added to tap into a couple of key current
after enduring the worst trading conditions in living issues affecting the UK business community.
memory. Naturally, concerns about access to finance
and late payment continued to trouble our sample, “Meanwhile, for the first time the report also features
but a palpable optimism underpinned our study. a composite indicator of business health, which
should combine to provide a reliable litmus test of
“There have been many changes in the past 12 business confidence over the years to come.
months which have impacted the landscape. We have
a new Government and have officially been out of “I hope you find this report of interest and the insight
recession for five quarters. However, January 2011 within it helpful to your business. We welcome and
saw VAT rise to 20% and SMEs have also faced value any feedback you may wish to share.
rampant inflation, affecting not only luxury items but
also the essentials, such as food and fuel, as well as
having to deal with sweeping cuts, which have “Finally, I would like to sincerely thank all of our
affected business and consumer demand. respondents for taking the time to partake in this
insightful and informative study.”
“This latest study provides a fascinating insight into
how business sentiment has shifted during this time Evette Orams, Managing Director
of intense volatility. Has their optimism persisted? Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions
2
3. Background to research
Hilton-Baird’s research was undertaken among 1,293
businesses across a wide variety of business sectors,
providing a representative sample of the UK’s SMEs.
The research was conducted in two waves: Wave 1
took place in November 2010 with Wave 2
undertaken between March and April 2011.
The results provide a snapshot of current business
sentiment and a fascinating opportunity to establish a
graphic picture of business trends.
3
4. Key findings
Whist the SME Trends Index in Q4 2010 depicted an concern for those six months was generating and
SME community which appeared to be emerging winning new business, with a further 17% citing the
resiliently from the ravages of recession, the results of rising cost of raw materials and fuel and 15% worried
the most recent survey (Q2 2011) are more bearish as about managing cash flow.
businesses struggle to deal with the still sluggish
economic environment whilst Government spending The survey indicates that this latter concern could be
cuts begin to take their toll. overcome by securing a tailored funding solution that
focuses on boosting cash flow. Once again, more
This underlying anxiety is relayed in the first traditional sources of funding such as bank overdrafts
composite scores for our Business Health Index, which (44%) and credit cards (42%) were the most popular
reveals an overall decline in the financial health of UK amongst our respondents, with more focused and
businesses over the last six months, with the median flexible solutions such as asset finance (25%) and
score declining from 0.49 in Q4 2010 to 0.35 in Q2 invoice finance (21%) used by considerably fewer.
2011.
Yet, as this SME Trends Index demonstrates, asset
As a result, there was a substantial drop in the based finance users continue to fare better than
proportion of firms expecting their business to others as an increased access to working capital
expand in the next six months. Just 33% of Wave 2 enables owners to secure new business and
respondents indicated they expected theirs to do so ultimately grow.
compared to 45% reporting the same in Q4 2010.
More than a quarter (28%) stated that their biggest
4
5. Business Health Index
The Business Health Index, which uses a range of using other forms of funding, as did those with a
factors including bad debt levels, tax arrears, turnover turnover of more than £3m (1.48). Likewise, firms in
and profitability to generate a true reflection of the Wales (1.10), eastern England (0.91) and those
financial health of UK firms, fell to 0.35 from the 0.49 operating in the wholesale sector (1.38) are showing
recorded in November 2010. the most promise.
Companies using asset finance (0.70) and/or invoice But, in general, trading conditions appear noticeably
finance facilities (0.62) fared better than businesses more challenging this time around.
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2 0.49 0.35
1
0
-1
-2 November 2010 (640) April 2011 (516)
-3
-4
-5
-6
-7
-8
5
6. Business confidence
In the first study, almost half (45%) believed their Six months on, however, the picture is somewhat less
business would expand in the next six months. optimistic with only 33% reporting the same.
Over the next 6 months do you believe your business is going to... (%)
Expand Remain the same Contract Don't know
Total (1120) 39 36 15 9
November 2010
45 32 13 9
(625)
April 2011 (495) 33 41 17 9
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
6
7. Business concerns
When asked about their key concerns for the However, day-to-day concerns such as rising material
following six months, 28% of respondents cited and fuel costs (17%) were much more of an issue than
generating and winning new business as their primary macro factors. Only 3% were worried about inflation
concern. Perennials such as managing cash flow in the abstract and a similar number found a potential
concerned 15% of respondents and 11% highlighted rise in interest rates a cause of anxiety.
late payment as a concern.
% stating that their biggest concern for the next 6 months is...
Generating/winning new business 28
Rising material/fuel costs 17
Managing cash flow 15
Customers taking too long to pay 11
Inability to access funding 10
Rising inflation 3
Rising interest rates 3
VAT increase 2
Other 7
No concerns 3
Don't know 1
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
7
8. Routes to finance
Managing finance and an over-reliance on highly Promisingly, 21% of respondents in Q2 2011 enjoyed
leveraged forms of finance are troubling. Bank the flexibility provided from invoice finance
overdrafts remain SMEs’ preferred method of solutions, freeing the cash from their sales ledger.
securing credit (44%), whilst credit cards (42%) Meanwhile 25% of the sample used asset
emerge as the second most commonly used method finance, though this figure is down 10% on Q4 2010.
of finance.
Nov ‘10 April ‘11
% types of Finance currently used by business Difference
(630) (502)
N/A 49
Existing cash flow** 49
49 44
Bank overdraft 47
44 42
Credit cards 43
35 25
Asset finance (including HP &… 30
22 24
Bank loans 23
19 21
Invoice finance (Factoring & ID) 20
Loans from family & friends 17 20
18
Credit insurance 4 5
4
Government schemes 4 5 4
Export finance 1 1 1
Venture capital funding 1 2 1
Other 4 5 3
None of the above 13 17 9
Don't know 1 1 1
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
8
9. About Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions
As the UK’s leading independent commercial finance risk management across a wide range of industries
broker, Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions specialises in and sectors.
identifying the exact funding needs of businesses and
matching them with suitable funding providers in the The emphasis Hilton-Baird places on delivery of a
UK and overseas. tailored service that meets all of our clients’ needs is
central to its business proposition and has played a
Hilton-Baird’s independent status has enabled the large role in the company’s growing success. As a
company to foster strong relationships with more than member of the Asset Based Finance Association
70 dedicated lenders, ranging from major banking (ABFA), Finance and Leasing Association (FLA) and the
groups through to smaller boutique funders. This National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers
objective approach and market expertise delivers real (NACFB), the company maintains the highest service
benefits for clients, enabling the right business standards at all times.
solution to be sourced and ensuring that Hilton-Baird
always delivers positive and innovative financial Hilton-Baird also recognises that its highly trained
solutions allied to exact business requirements. team is its true strength and is fully committed to
supporting them, creating a vibrant working
Established in 1997, Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions environment with a team that is dedicated to
has helped in excess of 3,000 businesses during its 14- delivering beyond expectations.
year history. It is part of the Hilton-Baird Group, one
of the UK’s leading independent business finance
groups consisting of a team of 50 professionals with
expertise in all aspects of commercial fundraising and
9