Commercial Insights

Article
Finance and Treasury
How to Prepare for a Recession

Whether the U.S. is in a recession or not, businesses should prepare for more economic uncertainty. These five strategies will help.

December 23, 2022 • 3 min
Finance and Treasury
Is Economic Stability Possible in Uncertain Times?

Businesses are aiming for economic stability amidst uncertainty. Answering three questions will help determine a course of action.

December 15, 2022 • 6 min
Finance and Treasury
Foreign Exchange Risk: Don’t Get Caught in the Supply Chain Web

Global businesses, suppliers and vendors usually pay in a variety of currencies. How do you mitigate FX risks in the supply chain?

August 31, 2022 • 2 min
Finance and Treasury
International Trade: Funding Your Expansion

Are you considering international expansion, but not sure of the risks, how to proceed or get funding? Here’s what you need to know.

July 13, 2022 • 3 min
Finance and Treasury
Reading Between Currency Rate Headlines

Currency management can be confusing. You’ll constantly hear about markets and currencies in a volatile economy. Keep these associations in mind as you read or listen to current headlines.

July 04, 2022 • 2 min
Finance and Treasury
Unlock the Cash You Need – Now and for the Future

Three capital management strategies to better control cash flow for short and long-term liquidity needs.

May 20, 2022 • 4 min
Finance and Treasury
Five Keys to Optimize Cash Management

Managing cash flow and liquidity is a balancing act. Five key tactics will improve forecasting, analysis, visibility and fraud mitigation for optimal results.

April 26, 2022 • 5 min
Finance and Treasury
Winning at Cash Flow Management

Over the last two years, managing cash flow required discipline and creativity. But some companies mastered cash flow management despite weak supply chains, lockdowns, and consumer shifts.

April 18, 2022 • 3 min
Finance and Treasury
How CFOs are Shifting the Finance Paradigm for Greater Business Impact

The modern CFO is evolving from financial guru to visionary. With a focus on four key areas, these captains of finance are leading the way to more profitable business models.

March 05, 2021 • 4 min
Finance and Treasury
Free Cash Flow with AP-AR Transformation

Cash flow is vital to business survival. Automated accounts receivable and accounts payable free cash flow for greater liquidity.

February 08, 2022 • 4 min
Finance and Treasury
Spend Management with Cards

Companies have been slow to transition from manual purchasing and reimbursement processes, but now might be a good time to upgrade to a better tool.

June 21, 2021 • 4 min
Fraud and Risk Management
Prevent Fraud During the Holidays

Fraudsters are making a holiday list. It might include your business. These nine tips will help prevent fraud.

November 23, 2022 • 3 min
Fraud and Risk Management
Holiday Scams: 'Tis the Season to Be Wary

Two holiday scams resulted in $265 million in losses just two years ago. Can you spot them?

October 11, 2022 • 8 min
Fraud and Risk Management
Payment Fraud: Spot It and Stop It

Seventy-one percent of organizations were victims of payment fraud last year. Do you know what to look for or how to stop it?

October 06, 2022 • 6 min
Fraud and Risk Management
Preventing Deepfakes and Rising Online Fraud

It's not enough to know what fraudsters are up to now. The real question is “what are fraudsters up to next?” Deepfakes and three other types of online fraud are on the rise.

November 15, 2021 • 5 min
Fraud and Risk Management
Is an Employee Stealing from Your Company?

One of the costliest financial crimes might be happening in the office next to you. Would you recognize the signs?

May 24, 2021 • 5 min
Fraud and Risk Management
How to Protect Against Ransomware

The Colonial Pipeline cyber attack served as a wake-up call to businesses — or at least it should have.

May 14, 2021 • 5 min
Fraud and Risk Management
Is Your Government Organization Safe from Tax Scams?

Fraud against governments reduces funding for citizen and community services. Seven simple steps will help mitigate internal and external fraud.

April 26, 2021 • 6 min
Fraud and Risk Management
Three Ways the Pandemic has Changed Business Fraud

The COVID-19 outbreak provided the perfect cover for thieves to exploit economic, public health and political conditions for their personal gain. But businesses can fight back.

April 19, 2021 • 6 min
Fraud and Risk Management
How to Protect Your Business from Pandemic-Related Fraud

Since the pandemic began, anti-fraud professionals have seen an increase of 77% in related business crimes. These recommendations will help neutralize the top threats.

April 12, 2021 • 3 min
Fraud and Risk Management
Employee Theft: The Whys and Hows

Most businesses are aware of external fraud risks. But do you know how many are targeted by employees and why?

February 12, 2021 • 6 min
Innovation
Technology: The Mother of Business Transformation

As we manage beyond the pandemic, optimizing technology comes down to prioritizing your organization’s efforts to implement efficient and profitable solutions.

July 12, 2022 • 5 min
Market and Industry Insights
Consumer Buying Behavior and Inflation

Seventy-nine percent of consumers are worried about inflation. They’re adapting buying behavior to cut costs. Here’s what to expect and what to do.

August 22, 2022 • 4 min
Market and Industry Insights
Are We Headed for a Recession?

There’s a lot of talk about recessions, but what defines a recession and what causes it? Here’s what you need to know.

August 20, 2022 • 3 min
Market and Industry Insights
How Manufacturers are Coping with COVID-19

The problems of COVID-19 will not disappear overnight, but nimble manufacturers will survive and learn to thrive.

July 05, 2022 • 5 min
Market and Industry Insights
Covid-19 Rocks Transportation: How to Keep Rolling

After Q1 2020, transportation and logistics leaders anticipated disruptions to their business. But a few practical steps can help to minimize risks throughout the remainder of the year.

July 05, 2022 • 4 min
Market and Industry Insights
Fighting Rising Interest Rates with Informed Cash Flow Management

Inflation rose above eight percent (8.6%) in May 2022, the highest it’s been in about 40 years. An actionable cash management plan can help unlock trapped cash in an unpredictable economy.

June 28, 2022 • 3 min
Market and Industry Insights
Medical Devices Breathe New Life into Healthcare

Medical device innovators increase sales 24% faster than competitors. Lessons learned during the pandemic are fostering new ways of thinking and growth in the healthcare industry.

June 27, 2022 • 5 min
Market and Industry Insights
Sun Belt States Florida and Georgia Heating Up Commercial Real Estate

What type of commercial real estate is the best investment? Investors think it’s industrial/logistics (60%) and multifamily housing (27%). Metros in two Sun Belt states are targets.

May 20, 2022 • 6 min
Market and Industry Insights
Restaurant Industry Innovation is on the Menu

Eighty-seven percent of restaurant operators, owners and managers say technology adoption was a key factor in surviving the pandemic.

April 07, 2022 • 3 min
Market and Industry Insights
The U.S. Inflation Rate vs. The Supply Chain

Inflation is suddenly a hot topic in the U.S. Prices for nearly everything we buy have gone up noticeably over the past year.

February 11, 2022 • 2 min
Market and Industry Insights
Where to Look for Real Estate Investing Opportunities

The suburbs are swelling, with new homes popping up everywhere. That’s great for residential real estate. But what’s attracting commercial investors?

September 20, 2021 • 5 min
Market and Industry Insights
Supply Chain Challenges Part 1: Automobile Manufacturing When the Chips Are Down

Reduced computer chip supply is severely limiting auto production, resulting in very low inventory and very high prices for new and used cars. See the impact of semiconductor manufacturing on the auto industry.

September 03, 2021 • 5 min
Market and Industry Insights
Supply Chain Challenges Part 3: Sharpening the Saw to Reduce Lumber Shortages

Sawmills were shut down when the pandemic began. No one anticipated the effects this would have on lumber and the construction industry. How soon will things change?

September 03, 2021 • 3 min
Market and Industry Insights
How to Improve the Health of Your Accounts Receivable

It’s a tough time for medical practices and hospitals. Revenues are dropping and consumers are struggling to make payments. There are ways to make it better.

September 03, 2021 • 3 min
Market and Industry Insights
Supply Chain Challenges Part 2: Trucking Industry Shortages: Tech Bound and Down

Construction, manufacturing – even your favorite meal – are being affected by the trucking industry’s driver shortage. The American Trucking Association says the labor shortage isn’t new. Here’s what this group and other industry associations are recommending to fix the problem.

September 03, 2021 • 4 min
Market and Industry Insights
Is Inflation Heating Up?

Since the May 12 Consumer Price Index release, the investment community has debated how long we’ll experience high levels of inflation. What can we expect?

July 12, 2021 • 3 min
Market and Industry Insights
Satisfying the Southeast’s Taste for Meat and Dairy

Farmers in the Southeast are hustling to keep consumers fed. See how they fared in 2020, as well as what’s in store for this year and beyond.

June 21, 2021 • 4 min
Market and Industry Insights
Supply, Demand, and the $50 Chicken Sandwich

Several factors are driving up the cost of everything from homes to a Southern lunch classic. Is there an end in sight?

May 19, 2021 • 6 min
Market and Industry Insights
Are Construction Material Costs Slowing Building Pace?

2020 saw a rise in new home construction and a slight drop in commercial building. But lingering supply chain disruptions are causing building material shortages, as well as increases in pricing. Will these factors impact construction this year?

April 14, 2021 • 7 min
Market and Industry Insights
Southeastern Crops Hungry for Growth

The pandemic interrupted food supply chains. Even with eased constrictions, the next few years will be challenging for Southeastern producers. Farmers and other growers must be prepared to adapt to market conditions.

March 05, 2021 • 5 min
Market and Industry Insights
Commercial Real Estate Outlook: A Year of Transition in the Office Sector

Since the onset of the pandemic, some commercial real estate sectors performed well. Others didn’t. The Office sector still poses questions.

February 15, 2021 • 8 min
Market and Industry Insights
Outlook 2021: Georgia’s Winding Path to Stability

Like 49 other U.S. states, Georgia has weathered some hard knocks during the pandemic-induced depression. What, if any, economic relief will 2021 bring?

January 25, 2021 • 9 min
Market and Industry Insights
Multifamily Housing in the Pandemic: Setting the Stage for 2021

Pre-existing conditions and unprecedented market forces are affecting the multifamily sector. What trends will 2021 bring?

December 07, 2020 • 7 min
Operations
The Great Resignation vs. the C-Suite

Seventy-one percent of CEOs believe labor shortages are disrupting business. In addition to hiring, they are focused on reducing employee resignations.

November 14, 2022 • 7 min
Operations
Supply Chain Disruptions Can Be Overcome

Prolonged supply chain disruptions can cause businesses to lose 30%-50% of earnings before interest, taxes, and depreciation. Here’s how to remain profitable.

October 06, 2022 • 5 min
Operations
Eight Business Online Banking Provider Must-Haves

Does your business need online banking? Carefully consider these essentials before you choose.

September 01, 2022 • 3 min
Operations
Business Process Automation Checklist

Don’t rush digitalization. Careful consideration and some tips will help to accomplish your goals when making the shift.

April 12, 2022 • 5 min
Operations
How to Find the Right Commercial Bank

A recent survey indicates 57% of corporations want to work with commercial banks that act as strategic and long-term partners.

April 07, 2022 • 6 min
Operations
Customer Experience Management: How Digitalization Helps

Consumers expect a flawless customer experience. Focusing on improving CX could deliver double your revenue in 36 months.

March 02, 2022 • 3 min
Operations
Disruption in the C-Suite: Four 2022 Priorities

Late last year CEO economic outlook rose to its highest level in 20 years. But four disruptors are concerning.

February 16, 2022 • 1 min
Operations
Digitalization: Why Should You Care?

The race to digitalization is well underway. Is your company positioned to maximize the benefits of digital tools and processes? Your future may depend on it.

February 04, 2022 • 5 min
Operations
Talent Acquisition and Retention in the New Normal

Employers of every type are reporting historically high quit rates and they are feeling the pain of staff shortages. Some businesses are adopting new strategies to attract and keep the employees they need.

November 22, 2021 • 5 min
Operations
Protecting Customer Data is Key to Reputation Management

Your brand reputation ultimately lives in the hearts and minds of consumers, but there are ways it can be influenced. One of the most effective ways to do so? Respect your customers’ personal information.

September 24, 2021 • 6 min
Operations
Five Tactics for Business Continuity

During the pandemic, we’ve witnessed untold interruptions to life and business. These five recommendations offer a holistic approach to business continuity planning.

March 22, 2021 • 5 min
Operations
Why You Should Leave Payroll to the Pros

Outsourcing payroll may seem like a luxury if you’re a small business owner. But after considering total costs, it might make perfect sense.

January 11, 2021 • 4 min
Payments
Five Payment Strategies for Business Growth

Tighter control of payment processes helps businesses reduce fraud, enhance customer satisfaction, and achieve company growth.

January 13, 2023 • 5 min
Payments
Payment Options Move Money Faster and More Efficiently

Evolving technology and consumer demand is paving the way to new payment methods like blockchain and FedNow.

March 10, 2022 • 5 min
Payments
Is Crypto the Future of B2B Cross-Border Payments?

Thirty-seven percent of multinationals use cryptocurrency for cross-border payments. Payments could be 75% cheaper and 96% faster for businesses. But mainstream adoption is a battle.

March 09, 2022 • 4 min
Payments
AI Supercharges Straight-Through Payments Processing

Organizations that send and receive payments spend a lot of time and effort on manual processing. Integrating STP with AI delivers more value with less effort.

December 10, 2021 • 7 min
Payments
The Need for Speed: Accelerating AR Payments

Finance professionals have been trying to speed up receipt of outstanding payments for decades. Recent pandemic-related economic struggles are making expedited payments even more critical.

July 12, 2021 • 5 min
Payments
Waiting…and Waiting…to be Paid

Payment delays are a challenge many organizations face. Adopting some best practices will ensure you’re paid in a timelier manner.

July 06, 2021 • 4 min
Strategic Advice
Succession Planning Tips

Effective succession planning can increase valuation and investor returns for large companies by 20-25%. But many companies don’t have a succession plan. Develop one with these seven steps.

May 20, 2022 • 6 min
Strategic Advice
Four Steps for Effective Market Planning

Growing a company or launching a new product or service can be daunting. Careful planning can help facilitate growth, while mitigating risk.

November 05, 2021 • 6 min
Strategic Advice
Five 2022 Business Planning Trends

Over a year into the pandemic, companies are still adapting to economic, labor and supply chain challenges. In the next year, CEOs and other business leaders will focus on sales, spending, supply chain management, staffing, and flexible work arrangements.

October 08, 2021 • 4 min
Strategic Advice
Scenario Planning Dos and Don’ts

First used in the 1950s to assess potential effects of a nuclear war, scenario planning offers practical benefits for CFOs and other finance professionals today. Consider these dos and don’ts when beginning the scenario planning process.

September 03, 2021 • 2 min
Strategic Advice
Scenario Planning: Preparing for What’s Next

Despite advances in technology, the Nostradamus School of Management still doesn't exist. How would another prolonged business disruption affect your organization? What would it mean for revenue? Our employees? Scenario planning can answer these questions.

August 11, 2021 • 4 min