Category Archives: Business

How can an employee establish that they have been constructively dismissed?

Constructive dismissal, resignation, being forced to quit. Regardless as to what term is used, losing a job is never nice; it hurts more when the employee leaving the position feels they had no other choice but to resign.

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But what exactly is constructive dismissal, and when can an employee make a claim? Below are a few pointers on what is meant by this term, what might cause constructive dismissal, and how to go about making a claim in the event of being affected.

What is constructive dismissal?

The term constructive dismissal is used when an employee quits their job in direct response to the conduct of the employer. This conduct must be in breach of an important part of their contract, express or implied, to be deemed constructive dismissal. In this case, the employee may regard themselves as having been effectively dismissed; they’ve essentially been forced to leave a job they did not want to leave.

Poor conduct examples may include an employer changing the duties of an employee without first consulting with them or being entitled to do so, reducing an employee’s rate of pay or not paying their salary, demotion without warning, removal of benefits or making changes to an employee’s hours of work or place of work outside the range of what is deemed reasonable.

When can a claim be made?

An employee might be eligible to make a claim against an employer in the case of a repudiatory breach. This is a breach of either an express or even implied term of their contract of employment. In this case, an employee may feel that they have been effectively dismissed and can potentially make a claim.

The employee may be due compensation in the case of such a breach of contract resulting in constructive or unfair dismissal. If the employee isn’t sure whether a claim is possible, a website such as https://www.employmentlawfriend.co.uk/constructive-dismissal may offer assistance as to how to go about the next steps following dismissal, as well as templates and free guides on how to interpret UK employment law.

One important thing to consider is that an employee resigning without giving due notice will be considered by an employment tribunal. In this case, the compensation due will be made in accordance with the financial position the employee would have been in had proper procedures been followed. In other words, they may be due the pay for their remaining notice period in addition to any other recompense.

A constructive dismissal claim differs from an unfair dismissal claim in that the latter is usually only an option available to employees who have been in their employment for more than two years. In this instance, a tribunal would consider the reason for the dismissal and whether the employer behaved in accordance with the employee’s contract.

How much compensation might an employee be due?

If the employee is successful with their claim, their compensation will be calculated based on several standard factors, including their length of service, salary, and age.

An employment tribunal may also investigate any financial losses the employee might have suffered as a direct result of having to leave their job, taking into account what the employee has done to mitigate this loss (for example, by looking for new work).

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It should be noted that constructive dismissal claims have a time limit of three months from the date of termination, so any claims should be made in a timely manner. As we noted above, getting the right document templates and guidance on employment law is the best way to ensure success.

Is a loan agreement a binding contract?

Few of us make it through life without taking out a loan, especially when it comes to significant purchases such as a car or house. This means that, at some point, you are likely to need to familiarise yourself with the legal process of agreeing the terms of your loan, such as how much you will borrow and the repayment schedule. It is essential that you understand exactly what you are signing up for with one of these agreements.

What is a loan agreement?

Loan agreements are arrangemenat between two parties where one offers to lend money, and the other promises to repay it. Sometimes it is just a note between friends or family members. In other cases, such as when buying a house, it can be a long and complicated process requiring extensive documentation. Whatever form the agreement takes, it should set out all conditions of the loan.

Typical content for this kind of agreement includes the amount of the loan, the purpose of the funds, any collateral being offered, when and how it will be repaid, whether interest will be applied (and if so at what rate), potential late fees or penalties for default, and any other obligations for the borrower or the lender. It can be drawn up on your behalf by a firm such as https://www.parachutelaw.co.uk/loan-agreement Parachute Law to ensure that experienced solicitors oversee the work.

Advantages of loan agreements

Even close relationships can be easily damaged when unpaid debts are involved. A formal agreement enables both sides to set realistic expectations. It may reduce the likelihood of future disputes, particularly in loans between friends or family members. Having a formal document proves that a loan is a loan, not a gift, with important legal ramifications (including for tax purposes). Most of all, it provides protection in the event that one or both parties either cannot or will not meet their obligations under the loan. If matters relating to the loan have to be taken to court, it will enable the judge to make a fair and lawful decision.

The law

There is little purpose to loan agreements if they cannot be enforced. Lending to private individuals by businesses is subject to regulation in the UK. Any agreement must meet with all legal requirements in the jurisdiction to be enforceable in court. In some locations, mandatory arbitration has replaced court as the first (and sometimes only) method of resolving disputes.

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Specific regulations may depend on the size and nature of the loan, or the rate of interest. In the United Kingdom, loans given to help with the purchase of a property may become a “Regulated Mortgage Contract” under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. Order 2001, Section 61 states:

(a) a “regulated mortgage contract” means a contract under which-

(i) a person (“the lender”) provides credit to an individual or to trustees (“the borrower”); and
(ii) the obligation of the borrower to repay is secured by a first legal mortgage on land (other than timeshare accommodation) in the United Kingdom, at least 40% of which is used, or is intended to be used, as or in connection with a dwelling by the borrower or (in the case of credit provided to trustees) by an individual who is a beneficiary of the trust, or by a related person.

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Terms may vary between different loan agreements, but regardless of the people and conditions in involved, they are legally binding contracts. That means you need to negotiate terms carefully, read the contract thoroughly (preferably with the help of a solicitor), and ensure that you meet all of your obligations.

Ways to Analyse Market Performance

There are a variety of ways to analyse market performance. A business owner can use this data to better position themselves, discover strengths and weaknesses, and uncover opportunities. Ultimately, this type of analysis can help a company avoid losing market share. It is important to do your research, so that you’re able to effectively use the results to your advantage.

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One of the first steps in analysing market performance is to define your target market. Are you selling to a broader audience or are you aiming to sell to a specific demographic? Are you targeting a lower or higher-end market? Market segmentation is a key element of market analysis, especially when you’re competing with multiple companies. A Brand Strategy Agency can help you with this. Contact a site such as https://www.reallyhelpfulmarketing.co.uk/specialist-services/brand-strategy-agency for more information.

Another way to analyse market performance is to analyse sales data. Whether it’s past data or current data, sales analysis will give you an idea of what the market is doing right now. Sales analysis reports can also identify which customers are profitable and most loyal. They can also help you identify market trends that you can use to launch a new product, for example.

Conducting market research is an essential part of creating a business plan. It’s important to show that you know your market, and that it’s attractive from a financial standpoint. Market research includes both quantitative and qualitative analysis of a market, and considers customer segments, buying habits, and competition. It also examines barriers to entry and the current state of the economy.

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A thorough market analysis can reduce risks and improve your business. It also allows you to make informed decisions. The process involves seven steps. The first step is identifying the target audience. You must also determine whether the audience you are targeting already has a need for your product. For example, they may be interested in a similar product or service, or they may be interested in a new use for an existing product. Once you have identified the target audience, the next step is to determine the growth rate of that market.

Market analysis can help you determine the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors. This process also helps you determine how to differentiate yourself from your competitors. The brand strategy can be developed using this information. In most cases, brand analysis is a prelude to a re-brand. It helps you understand where you stand in the market and identify areas where you need to improve.

Would You Trust a Robot for Financial Advice?

Would You Trust a Robot for Financial Advice?

Many services are being automated and often you’ll hear ‘there’s an app for that’ when talking about various strands of business. Robots, too, are taking over in the workplace. They are making cars, working in factories, performing operations, and now handing out financial advice.

Online robotic advisors are providing small investors with financial advice and managing their portfolios, with these services proving more cost-effective than their human counterparts. The rise in robot-advisors came about through concern that not enough people were getting the advice they needed at a price they could afford. Whilst they use the same software as their human counterparts, they focus mainly on managing portfolios rather than the tax and retirement aspects of wealth management.

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Meet the Robo-Advisors

Robo-advice is an automated online service using algorithms to manage portfolios. Investors can go online and fill in a form with their age, ideal retirement age and whether they want their investment to be high, medium, or low risk. The robo-advisor then puts the money in the appropriate funds and automatically rebalances the portfolio if necessary. At present, they are not poaching clients from existing advisers but capturing a new market of young people with little money to invest, who may have been ignored until now.

In San Francisco, SigFig Wealth Management has 845,000 clients but fewer than 100 employees. This new generation of financial firms gives clients access to algorithm-driven tools to manage their portfolios. SigFig has become the eighth largest adviser in the USA by number of clients.

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Somewhat closer to home here in the UK Ascot solicitors Parachute Law are proud to have the human touch offering advice but from a legal perspective.

Automation Makes Financial Sense

So, it seems as though robots are not a threat to existing financial firms but have tapped into a previously unseen market. In many ways robots and software can make life easier for professionals such as independent financial advisors, because a lot of their work can be automated or dealt with quickly by apps or software to leave people more time to deal with their clients.

All information about clients can be safely stored, their portfolios updated or created, and accounts managed using business management software which helps them manage risks and build a better business. This enables professionals to spend more time doing what they enjoy – giving financial advice.

What Are Polymer Composites?

Polymer composites are made of two or more types of polymer. Among their features are their low density, high thermal conductivity, and biocompatibility. They are also extremely durable and are used for a wide range of industrial applications, including electrical insulation, military structures, and bone and ligament application. In addition, their unique properties make them highly flexible and allow for a wide range of design forms. This means that they can be used in various ways, from medical devices to aerospace parts. Find out more about Plasma polymer composite applications at a site like https://www.poeton.co.uk/advanced-treatments/apticote-810-plasma-polymer-composite/

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Polymer composites have a wide range of uses, from structural hull panels to decking, stringers, and sail battens. They can also be used in cabinetry, door panels, and anchor pins. Glass fibre-reinforced polyester is the most common type of polymer composite used in boats, while other types of fibre reinforcement are commonly used in high-performance sailboats. While polymer composites are highly resistant to saltwater, they also have outstanding strength and dampen vibration, making them ideal for use in boating.

A variety of biomedical applications for polymer composites include the creation of implants and bone replacements. 

A polymer composite is made from two or more materials. The polymer matrix consists of two or more polymers and a support material, which may be inorganic or organic. These products can be formed using thermoplastic or thermoset matrices, and are commonly manufactured at temperatures below 200°F. There are several types of polymer composites. The most popular are fibre-reinforced composites, which are made with fibres embedded in another material.

The most common polymer composites are carbon fibre and fibreglass. However, there are other types of composites. Among the strongest, most versatile, and most resilient are the ones made from polymers. But there are many other advantages of these advanced polymer composites. They combine the benefits of two substances in one compound. In fact, some of them have multiple benefits.

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Smart polymer composites can combine glass fibres and a polymer matrix to form a smart structure. The technology behind these composites is often inspired by nature. The most popular examples of smart structures are those that are capable of sensing and healing damage. These composites are able to repair themselves in the event of an accident. This is a major benefit of these composites. They are also lightweight, durable, and resistant to high temperatures.

The Importance of Having an Accountant Who Understands Your Business

Having an accountant who understands your business is essential for many reasons. They can offer you valuable advice when it comes to the structure of your company and can help you choose the best structure for your needs. In addition to helping you choose the right structure for your business, they can also help you make important decisions regarding hiring and spending, as well as financial feasibility. A good accountant can help you make a sound decision regarding these issues. For a wealth of business advice and accounting services, consider a Tewkesbury Business Advisory like Randall and Payne

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An accountant will be able to help you develop a realistic revenue forecast, establish KPIs, and troubleshoot problems. They can also help you prepare a pitch for lenders. Your accountant will also be able to provide you with valuable advice on how to set goals and measures of progress. They know which lenders are playing fair and when not. Your accountant will be able to give you unbiased advice that will help you reach your financial goals.

A business owner must also have an idea about how to run the company, but this is easier said than done. A professional accountant can help you test your business ideas and identify startup costs. They can also help you create a realistic revenue forecast. They can also help you prepare a business pitch for potential lenders. They can also assist you in keeping track of outstanding invoices and missing payments. A good accountant can help you create and maintain a realistic plan for your business’s success.

Having an accountant who understands your business is essential for a successful business. Having an accountant who knows your business and your industry inside out will help you focus on the critical parts of your business. Your accountant will be able to set goals and set key performance indicators to keep track of progress. If your finances are not in order, you will be unable to stay in business for long.

Your accountant is the linchpin of your business’s financial health. Without them, your business may not be able to meet its goals. An accountant will help you determine what your financial goals are, as well as provide the necessary paperwork. Your accountant will also help you file annual reports and create reports analyzing your revenue by customer. These documents will allow you to more effectively target your marketing efforts.

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Your accountant can help you file annual financial reports and prepare reports based on your business’s unique needs. They will also help you identify startup costs and create credible revenue forecasts for your business. A business owner should make sure that all of his or her paperwork is organized before meeting their accountant. For example, he or she should set up online banking and set up cloud-based money management tools. This way, their work will be easier and they will have a better view of the various aspects of their business.

 

What you need to consider when charging VAT

VAT or Value-Added Tax is a consumption tax that is passed on through a supply chain to the end purchaser. VAT needs to be charged on certain products or services once the business reaches the VAT threshold. This also enables the company to reclaim the VAT on any products or services that they have purchased. It is important that you follow all the relevant guidelines and the best way to do this is to work with a Swindon Accountants to get you set up properly.

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There are a number of things to consider when it comes to VAT and these include.

  • Rate of VAT to charge – there are essentially three VAT rates, a standard rate which is charged at 20%, a reduced rate which is charged at 5% and a Zero-rated which is charged at 0% and is not the same as those exempt from VAT. To understand these rates you should speak with Chippendale and Clark Accountants in Swindon who can help you with your VAT submissions.
  • VAT info on invoices – you must ensure that you separate out the VAT on your invoices and that you display your VAT registration number clearly as well.

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  • Reporting – you will need to submit VAT returns on a quarterly basis based on the date that your VAT registration was granted. It is important that you make a note of any VAT deadline dates and submit your return and pay the VAT owed by the deadline.

Why Stainless Steel Is Such A Popular Choice In Industry

If you’ve been working in the industrial sector for any length of time, you’ve probably wondered why stainless steel is so popular. Its high chromium content and low carbon content makes it an excellent choice for many different applications. Stainless steel is very easy to work with and is a low-maintenance material. Because of its corrosion-resistance and low-cost fabrication, stainless is the ideal metal for food and beverage industries in particular.

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Stainless steel is easily bent and moulded into desired shapes depending on the industry application. Find out more about Bending Machines at a site like Cotswold Machinery, a supplier of Bending Machines.

One reason that stainless steel is so popular in industry is that it’s highly durable and resistant to a wide variety of elements. Because of this durability, stainless is easy to form and be fabricated. Stainless steel is also easily processed in large quantities. Though the initial cost of stainless may seem high, it will be worth it in the long run. Unlike some other metals, stainless is easy to work with and requires little maintenance once it’s installed which is a further reason for its popularity.

The long life of stainless steel makes it a valuable material for any industry. Despite being a versatile material, stainless is easily cleaned and maintainable. This makes it the least expensive option in a life-cycle cost comparison. Besides its long life, stainless is 100% recyclable. New stainless steel contains between 50 and 80% recycled materials. It’s easy to see why stainless is such a popular choice for industry in an increasingly environmentally conscious world.

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Its durability is another major factor that makes it a good material for industry. It can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures without rusting or becoming damaged. It’s also very versatile and can be cut, welded, or formed, making it a great choice for both small tools and large appliances alike. It’s also very strong. The fact that it’s also a highly recyclable material gives it an advantage in a tougher world.

Stainless steel’s high hygroscopic qualities make it ideal for food and drink manufacturing. It’s also able to resist most corrosive elements, including salt. Moreover, it can resist most aggressive conditions, making it a better material for food production. However, it is still not the perfect material for processes that require prolonged exposure to salt. For these reasons, many industries use grade 316 stainless steel instead.

Stainless steel is 100% recyclable. Its high resistance to corrosion makes it the ideal material for many applications in the building and construction industries. Its superior mechanical properties make it a popular choice for a variety of uses. It also offers a high aesthetic appeal. Additionally, it is environmentally friendly material. Because of its high hygienic properties, stainless steel is widely used in industrial applications where sanitation is crucial such as food, drink and pharmaceuticals.

 

How to Make Better Business Decisions

The best way to improve decision-making is to identify a problem and create a solution. Once you’ve identified a problem, you can begin to formulate solutions. You can create a roadmap of steps you need to take to solve it. If you have a large number of decisions to make, consider hiring a team to help you. The process should include input from many people and avoid technical jargon. Continue reading How to Make Better Business Decisions

What is procurement for Business?

Without the services of a procurement officer businesses would find it difficult to function fully and could not even exist. They are an often-overlooked business role which is important to the functioning of any business.  As that great sage of our age Lorelai Gilmore says to her father Richard when he’s about to start his new business, “Before anything else can happen, you need pens, you need paper, you need. . . everything else, don’t you?”. Indeed, you do but there is the small question of finding the person to do that for you. They are certainly a special part of the operation. Continue reading What is procurement for Business?