7 Reasons to Hire a Qualified Accountant to Grow Your Business

 

You're good at what you do. You know your product or service inside and out, and you're passionate about it. But when it comes to the financial side of things, you're out of your depth. After all, numbers aren't your strong suit. That's why it makes sense to hire a qualified accountant to help grow your business. 

Here are seven reasons why hiring an accountant is a smart move: 

1. Save Time 

Running a business is time-consuming enough without having to add bookkeeping and tax returns to the mix. An accountant can take care of all that number-crunching for you, freeing up your time to focus on other aspects of running your business. 

2. Stay Organized 

When everything is organized and in its proper place, it's easier to find what you need when you need it—and that includes financial documents. An accountant can help you get (and stay) organized, making tax time a breeze. 

3. Maximize Deductions 

Did you know that there are dozens of deductions available to business owners? An experienced accountant will know which deductions you're eligible for and how to maximize them so you keep more of what you earn. 

4. Reduce Stress 

Dealing with money is stressful for some people. If money matters make your heart race or your palms sweat, hire an accountant and let him or her take care of it for you. Financial peace of mind is priceless! 

5. Avoid Penalties 

Nobody likes paying penalties, especially when they could have been avoided in the first place. An accountant can ensure that all your financial obligations are taken care of on time so you don't incur any unnecessary penalties or fees. 

6. Get Expert Advice 

When you hire an accountant, you gain access to his or her years of experience and expertise. Got a question about something? Just ask! Chances are, your accountant has dealt with a similar issue in the past and will be able to give you some great advice. 

7. Grow Your Business 

A good accountant isn't just someone who does your taxes; he or she is also a valuable business advisor who can help you make smart decisions that will lead to growth and profitability. When you work with an accountant, you're not just getting someone who crunches numbers—you're getting a partner who wants to see your business succeed as much as you do!

Ready to reap the benefits of working with a qualified accountant? Contact Finness Advisory today, and let us help take your business to the next level!

Blue Light, Depression & Anxiety

 

A Harvard study identified preliminary results that link blue light to diabetes and possibly obesity.

The researchers put ten people on a schedule that gradually shifted the timing of their circadian rhythms similar to what occurs when you look at a screen or mobile phone. The test subject’s blood sugar levels increased, placing them into a pre-diabetic state. Their levels of leptin, a hormone that keeps people feeling full after a meal, went down.

Here’s a link to the Harvard Study: Link

Here is why. Nighttime exposure to blue light delays the nocturnal melatonin peak (shifting the circadian rhythm) which decreases the production of cortisol. A balanced consistency of cortisol is much needed to increase the body’s metabolism of glucose.

Studies showed that sleeping with a light or a television on in the bedroom is conclusively associated with gaining five kilograms or more. Also, the study showed the body mass index increase of at least 10% over five years among women. This study published in the medical journal JAMA Internal Medicine and concludes Blue Light puts us at a higher risk of being overweight or obese, compared with being exposed to no artificial light during sleep.

References:

• Harvard University – Blue Light Has A Dark Side
• JAMA Internal Medicine – Exposure to Artificial Light at Night While Sleeping With Risk of Obesity in Women
• CNN – Light & Weight Gain

7 Steps to Buying The Perfect Engagement Ring

 Engagement rings are the ultimate symbol of love, commitment and new beginnings. Although it is a huge part of getting married, most people don’t know where to begin when it comes to choosing the right ring. 

If you are planning a proposal but haven’t found the perfect ring yet, it might be because you’ve never really thought that much about it (which is totally normal if you’ve never proposed to anyone before).

You may have picked out elegant watches or other jewellery with your fiancé-to-be, but buying an engagement ring is a different ball game altogether, especially when it’s something you’ll have to do on your own. 

We understand that it can be quite a daunting task. That’s why we’ve put together 7 steps to buy the perfect engagement ring – so that you won’t be overwhelmed when it comes to finally taking the plunge and proposing.

1. Set A Budget 

Doing this allows both you and your jeweller to save time and look at options that are within your price range. 

People can be lured into purchases that break the bank by thinking that the more expensive, the better it is. Some people even postpone their proposals until they can afford something ‘better’.

An engagement ring is a symbol of a new chapter and should represent your unique relationship, which cannot be defined by a price tag. 

In reality, you can find the perfect engagement ring at a price that is well within your means, as long as you keep the following tips in mind. 

2. Surprise Them 

The entire journey of buying the perfect engagement ring for your spouse-to-be is much less exciting if you don’t do this. It seems like a trend for couples these days to shop for their engagement rings together. While this might mean that your partner gets to pick the ring that they want, there’s a lot that both of you are missing out on. 

The element of surprise, romance and beautiful memories are forgone. Planning it out is going to take a lot of effort, but the memories that you will create and cherish will make it all worth it. 

3. (Sneakily) Get Their Ring Size 

If you have decided that you are going to surprise your significant other, you’ll have to do this very sneakily. Find out where they keep their jewellery and get a hold of a ring that they don’t use often when they’re busy or not looking. You’ll want to make sure they still use the ring so that you know it is their current size. If you’re struggling to manage this, get a friend to help you out. 

If they don’t wear any rings, that’s fine. Just guess as accurately as you can and then you can always have the ring resized once you’re engaged.

4. Take Notice Of Their Style 

Take notice of the jewellery they wear and what their general style is. Do they love wearing big, glitzy statement pieces or do they stick to minimalist designs? 

Do they like heavily detailed jewellery or something more simple? Keep whatever you have learned about their individual style in mind, you’ll need this information when selecting the perfect ring.

5. Choose The Band 

Before you pick the band, do your research. Engagement ring bands are available in a myriad of precious metal options and designs. While colour and aesthetics should be taken into account when choosing, don’t forget to factor in the properties of these metals that affect their durability or how easily you can restore their original lustre and shine decades from now. 

Think about what this ring will mean to you and your fiancé, and what you want it to encompass. Do you want to pass it down to your future generations? Is it important that it is exactly how your fiancé wants it because their happiness is all that matters? Think about it carefully before making your choice. 

6. Pick A Stunning Diamond

Now comes the most daunting step, choosing the diamond. To ensure that you’re buying the best quality diamond for your budget, look into the 4 C’s: Colour, Cut, Clarity and Carat.
​
Colour 

Diamonds come in various colours and it is graded on a scale ranging from D to Z (colourless to light yellow). D is the rarest and most expensive on the scale. 

White diamonds which lie somewhere in the middle of the scale, are the most popular option for their classic looks and economic value. At the end of the day, your choice of diamond colour should be based on your personal preference and suit your budget. 

Cut 

The way a diamond is cut is what gives it its shape and enhances the stone. When cut well, a diamond reflects light to all its facets through the top of the stone and as a result, gives it a beautiful sparkle. 

A poorly cut diamond will show in its lacklustre appearance, and the quality of the colour, clarity and carat of the diamond will not show. 

Clarity 

‘Inclusions’ is the term used to define the naturally occurring trace minerals and impurities found in a diamond. The purer the diamond is, the fewer inclusions it has and the more expensive it is. 

The clarity of your chosen diamond will mostly depend on your budget. The tip to getting the best of its kind is in avoiding diamonds with inclusions in the middle or on top of the diamond, as they are more visible to the naked light and can get in the way of light that is reflected by the diamond and affect its shine. 

Carat 

Carat is the measuring unit used to define the weight of a diamond. The heavier the diamond, the more expensive it is. Although the weight and size of the stone have an obvious correlation, there’s no need to give more importance to the carat weight, as properly mounted and shaped diamonds can appear bigger than their carat weight may propose. 

7. Selecting the diamond shape

This step is really just a matter of identifying their preference. Diamonds come in round, princess (square), pear, oval and heart shapes. If you’re unsure of what she wants, go with round as it is classic in appearance and never goes out of style!

This information should be enough to get you started on a search for the perfect engagement ring, but if you need more advice and expertise before you make a decision, get in touch with us.

We have a plethora of options of which you can find the perfect one for your significant other, and plenty of customizable options so you can add an individual flair. Drop in our store and speak to one of our friendly consultants to help you in this journey to new beginnings.

7 Web Hosting Solutions Every SMB Needs

As a small or medium business (SMB), you know that having the right web hosting solutions in place is essential to staying competitive and successful. The right web hosting solutions can help you maximise your resources, increase efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction.

Below, we discuss 7 of the most essential web hosting solutions every SMB should consider implementing.

1. Domain Name Registration

This is the first step for any new website or business wanting to establish an online presence. Your domain name, also known as your URL (Uniform Resource Locator), is the address of your website on the internet. A well-chosen domain name helps customers find you and reflects your brand identity and value proposition.

2. Website Design

Once you’ve registered your domain, it’s time to create a website design that speaks to who you are as a business and what value you offer customers. A great design should be visually appealing yet functional, with easy navigation and clear calls-to-action that make it easy for visitors to take action on your site, such as subscribing to mailing lists or purchasing products/services. You need a web solutions provider that has experienced designers available who can create a beautiful website design that helps build trust with potential customers while also providing them with an enjoyable experience on your site.

3. Web Hosting

After designing a great website, it must be hosted somewhere so people can access it on the internet 24/7/365. Web hosting refers to where exactly websites are stored – typically on servers located in data centres worldwide – and how those servers support websites’ performance needs, such as loading times and capacity for increased traffic during peak hours or seasons. Your web hosting service must offer reliable web hosting solutions tailored specifically to meet each SMB’s unique needs in terms of capacity, performance, security, scalability, etc., so no matter how big or small your business is now or may become in future years, the team of experts can ensure it runs smoothly online at all times without costly downtime interruptions due to server issues.

4. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO is essential if you want visitors from search engines like Google and Bing to find their way directly to your site instead of being lost among millions of other pages trying to rank for similar keywords and phrases related to what they’re looking for online now. The SEO company must provide comprehensive SEO services designed specifically with small businesses in mind – from researching popular keywords relevant to the target market(s) through crafting engaging content designed around those keywords to the ongoing management of SEO campaigns over time – everything needed for increasing organic visibility across major search engines.

5. Hosted Exchange (Emails)

Secure and reliable email is integral to running any business, regardless of size. Hosted exchange solutions provide SMBs with a managed service that handles all aspects of email delivery – from setup and configuration to maintenance and management – and offers advanced features such as anti-virus scanning, spam filtering, mailbox backup, etc.

6. Email Spam Filtering

Junk mail can be annoying for customers, but worse yet, it’s a waste of time trying to sort through it all while searching for legitimate emails containing valuable information or orders needing attention. Email spam filtering solutions utilise sophisticated algorithms designed to identify junk mail before reaching your inboxes, so you don’t have to spend time dealing with it manually.

7. Mobile Device Management

With more and more people using mobile devices to access websites, businesses must ensure their sites are compatible across various operating systems and device types to provide customers with the best experience possible when interacting with businesses online. Mobile device management solutions offer SMBs secure, consistent control over all employees’ mobile devices so that no matter who is accessing your site or what kind of device they’re using, you can be sure they’ll get an optimal experience every time.

How Refined IT Can Help

Refined IT provides small and medium businesses (SMBs) with web hosting solutions tailored to their needs. From domain registration and website design to hosted exchange and mobile device management, our team of experts is here to help you get the most out of your online presence. Contact us today to learn more about how Refined IT can help your business succeed.

CHAIN MESH FENCING PERTH

 Chain mesh fencing is one of the most popular perimeter security solutions in Perth and across Western Australia. Also called chain wire and chain link fencing, chain mesh fencing is a fast, effective way to create a strong, dependable boundary. Often found protecting construction and mine sites, chain mesh fencing is highly adaptable, with applications throughout the industrial and rural sectors.

Whether it is protecting dangerous goods facilities or community recreation centres, chain mesh is one of the most cost-effective fencing products on the market. It can be found around parks, tennis and basketball courts, prisons, warehouses, and more.

Internally, chain mesh fencing can keep sensitive items secure, delineate pedestrian walkways, or simply add an extra layer of security and peace of mind. Chain mesh fencing is easy to install and repair, as well as being easy to add or customise as your operations or needs change.

Made from durable, high-quality steel, chain mesh fencing is capable of withstanding the harsh Perth conditions and can be hot-dip galvanised or PVC coated for additional weather protection. PVC coated wire is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it highly suitable for coastal environments. Chain mesh is also wind-resistant, sometimes called cyclone fencing for this reason.

Custom heights and mesh apertures are available, and thicker wire diameters can be opted for where a heavy-duty solution is required. The smaller the mesh diamond, the stronger the fencing, and it will go up in cost. For maximum security, Perth chain mesh fencing can be topped with razor and/or barbed wire, on cranked or double-cranked extensions. Additionally, gates can be added to chain link fencing wherever access is required.

Chain mesh fencing is ideal where visibility is needed, or where an open outlook is preferred, whether for aesthetic or surveillance purposes. For small or for tricky sites, chain link is relatively simple to work around sharp corners or other obstructions.

We’ll be able to advise on the ideal chain mesh for your application, whether it needs to be high-impact or would benefit from toppings like wire. Depending on your budget and site requirements, we can design and install fencing in a range of custom configurations, sizes and finishes.

All WA Fenceworks chain mesh fencing is constructed in Perth and built to strict Australian standards.

From supply to installation and maintenance, WA Fenceworks is here for all your Perth chain mesh fencing needs.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.

8 Benefits of Using a Tutor to Prepare for GATE (ASET)?

 GATE stands for Gifted and Talented Education, a program designed to challenge, inspire and bring out children’s creativity and academic talent. The students in this program are surrounded by similarly gifted peers and teachers experienced in nurturing talent. The Academic Selective Entrance Test (ASET) is used to select students for entry into Western Australia's high school Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program. The minimum total standard score for entry to GATE Program is 210.

Benefits of Tutoring for GATE (ASET) Test Preparation.

1.  Improve Your Scores

One of the primary benefits of tutoring for the GATE test is that it can help you to improve your scores. A tutor can help you better understand the material that will be covered on the test and can provide you with practice questions to help you become more comfortable with the test format. Additionally, a tutor can help you to develop a study plan that will allow you to make the most of your time and prepare effectively for the test.

2.  Save Time

Another benefit of tutoring for the GATE test is saving you time. A tutor can help you focus on the areas that will be most important for the test and can guide you on how to use your time best to prepare. This can be especially helpful if you are working or have other commitments that make it challenging to find time to study independently.

3.  Reduce Stress

Tutoring for the GATE test can also help to reduce stress. Preparing for a major test can be daunting, but working with a tutor can help ease some of the anxiety that comes with test preparation. In addition, a tutor can provide you with support and encouragement throughout the process and help you feel more confident about your ability to succeed on the test.

4.  Build Confidence

In addition to reducing stress, tutoring for the GATE test can also help to build confidence. As you work with a tutor and see improvements in your scores, you will likely feel more confident about your ability to do well on the test. This increased confidence can lead to improved performance on the day of the test and in other areas of your life.

5.  Learn Effective Study Skills

Tutoring for the GATE test can also teach you effective study skills that will be useful for preparing for future tests and other aspects of your life. A tutor can teach you how to better manage your time, how to create an effective study plan, and how to use resources such as practice questions and flashcards effectively.

6. Get One-on-One Attention

When you are tutored for the GATE test, you will also get one-on-one attention from your tutor. This means that your tutor can focus on your individual needs and help you understand the material in the best way for you. One-on-one attention is not always possible in a classroom setting, which makes tutoring an ideal option for many students.

7. Save Money on Test Preparation Courses

Tutoring for the GATE test can also save you money on test preparation courses. Test preparation courses can be expensive and are not always necessary if you can get quality tutoring at a lower cost. In addition, many tutors offer discounts if you purchase multiple sessions or commit to meeting for a certain number of weeks.

8. Get Feedback on Your Progress

When you are being tutored for the GATE test, you will also receive feedback on your progress from your tutor. This feedback can be constructive as it lets you see where you need to improve and what areas you are doing well in. Additionally, receiving input from a tutor can help to motivate you and keep you on track as you prepare for the GATE test.

How can My Academy help?

My Academy is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential when preparing for the GATE test. Our experienced tutors have the knowledge and skills to provide quality tutoring services that will allow you to prepare effectively for the GATE exam. We also offer a wide range of materials and resources that can be used to supplement your tutoring sessions. Contact us today to find out more about our GATE preparation services and how we can help you reach your goals. We look forward to hearing from you!

Why More Women are Seeking Financial Advice

The latest research complied by ASIC confirms the number of women seeking financial advice in Australia is growing. We have also seen this at Boutique Advisers in Perth.  In the past, a lack of confidence in making financial decisions, underrepresentation of female advisers in the industry and pay inequalities have been some of the barriers for women to actively seek out advice.  Pleasingly, women are overcoming these constraints and seeking the guidance and support they need to make financial progress and meet life goals.

Planning for retirement

Women tend to live longer than men and as a result need to make sure they have enough savings and investments to support themselves when it comes time to stop work.   With an increase in career opportunities and therefore income, the amount women are saving in their super funds has increased. Women are seeking advice on how to manage this effectively so that they have the retirement they desire and do not have to rely on government benefits.

Starting a Family

Taking time out of the workforce to have a family has a huge financial impact on a family if reducing household income to 1 wage.  Savvy women are planning ahead to accumulate funds now to access during periods of maternity leave so that cash flow and expenses are not disrupted too significantly and the cost of preparing for a baby is covered.

Managing a Business

Female business owners in Australia have increased over recent times with 56% of women who start a business doing so for more flexibility around work-life balance.  However, owning a business also means having financial responsibility for the finances and women are seeking advice to alleviate this burden and help with cash flow, investments and taxes whilst also achieving the goal of flexibility in their personal life.

Life Transition

Divorce, widowhood and inheriting wealth are all triggers for women to seek financial advice during what can be a very emotional time.  Having a trusted adviser to guide you through financial options and provide a clear path forward helps eliminate some of the overwhelm and unknowns of managing a significant change in life circumstances and finances simultaneously.

Improving Financial Literacy

Women are more than ever taking an interest and active role in managing their finances.  Female-led advice refers to the action of women (whether single, in a relationship or other)  to initiate the interest in seeking financial advice and improving the overall wealth position of the family.  However, with so much information widely available for those seeking to improve financial literacy, this can sometimes lead to overwhelm and more confusion.   Receiving advice enables women to progress their own understanding and make confident clear financial decisions for their future. 

Receiving financial advice can help women feel more empowered about their financial situation.  This is especially important for women who may have been traditionally marginalised or disadvantaged in the financial world.  With the right guidance and advice, women can take control of their finances, improve financial literacy and make confident life decisions. If you would like to have an informal chat about how financial advice can help you, please get in contact with Jodi at  jescudier@boutiqueadvisers.com.au

4 Benefits of Branded Merchandise

 Branded merchandise, also known as branded swag, branded apparel, branded products, or promotional items is any type of product that has been branded with a company’s name, logo, or message. People love branded merchandise because it makes them feel like they have something to show off their loyalty to the brand and can be used as an expression of identity and belonging. There are four benefits of branded merchandise for a business.

Introduce Your Business to the Public in a Unique and Unforgettable Way

A branded item gives customers a tangible reminder of your business beyond what you offer when interacting with people online or on the phone. You can create branded merchandise for special events such as trade shows and conferences to help people remember your business long after the event has ended. Plus, branded items make great conversation starters and can help your business stand out from the crowd.

Increase Brand Awareness and Positive Association Among Your Customers

Branded merchandise can be used by your customers to represent their loyalty to your business in a tangible way. People love to show off branded swag such as t-shirts, hats, mugs, pens, and even keychains with your logo or message on them – it’s like walking around with a billboard for your company! This increases brand recognition among both existing customers and potential new ones.

Make Your Customers Feel Like They Are Buying Something Unique And Not Mass-Produced

When you create branded merchandise, you give customers something unique they won’t find anywhere else, helping to increase the perceived value of your products. This exclusive feeling can help to boost customer loyalty and create a sense of belonging with your brand.

Cost-Effective Way To Promote Your Brand Compared To Other Forms Of Advertising

Branded merchandise is an incredibly cost-effective way for businesses to promote their brand in comparison to traditional forms of advertising such as radio and print ads. Plus, branded merchandise lasts longer than other types of advertisements so customers will be reminded of your business long after they have received it.

How To Print Merchandise Cost-Effectively

Printing branded merchandise doesn’t have to break the bank! There are plenty of online printing services that offer competitive prices on branded items. One of these is MBE Brisbane. From posters and business cards to deluxe brand books, glossy catalogues, robust signage, and branded merchandise or stationery, MBE is your go-to Brisbane printing partner.