An Overview of the Singapore-Indonesia Double Tax Treaty
Double taxation occurs when income is taxed in both the country of residence and the country where it is earned. This can result in a higher effective tax rate for the taxpayer and can be a deterrent to cross-border business activities. A double taxation agreement (DTA) is a bilateral agreement between two countries that aims to avoid double taxation on certain types of income earned in one country by residents of the other country.
DTAs provide relief from double taxation by specifying the tax treatment of various types of income and by establishing rules for the allocation of taxing rights between the two countries. They may also contain provisions on exchange of information and mutual assistance which can help prevent tax evasion and ensure compliance with tax laws.
The Singapore-Indonesia Double Tax Treaty
The Singapore-Indonesia DTA aims to avoid double taxation and prevent tax evasion on certain types of income earned in one country by residents of the other country. It applies to individuals, companies, and other business entities and covers different types of taxes.
The Singapore-Indonesia DTA:
Can be applied to various types of taxes including income tax, corporate tax, and withholding tax
Specifies the tax treatment of various types of income such as dividends, interest, royalties, and rent
Establishes rules for the allocation of taxing rights between Singapore and Indonesia
Supports cooperation between tax authorities of both countries by providing provisions for the exchange of information
Benefits of the Singapore-Indonesia DTA
The Singapore-Indonesia DTA provides relief from double taxation for businesses and individuals dependent on the type of income earned in one country by residents of the other country. Ways in which this treaty can benefit businesses and individuals include:
Reduces the effective tax rate for taxpayers
Encourages cross-border business activities
Helps businesses and individuals make informed decisions about their financial planning
Provides clarity on how various types of income will be taxed
Enhances the reputation of both countries’ business environments by preventing tax evasion and ensuring compliance with tax laws
Claiming Relief
To claim relief under the Singapore-Indonesia DTA, businesses and individuals must be residents of either Singapore or Indonesia and must meet the eligibility requirements specified in the DTA.
Those who meet the eligibility requirements need to provide the necessary documentation and information to the relevant tax authorities to support their claim for relief. Businesses and individuals may need to file tax returns and pay tax in one or both countries, depending on the tax treatment of the income under the DTT.
If your business operates in both Singapore and Indonesia, be sure that you are receiving the correct relief from this DTT. Removing unnecessary burdens to your business will make it more competitive and increase your chances of success. As with any matters regarding taxation, consult with an accountant or other tax professionals to ensure that your company is both complying with regulations and not overpaying.
Shopee is a popular e-commerce platform in Singapore. It offers a wide variety of products and services to buyers and sellers. Selling on Shopee allows you to connect with a large audience and to access features and tools unique to Shopee that can help you better manage your sales and promote your products. In this article we go over the steps you can take to start selling on Shopee Singapore and tips that can help you boost your sales.
Step 1: Register as a seller on Shopee
Like most e-commerce platforms, getting started on Shopee is a straightforward process.
Visit the Shopee website and click the "Sell on Shopee" button. This will take you to the seller registration page, where you can create a seller account.
Provide the necessary information and documents. You will need to provide personal and business details: name, contact information, business name, and business address. You will also need to provide proof of identity and proof of address, for example, a government-issued ID or utility bill.
Make sure to provide accurate and complete information when registering as a seller on Shopee. This will help you to establish credibility and trust with customers. You should also keep your contact details and business information up to date so that your customers can easily contact you.
Step 2: Set up your seller profile and your store
To set up your seller profile and store, you will need to provide some basic information including your business name, logo, and description. Upload high-quality photos to your store page that showcase both your products and your brand.
Your seller profile and store are important tools for attracting and retaining buyers on Shopee. Use them to present a professional and consistent image and to provide customers with useful and relevant information about your products and services.
Remember to regularly update your seller profile and store with up-to-date information and fresh content. New content keeps your audience engaged and interested. Use your store page to highlight:
achievements and milestones
the values of your business
your brand personality
your company’s unique voice
Step 3: List your products on Shopee
Products listed on Shopee will require some basic information: product name, description, price, and shipping details. After you have provided this basic information, upload high-quality photos and videos that accurately represent your products. These images are essential for attracting customers, make sure you produce the best images you can. Keep in mind the following recommendations when listing your products:
Provide clear, concise, and compelling product descriptions that highlight the key features and benefits of your products.
Use appropriate keywords and tags to make it easier for customers to find your products using the Shopee search feature.
Take advantage of the features Shopee offers to help you manage your product listings and optimize their performance. (These can also make it easier for customers to find and purchase your products.)
Regularly review and update your product listings. Make sure listings are accurate, up to date, and relevant.
Use data and analytics tools like the Shopee business insights to track the performance of your products and identify opportunities for improvement.
Step 4: Promote and manage your sales
Shopee offers sellers tools for marketing and advertising. Sponsored ads, boost listings, and social media marketing options can all help you reach potential customers and drive traffic to your store. These tools, in addition to traditional business marketing tactics, can help you promote your products to your target audience and to build a loyal customer base. When managing your Shopee store consider the following suggestions:
Pay attention to customer feedback and reviews. You can use these to improve your products, service, and overall customer experience.
Respond to customer inquiries and complaints in a timely and professional manner. Resolve any issues or concerns to the best of your ability.
Monitor your sales and performance. Use the data you collect to reveal insights that will help you optimize your marketing efforts and business strategy.
Use Shopee's analytics and reporting tools to track your sales, revenue, and profitability. Identify trends and patterns in your business.
Take advantage of Shopee's payment and logistics services, such as Shopee Supported Logistics (SSL), to streamline and optimize your order management and fulfillment process. Services like SSL can help you reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve your customers’ experiences.
Final Thoughts
Selling on Shopee Singapore can be a lucrative and rewarding opportunity for businesses of all sizes across various sectors. By following these simple steps, you can start selling on Shopee, boost your sales, and take advantage of the platform's features and tools to help manage and grow your business.
To succeed on Shopee, focus on building a professional and dependable online presence. Offer high-quality and competitive products and provide excellent customer service and support. As you get accustomed to Shopee’s platform, be proactive and adaptable. Stay up to date with the latest trends and developments in the e-commerce industry both on Shopee and on other platforms. With the right strategy you can leverage the power of Shopee to reach a larger customer base, giving your business a new opportunity for growth.
Every day brings with it a slew of headlines communicating unsettling news. Each one making our world a more uncertain and strange place. The cost of living crisis. The war in Ukraine. Climate change emergencies. And the list goes on. One way or another, directly or indirectly, we’re all touched by it—businesses included.
That’s why the ecommerce world entered what has long been its busiest time of the year with more scepticism and lower expectations than ever. Now that the dust has settled, we can reflect on what actually came to pass in November 2022.
We pulled together data from 850+ sample companies and looked at reports from others in the industry. That work has revealed four defining themes from this year’s Black Friday:
Every day brings with it a slew of headlines communicating unsettling news. Each one making our world a more uncertain and strange place. The cost of living crisis. The war in Ukraine. Climate change emergencies. And the list goes on. One way or another, directly or indirectly, we’re all touched by it—businesses included.
That’s why the ecommerce world entered what has long been its busiest time of the year with more scepticism and lower expectations than ever. Now that the dust has settled, we can reflect on what actually came to pass in November 2022.
We pulled together data from 850+ sample companies and looked at reports from others in the industry. That work has revealed four defining themes from this year’s Black Friday:
Changes in consumer habits
Shifts in purchasing categories
A potential post Black Friday plateau
Consumer appetites in online shopping: 2022 vs 2021
Get a free estimate for funds to grow your business.
Before we dive in, we want to say that geography plays a big part in the results and interpretations of the data. All of our findings and opinions are given through a global lens unless stated otherwise. What is clear is that this year was not the same politically, macro-economically, or attitudinally. And the results of Black Friday provide us with learnings we can take into 2023.
Changes in consumer habits
Consumer habits can be split into three categories: when people are shopping, how they are shopping, and why they are shopping.
Let’s start with when.
Every day brings with it a slew of headlines communicating unsettling news. Each one making our world a more uncertain and strange place. The cost of living crisis. The war in Ukraine. Climate change emergencies. And the list goes on. One way or another, directly or indirectly, we’re all touched by it—businesses included.
That’s why the ecommerce world entered what has long been its busiest time of the year with more scepticism and lower expectations than ever. Now that the dust has settled, we can reflect on what actually came to pass in November 2022.
We pulled together data from 850+ sample companies and looked at reports from others in the industry. That work has revealed four defining themes from this year’s Black Friday:
A business credit score is a numerical representation of how creditworthy your business is. A business credit score differs from a personal credit score in that it is based on the financial activities of your business rather than your personal finances. However, your personal credit score may still be taken into consideration when evaluating it. This is particularly true for small businesses.
Business credit scores are used by lenders, creditors, and other financial institutions to evaluate risk and to determine whether to extend credit or financial services. A good score can help you:
secure credit and financing
negotiate better terms and rates
improve your credibility
manage your cash flow
Understanding what factors can impact your score while managing your credit responsibly will improve your business credit score and your financial prospects as a business owner.
How to Build and Maintain a Good Business Credit Score
Establish credit history: Apply for credit and financial services such as loans, credit cards, and lines of credit.
Use credit wisely: Use credit only when necessary and in a way that demonstrates your ability to manage debt. Keep credit balances low, make timely payments, and avoid excessive borrowing.
Monitor your credit reports: Credit reports provide a detailed record of your credit history and financial activities. Regularly review these reports to ensure that they are accurate and up to date.
Correct errors: Credit reporting agencies are required to investigate and correct any errors in your credit report. It is recommended that you review your report yourself as well. If you find any errors, you can contact the credit reporting agency or a credit repair company to directly dispute them.
Benefits of a Good business Credit Score
Access to credit: Lenders and creditors are more likely to extend credit to businesses with good credit scores, making it easier to secure financing for your business. Types of financing options that improve with your credit score include loans, credit cards, and lines of credit.
Better terms and rates: Lenders and creditors may be more willing to offer lower interest rates, longer repayment periods, and other favorable terms to businesses with good credit scores.
Increased credibility: Improving your credibility and reputation with lenders, creditors, and other financial institutions can help you to build relationships with financial partners that will provide opportunities for future financing.
Improved cash flow: A good business credit score can help you manage your cash flow more effectively by providing timely access to credit and financing when you need it, allowing you to meet financial obligations, invest in growth, and manage unexpected expenses.
As a consumer or business owner in Singapore, you are already familiar with some of the various fees and charges that banks levy for their services. These charges can vary significantly from one bank to another and even from different account types within the same institution. Understanding the different types of fees and how they compare among different institutions will allow you to make informed financial decisions and reduce the amount you spend on bank service charges.
Types of Bank Charges in Singapore
Account maintenance fees: A fee charged to maintain your account, regardless of whether you use it or not. These fees vary based on the type of account you have and the services it includes. For example, basic accounts may have lower fees than premium accounts that offer additional features or services.
Transaction fees: Fees charged for certain transactions such as cash withdrawals, fund transfers, or cheque processing. These fees vary based on the type of transaction and the bank used to make them. For example, some banks charge higher fees for cash withdrawals at ATMs that are not part of their network or for transferring funds to accounts at other banks.
Overdraft fees: If you overdraft your account (i.e., spend more money than you have available) you may be charged a fee by the bank. These fees vary based on the amount over drafted and the bank you use. Some banks also charge interest on overdrafts in addition to overdraft fees.
Interest charges: Interest charged on loans or credit facilities such as credit cards. The interest rate and fees vary based on the type of loan or credit facility and the bank you use. For example, credit cards may have different interest rates for purchases, balance transfers, and cash advances. Some banks may offer promotional interest rates for a limited time.
Service charges: Fees for specific services such as replacing a lost debit card or issuing a bank statement. These fees vary based on the specific service and the bank you use. For example, some banks charge a higher fee for expedited service or for issuing a physical bank statement rather than an electronic one.
It's important to be aware of the various fees and charges banks levy as they can add up over time and impact your financial situation. Understanding the different types of fees and how they compare allows you to make informed decisions about which bank and account type are right for you.
Comparing Bank Charges in Singapore
To get the best deal on bank charges in Singapore, it's important to compare fees and charges levied by different banks. When researching different banks, consider factors such as the types of accounts and services they offer, the fees and charges these accounts entail, and any promotions or discounts they may have to offset these fees and charges.
Comparing bank charges can be done using online resources, such as financial comparison websites or the websites of the banks themselves. These resources provide detailed information regarding fees and charges and allow you to compare them side by side.
Be thorough when reading the terms and conditions applicable for each account or service a bank offers. Not all fees and charges are readily apparent. Fully understanding the terms and conditions is essential to getting a complete picture of the fees and charges involved.
Bank charges can also be better understood by talking to a financial advisor or to bank representatives. These individuals can provide you with more detailed information regarding bank fees and charges specific to the different accounts or services available. A professional can help you understand the terms and conditions of different bank products, answer any questions you may have, and help you choose the best option for your needs.
Factors that Influence Bank Fees and Charges
Account type: Different accounts have different associated fees and charges depending on the features and services they offer. For example, a basic savings account may have lower fees than a premium account that has additional features.
Transaction types: Some banks charge higher fees for certain types of transactions, such as cash withdrawals or fund transfers. Be sure to understand the fees for the transactions you commonly make.
Minimum balance requirements: Some accounts require a minimum balance in order to avoid fees, others offer lower fees for higher balances. Compare the balance requirements of different account types and consider how these rates will be impacted by your cash flow.
Interest rates: If you plan to use credit facilities or loans, compare the interest rates and fees of different banks to ensure you get best rates available.
Promotions and discounts: Some banks offer limited time promotions or discounts on fees and charges. Take advantage of these offers when you can, but be aware that they will not be available indefinitely.
Managing Bank Charges
Once you have settled on a financial institution with which you want to conduct business, there are several steps you can take to manage and minimize bank charges within that institution:
Choose the right account: Choose an account that meets your needs and has reasonable fees and charges. Consider factors such as the types of transactions you commonly make, the minimum balance requirements, and the features and services you need.
Understand fees and charges: Familiarize yourself with the fees and charges placed on your account, which of these can be avoided, and how to avoid them. This may involve maintaining a minimum balance, limiting yourself to specific types of transactions, or using certain services over others.
Use online banking: Many banks offer online banking services that allow you to make transactions, pay bills, and check your balance without incurring additional fees. Using online banking can minimize the need for in-person transactions the associated fees.
Negotiate with your bank: If you are unhappy with the fees and charges made to your account, consider negotiating with your bank to see if they can offer you a better deal. This may involve switching to a different account type or negotiating lower fees for specific services.
Researching and comparing the fees and charges levied by different banks will give you the insights you need to make informed decisions about which bank is right for you. Thoroughly exploring the different banking opportunities available to you and following the tips above can help you manage and minimize bank charges incurred in Singapore and make the most of your financial resources.
As a business owner, one of the first decisions you need to make is which type of business account is right for your company. This is an important decision that can impact the financial management and operations of your business. Before making your choice take the time to understand the different options available to you and which one best meets your needs.
Types of Business Accounts in Singapore
Savings accounts: A business savings account is a basic account that allows you to deposit and withdraw funds, as well as earn interest on your balance. These accounts often have low fees and minimal requirements but may not offer as many features or services as other accounts.
Current accounts: A business current account typically provides more options and services to account holders than a business savings account. This type of account allows you to deposit and withdraw funds, as well as issue and receive cheques. Additional features and services that may be included with these types of accounts include online banking, credit facilities, and overdraft services. However, business current accounts may also have higher fees and more requirements.
E-payment accounts: An e-payment account is a specialized account that allows you to accept and make electronic payments e.g., credit card transactions or online payments. These accounts are typically used by businesses that operate primarily online or have a high volume of electronic transactions.
Offshore accounts: An offshore account is a business account that is held in a foreign country. These accounts may offer additional features and services but may also have more complex requirements and higher fees.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Business Account
Type of business: Different business accounts are designed to accommodate specific types of businesses; it's important to choose an account that aligns with your needs. For example, if you operate or are planning to operate an online business, an e-payment account allows you to accept electronic transactions. If you expect to have a high volume of transactions, a current account with higher limits could benefit your business.
Transaction types: Consider the types of transactions you make and choose an account that is designed for those needs. For example, if you issue a lot of cheques, you should consider opening a current account. If you plan to make a lot of electronic payments, you will want to look into e-payment accounts.
Fees and requirements: Fees and requirements vary based on account type. These variations can include things like minimum balances or transaction limits. Be sure to understand the fees and requirements associated with each account type and choose an account that meets your needs and financial situation.
Features and services: Different features and services will be offered depending on account type. Popular services offered by institutions include online banking, access to credit facilities, and overdraft services. Consider the features and services you need and choose an account that offers them.
Location: If your business operations are conducted in a physical location you may want to choose an account at a bank that is convenient for your customers and/or employees. If you operate an online business, location may not be as important.
Choosing a Business Account
Research your options: Take time to research the different business accounts available in Singapore. Compare fees, requirements, features, and services offered. Use online resources such as financial comparison websites or talk to a financial advisor or bank representative to get more information.
Understand your needs: Consider the type of business you operate, the types of transactions you make, and any other financial services you may need.
Read the fine print: Be sure to understand the terms and conditions of account types and institutions you take into consideration. Look for any fees or requirements that may not be immediately apparent. Discussing the terms of agreement with a financial advisor will help you avoid surprises and make an informed decision.
Shop around: Compare the options available between multiple institutions. This can help you find the best deal and ensure you get the best rates, and the best service, for your business.
By following these tips and researching the options available, you can choose the right business account for your needs. When choosing a business account, it's important to consider the fees and requirements associated with different account types. You should also consider factors such as the type of business you operate, the volume and type of transactions you make, and any other financial or operational needs you may have and how these can be supported by your business account and its financial institution.
If you're a small business owner, you may have encountered challenges while waiting for customer payments to come through. Delayed payments can impact your cash flow and your ability to cover expenses. Invoice financing is one solution to this problem. This type of financing allows you to sell your unpaid invoices to a third party in exchange for immediate cash, allowing you to meet those expenses that you might otherwise have needed to postpone.
What is Invoice Financing?
Invoice financing, also known as accounts receivable financing, allows businesses to use outstanding invoices as a means of financing their business. The lender provides a percentage of the invoice value upfront, and the remaining balance is paid when the customer pays the invoice.
How Does Invoice Financing Work in Singapore?
The process of invoice financing in Singapore typically involves the following steps:
Identify a lender: There are several invoice financing companies in Singapore that offer this service. You'll need to research and compare different lenders to find the one that best meets your needs. Consider factors such as the lender's fees, terms, and reputation.
Submit an application: Once you've identified a lender, you'll need to submit an application. This will typically involve providing information about your business such as your financial statements, business history, and outstanding invoices.
Wait for review and approval: The lender will review your application and, if approved, provide you with a financing agreement outlining the terms of the loan.
Sell your invoices: Once the agreement is in place, you can sell your unpaid invoices to the lender in exchange for immediate cash.
Receive repayment: When your customers pay their invoices, the lender will receive the payment and subtract any fees or charges. The remaining balance, minus fees and charges, will be paid to you.
What Are the Benefits of Invoice Financing in Singapore?
Immediate cash: Selling your invoices will give you immediate access to cash. This can help you cover expenses and maintain a healthy cash flow, whereas you might struggle to do so were you to wait for customers to pay their invoices in full.
Flexibility: Invoice financing allows you to choose which invoices to sell and when. This can be especially useful if you have irregular cash flow or need to borrow against specific invoices.
No collateral required: Invoice financing is typically an unsecured loan, meaning you don't need to put up collateral to borrow the money. This can be especially appealing to businesses that don't have collateral or don't want to risk losing assets.
What Are the Risks of Invoice Financing in Singapore?
Fees: Invoice financing can be expensive. Lenders offering this service charge a variety of fees including upfront fees, processing fees, and interest charges. Carefully review the terms of the loan and understand any and all fees involved before committing to a financing agreement.
Customer default: If your customers default on their invoices, you may be responsible for repaying the loan. This can be especially risky if you have a single customer with an especially large number of outstanding invoices.
Reputation: Selling your invoices to a third party may signal to customers that your business is in financial trouble. This could negatively impact your reputation and your relationship with your customers.
Loss of control: When you sell your invoices you give up control over the collection process. The lender handles the collection of payments. Bringing in a third party between you and your customers can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or miscommunication.
Is Invoice Financing Right for Your Business in Singapore?
Invoice financing can be a useful tool for small businesses in Singapore that need immediate cash and are willing to pay the fees and take on the risks associated with this service. However, it's not right for every business. Before deciding whether to pursue invoice financing, carefully consider your business's needs and financial situation alongside the terms and fees offered by lenders. You should also consider alternative financing options, such as bank loans, lines of credit, or loans designed to support business growth like those we offer at Jenfi. Regardless of which route you take to secure the financing you need, be sure to use due diligence and consult with an accountant or other professional if you have any questions or concerns.
Acquiring an E-Commerce Business: Key Considerations and Steps
Purchasing an established e-commerce business can be an attractive investment opportunity. An established business offers immediate access to a customer base, operational infrastructure, and revenue streams. However, the process of acquiring an e-commerce business can be complicated and requires careful evaluation and due diligence. To help you navigate the acquisition process with confidence, this article outlines key considerations and steps involved in purchasing an e-commerce business.
Key Considerations
Business model and niche
Analyze the e-commerce business's model, including its product or service offerings, target audience, and market positioning. Assess whether the niche aligns with your interests, expertise, and long-term goals. A well-defined niche and a strong value proposition can contribute to the success and sustainability of the acquired business.
Financial performance
Evaluate the business's financial performance, including revenue, profit margins, expenses, and growth trends. Review financial statements, such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the business's financial health. Ensure the asking price is reasonable and reflects the true value of the business.
Customer base and acquisition channels
Investigate the business's customer base and assess the diversity and stability of its revenue streams. Consider factors such as customer acquisition costs, lifetime value, and retention rates. Examine the effectiveness of marketing and sales channels, and identify potential opportunities for growth or improvement.
Competition and market trends
Research the competitive landscape and market trends to determine the business's market position and growth potential. Identify key competitors and assess their strengths and weaknesses. Be aware of emerging trends and technological advancements that could impact the business's future performance.
Operational processes and systems
Review the e-commerce business's operational processes, including inventory management, order fulfillment, and customer support. Assess the efficiency of these processes and identify areas for improvement. Examine the technology and systems used, such as the e-commerce platform, payment gateways, and analytics tools, to ensure they are reliable and scalable.
Steps to Take
Identify potential acquisition targets: Research potential e-commerce businesses for sale through online marketplaces, business brokers, or networking. Create a short list of businesses that align with your interests, expertise, and investment criteria.
Conduct due diligence: Examine the business's financials, operations, customer base, competition, and market trends. Seek professional advice from accountants, lawyers, or industry experts to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the business's strengths, weaknesses, and potential risks.
Negotiate terms and pricing: When negotiating the terms and pricing with the seller, consider factors such as the business's financial performance, assets, growth potential, and market conditions to determine a fair price.
Secure financing: If necessary, secure financing for the acquisition using sources such as loans or investor capital. Make sure you have adequate funds to cover the purchase price, working capital, and any additional expenses associated with the acquisition.
Finalize the transaction: Work with the seller and relevant professionals, such as lawyers and accountants, to complete the transaction. This will involve drafting and signing a purchase agreement, transferring assets, and updating legal and financial records.
Transition and integration: Following your purchase, focus on making a smooth transition and integration process. Familiarize yourself with the business's operations, systems, and team members. Develop a strategic plan for growth and implement improvements or changes as needed.
Acquiring an e-commerce business can be a rewarding investment, but it requires thorough research of the market and due diligence toward any acquisitions. Once you have a thorough understanding of the market you wish to enter and how the e-commerce business you plan to acquire operates within that market, you can then proceed to taking the necessary steps to securing that e-business. The final step of this process is to work closely with your team to ensure a smooth transition and to set goals and strategies for continued growth. Regular assessment of your business following the initial will give you the insights you need to maximize the return on your investment and ensure the continued success of your new business.
As a business owner in Singapore, it's important to understand the financial reporting standards that apply to your business. These standards provide a framework for preparing and presenting financial information, and help ensure that your financial statements are consistent, reliable, and transparent.
In Singapore, the financial reporting standards are set by the Accounting Standards Council (ASC), which is responsible for issuing and maintaining the Singapore Financial Reporting Standards (SFRS). The SFRS are based on the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) used in over 120 countries around the world.
Financial Statement Types
Depending on the size and complexity of your operations in Singapore, you may be required to prepare the following types of financial statements:
Statements of financial position: Also known as balance sheets, these reflect the financial position of your business on a given day. Typically, the final day of your company’s fiscal year. These show your business's assets, liabilities, and equity. They also provide information on the its financial structure and solvency.
Statements of comprehensive income: Also known as income statements, these show your business's revenues, expenses, and profits over a specific period. They provide information on your business's financial performance and can help identify trends and patterns.
Statements of cash flows: These show the flow of cash in and out of your business over a specified period. They provide information on your business’s cash management and liquidity. They also help identify its income sources and how cash is being used.
Statements of changes in equity: These show changes in your business's equity over a specific period. They provide information on its equity structure and any transactions that have affected it.
In addition to these primary financial statements, you may also be required to prepare and present supporting schedules, notes, and disclosures. The necessity of this will depend on the type of business reporting and the nature of your transactions.
Preparing Financial Statements
To prepare the financial statements necessary when operating in Singapore, you will need to follow the SFRS and any other relevant guidelines and regulations. You will be able to prepare accurate and reliable financial statements by following the SFRS guidelines and taking the following steps:
Identify the financial reporting framework: Your first step when preparing financial statements is to determine the applicable financial reporting framework. This framework will include the SFRS guidelines and any other additional standards relevant to your business.
Identify the financial reporting period: Financial statements cover a specific period known as the financial reporting period. This may be a calendar year, a fiscal year, or some other period, depending on your business and the standards being applied to it.
Identify the financial reporting entity: Financial statements are prepared for a specific financial reporting entity. This may be the business itself or a group of related businesses. The financial reporting entity is determined based on the scope of your financial statements and the nature of the transactions and events being reported.
Identify the type of financial statements: Financial statements can take several forms; these can include standalone statements or consolidated statements. Standalone statements show the financial position and performance of your business itself, while consolidated statements show the financial position and performance of your business and any of its subsidiaries or affiliates.
Identify the accounting policies: Financial statements must be prepared using consistent accounting policies. These are the principles and methods used to recognize, measure, and present financial transactions and events. The accounting policies must be consistent with the SFRS and any other relevant standards or guidelines.
Identify the presentation and disclosure requirements: Financial statements must be presented in a clear and concise manner. You will need to include all relevant disclosures and notes. The presentation and disclosure requirements vary depending on financial statement types and the nature of the transactions and events being reported.
Auditing Financial Statements
In some cases, financial statements in Singapore may require an audit from an independent auditor. An auditor will review the financial statements for accuracy and thoroughness and provide an opinion on the fairness and reliability of the statements. Auditing is typically required for public companies and large or complex businesses, but it may also be required for smaller businesses in certain circumstances.
Auditing is performed by qualified and independent auditors, who follow specific standards and guidelines to ensure the audit is conducted properly. Auditors must be independent of the business being audited, and must have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to conduct the audit.
Auditing has the benefit of providing stakeholders assurance that financial statements are reliable and accurate. Company stakeholders who can benefit from information gained by an audit include investors, lenders, or regulators. Audits can also help identify any errors or irregularities and provide the opportunity to make necessary corrections.
Final Thoughts
It is essential to understand and comply with the standards laid out by the ASC when preparing financial statements in Singapore. By following the SFRS, alongside any other relevant guidelines and regulations, you can prepare accurate and reliable financial statements that provide valuable information to your stakeholders. These statements can also serve as a tool for success by giving you the confidence and knowledge you need to promote your business.
Flexible Work Arrangements - Balancing Productivity and Well-being
Written by workbuddy – Singapore’s flexible workspace specialists.
Flexible work arrangements allow employees to deviate from the standard 9 to 5 at the office, Monday to Friday schedule, giving them more choice over either their working hours or location or both. These arrangements differ from company to company, depending on the nature of work and what best suits the team. After the pandemic, flexible work arrangements have become more of an expectation than a perk.
There is no doubt that flexible work arrangements are beneficial to employees. Studies have shown that flexible work arrangements have contributed to employee satisfaction, morale and well-being. With more control over their own schedules, employees can better deal with their mental and physical health, reducing stress and avoiding burnout and absenteeism.
However, there is often some apprehension among business owners when it comes to offering flexible work arrangements due to the perceived risk of reduced productivity and the extra effort required to coordinate remote teams.
The good news is, research shows that flexible work arrangements are beneficial to the company, too. Airtasker’s survey found that flexible workers actually work more than traditional office workers - an average of 1.4 more days a month more, in fact! Rather than decreasing, productivity often increases, as people have the freedom to work at their most focused time of day. Being able to invest more time in their personal lives often means employees will be more dedicated and productive in their professional lives too. Another point to note is that productivity is often correlated with happiness. One study showed that happy people work about 12% harder.
So how do you manage flexible work arrangements in a way that boosts employee well-being without reducing productivity?
Set up the right software
There are now a wide range of software solutions designed to keep remote teams connected and productive. Slack, Zoom, Skype, Jira, Trello, Monday, Loomly, and the list goes on. Ensuring all company business is properly secured is also a priority. Research the tools properly and choose the ones that work best for the nature of work in your company.
It’s also important to properly train your team in how to use these tools. For example, on Slack, using the right channels makes it easy to find information when needed and avoid unnecessary messages to irrelevant people. However, teams often find it hard to know which channel to use, when. Also, threads are important for keeping all information on a particular topic together so it’s easy to track.
Ensure access to work spaces
The space where you work has a big impact on productivity. During the pandemic, people working from home found it difficult to focus if they didn’t have a dedicated work space. The equipment you use, the way you sit, the materials you need and the aesthetics of the space all have a direct impact on productivity. When implementing flexible work arrangements, some companies offer a budget for home office equipment, or offer their team on-demand access to a range of co-working spaces. Some redesign their offices into a more flexible layout to accommodate the varied schedules and needs of the team.
Provide clear boundaries
When implementing flexible work arrangements, the lines between work and home can quickly become blurred. Therefore it’s important to draw clear boundaries between what is flexible and what is fixed. There may be different flexible allowances for different people, so it’s important to communicate those upfront. For example, if everyone is required to attend certain meetings in person, then this rule needs to be enforced consistently in order for it to work. Or perhaps all members are required to update their schedules on the company calendar a week in advance, for example.
It helps to have procedures written out for different scenarios including working from home, working from a co-working space/outside the office, working from the office, and all the different types of leave, etc. These procedures should include guidance on internet security, sharing files, work equipment and any communication requirements.
Set clear expectations
Ensure every employee is clear about what is required of them when it comes to flexible work arrangements. For example, some companies require everyone to be at the office during “core hours” so it’s easier to arrange meetings, etc. Some companies require all members to have their video on during a Zoom call, to help them stay focused and connected. Others require a daily check-in with line managers when working from home. Whether big or small, all expectations must be communicated and complied with in order for flexible work arrangements to be implemented smoothly.
When allocating tasks or setting work goals, it’s important to have clear instructions and a deadline. It also helps to communicate how each project fits in with the wider company’s goals to boost motivation but also to help the employee understand the wider impact of not meeting the goal. When goals are not met, make sure to reflect, address any problems, and discuss what can be improved next time.
Projects run much more smoothly when every team member is clear about what is expected of them.
Build communication structures
The key to successful flexible work arrangements is communication. Everyone communicates differently and if they are working remotely or during different hours, communication is even more important. In fact, over-communication is recommended.
Communication structures are guidelines for what to communicate to whom, when. For example, defining lines of communication for each project or task makes a big difference. Again, make expectations clear: should a mistake be communicated to a manager straight away or only after a fix has been attempted? What channel of communication should be used for what type of messages? Is it okay to send messages “out of hours”? How quickly are employees required to respond to messages?
These structures can help a project flow smoothly, no matter who is involved or when and where they work. For example, when a request is made by the manager for the team to perform a certain task, the request should be allocated to a specific person, include specific actions and a specific timeframe. Team members should then acknowledge when the task has been completed.
These quick communication hacks help a group of disparate people work efficiently as a team.
Since flexible work arrangements are now becoming the norm, there is a proliferation of best practices out there to follow. We hope this information has been helpful. If you’d like a free consultation on how to adopt more flexibility for your company, reach out to workbuddy who can help you find flexible office space and co-working solutions for your team.
