When Shareholders Fall Out: Legal and Financial Risks for SMEs
Shareholder disputes rarely begin with major disagreements. More often, they develop gradually through misalignment, unclear expectations and poor communication. By the time the issue becomes visible, the damage is often already underway. For Irish SMEs, the impact can be significant. The immediate effect is usually operational. Decision making slows or stops. Strategic initiatives are delayed. […]
The Tax Implications of Selling Shares in an Irish Company
For many Irish business owners, selling shares in their company is the moment where years of work are finally realised financially. Yet it is also one of the most misunderstood stages of the business lifecycle. The focus is often placed on achieving the highest possible price, but in practice, what matters is the amount retained […]
Selling to a Third Party vs Management Buyout: Key Considerations
When planning an exit, Irish business owners are often faced with a fundamental decision: sell to an external buyer or pursue a management buyout. Both routes can deliver value, but they differ significantly in structure, risk and outcome. A third-party sale typically involves selling to a trade buyer or investor. This route can maximise price, […]
Resolving Shareholder Deadlock: Practical Options for SME Directors
Shareholder deadlock is a common risk in Irish SMEs, particularly where ownership is evenly split or decision making requires unanimous agreement. What often begins as a difference of opinion can quickly escalate into a situation where the business cannot move forward. In 2026, with increased pressure on performance and governance, resolving deadlock efficiently is critical […]
Business Valuation Before Exit: What Drives Price in the Irish Market
For Irish business owners planning an exit, valuation is often the most important and most misunderstood element of the process. Many assume that a profitable business will automatically achieve a strong price. In reality, buyers look beyond headline profit figures and focus on a range of factors that determine both value and risk. One of […]
Avoiding Shareholder Disputes: Governance Steps Every SME Should Take
Shareholder disputes can be one of the most damaging challenges an SME faces. In many Irish businesses, ownership is concentrated among a small group of founders, family members or investors. While this can create strong alignment in the early stages, differences in expectations often emerge as the business grows. Without proper governance, these differences can […]
Planning Your Exit in 2026: Where Irish Business Owners Should Begin
For many Irish business owners, exiting a company represents one of the most important financial events of their career. Whether the intention is to retire, sell to a third party or transfer ownership to the next generation, a successful exit rarely happens by accident. In 2026, early and structured planning is essential to maximise value […]
Preparing for Share Transfers: Tax and Legal Considerations for Shareholders
Transferring shares in a company is a significant step for any business owner. Whether the transfer is part of succession planning, bringing in new investors or restructuring ownership, it carries both tax and legal implications. In 2026, Irish shareholders must approach share transfers with careful planning to ensure the process is efficient and compliant. One […]
Company Secretarial Compliance: Key Filing Deadlines Directors Cannot Miss
For Irish company directors, staying on top of company secretarial obligations is not optional. Compliance with filing deadlines is a core responsibility, and failure to meet these requirements can result in penalties, reputational damage and, in some cases, legal consequences. In 2026, with increased focus on transparency and governance, maintaining accurate and timely filings is […]
Dividend Planning in 2026: What Irish Company Owners Should Consider
For many Irish company owners, dividends remain a key method of extracting profits from their business. While dividends can offer flexibility, effective planning is essential to ensure they are paid in a tax efficient and compliant manner. In 2026, with ongoing changes in tax rules and economic conditions, careful dividend planning has become even more […]
