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Risks associated with trade credit have taken on a different angle, with the introduction of new standards under IFRS 9.

Various geopolitical, economic and financial risks have prompted international bodies to approach risk appetite and mitigation in a different way. A recent introduction by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) pertaining to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS 9), will change the way companies and credit insurers manage credit risk, and how they provision for it.

The key addition is the Expected Credit Loss (ECL) principle, added to ensure that companies and credit insurers integrate vital processes to comply with the ‘expected credit loss impairment principles’.

The key points in IFRS 9

Financial and non-financial organizations take note

A multitude of businesses will be impacted, with regards to the compilation of credit information. Companies will need to enhance credit information systems and procedures to collect data, as part of IFRS 9.

Companies will be required to provision for potential losses based on information and forecasted data. The loss ratios pertain to receivables that are not yet deemed overdue.

Under IFRS 9, additional requirements have been added, to include in the periodical financial statements.

Credit management systems within companies, as well as accounting policies will need to be changed to adapt to the new standards.

Credit risk management will be approached in a different way, in order to safeguard the health of the financial industry. However, a key criticism to IFRS 9 remains the various interpretations of the principles, as stipulated under the standards.

How can credit insurance help?

Credit insurance can help companies waive the impact of provisions under IFRS9 for their receivables.

To learn more how LCI can ensure your company’s trade receivables, support you in shifting to new standards and preparing your company to integrate IFRS 9 standards, do get in touch with our team on: info@lci.com.lb or visit our website: www.lci.com.lb

6 tips to help companies scale up and grow

Small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) can work on various levels to scale up their businesses, both domestically and in international markets. As SME experts, LCI’s team gathers daily insights, from monitoring over 16,000 companies, and continually identifies key areas of focus, to aid businesses to scale up.

Here are 6 tips to help companies to scale up:

Adopt the digital trends

Every company needs a strong online presence, being the first place customers research a product or service. Developing a user-friendly and attractive website helps to position your company in a positive light. Websites and social media channels can be effectively used to update clients on the latest developments and widen your audience globally through targeting. To effectively use digital mediums, ensure they are up to date and position your brand in a unified manner.

Focus on your strengths

Identify your unique selling proposition and capitalize on it. What strengths does your company have, that others do not? Focus on that in your communication efforts, both online and offline.

Costumer service translates into loyalty

Ensure your customers are well taken care of, from when they are deciding which product or service to purchase, until after transactions are made. By creating a two-way flow of communication, along with add-on services, customers will feel closer to the company and likely repeat purchases.

Identify new opportunities and markets

Whilst expanding into new markets is integral for companies to scale up faster, it comes with many challenges. Before venturing into new markets, research local competition, risks and the market appetite for your product or service. Is there strong demand for what you are offering? Are there cultural norms that you need to adapt to? Know the market well before expanding.

Standardize your processes

When scaling up a business, systems and processes that are standardized will ensure a more seamless experience internally. From financial elements, credit management, to paperwork, systems and delivery processes – develop a system that is followed across all markets, to create a unified experience.

Manage trade receivables and cashflows

Whether selling domestically or internationally, managing your trade receivables and cashflows are integral to scale up. Provisioning for upcoming expenses, whether investments in human resources, marketing or business development, if you have a clear forecast of your receivables, it can ensure a healthier cashflow.

Learn more about how LCI can help you expand to new markets and increase your exports here.