The clear path from being a dreamer to becoming an entrepreneur is investment driven – an investment of time, passion, energy, resilience and first and foremost, finances. Ask any business newbie or an aspiring start-up they will agree that their biggest fear is how to manage money to achieve their financial goals and avoid making losses. Meenu Subramaniam, ex-RBI wealth management advisor and stock broker strongly advises that for any individual no matter what wealth bracket they belong to, investments should be parallel with one's risk profile, expected investor opportunities, cash flow requirements, and client-specific limitations. “For new start-up entrepreneurs, the shift is that they are taking a substantial risk in starting a business. Although a majority of them do get into it expecting to just break even or even make marginal losses, they are not prepared for the fact the business may or may not be sufficient to maintain their ongoing lifestyle and expenses. There is a saying in Hindi, “जितनी चादर हो उतना ही पैर फैलाना चाहिये” – this is a golden rule in wealth management, limit your spending/investments according to your earnings.
“We have seen enough and more businesses make millions in revenue but have gone bankrupt due to financial mismanagement. Wealth management is essential for everyone not just an entrepreneur,” Subramaniam said.
Here Are Five Wealth Management Tips That Can Help You Sustain And Create A Strong Base For Your Start-Up
Stay Bootstrapped For As Long As Its Viable
“The best way to start a business is by funding your venture, or with the help of friends and family. While not everyone is at liberty but if avoidable, opting out of external investment or loans is a way to keep interest payments at bay,” said Subramaniam. Being bootstrapped gives you greater flexibility and freedom when it comes to money management. “Once a venture takes off and has been performing well for a minimum of 2 years, that’s the time to explore various available funding options,” she added.
Be Aware Of Taxes – Save It Or Get Stuck In A Web Of Liabilities
Subramaniam believes in doing the groundwork herself. “Trust your financial advisors but educate yourself every day on tax implications and tax saving opportunities. Your tax liabilities as a business owner are far more complicated than a salaried individual. However, you also have many tax-saving opportunities that are available to you. It is imperative that you follow all tax regulations while running a business.”
Keep An Eye On Your Cash Flow
“Not keeping track or lack of understanding business numbers is financial suicide. You may have a great idea but that is just not enough,” shared Subramanian. “Understanding Business numbers, cash flow and long-term financial goals go hand in hand and is key to generating profits. Having unpredictable cash flow or liquidity deficit can lead you to bankruptcy. It is always advisable to track various metrics and explore ways to increase your cash flow – redirecting positive cash flow back into your company.”
Budgeting Goes A Long Way
According to Subramaniam a budget can help you with unnecessary costs and come up with strategies to improve your bottom line. “Budget everything, even the Rs 10 chai on your smoke breaks. We have been doing this since we got our pocket money, start-ups just need to implement the same principles in their business. Make an estimate of the monthly budget for different expenses and undertakings. Make sure that you budget a fixed amount regularly from the cash flow or investment portfolio to sustain your regular lifestyle requirements.”
Explore Options
Subramaniam wants entrepreneurs to keep an open mind, “Once your business starts to generate a sizeable income as well as market interest you will see a shift in trend and potential buyers/ investors will come knocking at your door. Even if you have no interest it is always worthwhile to know what you are worth.”
It is always best to seek advice from finance professionals that provide much value in increasing the profitability of a business. Please do not shy away from investing in their services.