After a highly anticipated 4th Quarter GDP Report, the PMI indicates a different outlook for the beginning of 2023. A reading below 47% indicates a contraction. Has the free money finally run out, with high credit card debt spelling bad news for the lower-income half of the population? Adding to this, inflation is still transitory and appears to be increasing, leaving little room for lower interest rates. The good news is that unemployment remains low and people who want to work have jobs. Therefore, we believe that a recession will occur, but it will be mild and short, in line with the IMF's predictions.

For business owners who want to sell, preserving the value of the company means preserving the bottom line. However, this is easier said than done. It requires a forecasting system that can anticipate market slowdowns, reinforce sales efforts, and control costs. Buyers understand the impact of slowing sales, such as lost customers, but the net income provides the value.

If you're hoarding cash, there is a link provided below to invest at a better rate than the average. Another way to grow your business is to consider an acquisition, which if done correctly, can have an immediate impact on the value of your company.

Have all your employees been reviewed and offered the best chances to succeed? The quality of employees is an important aspect of business valuation. To ensure an optimally performing workforce, reviewing and supporting them is key. It's important to avoid making incident-based or overreactive judgments unless it's a violation of policies or endangers someone. In such cases, immediate attention is necessary. Setting clear expectations, reviews, and having a support system in place will make your company stand out. People make the difference, so put a system in place that offers your company a competitive advantage.