With the rise of hybrid work and cloud-based operations, organisations face increasing cybersecurity threats targeting vulnerable endpoints like laptops, phones, and tablets. A recent study revealed that 68% of organisations experienced a rise in endpoint and IoT security attacks in the past year. To combat these threats, businesses need a robust endpoint management solution to ensure devices remain compliant, secure, and up to date. Microsoft Intune is a powerful cloud-based endpoint management platform that allows IT teams to enforce security policies, manage applications, and safeguard IT infrastructure. It streamlines device management and enhances overall security posture. However, effective endpoint security management requires time, expertise, and continuous monitoring, which is where a Managed Service Provider (MSP) becomes crucial.

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Discover how UK businesses can benefit from FX forward contracts to manage currency risk, improve financial planning, and support international growth. Plus avoid the losses and pain that the vast majority of SMEs suffer because they do nothing about it.

The cryptocurrency landscape has experienced rapid expansion and innovation in recent years with digital assets, such as exchange tokens, NFTs (non-fungible tokens), and utility tokens becoming more widespread. As these financial transactions continue to evolve, understanding and adhering to tax regulations is essential to prevent any future complications.

Microsoft 365 Copilot is a suite of AI-driven tools designed to boost productivity and streamline workflows. It can generate content, automate tasks, and provide intelligent insights. However, adopting Copilot can be challenging, especially in gaining 'buy-in' from employees.

Manufacturing is at a crossroads. While negative headlines often dominate the conversation, there has been a growing sense of confidence emerging within the sector. Menzies and the CICM hosted a roundtable discussion at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, which brought together key individuals in the industry to discuss the challenges and potential solutions shaping the future of manufacturing. Three key themes were discussed: recruitment and retention, supply chain challenges, and the growing threat of fraud. One of the primary concerns addressed in the roundtable was recruitment and the retention of skilled staff. There has been a shortage of skilled workers, which has become increasingly evident as traditional career paths in construction and engineering have become less in demand. Many manufacturers struggle to replace a workforce that is aging, with the retirement of experienced employees leaving a considerable gap in skills. Furthermore, the impact of Brexit has meant that there has been a steady decline in returning European workers, which strengthens the challenges faced with staffing.   Another significant concern was the decline of apprenticeships. Many businesses have chosen to shift towards in-house training rather than relying on external apprenticeship schemes, especially as training facilities in Wales remain few and far between. Some firms are having to send trainees further afield for the required skills development. This, alongside the evolving workplace expectations, has evidently reshaped employment trends. Employees are continuously prioritising work-life balance over overtime and financial incentives, which makes retention more challenging as a result. In South Wales, a lack of clear career pathways for young people has led to lower retention rates among the 16-24 age group. Roundtable participants agreed that to attract and retain talent, manufacturers must strengthen their employer branding by offering flexible work policies, fostering social engagement initiatives, and providing clear career progression opportunities.   Supply chain difficulties were another key area of discussion during the roundtable. The post-Brexit landscape has increased reliance on European suppliers, leading to greater instability and uncertainty. Many businesses have also become increasingly more dependent on China, which has therefore, contributed to an increase in carbon footprints and disruptions caused by major holidays and logistical delays. Roundtable attendees emphasised the further supply chain risks posed by public sector contracts, which require businesses to conduct careful due diligence in order to minimise potential issues. In response to these uncertainties, manufacturers are needing to reassess their supply chain strategies to build greater resilience and adaptability.   Fraud and cybersecurity emerged as ongoing threats within the manufacturing industry, as highlighted by many roundtable participants. Businesses are facing an increased rate of getting targeted by highly developed phishing scams and AI-driven cyberattacks, which inevitably leads to financial losses and operational disruptions.  Despite the growing risks, cybersecurity awareness remains low in countless organisations, making them open to attacks. Roundtable attendees agreed that to combat these threats, manufacturing firms must apply tight security measures, educate their employees on potential risks, and invest in advanced cybersecurity technologies to safeguard sensitive information.   Despite the challenges and threats discussed, there has been remarkable developments within the manufacturing sector. Young talent is entering the workforce, bringing fresh and innovative ideas as well as enthusiasm. Countless businesses have successfully adapted to Brexit-related disruptions, demonstrating flexibility and resilience in their supply chain strategies. Companies that survived the aftermath of COVID-19 have come out stronger, with more streamlined operations and improved efficiencies. Collaboration across industries have also expanded, fostering knowledge-sharing and driving innovation.   The Welsh manufacturing sector continues to operate well in exports, specifically in high-tech industries. Moreover, emerging investments in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, as well as advancements in science and technology, are leading the way for astounding transformation. These developments indicate a promising future for manufacturing, as long as businesses continue to embrace innovation and adaptability.   Looking forward, the manufacturing sector must stay proactive in addressing its challenges while capitalising on opportunities for growth. By embracing technological advancements, redefining recruitment strategies, and fostering a culture of resilience, businesses can navigate the developing landscape successfully. The discussions at the CICM roundtable highlighted the importance of collaboration, forward-thinking strategies, and a commitment to continuous improvement. With the correct approach, the manufacturing industry can thrive in an ever-changing economic environment.

Email remains a primary communication tool for 81% of people, making it a prime target for cybercriminals who send 3.4 billion phishing emails daily. In 2024, phishing attacks increased by 28%, driven by AI, leading to data loss, financial damage, and reputational harm. Here are five tips to enhance email security, including using AI, DMARC, and DKIM.

Purchasing property at auction can be an exciting and potentially cost-effective way to invest in real estate. However, it also carries its own set of risks and complexities. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer, it's essential to be fully prepared—especially when it comes to securing auction property finance.

Half of all UK companies have suffered a cyber-attack in the last 12 months, and it can just take 37 seconds for a criminal to take over your systems.

Leading law firm Cripps has launched its first-ever Impact Report, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and accountability, as a purpose-driven business. The report, unveiled as part of B Corp Month, outlines the firm’s achievements since becoming B Corp certified in December 2023 and sets ambitious goals for the future. Cripps’ Impact Report formalises the firm’s dedication to making a positive and lasting difference to the lives and businesses of its clients, people, communities, and the environment. By embedding purpose into its strategy and daily operations, Cripps aims to lead by example in the legal sector and beyond. Key highlights from the Impact Report The report showcases Cripps’ progress across four core pillars: Clients: Demonstrating how Cripps goes beyond solving legal challenges to act as a trusted adviser, making a meaningful impact on clients’ lives and businesses. 91% of its clients say Cripps understand their objectives, and 83% feel they genuinely care. By 2027, Cripps will develop a methodology to measure the positive difference it makes to its clients through legal services. People: Highlighting how Cripps fosters a purpose-driven workplace, to attract and retain top talent aligned with its values. The firm wants to enable easier access to the legal profession and currently has 15 solicitor or paralegal apprentices, four of whom earned law degrees with the firm’s support in 2024. Cripps wants to make the legal profession accessible to all and will be joining the Social Mobility Employer Index in 2025. Planet: Cripps has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability including improvements in carbon reporting across all sources of emissions. The firm’s leadership in the Legal Climate Forum further underscores its proactive stance on environmental issues. Cripps has reduced its own carbon emissions by 25% per employee and has introduced a new car-sharing program to reduce further. Additionally, the firm co-founded Amplifi – an initiative of 180 local business working to address the complexities of sustainability together. Cripps has been transparent with their progress towards net zero, publishing their carbon footprint report on their website. Community: Showcasing Cripps’ engagement in pro bono work, partnerships with schools and charities, and local initiatives that support social causes, amounting to over £200k, or 2% of profit. Cripps will allocate an annual allowance per employee for pro bono and volunteering time to achieve 5000 hours of positive impact in 2026. James Beatton, managing partner at Cripps, commented, “For us as leaders, and for all our people, we are motivated by wanting to be the difference for our clients and in our communities, each other and in our natural world. In all our interactions, we ask ourselves how we can give more than we take, and create a positive and lasting impact.” A call for collective action Cripps’ report serves as a call to action for other responsible businesses to collaborate in addressing social and environmental challenges. The firm embraces the B Corp Declaration of Interdependence, recognising that long-term success depends on shared efforts and collective responsibility. “Our purpose is to solve problems and champion ambitions, while making a positive and lasting difference. It’s about more than delivering exceptional client service—it’s about driving meaningful change,” said Mike Scott, senior partner at Cripps. “We invite like-minded businesses to join us to use business to create a more inclusive and regenerative economy. Together, we can create a thriving future for all.”  Read the Cripps 2024 Impact Report.

A recent survey from Helen Tuddenham Consulting, “Nurturing And Retaining Talent”, discovered that only half of organisations had tried Executive Coaching as a means to solving their leadership and business challenges. The reasons given for not investing in executive coaching varied but included cost, expected return on investment, and whether it would work in smaller organisations. Other barriers preventing organisations from proceeding include confusing and off-putting terminology, difficulties finding high-quality coaches, and a lack of accreditation and regulation in the sector. A small minority in our survey also had experience with clients not engaging in the coaching process. Yet, for those who take the plunge, the results can be transformative. Every organisation that had used executive coaching in the survey had seen benefits, and nearly half had seen direct increases in profitability as a result. This is backed up by other research showing that when done well, executive coaching can produce tangible benefits to a company's bottom line. MetrixGlobal found that this return could be up to 529% in some circumstances. To support organisations wanting to take the plunge and reap the benefits for themselves, we have published a guide that addresses some concerns and myths, explains the factors you need to consider, and takes you through a step-by-step process for making the most of your investment. Although the original research was with professional services firms, “Transforming Leaders: A Practical Guide to Coaching for Organisations” is designed for businesses of any size or industry that have yet to embark on their coaching journey. You can download a copy of the report here or to find out more, get in touch using the details below.   helen@helentuddenhamconsulting.com www.helentuddenhamconsulting.com/for-organisations

Spring Statement March 2025 Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, held the Spring Statement on Wednesday 26 March 2025. In the run up to the event, the Chancellor stated that she ‘remains committed to one major fiscal event a year to give families and businesses stability and certainty on upcoming tax and spending changes and, in turn, to support the government’s growth mission’. The Chancellor did meet her commitment that there would be no major tax announcements, but tax is only one side of the equation. The other is spending, and the Spring Statement confirmed a number of the measures recently announced, namely: • Cuts to the welfare state • Cuts to the civil service • Increase in defence spending There were also announcements about the rollout of the Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax project which are covered later in this document.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a crucial technology, with companies eager to integrate it into their operations. Microsoft Copilot for 365 is a powerful assistant that can meet various business needs. This article addresses common questions about Copilot.

Thinking of buying a commercial property? This guide breaks down commercial mortgages in a friendly, easy-to-understand way. We'll cover what they are, how to qualify, and key things to consider, helping you navigate the process with confidence.

SHW has advised law firm Birketts LLP on its expansion at One Suffolk Way in Sevenoaks, Kent, as part of the firm’s continued growth across the South East region.

Combining data with AI empowers SMBs to unlock valuable insights, automate tasks, and personalise customer experiences. This dynamic duo provides a competitive edge, enhances productivity, and drives better decision-making, revolutionising the way SMBs operate.

Are you eager to enhance your digital marketing skills or dive deep into the world of Adobe's creative software? Look no further than the bootcamps offered by Creative Process Digital. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur seeking to grow your business or an aspiring professional eager to land a job in the competitive digital world or an employer who can see the benefit of giving their employees some extra training to develop their skills, our bootcamps have got you covered.

Commonhold was introduced as a fairer alternative to leasehold, giving homeowners full ownership of their property and shared spaces. However, despite its advantages, mortgage lenders remain reluctant to finance commonhold properties. This article explores the key reasons behind their hesitation, including market uncertainty, financial risks, and legal concerns, and whether future reforms could change the landscape.

The Video Skills Bootcamp is a face-to-face training programme designed to give you professional competence in video editing and film production. It uses the latest industry software and equipment.   Training is at the Creative Process video production studio on Kensington Street in the heart of North Laines with our film industry trainers.   Schedule: All sessions are 10:00-17:00, Courses run for 2 days per week for 8 weeks either on Tuesday and Wednesday or Thursday and Friday’   What are Video Skills Bootcamps? Video Skills Bootcamps are training room-based courses that offer the next level up for those who have already completed our Video Accelerator or have more than basic production skills. It will teach you how to take the next step towards a successful video/editing career. Whether you are a YouTuber, Insta-reeler, vlogger, business owner or aspiring filmmaker, you will learn how to make professional videos with this course.   Video Skills Bootcamps at a glance: You will cover everything from coming up with great video ideas, executing them in production and post-production, and distributing them to a wide audience online via smartphone, DSLR, or professional camera. Why Choose Us?   It’s Free: The programme offers £2,500 worth of free training if you are self-employed/freelance or unemployed. SMEs pay a 10% contribution. Large employers pay 30%.   Sign up today  - https://www.freedigitalskills.co.uk/apply-now-video-bootcamp

If you're looking to integrate sustainable energy solutions into your energy management plan, Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) offer a great opportunity to drive decarbonisation without the need for significant upfront capital investment in infrastructure. However, securing these long-term contracts requires expertise and careful handling.