Like everything else, an accounting cycle also has a specific time when a business owner must close it down. It is a necessary step in keeping the accounting system of a company free from any complexities. But this is not something that all business owners understand.

Closing an accounting cycle helps you smooth out any wrinkles and define the balances left at the end of the process. It enables you to stay coordinated with all the stakeholders.

You must follow specific steps when you begin closing an accounting cycle. It would help if you went about it systematically to avoid any inconveniences later. But before jumping into that topic, we must first understand an accounting cycle.

What is an Accounting Cycle?

An accounting cycle records all the company’s financial data saved, analyzed, and recorded over time. In an accounting cycle, all the data, including payrolls, investments, payments, profits, and any losses the business may have sustained in a specified period.

It assists a business owner in identifying all transactions revolving around the business and helps them analyze them, sort them out, and highlight the trial balance. Keeping the company’s finances clean and clear through an accounting cycle would allow the business owner far more than they can imagine.

Closing an Accounting Cycle and Why It Is Important 

The process of closing all accounting entries begins once an accounting cycle ends. Each accounting cycle stays in use for a specific amount of time before it is time to bring it to a conclusion. The job of closing entries is to clear out any dues and balances before a new cycle begins.

Closing an accounting cycle is one of the essential parts of having a successful accounts system for your business. Clearing any due payments means that the balances are all presented clearly, so no doubts are in the equation. Although sorting and keeping the finances organized is what accounting is based on, clearing due and balances is an equally crucial step that would keep the business in excellent financial health.

Closing entries also highlight the progress of the company. Once the cycle is closed, all remittances are calculated and compared to the past year’s. It would be vital for the business owner to conduct their expenses if they know their company’s performance.

Steps to Close an Account Manually

1. The first step in closing entries for an accounting cycle is that the accountant/business owner must identify and locate all the revenue accounts under the company’s name.
2. Once located and identified, the accountant must calculate each entry made in the accounting journals for each account to calculate the credit and trial balance.
3. The accountant should return the accounts to zero credit so that it can clear the report.
4. The next step would be to locate all accounts that deal with expenses. Once these accounts have been found, as with the revenue accounts, the accountant must calculate each entry for all the expense accounts to bring the credit down to zero.
5. The calculations then move towards the income summary accounts. If there is a credit balance by the time the funds are cleared, that would mean that the company has profited. But if the balance is in deficit, the company has suffered a loss during that cycle.
6. Finally, the accountant must turn their attention towards the dividend as well as the savings accounts. Once these have been cleared, it can calculate the company’s net income.

Let the Software do the Job

With the world undergoing a technological revolution, life has never been easier. Companies now invest in accounting and financial software to cater to their needs. The software does the job without making you go through the hassle of all the calculations, making the situation complex. Now is the time to invest in accounting software to complete the job easier and save the cost of employing an accountant.About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Thanks to technology and globalization, you can access innumerable investments that will make your money grow. However, knowing the difference between planning your finances and investing your saved resources is essential.

While financial planning can include investments, investment planning is generally done by a professional specializing in stocks and other investments. A financial advisor helps a person with budgets, savings, planning for retirement, large purchases, and other general personal or business financial planning and advice.

What Does a Financial Advisor Do?

A financial advisor usually gives suggestions to clients lacking in-depth financial knowledge. The financial advisor receives a commission or percentage in exchange for their work. The consults for consumers and SMEs are part of their work. Be it goods or services. They are sometimes the intermediary between buyers and sellers.

Among their tasks is keeping track of the transactions they formalize. It would be best if you were careful about the laws. You have to monitor the transactions you helped carry out, establish business relationships with customers, and keep track of those that have already been made.

Accessing and developing new products or diverse markets is part of their work. Some activities that help you succeed are market research, reviewing current trends, and looking for other areas. Keep the records up to date so that the planning of strategies is kept in order and the objectives are met.

Your communication and initiative with the client must efficiently discuss results, generate meetings, and set new goals. Financial advisors provide customized financial solutions and execute orders in the stock market and financial products, i.e., shares and annuities.

In the same way, they manage financial activities on behalf of their clients. They occasionally provide advisory and consulting services; however, their work is merely based on a relationship of planning and transactions or financial operations.

What is an Investment Advisor?

The investment advisor is a professional who uses their knowledge and experience in managing their clients’ investment portfolios. The figure of the investment advisor is known in other countries as Investment Advisor. It has been very successful so that many of the world’s most significant heritages have an advisor with them.

The advisor designs investment strategies based on their objectives, risk tolerance, and unique investment ideas. Apply these strategies to your customers’ accounts and update them according to the events in the financial markets.

It seeks to inform you as widely as possible about the product you are interested in since most of the investors’ complaints regarding their adviser are given because the client did not understand how the contracted instrument operates.

By the Securities Market Law, investment advisors should profile their clients and explain how they will obtain benefits and the risks that their investments could have. They also make investment decisions on behalf of third parties if authorized by the owner. They give recommendations and provide investment advice.

Consider if your advisor has a long or short history. Remember that someone with experience of at least four years in the same institution is better than a young person with a short time since graduation. Experience always pays off when something so precious as your finances are involved. This is not the place to be frugal. 

Check if it is someone who has credentials. Independent investment advisors and those belonging to a credit institution, broker-dealer, investment fund operator, or fund managers for retirement require registration with the CNBV and comply with the measures established by the Market Law of Values.

Occasionally, the advisor can also be an investment portfolio manager. You need to know your experience operating other investors’ money and the results you obtained. About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Start a Successful Logistics Business:
Key Strategies for Growth

To start a logistics business, develop a detailed business plan, secure legal requirements like permits and insurance, choose a niche such as last-mile delivery or freight forwarding, invest in technology for efficiency, and focus on building partnerships for scalable growth. Success requires initial capital ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 depending on your chosen business model, with broker-based models allowing entry points as low as $10,000 through strategic partnerships and digital tools.

As the founder of Complete Controller, I’ve guided countless small businesses through financial planning and operations, including logistics startups facing cash flow hurdles and scaling pains. Over my 20 years as CEO, I’ve witnessed businesses across all sectors transform their operations through smart financial strategies and technology adoption. What excites me most about the logistics industry right now is the unprecedented opportunity—the global last-mile delivery market alone is exploding from $179.5 billion in 2024 to a projected $481.6 billion by 2034. In this article, you’ll discover how to choose your most profitable niche, leverage AI to cut operational costs by 20%, build partnerships that accelerate growth, and master the financial strategies that help logistics businesses achieve 47% gross margins with break-even in just 10 months.

How do you start a successful logistics business with key strategies for growth?

• Start a logistics business by validating your niche, crafting a business plan, handling legal setup, launching operations, and scaling through tech and partnerships.
• Focus on high-demand niches like last-mile delivery or warehousing to differentiate from competitors and tap into e-commerce growth.
• Prioritize technology like AI route optimization and fleet tracking from day one to boost efficiency and cut costs by up to 20%.
• Build recurring revenue with tiered services, long-term contracts, and value-adds like reverse logistics.
• Drive growth via geographic expansion, M&A, and customer loyalty programs for sustained profitability.

Choose Your Logistics Niche to Stand Out from Day One

Specializing in a niche accelerates success when you start a logistics business, as the industry spans freight forwarding, warehousing, last-mile delivery, and more. The right niche selection determines your startup costs, profit margins, and competitive positioning from the beginning.

Each logistics niche offers distinct advantages and challenges. Last-mile delivery capitalizes on e-commerce growth but requires dense urban networks. Freight forwarding provides higher margins through specialized transport without asset ownership. Reverse logistics taps into the massive returns market that competitors often ignore. Your choice should align with available capital, local market demands, and existing industry connections.

Last-mile delivery for e-commerce

Target booming online retail with same-day services; demand surged 25% post-pandemic. The global last-mile delivery market is experiencing explosive growth, expanding from $179.5 billion in 2024 to $481.6 billion by 2034—a compound annual growth rate of 10.5%. Business-to-consumer deliveries drive over 52% of this market revenue, creating massive opportunities for new entrants who can differentiate through speed and reliability.

Freight forwarding and specialized transport

Handle refrigerated or hazardous goods for higher margins, starting with partnerships instead of owning trucks. Specialized transport commands premium pricing—temperature-controlled logistics earns 15-30% higher rates than standard freight. Begin as a broker coordinating shipments between shippers and carriers, requiring minimal capital while you build industry relationships and expertise.

Reverse logistics and returns management

Capitalize on e-commerce returns, an $850 billion market in 2025 alone, by offering efficient handling many competitors ignore. With consumers returning 15.8% of all retail purchases and 19.3% of online orders, the global reverse logistics market has grown to $768.59 billion and will reach $1,166.81 billion by 2032. Technology-enabled returns processing, fraud detection, and resale management create recurring revenue streams with minimal competition.

Craft a Bulletproof Business Plan with Realistic Financials

A comprehensive logistics company business plan outlines your roadmap, from startup costs ($50K–$500K) to revenue projections. Smart financial planning separates thriving logistics businesses from those that fail within two years.

Successful logistics businesses generate average revenues of $4.57 million annually with 47% gross profit margins. Your plan must account for weekly cash flow variations of up to 80% based on seasonal demands and client payment cycles. Include executive summary, market analysis, operations strategy, and funding requirements with monthly projections for the first year and quarterly forecasts through year three.

Startup costs breakdown for bootstrappers

Initial investments vary dramatically by model:

• Asset-light broker model: $10,000–$50,000 (licenses, insurance, software, marketing)
• Small fleet owner: $100,000–$250,000 (2-3 vehicles, insurance, permits, warehouse lease)
• Full-service logistics: $250,000–$500,000 (fleet, warehouse, technology platform, staff)

Most logistics startups achieve break-even within 10 months through careful cost management. Bootstrap by starting as a broker, using partnerships for fulfillment, and reinvesting profits into owned assets. Complete Controller’s startup launch guidance helps logistics entrepreneurs manage cash flow during critical early months.

Revenue streams and pricing strategy

Diversified revenue streams stabilize cash flow and accelerate growth:

• Core delivery services: Base rates plus fuel surcharges (60-70% of revenue)
• Value-added services: Warehousing, packaging, kitting (20-25% of revenue)
• Technology fees: Track-and-trace, API access, reporting (10-15% of revenue)

Implement tiered pricing (basic/standard/enterprise) to capture different customer segments. Standard markups range from 15-25% for brokerage services to 35-50% for specialized handling. Long-term contracts with automatic renewal clauses provide predictable revenue while spot market opportunities boost margins during peak seasons.

Scaling fast? Make sure your finances can keep up. Complete Controller can help.

Navigate Legal and Compliance Hurdles Without Delays

Legal setup is non-negotiable to start a logistics business compliantly, including registration, broker licenses, and insurance. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration processes take 4-6 weeks, so begin immediately.

Essential legal requirements include:

• Business entity formation: LLC or Corporation for liability protection
• USDOT Number: Required for all interstate commerce
• MC Authority: Broker authority ($300) or carrier authority ($300)
• Surety bond or trust: $75,000 for freight brokers
• Insurance minimums: $750,000 liability for general freight, $1 million for hazmat

Broker license vs. carrier authority

Brokers coordinate shipments without owning trucks, requiring less capital but earning lower margins (15-25%). Carriers own and operate vehicles, demanding higher investment but capturing 35-50% margins. Many successful operators start as brokers, then transition to asset ownership after establishing steady revenue. State-specific requirements vary—California requires additional permits while Texas offers streamlined processes for new carriers.

Leverage Technology and AI for Operational Edge

Investing in tech like predictive routing and ERP integrations gives outperformers a 15–20% efficiency boost. Modern logistics success depends on digital infrastructure from day one, not added later.

Leading logistics companies report concrete results from AI adoption: UPS’s ORION system saves 10 million gallons of fuel annually, while DHL reduced delivery costs by 20% through dynamic routing. Small operators achieve similar percentage gains using affordable SaaS solutions. Technology investments typically pay for themselves within 6-12 months through fuel savings and increased delivery capacity.

AI route optimization and fleet management

AI route optimization delivers 15-20% fuel savings and 25-30% delivery time improvements compared to manual planning. Modern platforms like PrometAI analyze real-time traffic, weather, delivery windows, and vehicle capacity to calculate optimal routes automatically. These systems learn from historical data, improving efficiency over time.

Key features to prioritize:

• Dynamic re-routing: Adjust for traffic and new orders in real-time
• Multi-stop optimization: Balance delivery windows with drive time
• Driver mobile apps: Turn-by-turn navigation with proof of delivery
• Predictive maintenance: Reduce breakdowns by 40% through sensor data

ERP and TMS integration for SMBs

Transportation Management Systems (TMS) centralize operations while Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) connects logistics with accounting and sales. Cloud-based solutions start at $200/month for small fleets, scaling with growth. Integration with e-commerce platforms enables automated order import, real-time tracking for customers, and instant invoicing.

Complete Controller’s accounting outsourcing integrates with major TMS platforms, automating financial workflows that typically consume 15-20 hours weekly. This automation frees owners to focus on growth rather than paperwork.

Build Your Team and Partnerships for Scalable Growth

Reliable teams and networks drive loyalty while strategic alliances accelerate expansion without proportional capital investment. Smart hiring and partnership strategies differentiate market leaders from struggling operators.

Start lean with 1099 contractors for driving and administrative roles, transitioning to W-2 employees as volume justifies. Partner with complementary businesses—warehouses needing distribution, manufacturers seeking logistics, or retailers requiring last-mile delivery. These partnerships provide steady volume without expensive sales efforts.

Hiring drivers and dispatchers on a budget

The driver shortage affects all logistics businesses, but creative recruiting gives smaller operators advantages:

• Gig platform recruiting: Uber/DoorDash drivers seeking stable income
• Part-time positions: Attract retirees and students for peak periods
• Performance bonuses: Reward safety, on-time delivery, and customer ratings
• Remote dispatchers: Access nationwide talent at 30% lower costs

Train extensively on customer service—friendly drivers generate 5x more repeat business than those focused solely on speed. Implement mentor programs pairing experienced drivers with newcomers to reduce accidents and improve retention.

Case Study: XpressBees’ Partnership-Driven Scale

XpressBees demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships in logistics growth. Starting in 2015 with just 50,000 daily shipments, they scaled to 3 million daily deliveries by 2021—a 60-fold increase. Their strategy focused on exclusive partnerships with major e-commerce platforms like Paytm, Meesho, and Xiaomi. By building dedicated capacity for these partners while maintaining service quality, XpressBees achieved nearly 100% year-over-year revenue growth and secured $120 million in venture funding.

Master Growth Strategies: From Core Optimization to Expansion

Outperformers grow by strengthening core operations, pursuing geographic expansion, and adding value-chain services. McKinsey’s logistics insights show top-quartile operators achieve 2.5x industry average growth through systematic expansion.

Growth requires balancing three strategies:

• Core optimization: Improve route density and capacity utilization
• Geographic expansion: Enter adjacent markets with proven playbooks
• Service expansion: Add warehousing, fulfillment, and specialized handling

Geographic and international expansion

Target e-commerce hubs for fastest growth—secondary cities often provide less competition with strong demand. Partner with established operators for cross-border compliance rather than navigating international regulations alone. Focus initial expansion within 250-mile radius of current operations to maintain service quality and driver availability.

Successful expansion follows predictable patterns:

1. Identify underserved markets with growing e-commerce activity
2. Secure anchor customers before investing in infrastructure
3. Partner with local operators for initial fulfillment
4. Establish physical presence after proving demand
5. Replicate successful processes from original market

Diversify with value-adds and subscriptions

Additional services increase customer lifetime value while improving margins:

• Warehousing and fulfillment: 3PL services command 25-40% margins
• Kitting and assembly: Simple value-adds worth 50%+ markups
• Scheduled delivery subscriptions: Predictable revenue with lower acquisition costs
• White-glove services: Installation and setup for 2-3x standard delivery rates

National Retail Federation insights highlight that integrated logistics providers retain customers 3x longer than delivery-only services. Start with one value-add service, perfect operations, then expand systematically.

Final Thoughts

As founder of Complete Controller, I’ve seen logistics clients thrive by outsourcing bookkeeping early—freeing cash and time for growth initiatives. The logistics industry offers exceptional opportunities for entrepreneurs willing to embrace technology, build strategic partnerships, and focus relentlessly on customer service.

Your journey to start a logistics business begins with choosing your niche, whether that’s riding the last-mile delivery wave, tackling the $850 billion reverse logistics opportunity, or carving out space in specialized transport. With average gross margins of 47% and break-even timelines under one year, logistics provides faster returns than many industries—if you execute strategically.

Success comes from balancing growth ambition with operational excellence. Start lean, invest in technology that delivers measurable ROI, and build partnerships that multiply your capabilities without multiplying overhead. Most importantly, maintain rigorous financial controls from day one. Ready to transform your logistics vision into a thriving business? Visit Complete Controller for expert financial guidance tailored to logistics entrepreneurs. Our team helps you implement the financial systems and strategies that fuel sustainable growth while you focus on building your logistics empire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Logistics Business

How much does it cost to start a logistics business?

Startup costs range from $50K–$500K depending on your model, but broker models allow entry with under $10K via partnerships and digital tools. Asset-light approaches using contractors and rented facilities reduce initial investment while you prove your concept and build revenue.

What licenses do I need to start a logistics business?

Key requirements include business registration, DOT number, MC authority for brokers ($300 fee plus $75,000 bond), and cargo/liability insurance ($750,000 minimum for general freight). Processing takes 4-6 weeks, so begin applications before launching operations.

How can I start a logistics business with no money?

Bootstrap as a broker leveraging partnerships, use free software trials, and focus on service coordination without owning assets. Many successful operators start by finding one anchor customer, using their commitment to secure equipment leases and build operations gradually.

What are the biggest challenges when you start a logistics business?

High competition, complex regulations, cash flow management, driver recruitment, and technology adoption represent primary challenges. Mitigate these through niche specialization, compliance software, factoring for receivables, creative recruiting, and cloud-based TMS platforms.

How do I find customers for my new logistics business?

Network on LinkedIn targeting e-commerce brands, attend industry events, optimize SEO for local searches, offer intro rates, and partner with complementary businesses. Complete Controller’s startup marketing strategies provide frameworks for systematic customer acquisition.

Sources

• PrometAI. “How to Start a Logistics Company in 2025.” PrometAI Blog, 2025.
• McKinsey & Company. “Lessons from Growth Outperformers in Logistics.” McKinsey Insights, 2025.
• Serif.ai. “How to Start a Logistics Business [2025 Guide: 9 Steps + Free Business Plan].” Serif.ai, 2025.
• HostPapa. “How To Grow a Logistics Business.” HostPapa Ideas, 2025.
• TEU Inc. “How to Start a Logistics Company: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025.” TEU Inc. Blog, 2025.
• Insight Ace Analytic. (2024). “Last Mile Delivery Market Size, Growth, Scope and Forecast to 2034.”
• National Retail Federation & Happy Returns. (2025). “2025 Retail Returns Landscape Report.”
• Fortune Business Insights. (2023). “Reverse Logistics Market Size, Share & Trends Report, 2032.”
• Terminal Industries. (2024). “AI Route Optimization: Boost Logistics Efficiency & Savings.”
• Starter Story. (2025). “How Profitable Is A Logistics Business? (Updated for 2025).”
• TheCodeWork. (2023). “Xpressbees Case Study.”

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity. Reviewed By: Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.

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People are moving towards solar energy sources instead of the electricity provided by the powerhouses. But what exactly is solar energy? Solar energy is the radiant light provided by the sun, which can be converted into electricity. That electricity helps to power the electrical appliances and lighting systems.

Systems powered by solar energy can free you from the trouble of electricity down or power failures in the town. Whether you have a big meeting coming up or have to get dressed for a party, with a solar energy system, you can take things at your own pace without any worry. Solar energy has made the lives of people easy.

There are five types of solar energy:

• Photovoltaic Solar energy
• Concentrated Solar energy
• Water heating solar energy
• Solar Pool Heating
• Thermal Solar energy

So now, let’s address the elephant in the room: is investing in solar energy systems beneficial or disastrous in 2021? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of solar energy. Many people think it’s beneficial, while some say it’s not. First, let’s get right into it so that you can decide for yourself.

Advantages of Solar Energy

Reducing the electric bill

The first advantage in everyone’s mind is the reduced electricity bill. When you opt for solar energy, you will see a significant drop in your electric bill. You will save a lot of money when installing the solar energy panel in your home.

Many states require utilities to offer net metering, which reduces the electricity cost with the solar system’s energy. Such a system helps when you are running low on income and can’t handle the significant amount of electricity bills.

Solar is cheap

Another advantage of solar energy is that it’s the cheapest option available. We know that electricity prices continue to rise, touching the skies, and solar energy prices keep decreasing.

The rate that the respective people have noticed is that 70% of the cost has fallen over the past years. This invention has made the lives of homeowners easier than before. Another advantage you can take of the solar incentives is installing a solar system by the end of 2022; you can get a 26% federal tax credit.

Seeing a return on your investment

If you think solar energy can only reduce your electric bill, my friend, you are wrong. They can also make you earn a little extra money. As said above, through net metering, you provide excess power to your solar energy systems to generate utility.

Many states have incentives such as Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) that can make you earn hundreds of dollars annually. Of course, it also depends on where you live. All your earnings from saving the electricity bill, net metering, and other incentives can help you pay back the cost of your solar energy system.

So, these were the advantages of the solar energy system. Now, let’s move on to the disadvantages of solar energy.

Disadvantages of Solar Energy System

Intermittent energy sources

The solar energy system is an intermittent source; why? There are three reasons behind it.

1. The sun doesn’t rise at night, so the solar panel can’t generate power at night
2. The intensity of the sun’s rays varies with location, time of the year, and day.
3. Clouds and snow have a significant effect on solar energy systems.

People raise these factors when someone tells them to invest in solar energy systems for their homes. As time passes, these things are changing, and cost-effective batteries are in the process of making the solution to these problems. The homeowners can save the battery and store it for use at night.

Solar Energy Systems Require Space

Another disadvantage of the solar energy system is the space it needs. The house owners can use the roof to install the solar energy system. But when you look at the large grid-scale solar systems, you will know that space can become a big issue for people.

Solar energy systems have low power density, meaning they need a larger area to generate the same amount of solar energy as a coal plant.

Solar Energy Systems Can Move With you

The day you decide to move to another house or state, you will realize that you can’t move your solar energy system with you because it will cost you a fortune. The net metering agreement you signed with your utility is fixed on your property. And finding people who can uninstall and reinstall the solar energy system will cost you dollars.

So, these were the advantages and disadvantages of the solar energy system. Please install one so that you can save up money for later. The sooner, the better. About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Should You Invest in Cryptocurrency? Key Insights & Tips

Should you invest in cryptocurrency only if you can tolerate extreme volatility and limit exposure to 1-6% of your portfolio—otherwise, stick to traditional assets, as crypto’s high-risk, high-reward nature makes it unsuitable for conservative investors or those needing stable returns. While cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have delivered spectacular long-term gains turning early investors into millionaires, they’ve also experienced crashes exceeding 80%, regulatory uncertainty, and billions in theft losses.

As the founder of Complete Controller, I’ve guided countless business owners through financial decisions that balance innovation with stability over my 20 years as CEO. I’ve witnessed firsthand how the allure of crypto’s astronomical returns can derail solid financial planning—clients who chased quick gains often faced portfolio volatility that disrupted their cash flow and bookkeeping systems. This article will equip you with the critical insights needed to make an informed cryptocurrency investment decision, including portfolio allocation strategies, security best practices, and tax implications that many overlook until it’s too late.

Should I invest in cryptocurrency? Key decision factors

• Core answer: Invest only what you can afford to lose, limiting crypto to 1-6% of your total portfolio based on your risk tolerance
• High volatility: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies experience price swings 3x greater than stocks, with potential for 80%+ losses
• Portfolio role: Crypto serves as a high-risk diversifier offering low correlation to traditional assets and inflation protection
• Security requirements: You’ll need secure wallets, two-factor authentication, and custody solutions to protect against theft
• Tax complexity: Every crypto transaction triggers taxable events requiring meticulous record-keeping for IRS compliance

Understanding Cryptocurrency Fundamentals and Market Evolution

Cryptocurrency represents digital assets operating on blockchain technology without central bank control, offering decentralization and transparency that traditional financial systems lack. The global cryptocurrency market reached $4.2 trillion in market capitalization by Q3 2025, establishing itself as a significant asset class that institutions can no longer ignore.

Bitcoin maintains 56% market dominance while Ethereum holds 13%, though these percentages have shifted as investors diversify across thousands of available cryptocurrencies. The market has matured considerably from its experimental origins, with regulated exchanges, institutional custody solutions, and comprehensive tax reporting frameworks now standard.

This evolution brings both opportunities and challenges for potential investors. On one hand, cryptocurrency infrastructure has become more accessible and secure than ever before. On the other hand, the proliferation of new tokens and complex financial products has created additional layers of risk that require careful navigation.

Compelling Reasons to Consider Cryptocurrency Investment

Cryptocurrency offers unique portfolio benefits that traditional assets cannot replicate, starting with its proven track record of extraordinary returns for patient investors. Bitcoin has generated positive annual returns in 10 of 13 years from 2012 through 2024, with early adopters seeing investments multiply by factors of thousands.

The inflation hedge properties of Bitcoin stem from its fixed supply cap of 21 million coins, creating scarcity dynamics similar to gold but with superior portability and divisibility. During periods of currency devaluation and economic uncertainty, cryptocurrency provides an alternative store of value independent of government monetary policy.

Institutional adoption has accelerated dramatically with the approval of Bitcoin ETFs attracting $29.4 billion in inflows through August 2025, signaling mainstream acceptance. Major corporations including MicroStrategy have allocated billions to Bitcoin as a treasury asset, validating cryptocurrency’s role in corporate finance strategies.

The 24/7 global market accessibility allows investors to trade and transfer value instantly across borders without banking intermediaries or restrictions. This capability proves particularly valuable for international business operations and emerging market participants seeking financial inclusion.

Critical Risks That Make Cryptocurrency Unsuitable for Many

The extreme volatility of cryptocurrency markets poses the greatest challenge for investors, with Bitcoin experiencing 30-day volatility of 3.5% compared to the S&P 500’s 1.2%. Price swings exceeding 20% in a single day remain common, creating psychological stress and potential for panic selling at losses.

Security threats plague the cryptocurrency ecosystem, with over $3.4 billion stolen through hacks and scams in 2025 alone. Individual wallet compromises surged to 158,000 incidents in 2025, nearly triple the 2022 figure, highlighting persistent vulnerabilities despite improving security protocols.

No consumer protections exist comparable to FDIC insurance for bank deposits or SIPC coverage for brokerage accounts. Lost passwords, mistaken transactions, and exchange failures can result in permanent, irreversible losses with no recourse for recovery.

Regulatory uncertainty continues creating headwinds, as governments worldwide grapple with cryptocurrency classification, taxation, and control measures. Sudden regulatory changes can crash prices overnight or make certain activities illegal, as seen with various international cryptocurrency bans.

The tax reporting burden requires tracking every transaction for capital gains calculations, with new IRS Form 1099-DA requirements adding compliance complexity. Failure to report cryptocurrency transactions properly can result in significant penalties and interest charges.

Need clarity before you invest? Complete Controller can help.

Real-World Investment Outcomes and Case Studies

Early Bitcoin investors who bought before 2019 reported 76% net gains according to 2025 survey data, while those entering between 2020-2024 achieved 70% gains despite higher entry prices. These statistics demonstrate that timing matters less than holding duration for cryptocurrency investment success.

Corporate case studies provide valuable lessons, with MicroStrategy’s aggressive Bitcoin accumulation strategy growing from $250 million to over $41 billion in value. Conversely, Tesla’s decision to sell 75% of its Bitcoin holdings at $19,000 per coin cost the company approximately $3.5 billion in foregone gains.

Individual investor experiences vary dramatically based on security practices and emotional discipline. Those using secure custody solutions and dollar-cost averaging strategies report better outcomes than traders attempting to time volatile markets.

The proliferation of cryptocurrency scams targeting inexperienced investors has resulted in billions in losses, emphasizing the importance of education before investment. Ponzi schemes, fake exchanges, and social engineering attacks continue extracting funds from unprepared participants.

Strategic Portfolio Allocation and Risk Management

Professional investment advisors recommend cryptocurrency allocations between 1-6% of total portfolio value, with specific percentages varying based on individual risk tolerance and investment timeline. Morgan Stanley suggests 0% for wealth preservation portfolios, 2% for balanced growth, and up to 4% for opportunistic growth strategies.

Dollar-cost averaging provides the most prudent entry strategy, spreading purchases across time to reduce timing risk and emotional decision-making. This approach particularly suits volatile assets like cryptocurrency where predicting short-term price movements proves nearly impossible.

Diversification within cryptocurrency holdings reduces concentration risk, though Bitcoin and Ethereum represent the most established options with deepest liquidity. Avoid allocating significant funds to speculative altcoins or meme tokens that lack fundamental value propositions.

Regular rebalancing maintains target allocation percentages as cryptocurrency prices fluctuate dramatically relative to traditional holdings. Set specific thresholds for rebalancing actions, such as trimming positions when crypto exceeds 10% of total portfolio value.

Practical Implementation Steps for Cryptocurrency Investment

Select established, regulated exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, or Fidelity for initial purchases, prioritizing platforms with strong security records and insurance coverage. Enable all available security features including two-factor authentication, withdrawal whitelists, and email confirmations for transactions.

Hardware wallets provide optimal security for long-term holdings, moving cryptocurrency offline and away from exchange hack risks. Popular options include Ledger and Trezor devices that store private keys in tamper-resistant hardware requiring physical confirmation for transactions.

Maintain meticulous records of all cryptocurrency transactions including dates, amounts, prices, and transaction fees for tax reporting purposes. Cryptocurrency tax software can automate tracking and generate required IRS forms, though manual verification remains advisable.

Start with small test transactions to familiarize yourself with wallet addresses, network fees, and confirmation times before moving larger amounts. Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible, making attention to detail critical for avoiding costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts

Deciding whether you should invest in cryptocurrency requires honest assessment of your risk tolerance, investment timeline, and financial stability to withstand potential losses. The evidence suggests cryptocurrency can enhance portfolio returns for investors who limit exposure to 1-6% and maintain long-term perspectives through inevitable volatility cycles.

At Complete Controller, I’ve helped hundreds of business owners integrate cryptocurrency into their financial strategies while maintaining operational stability through comprehensive bookkeeping and risk management frameworks. The key lies in treating cryptocurrency as one component of a diversified strategy rather than a get-rich-quick opportunity.

For personalized guidance on incorporating cryptocurrency into your business finances while maintaining compliant bookkeeping and tax reporting, visit Complete Controller to connect with our expert team today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Should I Invest in Cryptocurrency

Is cryptocurrency a good investment for beginners in 2025?

Cryptocurrency can be appropriate for beginners who thoroughly educate themselves first and limit initial investments to 1-2% of their portfolio while learning. Start with established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin through regulated exchanges, use dollar-cost averaging, and never invest money needed for essential expenses.

What percentage of my portfolio should be in cryptocurrency?

Financial advisors typically recommend 1-6% cryptocurrency allocation depending on your risk tolerance, with conservative investors staying at 1-2% and aggressive growth seekers potentially reaching 4-6%. Higher allocations exponentially increase portfolio volatility and drawdown risk during cryptocurrency bear markets.

Which cryptocurrency is best for long-term investment?

Bitcoin and Ethereum represent the most established cryptocurrencies for long-term investment due to their market dominance, liquidity, and institutional adoption. Bitcoin serves as “digital gold” while Ethereum powers decentralized applications, though diversifying across both reduces single-asset risk.

How do I protect my cryptocurrency from hackers and theft?

Protect cryptocurrency by using hardware wallets for long-term storage, enabling two-factor authentication on all accounts, avoiding public WiFi for transactions, and never sharing private keys or seed phrases. Consider using multiple wallets to avoid keeping all holdings in one location.

What are the tax implications of cryptocurrency investing?

Every cryptocurrency sale, trade, or purchase triggers a taxable event requiring capital gains calculations, with short-term gains taxed as ordinary income (10-37%) and long-term gains at preferential rates (0-20%). Starting in 2025, exchanges must report transactions on Form 1099-DA, making accurate record-keeping essential for IRS compliance.

Sources

• Howe & Rusling. “Protecting Your Portfolio in 2025: Are Crypto & Gold the Answer?” Howeandrusling.com, 2025.
• United Community Bank. “Cryptocurrency: Risks and Opportunities.” Ucbbank.com, n.d.
• NerdWallet. “Cryptocurrency Basics: Pros, Cons and How It Works.” Nerdwallet.com, n.d.
• Charles Schwab. “Investing Basics: Bitcoin and Blockchain.” Schwab.com, n.d.
• CoinLedger. “9 Best Long-Term Cryptocurrencies for 2026.” Coinledger.io, n.d.
• Security.org. “2026 Cryptocurrency Adoption and Consumer Sentiment Report.” Security.org, 2025.
• SoFi. “Pros and Cons of Cryptocurrency in 2025.” Sofi.com, 2025.
• Fidelity. “Should I invest in crypto? | Benefits and risks of cryptocurrency.” Fidelity.com, n.d.
• AltoIRA. “Should You Still Invest in Crypto in 2025? A Retirement Perspective.” Altoira.com, n.d.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity. Reviewed By: Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.

See Full Bio

Become a Thriving Franchisee:
Tips for Success

Successful franchisees build profitable businesses by mastering operational systems, leveraging franchisor support, and adapting proven models to local markets. The path to franchise success combines disciplined execution with strategic financial management, strong team leadership, and continuous adaptation to market changes. Studies show that franchises have a 6.3% higher success rate than independent businesses, with top performers achieving profit margins between 10-15% by optimizing costs and maximizing revenue opportunities.

As founder of Complete Controller, I’ve spent two decades helping entrepreneurs transform their financial operations from chaotic spreadsheets to streamlined profit centers. The most successful franchisees I’ve worked with share a surprising trait—they treat their franchise like a tech startup within established guardrails. Did you know that franchisees who implement digital tools and data-driven decisions see 30% higher profitability within 18 months? This article reveals the exact strategies top performers use to turn franchise investments into thriving enterprises that generate sustainable wealth while building valuable community assets.

What does it take to be a successful franchisee?

• Strategic alignment with franchise systems while innovating within brand guidelines drives maximum profitability
• Financial discipline creates the foundation—tracking unit economics, managing cash flow, and optimizing profit margins
• Team leadership transforms employees into brand ambassadors who deliver consistent customer experiences
• Technology adoption accelerates growth through automated operations and data-driven decision making
• Local market adaptation within brand standards captures community loyalty and repeat business

Essential Traits of High-Performing Franchisees

The psychological profile of thriving franchise owners reveals distinct patterns that separate top performers from average operators. Research indicates that 78% of successful franchisees prioritize mental flexibility and problem-solving abilities over previous industry experience. These entrepreneurs view challenges as opportunities for innovation rather than obstacles to success.

Resilience stands as the cornerstone trait, particularly during economic uncertainty. When supply chain disruptions hit the restaurant industry in 2023, adaptive franchisees pivoted to local suppliers and adjusted menus without compromising brand standards. A Jersey Mike’s franchisee in Phoenix maintained profit margins by sourcing produce from regional farms while other locations struggled with national supplier shortages.

Entrepreneurial mindset within systems

Balancing innovation with franchise compliance creates sustainable competitive advantages. Elite franchisees identify opportunities within operational guidelines that others miss. A Culver’s owner in Wisconsin increased average ticket size by 40% through strategic upselling training that aligned with corporate hospitality standards. The key lies in understanding which elements allow flexibility—typically local marketing, community engagement, and staff incentives—versus non-negotiable brand standards like product quality and customer service protocols.

Strategic Financial Management for Franchisees

Financial success starts before signing the franchise agreement. Initial investments ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 demand rigorous analysis beyond franchisor-provided projections. According to recent industry data, 51% of franchise owners earn less than $50,000 annually, while only 7% exceed $250,000—highlighting the critical importance of financial planning and market selection.

Profitable franchisees develop comprehensive financial models incorporating local demographics, competition analysis, and realistic revenue projections. They calculate true break-even points including working capital needs, marketing investments, and contingency reserves. Smart operators maintain 6-12 months of operating expenses in reserve to weather unexpected challenges.

Cost optimization and profitability triggers

Managing expenses while maintaining quality separates thriving franchisees from struggling operators. Top performers achieve 8-15% EBITDA margins through systematic cost controls:

• Negotiate bulk purchasing agreements through franchisor networks, reducing costs of goods sold by 12-18%
• Implement labor scheduling software to optimize staffing levels during peak and slow periods
• Track key performance indicators daily—food costs, labor percentages, and customer acquisition costs
• Invest 15% of revenue in targeted local marketing for sustained growth

Leveraging Franchisor Support and Training

Initial training provides foundation knowledge, but ongoing education drives long-term success. Proactive franchisees attend quarterly workshops, request advanced training modules, and actively participate in franchisee advisory councils. An Orangetheory Fitness owner reduced staffing costs by 20% after implementing scheduling algorithms learned at a corporate technology summit.

Beyond formal programs, successful operators tap into peer networks within the franchise system. They join regional franchisee groups, participate in online forums, and establish mentor relationships with established owners. This knowledge sharing accelerates learning curves and prevents costly mistakes.

Maximizing ongoing support systems

Most franchisees underutilize available support resources, particularly during challenges. Elite operators maintain regular contact with field consultants, scheduling monthly business reviews even during profitable periods. When crises emerge—whether PR issues, staffing shortages, or equipment failures—they immediately engage franchisor support teams who provide tested solutions. This proactive approach reduces problem resolution time by 50% compared to operators who attempt solo solutions.

Building and Leading Your Franchise Team

Employee turnover costs franchisees thousands annually in recruiting, training, and lost productivity. High-performing locations retain 95% of staff through comprehensive development programs that extend beyond basic job training. A Sweetgreen franchisee implemented “culture captain” roles where senior employees mentor new hires, resulting in 25% higher customer satisfaction scores.

Creating advancement pathways within single-unit operations requires creativity. Successful franchisees develop tiered responsibility levels, cross-training programs, and performance-based incentive structures. They share financial metrics with key employees, teaching business fundamentals that prepare staff for management roles.

Cultivating brand ambassadors

Transforming employees into genuine brand advocates multiplies marketing effectiveness. Team members who understand and believe in brand values naturally deliver superior customer experiences. Smart franchisees invest in culture-building activities—team competitions, community service projects, and celebration rituals that reinforce brand identity while building camaraderie.

Operational Excellence in Daily Franchise Management

Consistency drives customer loyalty in franchise businesses. Following operational manuals ensures brand standards while identifying efficiency improvements within guidelines. A 7-Eleven franchisee in Miami added tropical smoothie stations after analyzing local preferences, increasing afternoon traffic by 18% without violating brand specifications.

Daily management excellence requires systematic approaches to routine tasks:

• Implement opening and closing checklists with accountability signatures
• Conduct weekly inventory audits to minimize shrinkage and waste
• Schedule monthly equipment maintenance to prevent costly breakdowns
• Review daily sales reports to identify trends and optimization opportunities
• Monitor online reviews and respond within 24 hours to maintain reputation

Technology integration for efficiency

Modern franchise operations depend on technology stacks that streamline processes. While franchisors typically mandate point-of-sale systems, successful operators supplement with compatible tools. Integration of inventory management software with automated ordering systems reduces food costs by 3-5% through waste reduction and optimal purchasing timing.

Leveraging Technology for Franchise Growth

Digital transformation separates growing franchises from stagnant locations. McDonald’s franchisees who implemented localized digital marketing saw 33% sales increases in targeted regions. By combining corporate campaigns with geo-targeted social media advertising, smart operators capture market share from less digitally savvy competitors.

Marketing technology extends beyond advertising. Customer relationship management systems track purchase patterns, enabling personalized promotions that increase visit frequency. A Domino’s franchisee achieved 5.6% same-store sales growth by implementing AI-powered delivery predictions that reduced wait times and improved customer satisfaction.

Predictive analytics and data-driven decisions

Leading franchisees use data analytics to anticipate challenges and capitalize on opportunities. Tools like FranConnect forecast seasonal demand fluctuations, enabling optimized staffing and inventory levels. A Cruise Planners franchise owner used predictive models to identify booking trends, adjusting marketing spend to capture 22% more revenue during peak travel planning periods.

Your Blueprint for Franchise Mastery

Building a thriving franchise requires more than following prescribed systems—it demands strategic thinking, financial discipline, and relentless execution. The most successful franchisees I’ve guided through Complete Controller combine operational excellence with innovative thinking, creating businesses that serve communities while generating substantial returns. They understand that franchise ownership offers proven frameworks for success, but individual effort and strategic decisions determine ultimate outcomes.

Your franchise journey starts with honest assessment of financial resources, personal strengths, and market opportunities. Whether you’re evaluating franchise options or optimizing existing operations, professional guidance accelerates success. The Complete Controller team specializes in helping franchise owners implement financial systems that maximize profitability while minimizing administrative burden. Contact us at Complete Controller to discover how our expertise in franchise financial management can transform your business trajectory.

Frequently Asked Questions About Successful Franchisee

What’s the #1 trait of successful franchise owners?

Resilience and adaptability drive long-term success more than industry expertise. Franchisees who view challenges as opportunities and quickly adjust strategies while maintaining brand standards consistently outperform those with rigid thinking patterns.

How much does a franchisee make annually?

Earnings vary significantly—typically $50,000 to $150,000 annually, but top 10% exceed $500,000 through multi-unit ownership and operational excellence. Profit margins range from 8-15% depending on industry, location, and management effectiveness.

Can I innovate within a franchise model?

Yes—within brand guidelines. Top franchisees successfully localize marketing campaigns, adapt product offerings to regional preferences, and implement unique customer service initiatives while maintaining core brand standards and quality requirements.

What financing options exist for new franchisees?

Common options include SBA loans covering up to 90% of costs, ROBS (Rollover as Business Startups) using retirement funds, and franchisor financing partnerships. Strong credit scores above 680 and liquid capital of 20-30% improve approval chances.

How do I handle franchisor disputes?

Most franchise agreements include mediation clauses that resolve 80% of conflicts without litigation. Document all issues thoroughly, engage franchise consultants early, and focus on collaborative solutions that benefit both parties.

Sources

• Agility PR. (2024, December 5). “How McDonald’s Mastered Localized Marketing.” https://www.agilitypr.com/pr-news/public-relations/how-mcdonalds-mastered-localized-marketing-to-drive-franchise-success/
• American Franchise Academy. (2021, December 1). “What’s the Average Franchise Profit Percent?” https://www.americanfranchiseacademy.com/blog/franchise-profit-percent
• Ansira. (2024, December 2). “Local Marketing for Franchises.” https://ansira.com/blog/local-marketing-for-franchises/
• CloudFran. (2024, September 13). “Average Profits and Expenses for Franchises.” https://cloudfran.com/franchise-average-profit-and-expense/
• Complete Controller. “5 Money Management Tips to Help Avoid a Deficit.” https://www.completecontroller.com/5-money-management-tips-to-help-avoid-a-deficit/
• Complete Controller. “7 Ways to Find Competent Workers.” https://www.completecontroller.com/7-ways-to-find-competent-workers/
• Complete Controller. “From Spreadsheets to CRMs.” https://www.completecontroller.com/from-spreadsheets-to-crms/
• Connecteam. (2023, May 18). “Franchise Agreement Guide.”
• FRANdata. (2025, March). “2024 Franchising Economic Report.” https://www.franchise.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2024-Franchising-Economic-Report.pdf
• Franchising.com. (2025, May 15). “Franchisee Success Formula.”
• Harvard Business Review. (2011, April). “Building Resilience.” https://hbr.org/2011/04/building-resilience
• KoronaPOS. (2022, December 30). “How Much Do Franchise Owners Make?” https://koronapos.com/blog/how-much-do-franchise-owners-make/
• National CIO Review. (2025, April 29). “AI at the Core: Domino’s Tech-Fueled Growth.” https://nationalcioreview.com/articles-insights/technology/ai-at-the-core-dough-on-the-rise-dominos-tech-fueled-growth-strategy/
• Perkins Law. (2011). “Fundamentals of Franchising.”
• Reidel Law Firm. (2024, September 25). “Optimizing Franchise Operations.”
• SCORE. Bailey, Jania. (2018, September 27). “Franchise Success Tips.”
• Small Business Administration. “Manage Your Finances.” https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/manage-your-finances
• Statista. (2025, June 24). “Franchise Industry Economic Output U.S. 2024.” https://www.statista.com/statistics/190318/economic-output-of-the-us-franchise-sector/
• Wikipedia. “Predictive Analytics.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Predictive_analytics

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity. Reviewed By: Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.

See Full Bio

Many of the goals we set ourselves throughout our lives are related, in some way or another, to improving our economic status. Many people put some goals to grow professionally, buy a home, purchase a car, plan their children’s future, or manage their assets to guarantee retirement.

However, depending on our age, these economic needs are changing. The truth is that the focus on which of these dreams you pursue rests on saving. However, those who could manage their finances by themselves without significant complications now face larger problems, such as inflation and the need to avoid it. The profits obtained do not translate into losses.

These economic issues and changes are why hiring a professional financial advisor to help plan a budget and investment plan may become necessary. While many financially responsible adults may determine they need the help of a financial advisor, they may also have difficulty determining how to find one. Here are five steps to choosing a financial advisor that works for you.

Listening

Choose a consultant who knows how to listen. Both can speak confidently in the relationship between the professional and the investor. Conveniently, you tell the expert what your starting situation and goals are, and do not let them sell you their products but prepare a proposal of advice that contemplates different products that are thought to achieve your objectives. In addition, you should talk about the returns that can be obtained, but also the risks.

Certification

The expert must have specific training in financial advice. The advisors generally have finance, taxation, and even law knowledge. In addition to having a higher degree, they must have specific training in proven counseling with more than 150 hours of training. It is recommended that, in addition, you have obtained some accrediting certification, such as the one granted by EFPA.

Experience

Experience and demonstrable successes are a great plus. At the time of choosing the advisor, the professional trajectory that he credits will be key. Experience allows us to cope with volatility with great determination in the markets, as in any other sector.

In addition, it is advisable to be well informed about the expert who will know if the strategy he applies to their clients is also carried out with themself and obtains good results. 

Independent Advisor

Make sure you go to an independent consultant. There are two types of advisors on the market: those who receive commissions from third parties to recommend some of their products and those who work independently.

For this reason, it is advisable that, before going to an expert, you know what kind of advice will be carried out and that this will be completely transparent when it comes to billing your services.

Cost

You must consider what you can afford when hiring a financial advisor. Knowing how much an adviser’s service costs is complicated since there are different payment methods. Some charge through a fixed fee, others do with a commission taking a percentage of the portfolio’s profitability, and those prefer to use a mixed formula.

In addition, you can consult these professionals promptly and pay them for the service provided. Be that as it may, the best thing is to value the type of advice you need and estimate how you will pay for it.

Most importantly, the service we pay for brings us closer to our goals since, in these cases, we should not get carried away by the words “expensive or cheap” but by the profitability. Finally, make sure that before choosing a financial advisor, you can contact several experts and stay with the one that helps you more effectively achieve your goals. About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Long before social networks, various brands, and entrepreneurs used email marketing in business to maintain a communicative relationship with their customers. They would use email to communicate about news promotions and to provide assistance.

Because of new technology and other marketing and relationship development advancements with customers, many wonder if they should still use emailing in their business. This question is a great one to ask.

It should still be considered a marketing and communication tool to interact with customers because most customers have an email account. While many emails will be ignored by most of those receiving them regarding marketing materials, statistics show it is still a powerful marketing and communication tool.

What is Email Marketing?

Also known as advertising by email or commercial mail, it sends a commercial message directly to users, using email as a conduit.

In this sense, the email is sent to clients or potential clients. Typically, it implies using an email, sending messages of announcements, requests of sales, requests of businesses, donations, etc. This marketing type aims to generate trust and loyalty towards the brand.

Email marketing can be made to a list of current customers or purchased lists to send messages to improve the company’s relationship with its customers, achieve customer loyalty to our products, increase sales by acquiring new customers, or convince current customers to buy something immediately after the message.

How to Use Email Marketing

First, it is essential to remember that to send a marketing message, the authorization of each recipient can be explicit. Opt-in: when you register in one of your lists, it can also be implicit, which means that authorization is granted when acquiring any of your products. In this way, the user can unsubscribe if they think the content is irrelevant.

These lists are an essential asset for business, as they bring together people who have shown interest in the brand. The emails can have different themes, but they must always keep the same line, such as providing value to the client. The messages should be perceived to establish communication and a continuous approach towards counseling.

For example, you could send messages with diverse themes, such as:

• News on an ideal topic for you or your company.
• Offers or promotions in your products or services.
• Relevant information for your client.
• Ads about your business
• Events that you attend

As a rule of thumb, campaigns should always be where your recipients find some value. It is not a matter of sending messages with what you have to offer. If so, you could fall into the so-called SPAM emails, and undoubtedly, the attempt to get closer to your customers in this way will turn against you.

How to Make a Good Email Marketing Campaign

If you want to get good results with this online marketing strategy, working on the content of the messages is essential. However, it is not the only element to consider.

It is also essential to take care of the presentation of the message. It means using a suitable template and checking the text’s spelling, length, and content to be attractive. Likewise, it is essential to ensure all the elements are visible correctly because the size of some images can create problems.

What are Commercial Emails for?

According to experts in online marketing, email marketing serves to:

• Maintain contact with clients.
• To bring news and news to a diverse audience.
• Maintain our brand as number one in the mind of the consumer.
• Get opinions.
• Generate the customer’s commitment to the brand.
• Develop content strategies

Email marketing campaigns have to his favor that offer the possibility of measuring the results in real-time through diverse platforms that allow detailed campaign analysis. It is vital to remember that the results will probably not be obtained.

First, previous work, patience, and perseverance are necessary to get an effective email marketing campaign for your business. Finally, it is crucial to understand that email marketing campaigns are adaptable to your business and its needs, but they require a lot of work, dedication, and monitoring.About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

When starting and operating a small business, the chances are that you will need to get financing through a business loan. Over the business’s life, you may need multiple business loans as it is common to require funding for startup costs or expansion.

At some point in your life, you must have encountered this famous accounting equation, “Assets = Liabilities + Owners Equity.” Liabilities consist of short- and long-term payable options, also called business loans.

Business credit is a catalyst in giving the business a well-needed push, especially in its initial stages when things are below the break-even point. Owner equity alone is not enough to cover all financing requirements.

Hence, loans are the backup option when owners’ equity cannot fulfill commercial needs. Before obtaining a loan, you have to determine if you need one and if you qualify. Here are five reasons you may need a business loan and why the loan could be denied.

Starting the Business

The dawn of the 21st Century has ignited the passion for entrepreneurship in the hearts of millennials, thus giving rise to several young business minds. As a result, millions of startup companies are in every corner of the globe. Business loans are the first option for these young entrepreneurs to execute their unique ideas without worrying about the sources of finances. 

Growth and Expansion

Long-term investments are the key to sustainability working in this dynamic environment. Management cannot spend big in one go, so they look for long-term business loans for future investments. Obtaining a loan for growth and expansion is common and generally easier to get than a startup loan because the business is established.

Acquiring Supplies and Equipment

Spending the cash in hand is too risky to purchase the inventory or equipment, keeping in mind the fixed expenses of the business. A company that is highly sensitive to seasonal fluctuations cannot precisely predict future inventory requirements; hence, they run out of inventory most of the time. Short-term loans always save their day by maintaining the balance.

Keep the Business Going

Well, expenses are the most heartless creature in the Corporate World! No matter how rapidly your sales are going down, expenses will remain fixed. For many reasons, reporting lower or no profit is reasonable for running a business. This phase is temporary, and business loans keep things from crashing.

Retaining Top Talent

In expansion, extra money is already tied up in different projects. New projects can only be successful if you have top talent on board. You cannot reap the fruit in the early stages. To remain competitive in the market, Management must approach different institutes for credit purposes to pay off their key employees’ salaries.

Reasons a Business Loan is Denied

Businesses can become essential for some people to launch their startups or to expand an existing company. Business loans help secure inventory, rent functional space, purchase equipment, hire employees, and cover other tremendous expenses. But small business owners face difficulties due to seven reasons:

1. Poor credit history
2. Lack of a solid business plan
3. Limited cash flow
4. Disorganization
5. Too many loan applications
6. Failure to shop around
7. Failure to seek expert advice

Conclusion

Business loans and Owner’s equity are the two engines that generate the necessary power to uplift the organization. When owner equity fails to deliver the energy needed for the system, business loans back it up with long-term and short-term credit options; on the contrary, excessive loans can be disastrous for the organization. A compelling study needs to be carried out to measure the payback ability of the firm to avoid any significant blow. Only then can management decide whether it’s worth taking the risk.About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Billboards and newspaper advertisements were formerly the most effective methods of advertising your brand and products. Digital marketing is a must-have for all businesses, and developing the appropriate tactics is critical to success.

However, digital marketing has numerous possibilities, and determining where to begin may be stressful, if not downright panic-inducing. The world of online marketing has evolved, and there are undoubtedly multiple methods for marketing your website online.

The good news is that while these are distinct marketing categories, they can all operate in concert to help you reach your objectives and expand your organization.

Different Disciplines of Digital Marketing

Online marketing can be divided into six distinct disciplines:

Material marketing: Creating and distributing meaningful content to attract, educate, and retain your target audience.

Native advertising: Also known as advertorials, native advertising is a sort of online advertisement designed to resemble the editorial content of the website or newspaper being promoted.

Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising: PPC is a form of online advertising. Advertisers are compensated every time a user clicks on one of their advertisements.

Search engine optimization (SEO): This is optimizing a website to become search engine friendly and generate organic traffic.

Social media marketing: Promoting a product or service via social media networks. Typically, this is accomplished through a social media management platform.

Email marketing: A marketing strategy that uses email to communicate with and nurture potential and existing clients.

What is the Definition of a Digital Marketing Strategy?

A digital marketing strategy outlines how your organization will accomplish its objectives through an online search and social media channels. Most strategic plans will explain which online channels and digital marketing methods you intend to use and how much money you intend to invest in these channels and strategies.

Establish Your Brand’s Identity

Establishing your brand is the first step in implementing a successful digital marketing strategy. Understanding your brand’s ins and outs is critical to effectively marketing it to your audience.

Define what makes your business distinct. What unique value proposition do you bring to the table that your competitors do not? Understanding what makes your business distinct from advertising to your target demographic is critical.

Establish Buyer Personas

It would be best to determine who you are attempting to target to develop an effective digital marketing strategy. The next step in developing your digital marketing strategy is defining your target demographic through buyer personas.

Buyer personas are fictional characters who embody the characteristics of the people you’re attempting to convince to purchase your products or services. They personify your ideal consumer and will most likely purchase from your firm.

Establish Your Objectives

Identify your objectives before going on a marketing journey to reach your target audience. Establishing goals to identify whether your marketing plan is effectively growing your organization is critical.

When setting goals, include both little and large ones. Your little goals should remind you to stay on track toward reaching your larger goals.

Select Your Digital Marketing Channels

If you want to learn how to establish an effective digital marketing strategy, the first step is to select the appropriate digital marketing tactics. You know who you’re attempting to reach and your objectives; the following step is determining which channels will assist you in accomplishing them.

There are numerous ways for your organization to obtain these leads:

• Optimization of search engines (SEO)
• Advertising on a pay-per-click (PPC) basis
• Marketing via content
• Marketing via email
• Marketing using social media
• Marketing via influencers

These are just a handful of the channels available to reach your audience. When developing your digital marketing strategy, you must decide how to reach your audience.

Set a Budget

Your campaign’s funding is critical. Before executing your tactics, you must determine your budget for digital marketing. A predetermined marketing budget enables you to allocate funds to the services you require more efficiently.

Measure the Outcome

A digital marketing strategy should always include a method for tracking results. Measuring results is critical for assessing whether your business’s efforts were practical. It’s vital to regularly check your results to ensure you’re running the most effective campaign possible.

You can measure the success of your campaign by examining key performance indicators (KPIs). KPIs are metrics that assist you in determining whether you have achieved your objectives.

Conclusion

Most businesses need a well-defined digital marketing plan. A lesser proportion of respondents have yet to connect strategy and marketing. Most businesses are unprepared and ill-equipped to deal with the needs associated with developing their digital marketing plan.

While it may seem tempting to rush in and begin on as many platforms as possible at once, thinking to yourself, you’ll figure out the details afterward and shoot yourself in the foot. Without precise goals in mind, running any form of marketing campaign (even search engine optimization) is akin to going around Paris without a GPS—more it’s akin to jumping on a sailboat without a map, where you’re likely to be trapped drifting someplace at sea.About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.