Business Talks

Sustainability reporting in the UK: practical steps your business needs to take

In this episode of Business Talks, hosts Tom Alun-Jones and Zoe Thomas are joined by Alastair Loasby, Saffery’s Director of Sustainability and ESG, to explain what the UK Sustainability Reporting Standards (UK SRS) are trying to achieve and consider the practical steps your business needs to take. They discuss: - What sustainability means in the context of long-term business strategies - How UK SRS links to ISSB and IFRS S1 and S2 - The current UK reporting landscape, including TCFD and SECR - What S1 and S2 require across governance, strategy and risk management - Why adoption is likely to be staggered, and where Scope 3 fits in - How investor and supply chain pressure can accelerate 'voluntary' reporting For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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What does the UK's new Employment Rights Act mean for your business?

The UK’s new Employment Rights Act is not just a minor HR tweak; it represents the most significant overhaul of employment law in recent years. These reforms are set to reshape how employers recruit, manage probation, respond to flexible working and handle dismissals for many years to come. In this episode of Business Talks, hosts Tom Alun-Jones and Zoe Thomas sit down with employment law expert Dan Begbie-Clench, Employment Law Partner at Doyle Clayton. Together, they discuss complex legislative changes and give their insight on the key points that businesses need to know. They explore: • Why the legislation has been introduced, • Which employer practices it aims to address, • The major changes, particularly around unfair dismissal, qualifying periods and compensation caps, • Which sectors and employee groups may be most affected, and • Practical steps employers can take now to prepare. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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FRS 102 – understanding changes in financial reporting

As of 1 January 2026, significant changes to FRS 102 came into effect marking the biggest update to UK GAAP in more than a decade. But what does this actually mean for your bottom line and your reporting process? The revisions aim to enhance the quality and consistency of UK financial reporting by aligning key areas – notably revenue, leases, and small entity disclosures – more closely with IFRS. In our first episode of the year, co-hosts Tom Alun-Jones and Zoe Thomas are joined by Technical and Training Partner, Anna Hicks, to discuss what the new rules mean in practice, including: The purpose of the changes and understanding the regulator’s move toward global alignment. The areas of financial reporting most affected, The industries likely to feel the impact, and Practical steps to support year end reporting under the new rules. Whether you're a CFO, an auditor, or a business owner, this episode is a must listen to ensure you aren't just reacting to the changes, but staying ahead of them. Here are some useful articles for a deeper dive: FRS 102 changes The latest ECCTA accounts reform: what you need to know Changes to UK GAAP – how they might affect your business Company size thresholds: expected increases and potential impacts on your business For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Budget outcomes for business

We unpack how the Autumn Budget changes investment reliefs, hiring costs and compliance, trading a single headline for many smaller moves with real cash impacts. We share clear actions for capital allowances, EMI and EIS/VCT use, transfer pricing readiness and payroll risk. In this Business Talks podcast episode, Tom Alun-Jones, Zoe Thomas, and Adam Kay break down what these changes mean for UK businesses and share practical insights. They discuss: Capital allowances changes – including the new 40% first-year allowance and why timing matters, Employee incentives – updates to EMI and EIS/VCT schemes, Compliance reforms – from transfer pricing simplification to ICTS reporting, and Corporate Interest Restriction (CIR) simplification – what’s changing and the new penalty to watch out for. Additionally, don’t miss our full Budget analysis which is available on our website. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Register of Overseas Entities: understanding UK property rules for overseas owners

In this episode of Business Talks, our new hosts, Tom Alun-Jones and Zoe Thomas sit down with tax director Victoria Baguley-Wood to unpack the Register of Overseas Entities (ROE), which is a key legal requirement for overseas entities owning UK property. Victoria breaks down what the legislation covers, the risks of non-compliance, and the privacy challenges property owners face. Tom and Zoe also share how Saffery helps clients navigate the process with a full-service ROE solution, from verification through to annual filings. In this episode, you’ll learn: What the ROE is and who it applies to How to avoid fines of up to £50,000 per property What trust structures mean for your reporting Why Saffery is among the few firms offering complete ROE support Whether you're buying, selling, or holding UK property through an overseas entity, this episode is essential listening. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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The future of Partnerships in the 2020s

Partnership life has evolved dramatically over the past 20 years, shifting from traditional equity models to diverse structures that include salary partners, fixed-share partners, and corporate entities. Modern partners are senior leaders who set culture, drive business forward, and create environments where people can succeed. In this episode of Business Talks, host is joined by Andrew Hedley, Director of Hedley Consulting, to explore what partnership really looks like in the 2020s. Together, they unpack: •How partnership models have evolved across law, accountancy, and property, •The personal and professional shifts that come with becoming a partner, •The tensions between tradition and transformation in today’s firms, and •What aspiring partners should consider before making the leap. Whether you're already in a leadership role or thinking about the next step, this episode offers practical insights and honest reflections on navigating the journey. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Is your company missing out on Innovation and R&D tax reliefs?

Could your company be missing out on a valuable tax relief? In this engaging discussion, host Jamie Lane and tax specialist Rachel Chappell dive into the world of R&D tax credits, revealing why businesses across all sectors should be paying attention. They explore: What qualifies as R&D (it’s broader than you think!) How to avoid common pitfalls and HMRC scrutiny The hidden power of the Patent Box regime Strategic ways to use R&D relief to drive long-term growth Whether you're a startup, scale-up, or established company, this episode is packed with tips on how to unlock value, boost innovation, and navigate recent changes to the regime. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Is your business at risk? CCO compliance and how to avoid penalties

In our latest episode, we're tackling a crucial compliance issue for UK businesses: the Corporate Criminal Offence (CCO) of failing to prevent the facilitation of tax evasion. Host, Jamie Lane, is joined by Zoe Thomas, Head of Corporate Tax, to discuss the impact of these regulations for businesses of all sizes. They discuss: What the CCO legislation covers, Why HMRC is increasing enforcement, What ‘reasonable steps’ really look like, and How to protect your business from liability. Whether you're concerned about employee actions, supply chain risks, or the implications for business transactions like mergers and acquisitions, this discussion offers essential guidance on understanding your obligations and putting the right procedures in place. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Driving business value with sustainability and ESG strategies

Sustainability and ESG are now essential considerations for businesses of all sizes, but rapidly evolving reporting requirements mean there are a number of strategic implications to consider. Yi Zheng, a sustainability and ESG specialist at Saffery joins host, Jamie Lane, to explain current and upcoming reporting frameworks and explore how sustainability can create business value that is far beyond compliance. They discuss: What sustainability and ESG actually mean – and their relevance to your business, How sustainable practices drive both positive impact and business value, The importance of setting clear objectives for your sustainability initiatives, and Current reporting frameworks applicable to businesses of all sizes. Note: Listen to our previous podcast on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion that Jamie references at the end of this episode, here. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Attracting and retaining talent in professional services

In this episode, Jamie Lane is joined by Mark Duhig, HR Director at Saffery, to discuss the ever-changing world of recruitment and retention. Professional services firms are people-based businesses; having a workforce that’s skilled to meet a business’ requirements is key to its ongoing success. In addition to exploring the role leadership has to play throughout the recruitment and retention process, they cover: Current market conditions and how recruitment activity has softened post-pandemic, People management and the difficulties associated with adjusting to hybrid working, and The importance of workplace culture and its role in recruitment and retention. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Building your personal brand in a hybrid world

In this episode, Jamie Lane is joined again by Richard Crook, Marketing and Business Development Director at Saffery, to explore the intricacies of business development for professional services firms. As the networking landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial to balance both digital and in-person professional relationships. Firms must enhance their online presence on LinkedIn with increased activity and engagement, as well as dedicate time to meet clients, targets and intermediaries face-to-face. As well as discussing the importance of building your personal profile, they cover: How the shift from in-person to digital interactions have impacts on personal branding, Top tips on maximising opportunities with potential clients, and How to develop brand awareness in every interaction. Take a look at our recent insights that may be relevant to you: How to make sure your partnership tax return is correctly completed and submitted. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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AI and professional services

With more businesses jumping on the AI-bandwagon, it’s no secret that AI tools have become more accessible, more applied, and easier to use. In a follow-up to our previous episode on IT challenges for businesses, Jamie Lane is once again joined by David Fazakerley, our IT director, and Chris White, Head of Strategic Consultancy at full-service IT provider, QuoStar, to discuss how firms are leveraging AI for business processes. As well as looking at the key considerations that firms should be aware of when embarking on their AI journey, they demystify the misunderstanding of what AI can do, while also noting the risks and benefits of businesses using this technology. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Navigating the Professional Indemnity insurance market

Professional Indemnity insurance, or PI insurance as it’s better known, has been a challenging area for professional services firms to navigate over the past few years. In this episode, Jamie Lane is joined by Andrew Palmer, Executive Director at Gallagher, who runs the PI team based in London. Jamie and Andrew delve into areas including: The current market and recent trends, A deeper look into the professional services sector, and Key tips and advice for those preparing for the next PI insurance renewal cycle. Whether you're a small legal practice or a large financial firm, this episode is a key resource to understand the PI insurance market and the landscape of liabilities and claims. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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IT challenges for businesses

In this episode we discuss the current IT challenges that businesses are facing in an ever-developing space. Jamie Lane is joined by David Fazakerley, our IT Director, and Chris White, Head of Strategic Consultancy at QuoStar, who are a full-service IT provider. Their insights reveal a transformation where IT departments morph from traditional service providers to strategic partners, selecting the best technologies and collaborations to advance business aims. They dissect the puzzle of IT budgeting, emphasising that the true value of IT investment often only becomes apparent in the face of adversity, such as a cybersecurity breach. This conversation is an eye-opener for anyone questioning the return on their IT spend. Finally, we venture into the AI realm, where the promise of innovation meets the challenge of safeguarding privileged information. Join us for a discussion that's not just about the future – it's about shaping it. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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A review of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the legal sector

Jamie Lane is joined by Niraj Patel, a partner and head of our Corporate Finance Team, and Andrew Fraser, a senior manager within our Corporate Finance Team. In this episode they look at the findings from our recent report which examined M&A activity within the legal sector for the year to June 2023. In particular, Jamie, Niraj and Andrew discuss areas including: Key factors and trends impacting UK legal sector M&A, The listed law firm business model and how this contrasts the private equity acquisition model, and A look ahead to the next 12 months. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Navigating mergers and acquisitions (M&A)

In this episode Jamie Lane is joined by Niraj Patel, head of our Corporate Finance Team, and Charlie Fletcher, a partner who specialises in transactional work including mergers and acquisition at law firm Mishcon de Reya. Jamie, Niraj and Charlie discuss the overarching topic of M&A, including: What is M&A? What the process involves, Why it takes place, and How it is implemented within the legal sector. Charlie also has first-hand experience of this type of transaction, as Mishcon de Reya and Taylor Vinters completed their merger on 1 January 2023. In this discussion, Charlie provides insight on the merger and goes into greater detail on specific areas such as culture, communication and how it has benefited the firm as a whole. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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ED&I and professional practices

In our latest podcast we are joined by Clare Morgan, who is our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) specialist at the firm. We discuss why ED&I is so important to professional services firms. In particular we examine: Why a firmwide ED&I strategy is crucial to success, The relationship between a firm’s culture and ED&I, and the role of senior management to drive change, Common challenges faced, and How an inclusive culture can help with business critical issues such as recruitment and retention of staff. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com

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Rebranding and professional practices

In the episode Jamie Lane speaks to Richard Crook on the topic of rebranding. With an ever growing importance on a strong brand in a competitive marketplace, we discuss what professional practices should be aware of when undertaking such a large and important project. Some of the question we look at include: What is a rebrand and what does it entail? What is the difference between marketing and a brand? The main stages of a rebrand and the key stakeholders involved. What are the current trends we are seeing in rebrands and the professional practices sector? The key difficulties in going through a rebranding project. For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/ Saffery official website Visit saffery.com Follow Saffery online LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saffery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/ Email: info@saffery.com