Lunch Money

The mining services industry is an essential pillar of the Australian economy but has unique financial challenges. In a recent seminar in Perth hosted by the Lunch Money Podcast, industry experts gathered to discuss strategies for overcoming these barriers, offering valuable insights for SMEs in the mining sector. Here's a summary of the key points covered during the discussion. Key Drivers and Trends in Mining Services Ben Gibson, Head of Advisory at Pickles, highlighted the evolving landscape of mining equipment valuations. He noted a dramatic shift in secondary market pricing post-COVID as supply chains normalised. With big original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) now meeting demand, used equipment prices have dropped, and clearance rates have declined significantly. Additionally, Gibson discussed how technological advancements, particularly around emissions reductions, have disrupted traditional equipment markets. Equipment compatibility, parts reuse, and emerging technologies like battery-electric and hydrogen-powered systems reshape market dynamics. These changes underscore the need for mining operators to carefully plan for the future lifecycle of their assets. Navigating Financial Challenges in Mining Services Richard Tucker, a Partner at KordaMentha, emphasised the challenges small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) face when dealing with large mining corporations. Mining contractors often serve as de facto working capital providers, with extended payment terms of 60 to 90 days being the norm. This imbalance can lead to financial strain, mainly when contractors are slow to collect receivables or fail to leverage their position. Dave Osmond of Acid Plant Maintenance Services (APMS) shared his company's experience with client concentration risk. At one point, 60% of their revenue depended on a single mining corporation. Recognising the risk, the company diversified its client base geographically and by industry, significantly reducing its vulnerability. This proactive approach safeguarded the business and positioned it for sustainable growth. Strategies for Financial Resilience SMEs should negotiate for shorter payment terms whenever possible. Osmond revealed how his team successfully secured 14-day payment terms for high-stakes projects by emphasising the unique nature of their services and building strong client relationships. Tucker highlighted the importance of maintaining robust financial records and cash flow management discipline. Mining contractors should ensure their financing and operational plans account for cyclical market swings, commodity price fluctuations, and operational interruptions. A “Plan B” is critical for handling payment delays or unexpected financial shocks. Options like invoice financing or overdraft facilities can provide a financial safety net. Open communication with financiers and having up-to-date financial records can facilitate faster access to emergency funding. Preparing for Future Industry Challenges The push for net-zero emissions will radically impact the mining industry. Gibson cautioned that diesel-powered equipment, which dominates current operations, may become obsolete faster than anticipated. Contractors must stay informed about emerging technologies and plan their capital expenditures accordingly to remain competitive in the long term. The Role of Early Engagement in Restructuring Tucker and Osmond stressed the value of early engagement with experts for contractors facing financial distress. “Hope is not a strategy,” Tucker remarked, urging businesses to seek help before a crisis spirals out of control. Proactive decision-making, such as formal restructuring or putting non-core operations on care and maintenance, can save a business and enhance its long-term value. Conclusion The mining services industry is inherently cyclical and challenging. Success hinges on effective financial management, strategic diversification, and staying ahead of technological advancements. By leveraging these insights, SMEs can build resilient operations that thrive even in volatile markets.

In our recent seminar, “Powering Production: Overcoming Capital Challenges in Manufacturing,” industry experts tackled the financial hurdles that small to mid-sized manufacturing businesses face in Australia. The panel, led by Nicholas Samios from Hermes Capital, included David Mansfield (DEI), Gary Tescher, (Promentor), and Josh Hallowell (Pickles), each bringing unique insights into funding, restructuring, and asset management. Key Challenges in Manufacturing Finance The discussion began by addressing common financial challenges, especially for family-owned enterprises and SMEs. These businesses often struggle with: Asset-heavy operations: Manufacturing requires significant investment in equipment, which can be a barrier for businesses when capital is tight or machinery needs updating. Inconsistent cash flow: Long lead times and high upfront material costs lead to cash crunches, especially when payment terms from customers are extended. Capital access issues: Traditional banks may hesitate to lend to businesses with a limited track record or specialized equipment, creating a funding gap for these manufacturers. Practical Solutions and Strategies The panel explored solutions to these challenges, from asset-based lending to restructuring options: Understanding and Valuing Assets: Josh Hannay discussed the importance of regularly assessing equipment value, including surplus items that could be sold to free up capital. Streamlining Production: Gary Tesar shared examples of manufacturers optimizing production processes and reducing waste to cut costs, particularly when new equipment isn't feasible. Early Intervention and Restructuring: David Mansfield emphasized that timely restructuring and maintaining clear communication with stakeholders, especially banks, can prevent severe financial distress and preserve business value. The Future of Manufacturing in Australia Panelists noted the growing demand for niche, high-value manufacturing, such as medical and defence products, which allows Australian manufacturers to compete despite high labour costs. However, government support was highlighted as critical for fostering growth and innovation in the sector. Watch the full recording for a deep dive into these discussions, including practical strategies to navigate financial challenges and leverage existing assets in the competitive manufacturing landscape.   Interested in future seminars by Hermes Capital? Check out our upcoming events here.

In this episode, recorded live at the Royal Exchange Club in Sydney, experts from the transport and finance industries come together to address the significant financial challenges currently faced by the Australian transport sector. The panel explores key issues such as the decline in asset prices, difficulties in capital raising due to aging equipment, increasing ATO debt, and tighter profit margins caused by stricter payment terms from suppliers. The panel includes industry leaders: Nicholas Samios (Hermes Capital) Ben Gibson - (Pickles) Luke Andrews - (BDO) Roman Tepes - (Balance My Books) Topics discussed range from asset valuations, equipment maintenance, and cash flow management to debt restructuring and stakeholder management. The seminar provides actionable advice on how businesses can navigate financial distress and make informed decisions in the current climate. If you're in the finance or transport sector, this seminar offers valuable insights into the unique challenges facing the industry, as well as practical strategies for overcoming them. Key Topics Covered: Impact of COVID-19 on asset values and equipment availability The role of maintenance and fleet management in asset value retention Common financial pitfalls in the transport industry Strategies for restructuring and refinancing to maintain business viability Navigating ATO debt and managing stakeholder relationships effectively Tune in to gain expert insights and practical advice on how to tackle the evolving financial landscape in the transport industry.

What is Small Business Restructuring? What do finance brokers, accountants and other business advisors need to know about it? It's now over two years ago when small businesses really started implementing Restructuring as an insolvency alternative - what can we learn from its brief history thus far? In this #LunchMoney Episode, Nick speaks with Louisa Sijabat. Louisa is a thought leader in SBR and corporate restructuring, it was great to have the opportunity of putting your questions to her! Lunch Money is produced by Hermes Capital Partners https://hermescapital.com.au/

This podcast episode was recorded live at our Breakfast seminar in Brisbane. The seminar, titled "Breaking Ground: Debt Capital Challenges and Opportunities in Construction and Mining Services," featured a distinguished panel of experts who discussed a range of issues and opportunities within the construction and mining industries. The seminar emphasized the capital-intensive nature of these sectors, underscoring the importance of securing quality contracts and addressing supply chain issues, which were particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Panelists Nicholas Samios: Fund Manager and Director at Hermes Capital, discussed the private credit market and asset-based lending, particularly in contracting. Ian Hyman OAM: Founder of Hymans, shared insights on business valuations, project management, and the challenges faced due to government regulations and indigenous land issues. Mark Rainbird: Chairman and Founder of BlueMount Capital, addressed the impact of commodity price fluctuations, labour shortages, and cash flow management on capital raising and business operations. Harry Mostert: Independent consultant with extensive experience in mining, construction, and infrastructure, discussed operational challenges and market entry strategies. The seminar highlighted several current challenges. Persistent supply chain disruptions have created a bullwhip effect, leading to overstocking and subsequent price drops. Increasingly complex government regulations are causing delays in project approvals, particularly in construction. Indigenous land issues, involving competing claims and legal battles, are contributing to significant project delays and increased costs. Additionally, labour shortages and inflation are straining budgets, while rising interest rates and economic uncertainties are impacting asset values and business operations. Despite these challenges, the seminar also identified several opportunities. There is ongoing merger and acquisition activity driven by strategic growth needs and capital requirements. Positive developments in certain sectors, such as gas, where government support is facilitating growth, were noted. Opportunities for capital raising exist for businesses with strong management and strategic planning. Expert Insights Ian Hyman highlighted the deteriorating business conditions due to governmental indecision and indigenous disputes. Mark Rainbird discussed the effects of commodity cycles and market volatility, using nickel as an example of market disruption. Harry Mostert shared his experiences with multinational and private companies, emphasizing the importance of operational efficiency and strategic market entry. The seminar concluded with a focus on the importance of understanding market dynamics, managing cash flow effectively, and leveraging strategic opportunities to navigate the challenges in the construction and mining services sectors. Lunch Money is produced by Hermes Capital.

This episode of Lunch Money was recorded live at our Sydney breakfast seminar.  Welcome to our in-depth seminar on mastering business acquisitions! In this video, we bring together industry experts Nicholas Samios, Ian Hyman, Andrew Casson, and Malcolm Campbell to share their expertise and experiences in the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). We cover a wide range of topics essential for finance professionals, business owners, and anyone involved in the acquisition process. Key Highlights: Economic and Situational Impacts: Understand how major events like GST and COVID-19 have influenced business owners' decisions to sell and the current state of the market. Growth Strategies: Learn about the benefits and challenges of growing your business through acquisitions versus organic growth. Legal and Regulatory Insights: Discover the legal bear traps in business acquisitions and how to navigate them effectively. Valuation and Sale Preparation: Get tips on how to prepare a business for sale, including realistic valuations and addressing potential red flags. Buyer's Perspective: Hear about common mistakes buyers make, such as overpaying and strategic misalignment, and how to avoid them. Financing Acquisitions: Explore different ways to structure the financing of acquisitions, leveraging assets and ensuring adequate working capital. Expert Panel: Nicholas Samios: Director of Hermes Capital, specialist provider of cashflow finance Ian Hyman: Principal of Hymans, specialising in property and equipment valuation. Andrew Casson: Founder of Castle Advisory, with over 20 years of experience in M&A, focusing on the sell side. Malcolm Campbell: Principal lawyer at Carmen and Greg, with extensive experience in business transactions and commercial law. This seminar is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples, making it a must-watch for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of business acquisitions. Listen now and gain the knowledge you need to succeed in your next acquisition!

This episode was recorded live at our Sydney breakfast seminar. The ATO was generous during Covid, allowing Australian small businesses to add $15B to its pre-Covid undisputed arrears, bringing the total to $30B. However, playtime is over, and the ATO now wants to collect. In taking measures ranging from credit agency default listings to the initiation of winding-up proceedings, the ATO poses a significant threat to individual SMEs facing cash flow issues and trying to raise capital. This, however, presents an unprecedented opportunity for finance professionals. In this seminar, we will delve into the intricacies of this financial landscape, equipping you with the knowledge and strategies to navigate ATO arrears when raising capital. This episode featured guest expert panel: Michael Moon Shannon Cavanagh Sule Arnautovic In this episode, we covered: ATO's Approach and Stats: ATO has become more active post-COVID, with a significant increase in tax debt. Key tools include credit reporting and Director Penalty Notices (DPNs). Tax debt has substantially increased, affecting small businesses the most. Client Evaluation and Financing: Evaluating clients' overall financial picture beyond short-term debt. Blended rates and diverse financing options are essential for managing debt effectively. Corporate Restructuring: Formal restructuring options to manage ATO and other debts. Corporate restructuring primarily addresses unsecured debt, with equipment finance companies often being cooperative. Negotiation Strategies with ATO: Early engagement and proper engagement with the ATO are crucial. Compliance with ATO's legal practice statements is essential for favourable outcomes. Interested in future breakfast seminars by Hermes Capital? Check out our upcoming events here.

In this episode of Lunch Money, we interview the CEO of Spartan Race Australia, Russell Nelms. If you haven't yet experienced the adrenaline rush of tackling a Spartan obstacle course, you're missing out on a transformative journey that extends far beyond the finish line. In this blog, we dive into the heart-pounding world of Spartan racing, exploring its profound impact on individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Lunch Money is produced by Hermes Capital Partners https://hermescapital.com.au

Lunch Money in March will feature Andrew Cassin, a seasoned expert in M&A, specialising in the transition of ownership for privately held businesses in the lower mid-market. Andrew has over 20 years of front-line experience, helping business owners with thorough preparation for business exits, and offering invaluable insights for business owners aiming for successful and profitable transitions. We will ask Andrew about the challenges of making businesses saleable in 2024, positioning companies for strategic buyers, and the importance of preparation for a successful exit. Finance brokers, accountants, lawyers, and capital advisors keen on the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions within the lower mid-market will gain valuable, actionable insights. Don't miss this conversation - tune in to Lunch Money Podcast.

The key barriers to effective corporate restructuring are often said to be directors' delayed action (“head in the sand”), the stigma of insolvency, and overly complex laws. Especially for SMEs. 'Safe Harbour' and 'Small Business Restructuring' laws aim to address these issues. How are these recent additions to Australian restructuring laws faring in practice? Are they improving outcomes for business leaders in financial distress? Discover more on 'Lunch Money' this Friday at 12PM AEST with Blair Pleash (Restructuring Partner at Hall Chadwick) and Professor Jason Harris (Professor of Corporate Law at the University of Sydney). Join us for an insightful and practical session ideal for both finance professionals and company directors keen on understanding these legal solutions.

Join us for our final Lunch Money of 2023, we are joined by two expert guests Angelina Kozary, Partner at Holman Webb and Louisa Sijabat, Principal at Merchands Advisory. We will be discussing the issue of what you do when you receive final demands from the ATO, your suppliers or your bank. These are very tricky situations to navigate and often businesses are left with very little time and large sums of money to pay. Our experts uncover how you can move beyond these situations and save your business from financial collapse. Tune in live to get your questions answered.

Join us on the next episode of Lunch Money with special guest Arabella Macpherson from Resonate Communications. Arabella is a communications specialist and she will be sharing with us how we can tweak our communications to be more influential. As we approach the end of the year, it's a time for us to reflect and see what we can do differently in 2024. The core of communication starts with YOU. Arabella will share some strategies you can implement around self-management and creating habits. You don't want to miss this one.

In this episode we dive into the collapse of Greensill Capital with Duncan Mavin - Author of The Pyramid of Lies. In the world of finance, many people invest without thoroughly reading complex documents. They trust established players, assuming due diligence has been done. This trust can lead to issues when promises don't align with reality. Greensill Capital's rise and fall is a story of complex finance, layered with personalities. Lex Greensill's journey from a farming background to financial prominence is fascinating. His charisma and visionary image drew people in, blinding them to potential red flags. Lex's actions and the recurring financial scams in the industry raise questions about the underlying motivations and mindset of individuals like him. The pursuit of high society and credibility in the financial world drove Lex to build an image of success, utilising relationships with prominent figures like David Cameron. He played a pivotal role in opening doors for Lex and Greensill, leveraging his political connections to secure funding and access to influential leaders, such as Muhammad bin Salman. The problem with supply chain finance, as exemplified by Greensill, is that it has been applied in ways that harm small businesses. Big buyers can coerce small suppliers into unfavourable deals, essentially holding their finances hostage. Although there's a move to make accounting more transparent, predatory practices still persist. The story of Greensill is part of a larger pattern where financial schemes are portrayed as benevolent efforts to democratise finance. However, in reality, they often serve personal interests or attract investments based on inflated promises. Lex Greensill's focus on branding and credibility-building using other people's money underscores the disconnection between the public image and the actual economic impact of such ventures.

Don't miss this episode of Lunch Money with Australia's leading economist Warren Hogan.  In this discussion, we'll delve into the challenge of deciphering conflicting economic data. Warren is the Managing Director and Founder of EQ Economics, a consultancy specialising in economic, market, and industry analysis. He is also an economic advisor to Judo Bank, a specialist SME-focused lender. His insights into the Australian economy and its impact on small businesses are not to be missed. Tune in for a deep dive into the complexities of navigating through contradictory economic data and gaining valuable insights in the process.  Lunch Money is produced by Hermes Capital Partners https://hermescapital.com.au/

What does it take to be on an advisory board? It takes more than just experience to be on a board these days. Louise Broekman from The Advisory Board Centre joins us in the next episode of Lunch Money. We explore best practice for board selection, such as what skills and knowledge is needed to become an advisory member. Plus the support available to both businesses and individuals to develop successful advisory boards. If you are looking to join a board, establish a board or improve your existing board, you don't want to miss this one.   Lunch Money is produced by Hermes Capital Partners https://hermescapital.com.au/

In this edition of Lunch Money, we are joined by our expert small business guests. David Gandolfo OAM (Board Member of COSBOA, Chair of Advocacy at CAFBA, and Partner at Quantum Business Finance) who will take us through the highlights of COSBOA's recently published report, "Small Business Perspectives 2023." We explore the emerging vulnerabilities and opportunities that are facing small businesses today. Throughout the episode, we'll explore the latest developments in their professional fields - commercial finance and corporate restructuring. Don't miss out on this opportunity to expand your knowledge and gain valuable insights from these industry experts. Tune in to Lunch Money and get ready to level up your understanding of the business world! Lunch Money is produced by Hermes Capital Partners   RESOURCES COSBOA Small Business Perspective 2023 https://www.cosboa.org.au/post/the-small-business-perspective-report-2023

In this episode of Lunch Money, we were joined by special guests Daniella Mancuso from Nationwise Financial Solutions and Ian Hyman from Hymans Valuers & Auctioneers. We discussed the challenges of diversifying and growing professional services firms, with our commercial finance broker audience in mind.  

In this interview, we were joined by special guest Nicolas Pilavidis from the Australian Institute of Credit Management. We discussed the critical role that credit professionals play in managing risk and ensuring their businesses receive payment for the sales and services delivered. Plus their unique information sources, that enables them to track how economic conditions impact their customers and provide insights into future developments by analysing these trends. So what do the risks look like for 2023? We dived into some insights from the recently published AICM Risk Report for 2023 including: The 'big squeeze' of rising costs and falling demand, Managing trade credit in an increasing interest rate environment, How credit managers are identifying and managing emerging industry, technological and legal or regulatory risks, and much more... Episode Resources AICM Risk Report for 2023

Checking out the business advisor you choose in a crisis is like checking out the parachute you choose before jumping from a plane. You need one that is going to get you to the ground safely – and that won't always be the first one that comes to hand.   In this episode we are joined by guest Neil Cussen from Cor Cordis, to discuss how we choose the right advisor.   A great advisor can provide valuable guidance, experience, and the right connections that can help you navigate the tricky terrain of fundraising and business strategy in special situations. However, with so many advisors to choose from, it can be challenging to know how to pick the right one.

In this episode, were are joined by guest Mark Robinson, Senior Advisor at dVT Group. We discussed the challenges of rising interest rates, inflation, labour market constraints, supply chain issues and how they influence the approach the experts are taking to making sure businesses stay in the game.

Host, Nicholas Samios and guest, Andy Way (executive director and founder at Semper Securities) rummage through the latest RBA charts - interest rates, inflations, asset prices, business lending growth and more. Semper Securities is an asset back mortgage fund which gives Andy valuable insights you won't get in the financial press.

What are the fundamental survival instincts hard wired into humans and how can they contribute to success in business? This week's Lunch Money special guests are Mike House and Michael Ford to talk about how small and medium businesses can go beyond surviving to instead thrive in these times of economic turbulence and upheaval. Mike House is the author of “(Un)shakeable: more than resilience” a business mentor and a survival expert having survived several life-threatening survival situations. These days he assists leaders to raise their capacity to deal with uncertainty. Michael Ford is founder and CEO of Castaway Forecasting and Chief Growth Architect of entrepreneur advisory firm Growth by Design. Michael's experience spans from mining through to manufacturing and professional services and he is the champion of the “Value Driver Tree”.

A timely look at the GFC from a fresh perspective: the culture, individual behaviours, and the role of the regulatory bodies that all played a crucial role. A cautionary tale for the financial services industry - but have we learned the lesson for the strange times we find ourselves in today? Our guest is Dr Paul Mazzola - author of the recently released "Countdown to the Global Financial Crisis: A Story of Power and Greed".

SMEs are now in the midst of the pandemic “hang over”. Inflation, rising interest rates and debts long overdue are now being called in which makes for double trouble. Meanwhile, businesses who have emerged from the pandemic in good shape are at risk of contagion where their customers who haven't fared as well start to struggle to pay within terms. Two commercial debt experts joined Nick Samios, the Lunch Money host this week: Patrick Schweizer (Managing Director at Alares) and Michael Moon (Principle at TaxAssure).

The collapse of Probuild has once again turned the spotlight on sub-contractors and the issues they face in managing risk when tendering for work in a competitive industry and managing financial risk of after the project begins.   Lunch Money returns to 2022 with Mark Yum (Head of Construction + Projects Division at ERA Legal), and Mark Robinson (Corporate restructuring and insolvency expert at dVT Group).  

As 2021 gallops to a close, we give you the inside running for when we are off to the races in the new year. With the latest credit data on the ATO, wind-ups and insolvencies, we answer the big questions: what lies ahead and how far ahead does it lie? Lunch Money's Christmas Special is joined by friends of the show, Daren Anderson (Managing Director at ERA Legal), Scott Langdon (Partner at KordaMentha) and Patrick Schweizer (Credit Data Guru and Director at Alares Systems). Lunch Money is YOUR social media home for work-outs, capital raising and special situations professionals!

Australia's post-Covid economic revival is starting and won't wait for anyone. The demand for fresh capital is increasing as money remains cheap and (thanks to near zero interest rates) abundant. Then why the deal resistance and difficulty raising capital? Our guests this week to help get you ahead of the curve are; Arthur Psaltis (Managing Director at VMG Capital) and; Andrew Clark, CLFP (Managing Director at CAFBA's Broker Firm of the Year - Danforth Finance & Insurance). They will both be bringing a combined 36 years of experience in corporate finance, asset purchase, capital raising and strategic financial advice to Lunch Money. Lunch Money is YOUR social media home for work-outs, capital raising and special situations professionals! 

Supply chains dominate business conversations everywhere today. From central bankers around the world blaming supply chains for "transitory inflation" to local shopkeepers lamenting the scarcity of stock and builders in desperate need for materials.   What's really going on? This week we go behind the curtain to speak with logistics and supply chain expert (and insider!), John Phillips (Logistics Manager ANZ at Kellogg's).   With over 30 years of experience in operational management and distributions, John is your perfect guide to better understand the blockage and challenges faced by businesses trying to make the most of the economic recovery lauded this week by the nation's treasurer.

After an interruption to our originally planned broadcast, we are happy to re-invite you on a wild ride in a rare Ferrari Lusso! With liquidator Richard Rohrt and Auctioneer Ian Hyman, we take on legal chicanes of invalid PPSR registrations, hairpin turns of asset disclamation and reclamation and other twists and turns that saw that same Ferrari being auctioned and contested. Don't miss this episode as Richard Rohrt (Partner at Hamilton Murphy) and Ian Hyman (CEO at Hymans Valuers and Auctioneers) take us on the legal journey of a lifetime. Lunch Money is YOUR social media home for work-outs, capital raising, special situations professionals and living your life a quarter mile at a time!

Today's show is very brief! We are here with an announcement of a change in format for Lunch Money - plus a quick look at the Commissioner of Taxation's Annual Report for 2021 which was released this week. What are the latest stats on SME tax debt, how is the ATO managing that debt - and what does that mean for corporate restructuring in the near future?

In a marathon to determine which industries will outrun Covid impacts, and which are more vulnerable to succumbing, Lunch Money takes a dive into the recent data and statistics to give you an expert guide. We are very privileged to host two Partners from KPMG; Gayle Dickerson (Restructuring, Turnaround and Insolvency) and Ryan Eagle (Deal Advisory, Re-Structuring and Turnaround). With Gayle and Ryan's deep knowledge and experience to help interpret hard data researched by KPMG, this episode is a must watch! Lunch Money is YOUR social media home for work-outs, capital raising and special situations professionals!

With restrictions easing in South East Australia, what do SMEs and its owners need to do to get back to square? To talk us through, we were joined by Mark Robinson who is a corporate restructuring and personal insolvency expert and Partner at dVT Group. He helped air out the mess left behind by lockdowns and delivered a guide in minimising the damage and maximising the opportunities. Lunch Money is YOUR social media home for work-outs, capital raising and special situations professionals!

We took the temperature of the property market in Australia PLUS diagnosed the health and childcare sectors. We were joined by special guests: distressed property expert Luke Egan (Director at Aster Alliance) and; child and healthcare sector specialist Josh Twelftree (Director at Essentia Property). Lunch Money is YOUR social media home for work-outs, capital raising and special situations professionals!

Get your boarding passes, check in and join us in the Lunch Money Business Lounge, as we take a look at Australia's travel industry from an insiders perspective. We are asking the industry hit hardest by the pandemic, what are their plans to get us back in the air - face to face with business colleagues in Australia and around the world? What government and banking measures are working, and how can they work better? What are the trends in the US and Europe that we might see in Australia? We were joined by a first class panel of travel industry thought leaders: Tom Manwaring (Chairman at AFTA), Julie Reid (Director Australia, New Zealand and Tahiti Sales at United Airlines), Barbara Whitten (Managing Director at Anywhere Travel) and Warren Lio (Strategic Account Manager at Serko). Lunch Money is YOUR social media home for work-outs, capital raising and special situations professionals!

The Stockdale Paradox, a learning from the Vietnam War, beckons the question – who survives and who succumbs? The answer lies in the harsh realities that blind faith often dismisses. To talk more on this, we were joined by Mike House, who applied these learnings to leaders and business owners looking to navigate a 21st Century Pandemic in Australia. Mike is a trusted 20 year veteran of survival instruction and change management. He is a speaker, facilitator and mentor who is also author of the book “(Un)shakeable – More than resilience”. Lunch Money is YOUR social media home for work-outs, capital raising and special situations professionals!

An impromptu change of topic and guests has given way for an erudite discussion into the corporate restructuring industry with familiar faces. We were joined by Daren Anderson (Managing Director at ERA Legal) and Sule Arnautovic (Partner at Hall Chadwick) who have guided us through changes in the industry and what to look out for. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs, and capital raising professionals!

Stephen Moulton joins Lunch Money with fresh hands-on experience with the IPO of Silk Logistics Holdings Ltd (ASX:SLH). Stephen and the firm he chairs, DanaherMoulton, is also busy on both the buy and sell sides in an M&A market that is breaking records globally in 2021. Stephen is the Corporate Advisory and Mergers & Acquisitions partner at his firm and will share insights from his recent deals, built on 30 years specialising in the legal profession. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

What inspires a legal or accounting firm partner to pack-up their briefcase and hang out their own shingle – particularly in overwhelming times like these? To answer that question, Lunch Money was joined by Tean Kerr (Corporate Restructuring and Commercial Litigation Partner) and Simon Cathro (Managing Partner at Cathro & Partners). With a breadth of experience at big name companies under their belt, Tean and Simon talked us through the beginnings of their new story in breaking away to start their own firms. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

In a world where "post-uncertainty" and predictability remain fictional concepts, it is important, now more than ever, for teams to embrace not knowing what's around the corner. To talk us through how you and your team can embrace uncertainty, whilst not compromising cohesion to ensure winning efforts are maintained, we were joined by Bernard Desmidt. Bernard is an accomplished coach, facilitator, trainer, speaker and author who will share how he has been helping executives and business leaders manage uncertainty to become high performing, smart teams. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

Corporate and personal insolvency, secured creditor enforcement and commercial litigation state by state: Four insolvency partners from law firm Hall & Wilcox joined us with insights and perspectives based on types of work currently crossing their desks. Scott Butler (Brisbane), Mark Petrucco (Sydney), David Dickens (Melbourne) and Hector West (Perth) check in to share their local intel and unique capital city perspectives. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

The financial forecast - done honestly - reflects, in many ways, what a business is good at, what it can do better, and how well it understands the challenges and opportunities its market presents. To coach us through these challenges, we are joined by Michael Ford, CEO at Castaway Forecasting. Michael shared his insights not only as a master of forecasting, but as an entrepreneur who has taken his own business on a journey from start-up to international expansion. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals! 

Construction industry subbies around Australia are finding their job pipelines and margins under increasing pressure. In addition to the triple whammy of tighter lending, defect fiascos, and now Covid, in some lockdowns, they can't even get on site! What do subbies need to do to stay out of the red and to keep their cash flowing in these times? To walk us through the answers is Anthony Igra, Founder and Director of Contractors Debt Recovery and host of the brand new podcast “Subbies Under Fire”. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

It's one thing to know what the objectives of a capital raise are, and how they fit in with the goals of the business. But, knowing where you are starting from in the midst of a storm is something else. This episode on Lunch Money our guest is Andrew Way, Director at Semper. We combined data analysis with a little educated soothsaying to help special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals find their bearings! Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

Fraud has recently hit headlines again causing quite a stir, with sums reaching the hundreds of millions. Our guest this week is Wayne Gilbert, Principal at PKF Integrity Services, who is an expert in workplace investigation, fraud and corruption prevention and whistleblower hotlines. We will be talking about the folly of substituting the controls and safeguards that keep your money secure for the sentiment of “trust”. Catch us this Friday to hear us discuss topics from whistleblower hot-lines, Ponzi schemes, to trusted insider fraud and more. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

SMEs Australia-wide have borne the brunt of the pandemic response – from lockdowns to border closures and other new red tape and restrictions. As the smoke starts to clear from the battlefield – what do SME owners need to focus on to restore their plans for creating wealth for their families? Our guest this week is Angela Vithoulkas - business investor and Small Business Champion! Angela is an Independent Councilor for the City of Sydney, Spokesperson for the SME Association of Australia and Founder/Host at SME TV and Podcasts. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

How can a business owner navigate the challenges of business growth and make life changing discoveries of their own hidden talents along the way? This week our guest is Peter Ellis, business transformation researcher and Principal Consultant at Your Silent Partner: https://ysp.com.au/  Join us as Peter discusses new ways for business owners to navigate step changes in business size and the challenges at the personal and operational level they face along the way. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

Our guest this week is Arabella Macpherson, Communications Coach and Director at Resonate Communications. Arabella is a leadership and communications expert who currently teaches business leaders “intuitive leadership”, how to have “influential conversations” and to “present with presence”. We look forward to hearing her timely insights into these areas as the East Coast of Australia, once again, closes its borders and contemplates more rounds of lockdowns. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

What's going on “left of field” in the non-bank secured lending space? Find out this week with Mark Hutchins (Partner at Secured Lending). Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

Our special guest this week is James Tuckerman, a thought leader in entrepreneurship, start-ups and B2B Sales and Marketing. Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!

With more to credit than you may think, calculating its risk is all the more difficult during these uncertain times. There is more at play than stats and figures, so this week we will uncover ways businesses can effectively perform risk assessment. We are joined by the CEO of the Australian Institute of Credit Management (AICM), Nick Pilavidis and corporate restructuring expert Andrew Spring (Jirsch Sutherland). We will discuss the AICMs recent Annual Risk Report and what it means for business supplying other businesses trade credit.

Stakeholder management is at the heart of all successful business turnarounds and the focus of this weeks Lunch Money with insights from hands on practitioners. Our guests are business restructuring and Safe Harbour expert, Shane Deane (Director at Dye & Co), and communications, issues management and reputation repair expert, Holly Reynolds (Managing Director at Left Field Communications). Lunch Money is THE social media home for special situations, work-outs and capital raising professionals!