Economic issues highlighted at business breakfast

The event at the Portsmouth Marriott Hotel attracted dozens of business leaders and owners, with three experts presenting on accountancy, investment management and tax and outlining various challenges in the economy.

Craig Aitchison, restructuring and recovery services manager, warned that further cuts in public funding, together with the introduction of the national living wage, will have a significant impact on businesses in the south.

Paul Duckworth, a business tax specialist, highlighted key tax decisions businesses should be making.

Will Fisher, a partner in investment management, reviewed the markets over the past year.

He discussed issues such as China’s economic growth problems, the global oil price slump, potential deflation and a loss in the momentum of the UK economy.

Richard Green, the managing partner at the south coast practice of Smith & Williamson, said: ‘What is clear from the event is that businesses and organisations should identify as early as possible the likely impact of continued austerity and national living wage in order to maximise the options available.’