Commercial Businesses Articles

The Trump administration's policies could significantly impact U.S. manufacturers, particularly in the areas of tariffs and trade policies, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), and clean energy tax incentives. Manufacturers need to stay informed about these rapidly changing policies to navigate their impact on business.

Understanding the profitability of each product is essential for manufacturers to make strategic decisions and optimize production, marketing, and pricing strategies. By analyzing product-specific costs and profit margins, manufacturers can focus on the most profitable products and make informed financial decisions.

The PCAOB Audit Focus highlights the importance of robust internal controls, regular reviews, and increased accountability to prevent fraud and errors in journal entries. Emphasizing the use of technology and continuous training, the article provides key reminders and good practices for auditors to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Manufacturers can prevent sales tax overpayments by identifying all applicable exemptions, verifying vendor charges independently, actively pursuing refunds, and maintaining vigilance. These steps help reduce sales tax liabilities, control costs, and ensure compliance with state tax regulations.

Manufacturers are increasingly integrating advanced technologies like IIoT, robotics, and automation, which makes cybersecurity more critical than ever. The convergence of IT and OT systems presents unique cybersecurity issues, and manufacturers must adopt robust cybersecurity frameworks, conduct risk assessments, and prioritize employee training to mitigate risks.

Work-in-Process (WIP) refers to partially completed goods in the manufacturing process, encompassing costs of raw materials, labor, and overhead. Monitoring WIP helps identify production inefficiencies, optimize processes, and manage inventory effectively.

Manufacturing companies must create comprehensive and realistic budgets in 2025. Key considerations for creating budgets include avoiding reliance solely on past results, seeking input from all departments, setting attainable goals, managing cash flows, and treating budgeting as an ongoing process.

The IRS has issued final regulations for the Section 45X advanced manufacturing production credit, which supports manufacturers producing clean energy equipment in the U.S. between 2022 and 2032. The regulations clarify eligibility, production costs, and the interplay with other credits, while also introducing substantiation requirements for material costs. Despite the clarity provided, compliance remains complex, and the credit’s future is uncertain under the incoming administration.

A business continuity plan is essential for manufacturing companies to minimize disruptions and ensure rapid recovery during crises such as natural disasters, supply chain disruptions, or IT failures. Key steps include forming an interdisciplinary team, assessing risks, developing contingency strategies, and regularly testing and updating the plan. Proactive planning can safeguard operations and enhance resilience in the face of unexpected events.

We encourage you to listen to the recording of this insightful session, which delves into the complexities of ownership transfer whether you are planning to sell your business, pass it on to the next generation, or transition to a new leadership team, this recording will provide you with critical strategies to ensure a smooth and successful transfer.