The government has announced a series of measures designed to help small businesses grow and access finance.
SMEs are increasingly turning to alternative sources of funding, although bank overdrafts remain a popular form of finance.
Lord Young has replaced Lord Sugar as the government's enterprise tsar, tasked with cutting red tape for small businesses and encouraging new start-ups.
It is not all bad news you know. Try our weekly round-up of more uplifting stories from this week's IFAonline.
Newly elected Labour leader Ed Miliband used his first address to the party conference this afternoon to criticize the Coalition's deficit reduction strategy, and set out what changes Labour proposes for the economy.
Small businesses are being urged to share their experiences of dealing with banks with the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).
The group risk market must modernise or miss out in the 21st century. John Ritchie outlines the pitfalls ahead
The new Fit Note regime ushers in a real headache for employers, employees and GPs alike. However, the system offers opportunities for advisers, says Phil Taylor
Challenges may vary. Runners may come and go as some fall and others enter the race. However, the group life insurance market is still one of the most cut throat and price competitive in the protection industry, writes Owain Thomas
Taking on International PMI business can stave off competition from other market sectors and be a profitable addition to a business' line up, says Andrew Apps