Stefan Piech
Navigating the Shifting Sands: Why Canadian ...
Stefan Piech
HIVE’s New Financial Reporting, Accounting and ...
HIVE’s New Financial Reporting, Accounting and CFO Services Practice Head .... Stephen Peters!
Stefan Piech
HIVE Rocks Out for a Great Cause!
HIVE Rocks Out for a Great Cause!
Stefan Piech
HIVE's Unlocking the Power of Data-Driven ...
Stefan Piech
HIVE’s New GRC Practice Head .... Juan Jose ...
HIVE’s New GRC Practice Head .... Juan Jose Reategui Alcedo!

Navigating the Shifting Sands: Why Canadian Companies Should Prioritize Canadian Expertise!

The recent US tariffs on Canadian goods, and the potential expansion to services, have sent ripples of uncertainty through the Canadian business landscape.

Now more than ever, Canadian companies need to be strategic in their decision-making, particularly when it comes to securing professional advisory and consulting services. This is a time for resilience, resourcefulness, and a renewed focus on supporting Canadian talent. At Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”), we understand the complexities of this evolving economic climate. As a fully Canadian-owned advisory and consulting firm, we're deeply invested in the success of Canadian businesses. Our network of Hive Advisors, the majority of whom are independent Canadian professionals, provides a wealth of expertise across diverse industries. We believe this local perspective is invaluable in navigating the current challenges.

Many Canadian businesses are understandably wary of engaging US-affiliated or owned professional services firms. The current trade tensions raise legitimate concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the prioritization of Canadian business needs. Choosing a Canadian professional services firm (e.g., legal firm; consulting; accounting; etc.) ensures that your interests as a Canadian company are always put first. At HIVE we're committed to fostering growth within our own economy and understand the nuances of the Canadian market intimately.

Why choose a Canadian firm like HIVE in these uncertain times?

  • Alignment of Interests: Our focus is exclusively on the success of Canadian businesses. We understand the specific challenges and opportunities within the Canadian market and are dedicated to helping you thrive.

  • Local Expertise: Our network of Hive Advisors comprises experienced Canadian professionals with deep roots in the community. They possess a firsthand understanding of the Canadian business environment, regulations, and cultural landscape.

  • Supporting Canadian Economy: By choosing HIVE, you're directly contributing to the growth of the Canadian economy. We believe in reinvesting in our local talent and fostering a strong and resilient business community.

  • Mitigating Risk: In the current climate of trade tensions, choosing a Canadian firm mitigates potential risks associated with cross-border engagements. You can be confident in our commitment to your business and our understanding of the Canadian regulatory framework.

  • Building Long-Term Partnerships: We're not just consultants; we're partners. We're committed to building long-term relationships with our clients, working collaboratively to achieve their strategic objectives.

The current trade landscape demands a strategic and considered approach. Choosing Canadian professional services firms like HIVE is not just a sound business decision; it's an investment in the future of the Canadian economy. We encourage Canadian businesses to prioritize local expertise and support Canadian talent. Contact us today to learn how HIVE can help your business navigate these challenging times and achieve sustainable growth.

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.

HIVE’s New Financial Reporting, Accounting and CFO Services Practice Head .... Stephen Peters!

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Stephen Peters, CPA, as the new Practice Head of its Financial Reporting, Complex Accounting & CFO Outsource Services practice!

As the HIVE network of advisors continues to expand its services to meet evolving client needs, this role ensures that HIVE clients benefit from expert-level financial reporting, complex accounting and CFO outsourcing solutions (“FC&CFO”). The FC&CFO practice provides businesses with access to experienced, high-caliber CFOs, CPAs and finance professionals who deliver strategic financial and accounting leadership and trouble-shooting.

Stephen's appointment highlights HIVE's commitment to delivering tailored and impactful solutions. With over 30 years of experience in financial leadership roles, Stephen brings an exceptional ability to drive financial strategy, optimize performance, and navigate complex challenges across various industries.

Stephen has been a key member of the HIVE network since 2019, contributing to the successful execution of financial strategies for clients in diverse sectors. Stephen is currently the CFO of Kuya Silver Corporation through HIVE and his previous roles included serving as Principal Officer and Chief Financial Officer for the Canadian operations of a global bank, where he oversaw financial reporting, planning, forecasting, and strategic decision-making. Stephen’s expertise also extends to finance transformations, business integrations, and creating value through actionable insights.

Stephen also brings significant experience in the Canadian banking sector in both domestic and foreign based banks with prior experience in both the technology and manufacturing spaces. As CFO of a foreign bank’s operations in Canada, Stephen has extensive experience in financial matters including reporting, planning, forecasting, strategic decision making, new business entity creation, integrations and finance transformations. After a strategic decision was made for the Global Bank to exit Canada, Stephen became Principal Officer and led the project to successfully close the Canadian operations ensuring compliance with appropriate regulatory and legal requirements.. Stephen is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and also holds certifications for the Partners, Directors and Officers exam, Chief Financial Officers Qualifying exam and Chief Compliance Officer qualifying exam from the Canadian Securities Institute.

“We are excited to welcome Stephen Peters as the Practice Head for our financial reporting, complex accounting & CFO outsource services. His deep financial expertise and leadership will ensure that our clients receive unparalleled value and strategic guidance.”

- Stefan Piech, HIVE CEO and Managing Partner

“HIVE has built its reputation as a trusted partner by providing exceptional service. Stephen’s appointment reinforces our dedication to delivering cost-effective, high-impact financial reporting, accounting & CFO outsourcing services that drive results for our clients.”

- Jeff Swinoga, HIVE President & Partner

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.

Happy Holidays & Upcoming 2025 from HIVE !

Hive Advisory Inc. (HIVE), HIVE Partners and the HIVE Network wishes everyone a happy and safe holiday season, as well as all the best for 2025 !

As HIVE’s continued success lies in providing real value; experienced advice; and formidable service to HIVE Clients, we also need to thank the many supporters over the last year, as well as their continued interest into 2025 !

- Hive Advisory Inc.

HIVE's Board Leadership Series

Stepping Into the Audit Committee

From Newcomer to Effective Member: A First-timers Guide to Navigating the Audit Committee's Responsibilities

Taking on the role of Chair of the Audit Committee or becoming a new member for the first time can be both an exciting and challenging opportunity. The Audit Committee plays a crucial role in overseeing the integrity of a company’s financial reporting, internal controls, risk management, and compliance. The decisions made within the committee can have a profound impact on the financial health and governance of the organization.

Whether you're stepping into the Chair role or joining the committee as a member, understanding your responsibilities, knowing what to focus on, and following best practices are critical to your success and to the overall performance of the committee.  This article outlines the key considerations, recommendations, and best practices for anyone taking on an Audit Committee role for the first time.

Key Considerations for New Audit Committee Members or Chairs

Here are some key considerations and recommendations for stepping into this role:

Best Practices for Effective Audit Committee Leadership

Your leadership will set the tone for the committee’s effectiveness. Here are some best practices to follow:

Conclusion: Stepping into the Audit Committee Role with Confidence

The first time can be a steep learning curve, but it also offers the opportunity to have a significant impact on the company’s financial integrity and governance. By understanding your responsibilities, building strong relationships with key stakeholders, and focusing on core financial and compliance issues, you can contribute to the success and stability of the company.

Need assistance in ensuring your Audit Committee is effective and well-prepared? Contact us today for guidance on improving your financial governance and internal controls.

Welcoming New Talent: Hive Advisory’s Continued Growth and Commitment to Excellence !

Exciting News at Hive Advisory! Over the past few months, we've been growing our team with exceptional professionals, each bringing unique expertise and experience that strengthens our ability to serve our clients. Please join us in welcoming Alejandro Minuto, Joe Filippelli, and Ellen Lee to Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”)!

We are delighted to introduce Alex Minuto, a seasoned risk and controls expert with a proven track record in leading complex projects across various industries. He also brings 14 years in mining with Barrick Gold Corporation where he held a local board member position and led from its inception the financial compliance programs for the South America region. His extensive experience with top-tier multinational corporations and his holistic business vision will be invaluable in enhancing our client’s corporate governance processes.

We are excited to introduce Grace Mutahi, a highly experienced risk management and internal audit advisory expert with over 18 years of experience . She has a proven track record leading complex projects and delivering key insights to senior executives and audit committees at major financial institutions, including Bank of Montreal, Scotiabank, TD Bank, and Citibank. Grace also played a key role in large-scale transformation projects for several federal government departments, such as the Treasury Board Secretariat and Health Canada. Her expertise in internal audit, risk assessment, and control design, coupled with her CIA designation and MBA in Finance, will be instrumental in providing our clients with exceptional service and tailored solutions.

Joining us is Joe Filippelli, a seasoned finance professional specializing in financial governance, internal audit, and risk management. With over 15 years of client service experience in industries such as financial services, mining, and environmental services, Joe has a strong track record of leading governance and risk engagements. His expertise in designing effective solutions and delivering impactful outcomes will greatly benefit our clients.

We also welcome Ellen Lee, a Senior Finance and Operations Executive with a strong foundation in operational review, financial reporting, and corporate governance across various industries. Recognized for bringing innovative solutions to a variety of business and performance issues, Ms. Lee has been valued for developing strong relationships and effectively leading cross-functional teams. Her proven leadership and technical skills will be instrumental in guiding our clients through complex changes.

At Hive Advisory, we are committed to providing exceptional cost-effective services to our clients. With the addition of these talented professionals, our capabilities have expanded, enabling us to deliver even greater value. If you're seeking expert guidance and innovative solutions, please contact us to learn how we can assist you.

HIVE Rocks Out for a Great Cause!

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) was thrilled to co-sponsor Les Bandes Portage on Thursday, September 19th, an amazing rock show in support of Fred Victor and Project Canoe!

Big thanks to Clifton Blake Asset Management for organizing this incredible event at The Monarch Tavern. The music was fantastic, and it felt great to contribute to such important causes in our community.

Fred Victor is a leader in ending homelessness in Toronto, and Project Canoe empowers youth through outdoor adventure.

We're proud to stand with them!

Shout out to the other sponsors, Studio JCI, Silvercreek Commercial Builders, and Roseander Main. Together, we can make a difference!

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.

HIVE's Unlocking the Power of Data-Driven Decision Making !

In today's dynamic business landscape, data-driven decision making is no longer a competitive advantage, it's a necessity.

As the Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) Network continues to grow and evolve, we are proud to announce the expansion of our services to include increased specializations for modelling and data analytics services to businesses of all sizes.

Our services take a collaborative approach to working with our clients, partnering with them to understand their unique needs and challenges. We then leverage our deep industry knowledge and expertise to develop customized solutions that deliver real results.

HIVE offers a comprehensive suite of financial and data modelling services, catering to the evolving needs of modern businesses. From crafting bespoke financial models and performing rigorous assessments to conducting sensitivity analyses and forecasting revenue, HIVE empowers clients with the tools to make informed decisions.

Additionally, HIVE's expertise extends to data modelling and analytics, encompassing data model evaluations, risk quantification, and in-depth data analysis. HIVE goes beyond mere modelling and analysis, offering training programs and technical proficiency in macro development, SQL, Python, and VBA coding, ensuring clients can leverage data effectively and build internal capabilities.



Our modelling and data analytic services take a collaborative approach to working with our clients, partnering with them to understand their unique needs and challenges. We then leverage our deep industry knowledge and expertise to develop customized solutions that deliver real results!

-Hive Advisory Inc.

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.

HIVE’s New GRC Practice Head .... Juan Jose Reategui Alcedo!

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is excited to announce Juan Jose Reategui as the new HIVE Practice Head of its Governance, Risk and Compliance (“GRC”) practice ! 

As HIVE continues to expand and address increasingly complex client needs, it has established this pivotal role to ensure HVE Clients receive unparalleled expertise and strategic guidance in navigating the complexities of governance initiatives, internal control environments, risk management and  compliance.

Juan’s appointment and acceptance to this new role underscores HIVE’s commitment to providing top-tier advisory services. With over 20 years of profound experience in strategic, financial and operational risk and governance works, Juan excels in enhancing company performance through advanced control systems, managing uncertainty, and achieving strategic objectives. His ability to lead, navigate ambiguity and reduce risk will significantly benefit HIVE Clients clients, ensuring they can confidently pursue their goals.

Juan is no stranger to HIVE ! Juan joined the HIVE Network in 2022 assisting in the execution and management of numerous mandates with HIVE Client’s in the mining, forestry and life science sectors.  His previous experiences include an impressive tenure at Barrick Gold Corporation whereby Juan spearheaded the Internal Audit function across Latin America and Asia Pacific. He also was instrumental in the success of the global internal controls environment framework and evaluation program, ensuring compliance with SOX 404 (a) and NI 52-109 requirements, as well as played a key role in developing and implementing Barrick’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) frameworks. He is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) from CPA Ontario, a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) from ISACA, and a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) from the Institute of Internal Auditors.

“We are thrilled to introduce the new role of HIVE’s Practice Head for GRC practice and equally honoured to welcome Juan into this new role within the HIVE Network. His deep expertise and leadership in internal audit, internal controls and risk management will undoubtedly strengthen our GRC practice. The creation of the Hive Practice Head within our lines of service is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation. Juan’s leadership will be pivotal in helping HIVE Clients  navigate complexities and achieve their strategic goals with confidence and assurance.”

- Stefan Piech, HIVE CEO and Managing Partner

“HIVE’s focus is on providing outstanding service to its clients and is the reason HIVE has become a first-call advisory firm that clients trust. Juan’s new position within HIVE’s Network is granted on his leadership and top notch service recognized by HIVE Clients !”

- Jeff Swinoga, HIVE President & Partner

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.

HIVE's CFO services made easy...with true experience!

Searching for a strong and experienced CFO and/or commensurate fractional finance and accounting function for your publicly traded or private company can be a challenge.

As the HIve Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) Network continues to grow and evolve, we are proud to announce the expansion of our services to include HIVE’s fractional CFO services to help address these challenges.

HIVE’s CFO outsource services provide you with real and experienced executive advice and guidance for your financial reporting, complex accounting, and governance requirements. We offer real named CFOs with hands-on experience to support your publicly traded or private company, as well as the support of an integrated accounting and financial reporting function to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.

HIVE understands that financial reporting and governance requirements can be complex and time-consuming. HIVE’s advisors consist of highly experienced financial reporting and management experts, including former CFOs, controllers, and advisors with a mix of public accounting and industry experience. A HIVE outsourced CFO can supervise and lead your company's financial reporting and governance requirements; even provide advice on debt and equity financing; insurance requirements and renewal strategies; as well as mergers and acquisitions. We also offer integrated governance advisory services to ensure your business operates with best-practice levels of internal controls framework.

-Hive Advisory Inc.

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.

HIVE ESG: CSSB Exposure Drafts on Sustainability Disclosure Standards

On March 13, 2024, The Canadian Sustainability Standards Board (“CSSB”) has taken a major leap forward with the release of exposure drafts for the first Canadian Sustainability Disclosure Standards (“CSDS”) 1 (i.e., sustainability disclosure standard) and CSDS 2 (i..e, climate related disclosures). These drafts are designed to align with international standards yet address the specificities of the Canadian landscape with CSDS 1 focusing on general sustainability-related financial disclosures and CSDS 2 on climate-related disclosures.

The baseline for both of these standards are based on the June 26, 20203 international Sustainability Standards Board (“ISSB”) release of IFRS S1 General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-related Financial Information lays out the general requirements for disclosing sustainability-related financial information; and IFRS S2 Climate-related Disclosures focuses on climate-related disclosures. This marks a pivotal moment for sustainability reporting in Canada. 

It appears that now is the time to shape sustainability reporting standards in Canada with the exposure drafts open for feedback until June 20, 2024 to help ensure that the final standards are reflective of Canada's diverse economic and ecological landscapes.

As the Canadian landscape moves towards a more sustainable and transparent corporate environment, ensuring your organization is aligned with the evolving standards is paramount. HIVE’s ESG services are here to guide one through this transition. Our expertise in sustainability reporting and compliance will help companies not only meet any new requirements but help you excel in your sustainability efforts. Connect with HIVE today to prepare for the future of sustainability and demonstrate your commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.


HIVE’S COMMITMENT TO ESG & SUSTAINABILITY

We believe that the transformation towards ESG excellence is not only a moral imperative but also a business necessity.  Our commitment to sustainability drives everything we do, and we are passionate about helping you embrace this transition.

At HIVE, we are dedicated to empowering businesses and organizations to thrive in an increasingly conscious and responsible world. We understand that Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations are not just a passing trend but are essential for building a sustainable, resilient, responsible and competitive future for companies. The organizations of tomorrow are the ones that can turn a strong ESG performance into a competitive advantage.  Our ESG services are designed to guide and support you on your journey towards ESG excellence.””

-HIVE Partners

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.

HIVE Kick's off 2024 with it's new ESG service line!

As the HIVE Network’s growth continues to accelerate, servicing its clients and expanding its services, Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is proud to announce it has expanded its service offerings to include environment, social and governance (“ESG”) services.

ESG initiatives are ever evolving and navigating through the rhetoric can be challenging. From planning your ESG strategy; understanding your ESG risks and opportunities; establishing your first ESG framework in line with recognized global standards; developing meaningful ESG KPIs; and fulfilling your potential ESG regulatory disclosure requirements…HIVE is here to help!

HIVE believes that ESG implementation should be integrated with an organization’s strategy and operational setting. The fundamental purpose of HIVE’s ESG program is to contextualize and manage an organization’s ESG goals and risks as they work towards achieving their defined organization’s mission, vision and values.


HIVE’S COMMITMENT TO ESG & SUSTAINABILITY

We believe that the transformation towards ESG excellence is not only a moral imperative but also a business necessity.  Our commitment to sustainability drives everything we do, and we are passionate about helping you embrace this transition.

At HIVE, we are dedicated to empowering businesses and organizations to thrive in an increasingly conscious and responsible world. We understand that Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations are not just a passing trend but are essential for building a sustainable, resilient, responsible and competitive future for companies. The organizations of tomorrow are the ones that can turn a strong ESG performance into a competitive advantage.  Our ESG services are designed to guide and support you on your journey towards ESG excellence.””

-HIVE Partners

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.

HIVE’s One-on-One Series - Get to know a Hive Advisor: Stephen Peters

Introducing Stephen Peters. A HIVE advisor since 2019, Stephen has been instrumental in delivering financially astute solutions to a wide range of challenges and clients. We spent a few minutes engaging with Stephen and getting to know him better. Here’s what had to say.

Tell us about your career…

I had the privilege of garnering significant experience in the Canadian bank sector, both domestically and with foreign-based banks, and prior to that in the technology and manufacturing sectors. As CFO of a foreign bank’s operations in Canada, I was responsible for a multitude of financial matters including reporting, planning, forecasting and strategic decision-making. Additionally, I played a key role in new business creation, integrations and finance transformations.

What was one of your defining projects in your career?

As Principal Officer, leading the successful closure of the Canadian banking operations, after a strategic decision was made to exit Canada. Throughout this process, I was key in ensuring successful compliance with regulatory and legal requirements. This experience really highlighted the need to plan in detail but remain flexible to the changing environment in order to deliver results.

Why did you join HIVE and what have you gained from being a HIVE Advisor?

Exposure to different industries and a variety of projects. HIVE just fits my current lifestyle and has provided me with the opportunity to work in a collaborative remote network. It’s been exactly what I was looking for.

Explain your experience with HIVE in three words?

Fulfilling. Interesting. Rewarding.

Describe yourself in three words.

Practical. Patient. Versatile.

Explain your experience with HIVE in three words?  

Appreciate the flexibility.

What’s the one thing you want the world to know about you?

A family man and a guiding light for my granddaughter.

What’s your favorite time of the day and why?

Sunrise. You can accomplish a lot in the a.m.

What’s the first thing you do in the morning?

Coffee.

What’s your personal mantra?

Learn something today.

Stephen is just one of our advisors available under our recently launched contract CFO services.  If you are looking for a driven and versatile financial professional to navigate complex financial challenges and Drive strategic outcomes, connect with us. 

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.

When does one need a business valuation?

Every company is different.   Each company has its own operational and financing strategy.

Author: Peter Ritchie CPA CA, CBV

Business valuation is very much an art and not a science. The variability in business valuation approach is driven by issues related to what is being valued, the nature of the underlying business, the sector in which the business operates and a variety of other factors.

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) and the Hive Network of Hive Advisors (“Hive Network”) is strongly of the view that when performing business valuations a thorough understanding of the company and its fundamental drivers is required. By using a highly tailored approach this allows us to provide our clients with the best possible service. When performing a business valuation engagement we invest the time to truly understand the business and the environment in which it operates. This approach helps to ensure that our valuation conclusions are well thought out, well supported and well communicated.

The need for a business valuation can arise for all sorts of reasons. The key situations that tend to drive the need for business valuations include:

(1) taxation;

(2) financial reporting;

(3) transactions and business strategy; and

(4) litigation support

Taxation

Management has a responsibility to ensure that the company’s income tax structure is as efficient as possible.   From time to time tax planning initiatives lead to the need for a business valuation.  Business valuations performed for tax related purposes can carry significant implications.  It is therefore prudent to ensure that business valuations are of high quality and supportable. Business valuations can be done internally.  However, obtaining an independent consulting firm provide the business valuation can provide clear advantages.   

The most obvious benefit is that a consultant brings independence to the process.  The business valuation process is subjective and nuanced.  Through deep prior experience a consulting firm will be in a position to incorporate such nuances into the valuation process.  Finally, tax authorities are much less likely to challenge a business valuation performed by an external consultant.  

There are a variety of instances where you may need a business valuation for tax related purposes.   A few of these instances include:

  • corporate restructuring;

  • estate and succession planning;

  • transfer of intangible between jurisdictions or setting up cross jurisdiction transfer pricing structures; and

  • dealing with issues related to foreign anti dumping, thin capitalization or similar issues.

Financial Reporting

During the past few years, a move towards fair market value accounting has taken place, mainly led by provisions of IFRS. With the use of fair market value reporting, the financial reporting process has become even more complex. Accordingly, companies are relying more and more on sophisticated valuation analyses in order support their financial reporting processes.

Fair market value measurements can have a significant impact on financial reporting issues. These measurements are often scrutinized by the company’s auditor. We at HIVE have both financial reporting and business valuation experience. As a result, we have a deep understanding of the audit process and auditor expectations and requirements for fair market value measurements. We are also well aware of the risks involved so we take a careful approach in our business valuation engagements in order to ensure that our deliverables will meet the financial reporting needs of our clients.

There are a variety of instances where you may need a business valuation for financial reporting related purposes. A few of these instances include:

  • purchase price allocations;

  • impairment reviews;

  • intangible asset and intellectual property valuations;

  • investment entity valuation reviews; and

  • assessment of complex financial instruments.

Transactions & Business Strategy

Business valuations or pricing analyses are an essential element in a transactional context. A key element in any acquisition, divestiture or financing transactions is the assessment of transaction price. The parties to potential transaction will tend to have divergent views regarding price. Pricing analyses in a transactional context may be focused on the identification, assessment and quantification of post acquisition synergies. Accordingly, pricing analyses in a transactional context are often performed using a variety of operational and financing assumptions regarding future performance.

Shareholders may over time diverge regarding their objectives and conclude that one party will depart from the business. Shareholder agreements often provide a structure for the exit of a shareholder. The agreement may contain a designated price or a formula to determine the exit price. In some instances, the shareholder agreement may not set out an exit price formula. In either case a business valuation may be required to assess value based on the circumstances.

We are presently dealing with various headwinds including inflation and interest rate increases and supply chain issues. Some organizations have focused on sales and growth and others have focused on margins and expense management. Another approach that has been gaining traction in recent years is a focus on longer term shareholder value creation. An excellent tool for assessing the impact of business value strategy on shareholder value is the regular assessment of fair market value of the organization which takes performance but also risk into consideration.

There are a variety of instances where you may need a business valuation or multi variate pricing analysis for transaction related purposes. A few of these instances include:

  • acquisitions;

  • divestitures;

  • financings;

  • shareholder disputes and the application of shareholder buy / sell agreements; and

  • valuations related to the development and assessment of business strategy.

Litigation Support

Business damages can arise from many different situations, and it would be nearly impossible to cover every variation. Commercial damages may relate to lost profits, diminution in value of the business enterprise or other issues. In some cases, damages may be recoverable from an insurer that will seek to minimise its payout under an insurance policy. We build our business valuation files with rigour so as to help ensure a positive result.

In a marital dissolution where a business interest is owned by one or both of the spouses a business valuation will usually be required. Interestingly, based on a long series of cases, the Ontario Family Law Act focuses on fair value rather than fair market value. We have experience in dealing with valuations based on the fair value concept.

There are a variety of instances where you may need a business valuation for litigation related purposes. A few of these instances include:

  • commercial damages;

  • insurance claims; and

  • marital dissolution.

….either situation, HIVE is here to help!

HIVE’s business valuations group includes Hive Advisors who possesses extensive experience in the preparation of valuation reports for companies operating in a wide variety of sectors, including mining, life sciences, information technology, manufacturing, etc. Our experts hold accredited designations including Certified Business Valuators, Chartered Professional Accountants, and Certified Financial Analysts. HIVE follows the Practice Standards of the Chartered Business Valuator Institute in preparing its business valuation reports.

In most of the cases identified it is usually best to have an early assessment of the business valuation related issues. If you believe that you may need for a business valuation or pricing analysis we are only a call away. We would be pleased to speak with you on a confidential basis to discuss how HIVE may be able to assist you with your issue.

Hive Advisory Inc. (“HIVE”) is a Canadian non-traditional management consulting firm designed to develop and expand a network of highly skilled and experienced, certified, independent and trained management consultants (Hive Advisors) that specialize across various service lines and industry sectors. HIVE brings a network of expert advisors with years of experience and knowledge to help today’s CFOs and CEOs overcome challenges standing in the way of their growth and strategic goals.