| Improving business performance
When companies are underperforming – particularly in an uncertain economy – the pressures on management can mount uncontrollably. To overcome strains from all sides, they need to zero in on market strategy, operating fundamentals and working capital. |
| Best Managed Companies
Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies program shines the spotlight on best-in-class organizations. Over the past 15 years, Best Managed winners have overcome some formidable obstacles, and they offer valuable lessons for companies large and small. |
| Doing business in Canada
Canadian companies face market uncertainty with rising commodity prices, a strong dollar, and tightening credit markets. They are also up against tough global competitors at home and abroad. To succeed, they must find new ways to innovate, adapt and win. |
| Governments in transition
Today’s public sector is in a unique position — one of tremendous responsibility, but also of unrivalled opportunity. To better respond to the challenges of the 21st century, governments are examining basic service delivery, financial management processes, investments for a sustainable health care system, and human capital issues. |
| Climate change
As the issue of climate change attracts increased attention, shareholder advocacy groups are demanding improved disclosure on how companies are responding to it. Companies are under scrutiny by institutional investors and rating agencies. But forward-thinking organizations realize that climate change can also present new opportunities. |
| Crisis management
Critical threats can strike your business at any time — ready or not. Staying ahead of threats, such as intellectual property theft, corporate fraud, money laundering, foreign corruption and corporate restructuring requires preparedness. |
| Growth for private companies
Private company owners aren't always certain how to attain long-term success. Although they've built their business through hard work, determination and instinct, they still face some tough challenges as they steer their companies toward sustainable growth. To reach their destination, private company owners must take the helm and chart a course to growth. |
 | Corporate responsibility
Climate change. Labour conditions. Offshoring. Community health. In today's global marketplace, the way in which a company addresses environmental, social and governance issues speaks volumes about the corporation itself and its long-term viability. Corporate responsibility actions can enhance a company's reputation, improve supply chain issues, build loyalty and lead to bottom-line benefits. |
 | The art of the deal
The number of mergers and acquisitions has grown. Keeping up with the rapid pace and increasing complexity of M&A transactions is a challenge. Yet speed alone will not ensure a successful deal. With global consolidation, increased liquidity and fierce competition, today’s deal-makers must master speed, complexity and size to succeed. |
 | Canada's tech leaders
Canadian companies are on the leading edge of tech growth and innovation. The 2006 Deloitte Technology Fast 500 ranking for North America reveals that Canadian companies have the highest average revenue growth rate over five years. From biotech and clean technologies to personal broadband and mobile content, Canadian tech companies are standouts in their sectors. |
 | Income trusts: One year later
Since the new rules surrounding income trusts were first announced on October 31, 2006, the sector has been in upheaval. Despite lingering uncertainty about Bill C-52, the first wave of activity has resulted in 40 announced or completed transactions, with more in the works. By the end of 2010, trusts will have had to decide on their fates. For many, the time to do so is now. |
 | Canada's oil sands
Canada is emerging as a new energy superpower. From multinational oil producers to junior start-ups, companies are investing in the oil sands at an unprecedented rate. But this burst of activity is fraught with challenges. Companies are struggling to find the skilled labour and materials to complete their facilities. And they must consider longer-term issues, such as structuring effective tax strategies and minimizing their environmental footprint. |
 | Corporate Governance
Corporate governance and director liability have risen to the top of the agenda for many boards of directors. It began with the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which had an immediate and significant impact on directors, CEOs, CFOs and auditors. Companies have learned that complying with the new regulatory requirements takes considerable investment in time and resources. Learn how directors today are seeking ways to derive maximum benefit from their compliance efforts. |
 | Creating value
Do you know what your company is worth? If you’re the owner or manager of a privately held business, you probably have a fairly accurate idea of your valuation. But knowing what creates value in your organization is just the beginning. Once you understand what drives your value, then the journey truly begins. Whether your goal is to increase revenues, position the company for expansion or preserve a family business for future generations, knowing your value drivers will help you navigate your company to greater success. |
 | Tax planning
Effective tax planning is more critical than ever. Recent corporate scandals have given rise to a new age of tax planning, in which companies are increasingly concerned with minimizing taxes in ways that also minimize their risk profile. Today’s tax directors have to balance tax rate management with long-term business strategy. Above all, they must step back and look at their tax situation strategically. Getting a fresh perspective on tax planning can lead to better tax risk management and lower effective tax rates. |
 | Talent management
People are at the heart of every organization. But demographic shifts and a shortage of skilled trades are threatening the growth of certain industries. Effective talent management is not just about recruitment: it’s about retention, HR strategy, organizational design and change management. Talent management — or lack of it — can make or break a company’s growth strategy. But if you manage your talent wisely, your business will flourish. |
 | IT security
Organizations today must be adept at protecting their data from security risks, network vulnerabilities, identity theft and phishing attacks. Security breaches can lead to unexpected costs, and any company that handles sensitive information should take steps to manage the risk. If data is the lifeblood of your company, then safeguarding that data is vital. The health of your business – and your bottom line – is at stake. |
 | CEO/CFO certification
he ground has shifted. New corporate governance rules outlined by the Canadian Securities Administrators in Canada and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) have changed the regulatory environment. Companies preparing to meet the new regulatory reporting and certification requirements are learning that compliance is a journey with unanticipated complexities. The best way to effective compliance is to understand where you want to go, and what it takes to get there. |
