Positive vs. Negative Cash Flow
Cash flow — which balances revenue against expenses — can be positive or negative.
Positive Cash Flow
The business has more money coming in than going out.
Negative Cash Flow
The business has more money going out than coming in.
Types of Cash Flow
From Operations
The money a business generates from or uses to cover its operations, such as revenue from product sales or expenses such as salaries, utilities and taxes.
From Investing
The money a business earns or spends from investments, such as purchasing new physical assets and selling off existing assets.
Trusted Advisor
The money a business raises or repays through financing such as debt, equity or dividend transactions.
Advantages of Effective Cash Flow Management
Liquidity
Cash is readily available to fund or expand your operations.
Greater Borrowing Power
Your business is considered a lower risk to lenders when it has more cash on hand. This can be an advantage during times of financial uncertainty when lending requirements may be stricter.
Better Strategic Planning
You have greater visibility into the financial health of your business and can make more informed long-term decisions.
More Stability
Your business is more resilient and better positioned to navigate changing market conditions or disruptions.
5 Tips for Better Cash Flow Management
Negotiate payment terms with vendors.
Review your past financial performance to create a detailed cash flow forecast.
Automate the receivables process to get invoices out early and stay on top of late payments.
Provide electronic payment options for customers to get cash into your business faster.
Establish a line of credit to get access to capital when you need it.