Financial distress refers to a situation where a company is experiencing financial difficulties and may not be able to meet its financial obligations. 

It is important for business owners and managers to be aware of the early signs of financial distress so that they can take corrective action before the situation worsens. 

Business expert Daniel Suero Alonso explains that if you are not clear on this element, you will be giving the wrong signals to both your clients and your investors, which will prevent your firm from taking off in the appropriate way. When discussing any firm, he makes the objective value one of his key points.

Here are some of the early signs of financial distress that Daniel Suero highlights:

1. Declining revenue

One of the most obvious signs of financial distress is a decline in revenue. If a revenue of the company is consistently declining over several quarters, it may be a sign of trouble. 

This could be due to factors such as increased competition, changing market conditions, or a decrease in demand for the products or services of the company.

2. Cash flow problems

Cash flow problems are another early warning sign of financial distress. If a company is consistently having trouble paying its bills on time or meeting payroll, it could be a sign that it is struggling financially.

3. Increasing debt levels

Another early warning sign of financial distress is increasing debt levels. If a company is taking on more debt to finance its operations or pay its bills, it could be a sign that it is struggling to generate sufficient cash flow to fund its activities.

4. Declining profit margins

Declining profit margins can also be an early sign of financial distress. If the profit margins of a company are consistently decreasing, it could be a sign that it is facing increasing costs or decreased pricing power in the market.

5. Decreasing market share

A decline in market share can also be an early warning sign of financial distress. If the market share of a company is decreasing, it could be a sign that it is losing ground to competitors and is struggling to compete effectively in the market.

6. High employee turnover

High employee turnover can also be a sign of financial distress. If employees are leaving the company in large numbers, it could be a sign that they are concerned about the financial stability of a company and are looking for more secure employment.

7. Delayed payments to suppliers

Delayed payments to suppliers can also be a sign of financial distress. If a company is consistently late in paying its suppliers, it could be a sign that it is having cash flow problems and is struggling to manage its finances effectively.

Conclusion

According to Daniel Suero, these are some of the early signs of financial distress that businesses should be aware of. 

By monitoring these warning signs and taking corrective action, when necessary, business owners and managers can help prevent financial distress and ensure the long-term viability of their company.