
The pandemic has exposed all of us to increased uncertainty. Let’s explore scenarios associated with cash outflows using the example of cash inflows above. In light of this variability, it might help to begin thinking about three simple levels of possibilities. There is likely a fixed level of payroll needed to operate a business, with the difference representing the discretionary component. For example, payroll may feel more like a fixed expense, but unfortunately, realities of furloughs or layoffs mean there is a portion of payroll that can be discretionary. What amount of discretion is available to manage cash outflows? Some cash outflows may be hard to classify as either required or discretionary.Variable expenses are likely affected the most, but there may also be opportunities to adjust or defer some fixed payments (eg, some loan/lease agreements may allow for periods of deferment or rent holidays). For some, the ongoing pandemic is increasing costs (eg, investments in technologies to support a remote workforce) while there may be decreasing costs for others (eg, lower interest expenditures). How is the current business environment affecting cash outflows? Current conditions likely affect major cash outflow categories differently.It will be important to associate related inflows and variable outflows in the analysis. It is also important to highlight those that are variable so we can link them to what drives their variability, such as costs that vary with sales. Fixed expenditures are at least more predictable. Pinpointing the fixed cash outflows, particularly those required by law or contract, can help management focus on those that need to be funded first. What expenditures can be categorised as fixed or variable? Some cash outflows are fixed, such as debt and interest payments, rent, and IT service centre fees.Most organisations must fund cash outflows related to payroll, inventory purchases, materials, supplies, core services, essential repairs and capital improvements, financing charges, taxes, etc.


Start with cash inflowsĪs we think about sources of cash, it might help to think through these questions: In this environment, finance leaders should consider taking a number of steps to obtain a better, more comprehensive view of organisational cash flows. COVID-19 and other 2020 events have affected almost all aspects of most organisations, making it challenging to pinpoint all potential variables that might affect cash inflows and outflows simultaneously. Revenues that were once fairly predictable are no longer stable or even present, and organisations trying to navigate the crisis face previously unseen costs.
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The pandemic, combined with global trade tensions, ongoing political elections, continued social unrest in some countries, and other risk drivers, has put tremendous strain on most organisations. COVID-19 has taught us that a single event can trigger a cascade of risks affecting all aspects of an entity’s operations. As we look ahead to 2021, we have a better appreciation of the fact that emerging risks can quickly disrupt business models and strategic plans.
