After months of uncertainty in the UK’s financial landscape, SMEs have faced rising National Insurance (NI) contributions, minimum wage hikes, inflation, and volatile energy and supply chain costs. But according to Rory Crisp-Jones of
Jones & Co Finance, last year’s Autumn Budget may finally offer the clarity businesses have been waiting for.
Mr Crisp-Jones (pictured), director at Jones & Co Finance, said: “After two years of economic hesitation, SMEs finally have a more predictable fiscal landscape and with it, a genuine incentive to invest.”
The Budget delivers a steady corporation tax rate, improved capital allowances, and renewed support for growth, innovation and skills. While challenges remain with rising supply and labour costs, Mr Crisp-Jones believes there are still ‘pockets of opportunity’ for businesses ready to act. Early signs suggest sentiment is shifting. A Barclays survey revealed that 42% of SMEs now see a clear and stable direction for future plans, and 38% of business leaders who delayed investment until the Budget now plan to increase it.
The headline corporation tax rate remains at 25%, providing long-term certainty for planning and forecasting. Full expensing for most plant and machinery continues, alongside a new 40% First-Year Allowance for main-rate assets from 1 January. The £1 million Annual Investment Allowance also remains unchanged, giving SMEs rapid tax relief on capital expenditure.
Mr Crisp-Jones explained: “In plain English, this means UK businesses now get more generous, faster tax relief when they invest in new equipment or assets. Put bluntly, it is now cheaper to invest and easier for SMEs to justify spending on the things that help them grow.”
For asset-heavy sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, construction and engineering, the Budget creates a strong case for upgrading machinery, equipment or property. However, pressures remain. Inflation, supply chain volatility and a reduction in the writing down allowance from April 2026 mean careful planning is essential.
He concluded: “Turning the Budget’s tax and investment incentives into real business growth is not straightforward — it requires the right timing and understanding of how allowances, reliefs and funding options interact. That is where a boutique broker adds value.”
Mr Crisp-Jones believes firms that act early will gain the greatest benefit from lower effective investment costs and stronger competitive positioning.