This month’s Finance Focus session explored key areas impacting businesses in 2025: VAT developments and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), along with a Cyber Essentials update.
We reviewed key VAT changes and updates from HMRC, highlighted common areas of risk and how to avoid them, and took a closer look at the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). As a significant new regulatory development coming into effect in 2025, CBAM will have direct financial and compliance implications for businesses with international supply chains — particularly importers — introducing new carbon reporting obligations and cost considerations that finance teams will need to understand and plan for.
With recent cyber incidents affecting major supermarkets and supply chains, cyber awareness is no longer just an IT issue — it’s a financial and operational imperative. The cost of a breach can be significant, from regulatory fines and ransom demands to reputational damage and disrupted cash flow. Finance leaders have a critical role to play in understanding cyber risks, ensuring controls are in place, and supporting investment in robust cyber defences. With evolving rules and increasing compliance requirements, Nick Rowntree from System 15 provided an up-to-date overview of what’s changing, what to watch out for, and how to prepare.
Thank you to our Expert Panel:
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Hayley Hill – Director, VAT Services
For any VAT updates or queries, please contact Hayley Hill: Hayley.Hill@crowe.co.uk
Finance Focus – VAT Update May 2025 -
Jamie Mcleod – Director, Customs and International Trade
For any customs, international trade, or CBAM follow-up questions, please contact Jamie Mcleod: Jamie.Mcleod@crowe.co.uk
Customs and International Trade – May 2025 Update -
Nick Rowntree – Director, System 15
For any IT or cyber security queries, please contact Nick Rowntree: n.rowntree@system15.co.uk
Cyber Essentials Presentation – System 15
Video of Presentations below:
System 15 managed IT services 
