With possible tariffs back in the headlines, many U.S. businesses are bracing for a new wave of economic uncertainty. Costs are rising, demand is softening, and strategic planning is becoming increasingly difficult. But while financial executives can’t control global trade policy, they can take steps to stabilize their operations—and strengthen their bottom line. One of the most overlooked (and immediate) opportunities? Smart, intentional cash management.
At Ampersand, we specialize in helping businesses optimize their deposits to earn competitive rates, strengthen liquidity, and build cash cushions that can support them through volatility. If tariffs become a reality, our team can help ensure your cash is working as hard as it possibly can.
The Tariff Effect: What Businesses Are Facing
Uncertainty around trade policy is already weighing heavily on business confidence. In April, the New York Fed reported a steep decline in manufacturers’ forward-looking indicators—highlighting fears around delayed deliveries, shrinking orders, and a potential pullback in employment. And it’s not just manufacturers feeling the heat. Tariffs have a ripple effect:
- Cost of goods sold is rising. Prices for key inputs like natural gas, steel, copper, and lumber have surged—up over 40% since early 2020.
- Orders and inventory are slowing: Companies across the supply chain are canceling or postponing orders due to uncertainty.
- Forecasting is harder than ever: If you don’t know how much your inputs will cost next quarter, how can you set prices today?
- Liquidity is tightening: As costs rise, so does the pressure on your cash position. Many companies are dipping into reserves faster than expected.
- Financing is harder to secure: Tighter liquidity and economic instability can make banks more hesitant to extend lines of credit.
These are real challenges—but they don’t mean business leaders are powerless.
The Case for Smarter Cash Management
When volatility strikes, one of the smartest plays a business can make is tightening up its treasury strategy. Even if your company isn’t looking to borrow, managing your deposits wisely can generate significant value. A company with $20 million in cash on hand could potentially earn hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest each year—money that can offset increased costs or fund strategic initiatives.
At Ampersand, we work with businesses to:
- Secure great rates on deposits through our network of trusted banking partners
- Structure accounts to maximize interest income, including setting up separate, designated accounts for specific needs
- Ensure funds are fully insured and accessible, even in the event of a bank failure
- Provide clarity into your full cash picture—so you know exactly where your money is, and what it’s earning
The goal isn’t just to squeeze more from your deposits, it’s to build a financial foundation that helps you stay resilient, no matter what’s happening in Washington or around the world.
Why It Matters Now
While there’s no telling exactly how tariff policy will evolve, financial decision-makers don’t have the luxury of waiting. Delayed planning or underperforming deposits can compound risk during already challenging times. With smart strategies in place, your cash can become a key source of strength.
After all, you wouldn’t run a business without an accountant or a legal advisor. Why go without a cash management expert?
Let’s Talk Strategy
Ampersand is here to help you turn cash into a strategic asset—whether you’re navigating tariffs, tightening liquidity, or simply want to make the most of every dollar. If you’re ready to earn more, stress less, and plan smarter, let’s talk.
Get in touch to schedule a consultation with our team of cash management experts.
