Technology & Media

BDO offers expert advice for the dynamic technology sector, addressing challenges like cybersecurity and talent opportunities.

A sector in pole position for innovation

The technology sector is subject to continuous and dynamic evolution, faced with numerous challenges, unique needs and promising trends and opportunities. Companies in this sector have to take the following challenges into account: 

  • rapid technological changes: what is completely new today may be outdated tomorrow. The current pace of technological evolution is scorching. It requires significant investment in research and development and the capacity for tech companies to quickly adapt to these changes. 
  • the growing need for cyber security: due to the growth of digital activities and data storage, cyber security has become an essential factor. Investing in solid security measures to protect data and systems is an absolute necessity.
  • shortage of skilled labour: we see a growing gap between the demand for highly qualified technology professionals and the inflow of new talent into the labour market. Attracting and retaining talent is therefore an ongoing challenge for tech companies. 
There are also numerous challenges in the media sector, including:  
  • the rise of digital media and online platforms that put pressure on traditional media. They have to compete with rapidly changing online trends and revenue models  
  • the spread of fake information on digital and social media platforms that undermine trust in journalism. Media organisations must combat the growth of fake news and disinformation 
  • Harder revenue generation, due to, among others, ad-blockers, declining ad revenues and the dominance of tech giants in the online ad market. 

In the technology sector, we see numerous applications that are structurally changing the industry, including: 

  • the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML will play an increasing role in the technology sector, with applications in areas such as healthcare, transport, banking & insurance and other sectors 
  • the rollout of 5G technology, which will revolutionise connectivity and enable the emergence of new applications such as the Internet of Things (IoT) 
  • the implementation of sustainability measures, including reducing electronic waste, developing energy-efficient technologies and using renewable energy sources
  • the continued rise of e-commerce and digital services: online shopping and digital services is creating unprecedented opportunities for technology companies. This includes a wide range of solutions, from e-commerce platforms to cloud computing and digital payment systems. 

How BDO can help

At the same time, numerous growth opportunities pop up in this sector, which companies can take advantage of by:

  • Investing in research & development (R&D): the technology sector is pre-eminently a capital-intensive industry requiring significant R&D investments to develop new products and services. Fortunately, there is an active venture capital industry where international capital is also in stock. Moreover, the government provides numerous innovation support measures.
  • Adhering to and complying with regulations where possible: proactively dealing with often complex legislation, including GDPR and competition) not only saves a lot of money, but also protects your intellectual property. 
  • Inspiring current and future employees by offering a dynamic workplace and attractive remuneration tailored to the (growth) phase the company is in. 


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Why choose BDO

How does BDO make a difference for entrepreneurs operating in the technology sector?

  • Our BDO team provides valuable guidance to companies in the technology sector by combining a deep understanding of the sector with extensive expertise in business strategy, finance and technology. We assist you in meeting your capital needs, either by assuring your investors as auditors, or through our Corporate Finance department by actively seeking new shareholders and financiers. In addition, our tax specialists are well versed in the world of subsidies and tax incentives which can make a significant difference especially for start-ups and scale-ups. 
  • Our experts will also be happy to help you attract new talents, develop stock option plans and other forms of variable remuneration. The same goes for accounting and tax guidance, the preparation of your ESG reporting, the elaboration or review of financial models and many other operational and strategic matters.    

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