Sometimes, a loan doesn’t save a company, but it can save the owner from regret. This is the story of how a former client did everything right, still had to shut down, but can sleep at night.

As the year comes to a close, we’re grateful for the trust our clients and partners placed in us throughout a market defined by shifting narratives and uneven outcomes. Our deal flow reflected the reality of the economy: a very strong start to the year, a mid-year slowdown as uncertainty prompted pauses, and a meaningful pickup into year-end as visibility improved and execution needs returned.

Business founders tend to tie their business’s successes and failures to their own self worth. When times get tough, they need an advisor who can help them navigate the messiness of their emotions. These ten tips can help business bankers and financial consultants inspire and connect with clients.