Accounting implications for SMEs: lessons from COVID-19 business recovery

Purpose COVID-19 had a worldwide impact, setting an uncertain economic and financial scenario. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) were disproportionately affected in comparison to larger companies, owing to having fewer resources available. Given the relevance of SMEs to the world economy and their vulnerability during the pandemic period, it is important that business recovery frameworks concentrate on supporting them. The purpose of this paper is for the authors to draw on their analysis to present accounting and strategic considerations required for SMEs to prepare for potential future crisis periods. Design/methodology/approach This commentary reflects on accounting implications and recovery strategies for SMEs around COVID-19. It offers a comparative analysis of previous crises affecting SMEs, academic perspectives on the business strategy response to the pandemic and practical suggestions on how SMEs can overcome the challenge stage. Findings This study highlights that accounting’s role extends beyond the traditional retrospective reporting to prospective accounting readiness that assists SMEs’ recovery and competitiveness. In addition, more accounting research tailored to SMEs is needed to better understand their real-world difficulties during disruptions. Practical implications These insights guide practitioners and regulators interested in addressing accounting issues related to the financial recovery of businesses, in particular SMEs. It also positions accountants as ongoing advisors, complementing compliance with readiness design, thus improving SMEs’ strategic response in times of crisis. Originality/value This study frames business resilience as an accounting-enabled capability, as accounting provides decision-ready information and control systems that underpin timely response and recovery. This study then proposes accounting readiness, a forward-looking approach that links information to action to better prepare SMEs for future black swan events.