Beyond the Balance Sheet: Research reveals the emotional toll of UK business exits
‘Beyond the Balance Sheet’, a new report from private and commercial bank, Arbuthnot Latham, reveals that over 40% of UK entrepreneurs exit to prioritise wellbeing and family. Current market conditions also play a large role, with 65% selling up sooner than they had wanted due to the fear of tax rises. One in five entrepreneurs said they received offers they “couldn’t refuse”, often resulting in hasty decisions and heightened uncertainty.
Over 52% experience anxiety during the exit period, but this feeling was nearly twice as likely in women compared to men (78% vs 38%). Anxiety levels are likely linked to receiving the right support and guidance, with just 44% of women having access to financial or professional advisers, compared to 63% of men.
Post-exit, many entrepreneurs were found to have experienced a surprising void without the structure and identity provided by their business. Around 70% of respondents redirected their focus to family, 38% said they explored new interests and hobbies, and 31% remained engaged with their business in some capacity.
Throughout the report, one thing was clear: planning ahead significantly eased the transition to life after exit. Among those surveyed, 61% felt completely or mostly prepared for life post-exit. In contrast, the 39% who said they felt only somewhat prepared reported grappling with feelings of aimlessness and uncertainty as they adjusted to the loss of structure and identity their business once provided.
Kevin Barrett, head of private and commercial banking at Arbuthnot Latham, said:“Professional financial advisers were ranked as the most valuable source of support during the exit experience, along with lawyers. This confirms what we already felt strongly about, the need for a human and personal service, focused on supporting entrepreneurs across both their business and personal wealth.
Amid exit preparations, critical elements like family wealth management and long-term financial planning can sometimes be overlooked. By addressing these considerations early, ideally two or more years in advance, entrepreneurs can help secure their financial legacy and ensure a smooth transition to life after exit, with stability and peace of mind.
Entrepreneurs have been, and continue to be, the backbone of the UK’s economic growth and innovation. Their resilience and ambition shape not only our present but our future, and it’s vital that we collectively ensure they are supported beyond the balance sheet —helping them navigate challenges so they can continue driving progress and prosperity.”
Touker Suleyman, CEO/owner Hawes & Curtis, Dragons’ Dens Panel, said: “Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve learned that the most valuable advice is from people who understand the human side of running a business. It’s not just about numbers or strategy; it’s about recognising the personal and emotional aspects of change. Having access to friends and advisers who can empathise with these challenges and provide support are invaluable.”
Ali Ravanshad, founder & CEO of Dandi, said: “Too often, people focus only on the value of a business exit, forgetting the blood, sweat, and sacrifice that went into building it. For founders and teams, it’s more than just a transaction—it’s years of late nights, tough decisions, and moments of joy along the way. And, the emotional side of the journey matters just as much as the financial one. The right advisers don’t just secure the best deal; they understand what it truly means to let go and help you navigate both the numbers and the emotions that come with it.”
This report follows on from our flagship Financial Wellbeing Report published last year, and further strengthens the bank’s conviction that financial peace of mind is about more than just your bank balance.