What is different about SaaS
SaaS companies spend steadily on cloud services and tools, hire engineers and support staff in several countries early, and earn recurring revenue that has to be recognised over time. Investors and boards expect monthly numbers that are clean and consistent.
Software and cloud spend
- Put each vendor on its own virtual card with a limit.
- Review the list of subscriptions monthly and cancel what is unused.
- Watch usage-based bills such as cloud hosting, which can grow unnoticed.
- Match every charge to a team or project.
Hiring globally
An employer of record lets you hire in a country without a local entity, handling payroll, tax and benefits. Contractor platforms suit shorter engagements. As a team grows in one country, a local entity can become cheaper.
Recurring revenue and reporting
Subscription revenue is recognised over the period it covers, not when cash arrives, under standards such as ASC 606 or IFRS 15. Simple setups can manage this in accounting software with a spreadsheet, and larger ones add dedicated tooling. Your accountant can advise on what suits your stage.
Indirect tax on digital services
Selling software across borders can trigger VAT, GST or sales tax obligations in the buyer's country, with thresholds and registration rules that vary. Get advice before you scale into new markets.
Common mistakes
- Letting subscriptions sprawl across personal and shared cards.
- Hiring contractors who are effectively employees.
- Treating cash received as revenue earned.
- Ignoring indirect tax obligations in new markets.
- Having no view of runway until it is short.