Business and commercial activities are bubbling back in the central business district of Kumasi after the Christmas and New Year festivities. The beginning of each New Year comes with fresh ideas for businesses to introduce products and services to satisfy clients and maximize income. As most commercial ventures strategize for the months ahead, customers expect excellent service delivery, and have value for their money. Analysts expect the financial services industry to be more competitive as banks expand branch networks and improve product portfolio, especially with Ghana’s oil exploration. So what would take the financial service sector to meet the financial needs of businesses, most of which complained of challenges in accessing credit in 2009. Moses Agyemang, Area Manager of UT Financial Services for the Middle and Northern Sectors, told Luv FM businesses with prudent management practices would attract funding. “So long as you are focused on the business that you want to do, you’ve done your financial analysis and you’re okay with your financials, we’ll provide you with timely service,” said Mr. Agyemang. He added that “God’s willing we are going to start drilling oil which is going to create a lot of business opportunities; definitely people will need money and we are confident we have the financial means to help every business that come to us for assistance”. Meanwhile, the 9th edition of the Grand Sales in Kumasi, organized by the Ghana Trades Fair Company failed to meet expectations. About 150 businesses, including foreign exhibitors took part in the 19-day fair and over one hundred thousand people were expected to patronize the annual sales bazaar. But organizers and exhibitors were not enthused at the number of visitors to the pavilions. Officials of the Trade Fair Company say a number of options – including a change in venue – would be considered to make subsequent events more meaningful to exhibitors and patrons. Story by Kofi Adu Domfeh