Cash Flow Forecasting & Budgeting Tools

These are the specialized categories within Cash Flow Forecasting & Budgeting Tools. Looking for something broader? See all Accounting & Finance Software categories.

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Step 1 of 4
1

Cash Flow Frog

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Agencies and Services Firms

Score
9.8 / 10
1
Cash Flow Frog
9.8 / 10
Cash Flow Frog

Cash Flow Frog is a dedicated cash flow forecasting tool specifically designed for agencies and service firms. It provides simple yet powerful forecasting and scenario planning capabilities, enabling firms to predict cash flow trends and make informed decisions.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Agencies and Services Firms

Expert Take

Cash Flow Frog excels as a cash flow forecasting tool tailored for agencies and service firms, offering robust forecasting and scenario planning features. Its integration capabilities with popular accounting software enhance its utility, while its intuitive interface ensures ease of use. Despite some limitations in the free version, its premium features justify its positioning as a top-tier product in its category.

Pros

  • Seamless QuickBooks & Xero sync
  • Affordable pricing vs competitors
  • Intuitive what-if scenario planning
  • Automated VAT/GST forecasting
  • Multi-entity consolidation support

Cons

  • Limited custom modeling capabilities
  • Inconsistent support response times
  • AI may override manual dates
  • Basic Excel upload functionality
  • Not for complex finance teams

Best for teams that are

  • Small agencies and freelancers needing immediate, simple cash flow visibility
  • Users who want to plan scenarios like hiring without complex spreadsheets
  • Businesses needing VAT/GST forecasting alongside operational cash flow

Skip if

  • Large enterprises or finance teams requiring complex custom financial modeling
  • Businesses needing deep 3-statement financial analysis beyond operational cash flow
  • Users requiring advanced consolidation of many complex entities

Best for teams that are

  • Small agencies and freelancers needing immediate, simple cash flow visibility
  • Users who want to plan scenarios like hiring without complex spreadsheets
  • Businesses needing VAT/GST forecasting alongside operational cash flow

Skip if

  • Large enterprises or finance teams requiring complex custom financial modeling
  • Businesses needing deep 3-statement financial analysis beyond operational cash flow
  • Users requiring advanced consolidation of many complex entities

Pros

  • Seamless QuickBooks & Xero sync
  • Affordable pricing vs competitors
  • Intuitive what-if scenario planning
  • Automated VAT/GST forecasting
  • Multi-entity consolidation support

Cons

  • Limited custom modeling capabilities
  • Inconsistent support response times
  • AI may override manual dates
  • Basic Excel upload functionality
  • Not for complex finance teams

Expert Take

Cash Flow Frog excels as a cash flow forecasting tool tailored for agencies and service firms, offering robust forecasting and scenario planning features. Its integration capabilities with popular accounting software enhance its utility, while its intuitive interface ensures ease of use. Despite some limitations in the free version, its premium features justify its positioning as a top-tier product in its category.

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2

Trovata Cash Forecasting

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Bank Feed Integrations

Score
9.8 / 10
2
Trovata Cash Forecasting
9.8 / 10
Trovata Cash Forecasting

Trovata provides an automated solution for cash forecasting, specifically designed for accounting & finance professionals. It integrates seamlessly with bank feeds, providing real-time data for accurate forecasting, helping firms make informed financial decisions and investments.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Bank Feed Integrations

Expert Take

Trovata Cash Forecasting excels in providing real-time data integration and automated forecasting, making it a top choice for finance professionals. Its user-friendly interface and scalability are well-documented, although pricing transparency and bank compatibility could be improved.

Pros

  • Real-time cash visibility via direct bank APIs
  • Automated forecasting using Machine Learning
  • Generative AI for natural language queries
  • Backed by major banks (J.P. Morgan, Wells Fargo)
  • Fast implementation measured in weeks, not months

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for initial tagging setup
  • Limited search functionality for specific amounts
  • Reporting customization can be rigid
  • Occasional connectivity issues with specific banks
  • No free tier for enterprise features

Best for teams that are

  • Enterprise organizations managing complex, multi-bank treasury operations with 20+ banks [cite: 4].
  • Mid-market to large companies needing automated cash visibility without legacy IT [cite: 7].

Skip if

  • Small businesses or startups with simple banking needs and limited accounts [cite: 4, 7].
  • Companies seeking a full TMS with out-of-the-box payments execution and hedging [cite: 7].

Best for teams that are

  • Enterprise organizations managing complex, multi-bank treasury operations with 20+ banks [cite: 4].
  • Mid-market to large companies needing automated cash visibility without legacy IT [cite: 7].

Skip if

  • Small businesses or startups with simple banking needs and limited accounts [cite: 4, 7].
  • Companies seeking a full TMS with out-of-the-box payments execution and hedging [cite: 7].

Pros

  • Real-time cash visibility via direct bank APIs
  • Automated forecasting using Machine Learning
  • Generative AI for natural language queries
  • Backed by major banks (J.P. Morgan, Wells Fargo)
  • Fast implementation measured in weeks, not months

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for initial tagging setup
  • Limited search functionality for specific amounts
  • Reporting customization can be rigid
  • Occasional connectivity issues with specific banks
  • No free tier for enterprise features

Expert Take

Trovata Cash Forecasting excels in providing real-time data integration and automated forecasting, making it a top choice for finance professionals. Its user-friendly interface and scalability are well-documented, although pricing transparency and bank compatibility could be improved.

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3

FE CashCalc

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Scenario and What-If Modeling

Score
9.8 / 10
3
FE CashCalc
9.8 / 10
FE CashCalc

FE CashCalc is a powerful tool for financial advisors, providing granular cashflow planning capabilities. The software's deterministic, stochastic, and gross cashflow modelling, as well as market simulations, empower advisors to prepare clients for various 'what if' scenarios, addressing industry-specific needs for detailed financial forecasting and risk evaluation.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Scenario and What-If Modeling

Expert Take

FE CashCalc excels in providing detailed cashflow modeling and scenario analysis tailored for financial advisors. Its market simulation capabilities and industry-specific focus make it a top choice in cash flow forecasting tools. However, the lack of transparent pricing and potential training requirements are minor tradeoffs.

Pros

  • Market leader with ~45% share among advisers
  • Transparent pricing (£75/mo) with free paraplanner license
  • Includes 25+ specific financial calculators
  • Highly intuitive interface with visual client reports
  • Deep integration with FE Analytics for investment data

Cons

  • Less granular actuarial modelling than Voyant
  • Holdings data import limited to specific integrations
  • Historical perception of simpler tax modelling capabilities
  • Web-based focus may lack some offline desktop power

Best for teams that are

  • UK financial advisers needing to comply with Consumer Duty outcomes.
  • Advisers wanting to visually map client retirement and risk scenarios.

Skip if

  • Corporate finance teams doing internal business cash flow forecasting.
  • Non-UK financial advisors lacking FCA compliance needs.

Best for teams that are

  • UK financial advisers needing to comply with Consumer Duty outcomes.
  • Advisers wanting to visually map client retirement and risk scenarios.

Skip if

  • Corporate finance teams doing internal business cash flow forecasting.
  • Non-UK financial advisors lacking FCA compliance needs.

Pros

  • Market leader with ~45% share among advisers
  • Transparent pricing (£75/mo) with free paraplanner license
  • Includes 25+ specific financial calculators
  • Highly intuitive interface with visual client reports
  • Deep integration with FE Analytics for investment data

Cons

  • Less granular actuarial modelling than Voyant
  • Holdings data import limited to specific integrations
  • Historical perception of simpler tax modelling capabilities
  • Web-based focus may lack some offline desktop power

Expert Take

FE CashCalc excels in providing detailed cashflow modeling and scenario analysis tailored for financial advisors. Its market simulation capabilities and industry-specific focus make it a top choice in cash flow forecasting tools. However, the lack of transparent pricing and potential training requirements are minor tradeoffs.

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4

CCH Tagetik Cash Flow Planning

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Agencies and Services Firms

Score
9.8 / 10
4
CCH Tagetik Cash Flow Planning
9.8 / 10
CCH Tagetik Cash Flow Planning

CCH Tagetik is a robust cash flow forecasting tool designed specifically for agencies and service firms. It provides real-time analysis of the impact of business changes on cash flow forecasts, enhancing visibility into net financial positions and facilitating informed decision-making.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Agencies and Services Firms

Expert Take

CCH Tagetik Cash Flow Planning is recognized for its specialized capabilities in cash flow forecasting for agencies and service firms. It offers real-time analysis and insights into financial positions, which are crucial for informed decision-making. Despite its complexity for beginners, it remains a top choice due to its tailored features and enterprise-level capabilities.

Pros

  • Automated double-entry cash flow logic
  • Native SAP HANA integration
  • AirCyber Gold security certification
  • Strong Excel add-in for users
  • Handles complex multi-GAAP consolidation

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for admins
  • High implementation cost & complexity
  • Performance lags with massive data
  • Requires specialized consultants
  • Opaque enterprise pricing model

Best for teams that are

  • Large enterprises requiring complex financial consolidation and regulatory reporting
  • CFO offices needing a unified platform for CPM, ESG, and detailed cash planning
  • Companies needing to comply with complex standards like IFRS and GAAP

Skip if

  • Small to mid-sized businesses with straightforward forecasting needs
  • Teams without dedicated finance resources to manage a complex CPM platform
  • Users looking for a quick-setup tool for operational cash flow

Best for teams that are

  • Large enterprises requiring complex financial consolidation and regulatory reporting
  • CFO offices needing a unified platform for CPM, ESG, and detailed cash planning
  • Companies needing to comply with complex standards like IFRS and GAAP

Skip if

  • Small to mid-sized businesses with straightforward forecasting needs
  • Teams without dedicated finance resources to manage a complex CPM platform
  • Users looking for a quick-setup tool for operational cash flow

Pros

  • Automated double-entry cash flow logic
  • Native SAP HANA integration
  • AirCyber Gold security certification
  • Strong Excel add-in for users
  • Handles complex multi-GAAP consolidation

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for admins
  • High implementation cost & complexity
  • Performance lags with massive data
  • Requires specialized consultants
  • Opaque enterprise pricing model

Expert Take

CCH Tagetik Cash Flow Planning is recognized for its specialized capabilities in cash flow forecasting for agencies and service firms. It offers real-time analysis and insights into financial positions, which are crucial for informed decision-making. Despite its complexity for beginners, it remains a top choice due to its tailored features and enterprise-level capabilities.

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5

Mercury Ecommerce Forecast Model

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for E-Commerce and Inventory Businesses

Score
9.7 / 10
5
Mercury Ecommerce Forecast Model
9.7 / 10
Mercury Ecommerce Forecast Model

Designed to provide ecommerce and inventory businesses with structured financial forecasting, this SaaS solution allows you to project your business performance over time. Its ability to base projections on a variety of inputs and assumptions makes it an essential tool for businesses in this industry, allowing for more accurate planning and decision making.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for E-Commerce and Inventory Businesses

Expert Take

Mercury Ecommerce Forecast Model excels in providing tailored financial forecasting for ecommerce businesses, with strong capabilities and usability. Its market credibility is supported by its specific focus on ecommerce, although it requires financial understanding. The product's free availability enhances its value proposition.

Pros

  • Free professional-grade 3-statement model
  • Includes cohort-based retention analysis
  • Links inventory planning to cash flow
  • Built by Mercury's VP of Finance
  • Customizable Google Sheets format

Cons

  • Requires manual data entry and updates
  • No automated sync with live data
  • Spreadsheet format prone to user error
  • Lacks advanced audit trails
  • Not suitable for complex enterprise needs

Best for teams that are

  • Early-stage founders needing a free, flexible spreadsheet template
  • Startups fundraising and needing to understand key drivers manually
  • Teams comfortable with Excel/Google Sheets customization

Skip if

  • Established businesses needing automated real-time bank sync
  • Teams wanting a "set it and forget it" software solution
  • Large enterprises with complex multi-entity consolidation needs

Best for teams that are

  • Early-stage founders needing a free, flexible spreadsheet template
  • Startups fundraising and needing to understand key drivers manually
  • Teams comfortable with Excel/Google Sheets customization

Skip if

  • Established businesses needing automated real-time bank sync
  • Teams wanting a "set it and forget it" software solution
  • Large enterprises with complex multi-entity consolidation needs

Pros

  • Free professional-grade 3-statement model
  • Includes cohort-based retention analysis
  • Links inventory planning to cash flow
  • Built by Mercury's VP of Finance
  • Customizable Google Sheets format

Cons

  • Requires manual data entry and updates
  • No automated sync with live data
  • Spreadsheet format prone to user error
  • Lacks advanced audit trails
  • Not suitable for complex enterprise needs

Expert Take

Mercury Ecommerce Forecast Model excels in providing tailored financial forecasting for ecommerce businesses, with strong capabilities and usability. Its market credibility is supported by its specific focus on ecommerce, although it requires financial understanding. The product's free availability enhances its value proposition.

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6

Agicap Cash Flow Management

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Bank Feed Integrations

Score
9.7 / 10
6
Agicap Cash Flow Management
9.7 / 10
Agicap Cash Flow Management

Designed specifically for businesses seeking efficient cash flow management, Agicap offers a robust solution. It enables real-time cash flow tracking, invoice management, and account receivables follow-ups, addressing key financial management needs in the industry.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Bank Feed Integrations

Expert Take

Agicap Cash Flow Management excels in providing real-time cash flow tracking and automated financial forecasting, making it a top choice for businesses. Its integration with bank feeds and ease of use further enhance its value, despite some limitations in personalization and support availability.

Pros

  • Real-time cash flow visibility
  • Automated 13-week rolling forecasts
  • Multi-entity consolidation features
  • Integrates with 5,000+ banks
  • Intuitive and visual dashboard

Cons

  • Expensive for small businesses
  • No public pricing transparency
  • Initial setup can be slow
  • Bank sync occasionally disconnects
  • Categorization needs manual training

Best for teams that are

  • Mid-sized companies (SMEs) with 50+ employees seeking precise cash forecasting [cite: 14, 15].
  • Finance teams in retail, manufacturing, and services needing entity consolidation [cite: 14, 16].

Skip if

  • Very small startups where enterprise pricing and complex onboarding are overkill [cite: 15, 17].
  • Freelancers or sole traders needing only basic invoicing without complex forecasting [cite: 17].

Best for teams that are

  • Mid-sized companies (SMEs) with 50+ employees seeking precise cash forecasting [cite: 14, 15].
  • Finance teams in retail, manufacturing, and services needing entity consolidation [cite: 14, 16].

Skip if

  • Very small startups where enterprise pricing and complex onboarding are overkill [cite: 15, 17].
  • Freelancers or sole traders needing only basic invoicing without complex forecasting [cite: 17].

Pros

  • Real-time cash flow visibility
  • Automated 13-week rolling forecasts
  • Multi-entity consolidation features
  • Integrates with 5,000+ banks
  • Intuitive and visual dashboard

Cons

  • Expensive for small businesses
  • No public pricing transparency
  • Initial setup can be slow
  • Bank sync occasionally disconnects
  • Categorization needs manual training

Expert Take

Agicap Cash Flow Management excels in providing real-time cash flow tracking and automated financial forecasting, making it a top choice for businesses. Its integration with bank feeds and ease of use further enhance its value, despite some limitations in personalization and support availability.

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7

Cash Flow Frog

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Subscription and SaaS Companies

Score
9.7 / 10
7
Cash Flow Frog
9.7 / 10
Cash Flow Frog

Cash Flow Frog is a web-based software solution specifically designed for SaaS businesses that need to streamline their cash flow forecasting. It provides a comprehensive toolset that enables users to effectively manage their financials, increasing predictability and reducing risk.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Subscription and SaaS Companies

Expert Take

Cash Flow Frog excels in providing SaaS-specific cash flow forecasting tools with real-time capabilities and seamless integration with accounting software. Its focus on multi-scenario planning and financial predictability makes it a top choice for subscription-based businesses. While it offers significant value, some limitations in customization and potential cost concerns for small businesses are noted.

Pros

  • Automated real-time forecasting from accounting data
  • Affordable pricing starting at $23/month
  • Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, & Sage
  • Unlimited 'What-If' scenario planning (Pro plan)
  • Customer insights and payment ranking features

Cons

  • Quarterly breakdowns locked to higher-tier plan
  • No documented SOC 2 or ISO certification
  • AI may override manual payment dates
  • Support responsiveness issues reported recently
  • Limited documentation for advanced features

Best for teams that are

  • Small businesses and agencies needing quick cash flow visibility
  • QuickBooks or Xero users wanting simple integration
  • Users wanting to plan for scenarios like hiring or late payments

Skip if

  • Large enterprises or FP&A teams with complex needs
  • Users requiring deep custom modeling or complex formulas
  • Companies needing consolidation across many entities

Best for teams that are

  • Small businesses and agencies needing quick cash flow visibility
  • QuickBooks or Xero users wanting simple integration
  • Users wanting to plan for scenarios like hiring or late payments

Skip if

  • Large enterprises or FP&A teams with complex needs
  • Users requiring deep custom modeling or complex formulas
  • Companies needing consolidation across many entities

Pros

  • Automated real-time forecasting from accounting data
  • Affordable pricing starting at $23/month
  • Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, & Sage
  • Unlimited 'What-If' scenario planning (Pro plan)
  • Customer insights and payment ranking features

Cons

  • Quarterly breakdowns locked to higher-tier plan
  • No documented SOC 2 or ISO certification
  • AI may override manual payment dates
  • Support responsiveness issues reported recently
  • Limited documentation for advanced features

Expert Take

Cash Flow Frog excels in providing SaaS-specific cash flow forecasting tools with real-time capabilities and seamless integration with accounting software. Its focus on multi-scenario planning and financial predictability makes it a top choice for subscription-based businesses. While it offers significant value, some limitations in customization and potential cost concerns for small businesses are noted.

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8

FX

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Bank Feed Integrations

Score
9.7 / 10
8
FX
9.7 / 10
FX

Airwallex offers a digital solution for businesses managing cross-border transactions, connecting to local payment networks in over 120 countries. With transparent FX margins and robust API integrations, it's ideal for high-volume, globally expanding companies.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Bank Feed Integrations

Expert Take

Airwallex transforms complex cross-border banking into a highly streamlined digital experience. By natively connecting to local payment networks in over 120 countries, it bypasses sluggish and expensive traditional SWIFT networks, allowing companies to collect, hold, and disburse foreign currencies exactly like a local business. Its fully transparent FX margins and robust API architecture make it an elite, scalable choice for high-volume, internationally expanding businesses.

Pros

  • Holds and converts over 20 global currencies
  • Transparent 0.4% to 0.5% FX margins
  • Uses local rails to bypass SWIFT fees
  • Well-documented native API for custom integrations

Cons

  • Documented reports of sudden account freezes
  • Unresponsive customer support for complex issues
  • No support for physical cash or check deposits

Best for teams that are

  • Tech-enabled SMEs, startups, and e-commerce platforms scaling internationally [cite: 6, 27].
  • Businesses needing multi-currency accounts, global transfers, and API integration [cite: 28, 29].

Skip if

  • Domestic businesses that handle local transactions and lack cross-border needs [cite: 29].
  • Businesses wanting traditional bank relationship-manager models over self-service tools [cite: 6].

Best for teams that are

  • Tech-enabled SMEs, startups, and e-commerce platforms scaling internationally [cite: 6, 27].
  • Businesses needing multi-currency accounts, global transfers, and API integration [cite: 28, 29].

Skip if

  • Domestic businesses that handle local transactions and lack cross-border needs [cite: 29].
  • Businesses wanting traditional bank relationship-manager models over self-service tools [cite: 6].

Pros

  • Holds and converts over 20 global currencies
  • Transparent 0.4% to 0.5% FX margins
  • Uses local rails to bypass SWIFT fees
  • Well-documented native API for custom integrations

Cons

  • Documented reports of sudden account freezes
  • Unresponsive customer support for complex issues
  • No support for physical cash or check deposits

Expert Take

Airwallex transforms complex cross-border banking into a highly streamlined digital experience. By natively connecting to local payment networks in over 120 countries, it bypasses sluggish and expensive traditional SWIFT networks, allowing companies to collect, hold, and disburse foreign currencies exactly like a local business. Its fully transparent FX margins and robust API architecture make it an elite, scalable choice for high-volume, internationally expanding businesses.

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9

LivePlan

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Scenario and What-If Modeling

Score
9.7 / 10
9
LivePlan
9.7 / 10
LivePlan

LivePlan simplifies business planning for entrepreneurs and small business owners with AI-powered writing assistance and over 550 sample plans. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks Online and Xero, providing real-time financial insights by comparing forecasts to actual data.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Scenario and What-If Modeling

Expert Take

LivePlan transforms the daunting task of business planning into an accessible, guided experience. We love how it blends an AI-powered writing assistant with over 550 real-world sample plans, effectively eliminating writer's block. Its standout feature is the seamless integration with QuickBooks Online and Xero, which turns a static business plan into a dynamic financial dashboard by comparing forecasts against actual accounting data in real time.

Pros

  • Integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and Xero
  • Over 550 free sample business plans included
  • Step-by-step guidance for beginners
  • AI-powered writing assistant prevents writer's block

Cons

  • Rigid formatting and limited export customization
  • No free trial or free tier available
  • Only one user can edit at a time

Best for teams that are

  • Early-stage startups and entrepreneurs writing their first business plan.
  • Small business owners pitching for bank loans or investment.
  • Founders wanting step-by-step guidance without complex spreadsheets.

Skip if

  • Mid-market or enterprise companies needing advanced continuous FP&A.
  • Established corporate finance teams requiring complex models.

Best for teams that are

  • Early-stage startups and entrepreneurs writing their first business plan.
  • Small business owners pitching for bank loans or investment.
  • Founders wanting step-by-step guidance without complex spreadsheets.

Skip if

  • Mid-market or enterprise companies needing advanced continuous FP&A.
  • Established corporate finance teams requiring complex models.

Pros

  • Integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and Xero
  • Over 550 free sample business plans included
  • Step-by-step guidance for beginners
  • AI-powered writing assistant prevents writer's block

Cons

  • Rigid formatting and limited export customization
  • No free trial or free tier available
  • Only one user can edit at a time

Expert Take

LivePlan transforms the daunting task of business planning into an accessible, guided experience. We love how it blends an AI-powered writing assistant with over 550 real-world sample plans, effectively eliminating writer's block. Its standout feature is the seamless integration with QuickBooks Online and Xero, which turns a static business plan into a dynamic financial dashboard by comparing forecasts against actual accounting data in real time.

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10

Mosaic Cash Flow Forecasting

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Scenario and What-If Modeling

Score
9.7 / 10
10
Mosaic Cash Flow Forecasting
9.7 / 10
Mosaic Cash Flow Forecasting

Mosaic is a robust cash flow forecasting software solution tailored for professionals in finance and accounting. Through real-time data, KPI tracking, flexible drivers, and connected 3-statement models, it precisely addresses the need for accurate financial forecasting and scenario modeling in the industry.

Best for Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Scenario and What-If Modeling

Expert Take

Mosaic Cash Flow Forecasting excels in providing real-time data access and flexible financial modeling, crucial for finance professionals. It is recognized for its robust scenario and 'What-If' modeling capabilities, making it a top choice for complex financial forecasting. However, its enterprise pricing model and complexity may limit its appeal to smaller businesses.

Pros

  • Real-time consolidation of ERP, CRM, and HRIS data
  • Arc AI automates analysis and reporting workflows
  • Pre-built library of SaaS metrics and KPIs
  • SOC 2 Type II compliant security
  • Highly responsive customer support team

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Limited customization of visual charts
  • No transparent public pricing
  • High starting price for small teams
  • No mobile application available

Best for teams that are

  • High-growth B2B SaaS and tech startups focused on recurring revenue.
  • Small to mid-sized finance teams wanting pre-built dashboards.

Skip if

  • Traditional non-tech enterprises or legacy companies.
  • Large enterprises needing highly customized bespoke ERP setups.

Best for teams that are

  • High-growth B2B SaaS and tech startups focused on recurring revenue.
  • Small to mid-sized finance teams wanting pre-built dashboards.

Skip if

  • Traditional non-tech enterprises or legacy companies.
  • Large enterprises needing highly customized bespoke ERP setups.

Pros

  • Real-time consolidation of ERP, CRM, and HRIS data
  • Arc AI automates analysis and reporting workflows
  • Pre-built library of SaaS metrics and KPIs
  • SOC 2 Type II compliant security
  • Highly responsive customer support team

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Limited customization of visual charts
  • No transparent public pricing
  • High starting price for small teams
  • No mobile application available

Expert Take

Mosaic Cash Flow Forecasting excels in providing real-time data access and flexible financial modeling, crucial for finance professionals. It is recognized for its robust scenario and 'What-If' modeling capabilities, making it a top choice for complex financial forecasting. However, its enterprise pricing model and complexity may limit its appeal to smaller businesses.

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Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Agencies and Services Firms Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Agencies and Services Firms Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for E-Commerce and Inventory Businesses Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for E-Commerce and Inventory Businesses Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Subscription and SaaS Companies Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Subscription and SaaS Companies Cash Flow Forecasting Tools Integrated with Accounting Software Cash Flow Forecasting Tools Integrated with Accounting Software Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Bank Feed Integrations Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Bank Feed Integrations Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Scenario and What-If Modeling Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Scenario and What-If Modeling

How We Rank Products

Our Evaluation Process

Products in the Cash Flow Forecasting & Budgeting Tools category are evaluated based on documented features such as integration capabilities, scalability, and compliance with industry standards. Pricing transparency is analyzed to ensure buyers understand the cost structure. Compatibility with existing financial systems is crucial, along with the ability to integrate seamlessly with other software. Third-party customer feedback is also considered to gauge user satisfaction and reliability of the tools.

Verification

  • Products evaluated through comprehensive research and analysis of financial forecasting accuracy and user satisfaction.
  • Rankings based on analysis of features, customer feedback, and expert reviews in cash flow forecasting and budgeting tools.
  • Selection criteria focus on key functionalities, ease of use, and overall value for effective budget management and cash flow planning.
How We Evaluate Products

Score Breakdown

0.0 / 10

About Cash Flow Forecasting & Budgeting Tools

What Are Cash Flow Forecasting & Budgeting Tools?

Cash Flow Forecasting and Budgeting Tools are specialized software solutions designed to predict a company’s future financial liquidity by analyzing historical data, current operational metrics, and forward-looking assumptions. Unlike standard accounting software, which records what has happened (historical record keeping), this category focuses entirely on what will happen. These tools bridge the critical gap between accrual-based accounting (profitability) and cash-based reality (solvency).

This category covers software used to manage liquidity planning and financial scenario analysis across three distinct horizons: short-term treasury management (daily/weekly), mid-term operational budgeting (quarterly/annual), and long-term strategic modeling (multi-year). It sits distinctly between the ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), which houses the system of record, and the TMS (Treasury Management System), which executes banking transactions. While ERPs provide the raw ledger data and TMS platforms handle the mechanics of payments, Cash Flow Forecasting & Budgeting tools provide the intelligence layer—aggregating disparate data sources to answer the existential question: "Will we have enough cash to operate next month?"

The category includes both general-purpose platforms suitable for mid-market businesses and vertical-specific tools built for complex industries like manufacturing, retail, and SaaS. It encompasses functionality for direct forecasting (receipts and disbursements method), indirect forecasting (balance sheet method), variance analysis, and "what-if" scenario planning. For modern finance teams, these tools act as the central nervous system for capital allocation, replacing fragile, error-prone spreadsheet models with automated, data-driven insights.

History of the Category

The evolution of cash flow forecasting tools tracks the broader shift in the office of the CFO from a back-office reporting function to a strategic navigation role. In the 1990s, the "tool" of choice was almost exclusively the spreadsheet—specifically, Microsoft Excel (and Lotus 1-2-3 before it). ERP systems like SAP and Oracle existed, but they were rigid, on-premise monoliths designed for retrospective reporting, not prospective modeling. The gap between the rigid ERP and the need for flexible modeling created a "Shadow IT" ecosystem where billions of dollars in corporate liquidity were managed in offline, unconnected spreadsheets.

The early 2000s saw the rise of dedicated Corporate Performance Management (CPM) software, with vendors like Hyperion (acquired by Oracle in 2007) and Cognos (acquired by IBM in 2008) attempting to systematize budgeting. However, these tools were often expensive, on-premise solutions reserved for the Fortune 500. They required heavy IT involvement to maintain and offered little agility for mid-market finance leaders.

The true democratization of this category began in the 2010s with the explosion of cloud computing and the API economy. The shift from on-premise to SaaS allowed vendors to bypass the heavy implementation tax of legacy systems. Tools emerged that could connect directly to cloud accounting platforms like Xero, QuickBooks Online, and NetSuite via APIs, enabling the first wave of "automated" forecasting. This era shifted buyer expectations from "give me a database I can query" to "give me a forecast that updates itself."

By the early 2020s, the market consolidated around the need for "Connected Finance." The lines between forecasting, budgeting, and treasury management began to blur. Major acquisitions, such as Coupa buying Anaplan or Roper Technologies acquiring various niche players, signaled a maturity in the market. Today, we are in the era of "Actionable Intelligence," where buyers demand not just a forecast, but AI-driven insights that identify anomalies, predict payment delays, and suggest capital allocation strategies automatically [1].

What to Look For

When evaluating Cash Flow Forecasting & Budgeting Tools, precision and integration capability are paramount. The market is flooded with tools that are essentially pretty skins over basic spreadsheet logic; true enterprise-grade solutions offer distinct architectural advantages.

Critical Evaluation Criteria:

  • Forecasting Methodology Support: Does the tool support both Direct (receipts/disbursements) and Indirect (P&L/Balance Sheet) forecasting methods? Direct is essential for short-term (13-week) liquidity, while Indirect is necessary for long-term strategic planning. A robust tool must handle both simultaneously.
  • Data Hygiene and Normalization: The tool must not just import data but clean it. Look for features that automatically categorize uncategorized bank transactions and normalize vendor names (e.g., mapping "Amzn Mktp" and "Amazon Web Svcs" to distinct budget lines).
  • Scenario Modeling Velocity: How fast can you spin up a new scenario? In a volatile market, you need to test "what if revenue drops 20%" in seconds, not hours. Look for "driver-based" modeling where changing one variable (e.g., headcount) automatically cascades through the P&L and Cash Flow.

Red Flags and Warning Signs:

  • The "CSV Upload" Dependency: If the vendor claims to automate forecasting but relies heavily on you uploading CSV files from your bank or ERP, run. Real-time API connectivity (PSD2/Open Banking standards) is the baseline requirement in 2025.
  • Black Box AI: Be wary of tools that promise "AI forecasting" but cannot explain why a number was projected. If the system predicts a cash shortfall, you need to be able to trace the logic back to specific invoices or historical trends. Unexplainable AI is a liability in finance.

Key Questions to Ask Vendors:

  • "How does your system handle partial payments and unapplied cash in the forecasting logic?" (This tests their depth of integration with Accounts Receivable).
  • "Can I lock a specific forecast version and variance-test it against actuals automatically next month?" (This tests their variance analysis capabilities).
  • "Show me how the tool handles multi-currency consolidation and the impact of FX rate fluctuations on my cash position." (Critical for international operations).

Industry-Specific Use Cases

Retail & E-commerce

For Retail and E-commerce businesses, cash flow is inextricably linked to inventory turnover and seasonality. The primary evaluation priority here is the tool's ability to integrate with inventory management systems (IMS) alongside the ERP. A forecast that ignores purchase orders (POs) and inventory lead times is useless in this sector. Retailers face the "working capital trap" where cash must be deployed months in advance for holiday inventory, creating a massive liquidity valley before the Q4 revenue spike.

Evaluation should focus on tools that can model SKUs or category-level performance against cash outlays. Specifically, the tool must handle high-volume transaction data from payment gateways (Stripe, PayPal, Shopify Payments) which often batch settlements. The software needs to disentangle gross sales from net cash deposits (after fees and returns) to give an accurate picture of liquidity. As noted in industry analysis, managing the timing gap between inventory outlays and sales receipts is the single biggest cause of retail failure [2].

Healthcare

Healthcare providers operate in a unique financial environment defined by the "Revenue Cycle"—the complex delay between providing a service and receiving payment from insurance payers. The critical challenge is Day Sales Outstanding (DSO) and the unpredictability of claim denials. Generic forecasting tools fail here because they assume an invoice sent is an invoice paid. Healthcare-specific tools or highly configurable platforms must allow for "payer-based" forecasting logic.

Buyers in healthcare should look for tools that allow them to apply different realization rates and payment lag times by payer type (e.g., Medicare vs. Private Insurance vs. Self-Pay). The tool needs to ingest data from the Electronic Health Record (EHR) or Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) system, not just the bank feed. Forecasting here is about risk management: "What if Medicare reimbursement gets delayed by 15 days?" The ability to model reimbursement rates and denial percentages is the difference between solvency and restructuring [3].

Financial Services

For Financial Services firms (lenders, asset managers, fintechs), cash flow forecasting is largely a regulatory and compliance exercise. The focus shifts from "operating cash flow" to "liquidity coverage." These organizations need tools that can calculate and forecast regulatory ratios (like LCR) in real-time. The complexity lies in treasury management and inter-company funding rather than simple AR/AP timing.

The evaluation priority is security and data lineage. Financial institutions are prime targets for data breaches—IBM’s 2024 report notes that the average cost of a data breach in the financial sector is $6.08 million, significantly higher than the global average [4]. Therefore, forecasting tools must meet SOC 2 Type II compliance, support robust encryption, and offer on-premise or private cloud deployment options. The tool must also handle complex instrument modeling, such as interest rate yields and loan portfolio maturation schedules.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing is the most capital-intensive sector, requiring forecasts that bridge the gap between long-term Capital Expenditure (CapEx) planning and short-term supply chain financing. The unique need here is "Project-Based" or "Job-Based" cash forecasting. Manufacturers need to see how a specific production run impacts liquidity, factoring in raw material costs, labor hours, and machine maintenance.

Tools for this sector must integrate with Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems. They need to visualize the "cash conversion cycle" vividly—showing the lag between paying suppliers for raw materials and receiving payment from distributors. Supply chain finance (SCF) plays a huge role; manufacturers often use reverse factoring or dynamic discounting. A capable forecasting tool will allow the Treasurer to model the impact of taking an early payment discount from a supplier versus preserving cash [5].

Professional Services

Agencies, consultancies, and law firms live and die by "billable utilization" and project milestones. Their cash flow is lumpy and dependent on human capital. Unlike retail (selling widgets) or SaaS (subscriptions), Professional Services revenue is often contingent on client acceptance of work. The forecast is therefore highly sensitive to project delays.

Effective tools for this sector must integrate with Professional Services Automation (PSA) or time-tracking software. The forecast needs to be built up from the "resource plan"—if 5 consultants are booked on a project next month, the revenue forecast should update automatically. Evaluation priorities include the ability to model "WIP" (Work In Progress) limits and retainer billing cycles. The "contrarian" need here is looking at pipeline cash flow—weighting the CRM opportunity pipeline by probability to forecast cash 6-12 months out [6].

Subcategory Overview

E-Commerce and Inventory Businesses

This niche requires deep synchronization between stock levels and cash outlays. Unlike general tools that treat "Cost of Goods Sold" as a flat percentage, specialized Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for E-Commerce and Inventory Businesses pull SKU-level data to predict exactly when replenishment orders will hit the bank account. They handle the specific workflow of "landing costs"—factoring in freight, duties, and tariffs that are paid weeks before the inventory arrives. The pain point driving buyers here is the inability of generic tools to account for the massive liquidity drain of inventory buildup prior to peak seasons.

Subscription and SaaS Companies

The forecasting logic for SaaS is inverted: revenue is predictable (subscriptions), but cash collections vary based on billing terms (monthly vs. annual upfront). Our guide to Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Subscription and SaaS Companies highlights how these platforms focus on metrics like MRR (Monthly Recurring Revenue), Churn, and CAC (Customer Acquisition Cost) payback periods. Only these tools handle the "Deferred Revenue" workflow correctly, distinguishing between booked revenue (accounting) and collected cash (operations). General tools often confuse the two, leading to disastrously optimistic cash positions for startups.

Scenario and What-If Modeling

While many tools offer basic "best/worst case" toggles, true Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Scenario and What-If Modeling allow for multivariate analysis using Monte Carlo simulations. They serve CFOs who need to answer complex questions like, "How does a 10% tariff increase combined with a 5% wage hike impact our runway?" These tools allow for "branching" scenarios where users can maintain dozens of parallel futures without breaking the base budget. Buyers flock to this niche when they outgrow the static, linear assumptions of spreadsheets and need dynamic risk assessment.

Agencies and Services Firms

Cash flow in services is driven by people, not products. Specialized Cash Flow Forecasting Tools for Agencies and Services Firms link the forecast directly to resource capacity planning. They handle the specific workflow of "Milestone Billing," where cash is unlocked only after project deliverables are approved. Generic tools fail here because they cannot see that a project is delayed; these niche tools ingest project status updates to push cash receipt dates automatically, solving the pain point of "phantom revenue" appearing in forecasts for work that hasn't been finished.

Bank Feed Integrations

Speed is the differentiator here. Cash Flow Forecasting Tools with Bank Feed Integrations prioritize real-time visibility over complex modeling. They utilize Open Banking APIs (like Plaid or Yodlee) to fetch balances every hour, not every day. The specific workflow they master is "Cash Application"—automatically matching incoming bank transactions to open invoices to update the daily cash position instantly. Buyers move to this niche when they are tired of the "morning ritual" of logging into five different bank portals to update a spreadsheet before the daily treasury meeting.

Integration & API Ecosystem

The "Integration Tax" is the silent killer of ROI in financial software. A forecasting tool is only as good as the data it ingests, and in 2025, that data lives in fragmented silos: ERPs, CRMs, HRIS, and Bank Portals. According to the 2025 MuleSoft Connectivity Benchmark Report, integration challenges cost the average enterprise $6.8 million annually in lost productivity and delays [7]. This statistic underscores that "connectivity" is not a feature—it is the foundation.

Expert Insight: As Mark Johnson, head of presales security at ANS, notes regarding financial APIs: "APIs designed for efficiency and scale can become 'straight-through' conduits into sensitive personally identifiable information if over-privileged... In contemporary financial ecosystems, APIs effectively are the system" [8]. This highlights the fragility of integration; it isn't just about data flow, it's about secure, governed data flow.

Real-World Scenario: Consider a 50-person professional services firm using QuickBooks Online for accounting, Salesforce for sales, and HubSpot for marketing. They purchase a forecasting tool that claims "native integration." However, the integration only pulls finalized invoices from QuickBooks. It fails to pull "Won Opportunities" from Salesforce. Consequently, their cash forecast ignores the $500k in the pipeline expected to close next month. To fix this, the finance manager spends 10 hours a month manually exporting Salesforce reports and pasting them into the tool—breaking the "automation" promise and introducing manual error risk. A properly designed integration would map Salesforce "Stages" to forecast probability, weighting the cash flow automatically.

Security & Compliance

Financial data is the crown jewel of corporate assets, and the forecasting tool houses a roadmap of the company's entire future. Security cannot be an afterthought. The stakes are quantified by IBM’s 2024 Cost of a Data Breach Report, which reveals that the average cost of a data breach in the financial sector has reached $6.08 million, significantly higher than the global average of $4.88 million [4].

Expert Insight: Gartner analyst Daryl Plummer warns that as we move toward AI agents in finance, "In the near-term, security-related attacks of AI agents will be a new threat surface... The implementation of guardrails, security filters, human oversight, or even security observability are not sufficient" [9]. This means buyers must look for "Guardian Agents" and immutable audit logs within their forecasting tools.

Real-World Scenario: A mid-market manufacturing firm implements a cloud forecasting tool. The CFO assumes it is secure. However, the tool allows users to export full "Customer Lists" and "Pricing Models" to CSV without an admin alert. A disgruntled junior analyst downloads the entire 12-month cash forecast and client list before resigning and joining a competitor. Because the tool lacked Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) granular enough to block "Export" capabilities for junior roles, the company suffers a massive competitive leak. A compliant tool would have flagged the bulk download and required 2FA authorization for sensitive data exports.

Pricing Models & TCO

Pricing in this category is often opaque, shifting from user-based licensing to "transaction volume" or "revenue tier" models. The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) extends far beyond the monthly subscription. Gartner research indicates that 60% of infrastructure and operations leaders encounter public cloud cost overruns that negatively impact budgets, a trend that mirrors SaaS software procurement [10].

Expert Insight: As noted by Patrick Quinlan, Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, regarding AI-heavy tools: "It's not just like the per unit cost from a consumption perspective... what then ends up happening is that many organizations consume a lot more than they expect, and then they don't account for the total cost of ownership," specifically citing hidden costs like hiring specialized talent to manage the software [11].

Real-World Scenario: A hypothetical 25-person finance team buys a forecasting platform quoted at $30,000/year ($100/user/month).

  • Base Cost: $30,000.
  • Implementation: The vendor charges 20% of ACV ($6,000) for setup.
  • Connector Fees: The "NetSuite Connector" is an extra $5,000/year.
  • Usage Overage: The plan includes 10,000 transaction syncs/month. The company averages 15,000. The overage fee is $0.10/transaction = $6,000/year.
  • Hidden Labor: The tool is complex; the company hires a part-time FP&A consultant ($150/hr for 10 hrs/month) to maintain the models = $18,000/year.
Actual TCO: $65,000/year—more than double the sticker price. Buyers must calculate the "fully burdened" cost, including the internal hours required to keep the forecast accurate.

Implementation & Change Management

Implementation is where most software projects go to die. The failure rate is staggering: Gartner estimates that by 2027, more than 70% of ERP and major financial system initiatives will fail to fully meet their original business goals [12]. The primary cause is rarely the software itself, but the "people" and "process" components.

Expert Insight: A study by McKinsey on digital transformation reinforces that 70% of transformations fail, largely due to employee resistance and lack of management support. The takeaway is that "transformations are complex, enterprise-wide changes that disrupt how people work" [13].

Real-World Scenario: A 50-person professional services firm rolls out a new cash forecasting tool. The tool requires Project Managers (PMs) to update "Expected Completion Dates" on their projects weekly to generate the cash forecast. The Finance team buys the tool but fails to train the PMs or explain why this data matters. The PMs continue to manage dates in their own spreadsheets. The forecasting tool, fed by stale data from the project management system, predicts a cash surplus. In reality, three major projects are delayed. The firm hires new staff based on the false surplus and runs into a liquidity crunch two months later. The implementation failed not because the API broke, but because the workflow change was ignored.

Vendor Evaluation Criteria

Selecting a vendor is an exercise in risk management. You are not just buying code; you are entering a partnership that will dictate your financial visibility for years. HighRadius data suggests that nearly 90% of treasurers at large companies rate their cash flow forecasting accuracy as "unsatisfactory," often due to poor vendor fit regarding data complexity [14].

Expert Insight: According to Deloitte, companies must undertake a critical assessment of "sophistication and capabilities of internal data teams" before selecting a solution. The "best" tool is useless if it requires a team of data scientists you don't have [15].

Real-World Scenario: A construction company evaluates two vendors. Vendor A is a flashy, VC-backed startup with a beautiful UI but limited history. Vendor B is an established incumbent with a clunkier interface but 15 years of experience in the construction sector. The company chooses Vendor A. Six months later, they realize Vendor A’s generic "project billing" module doesn't handle "AIA billing" (a specific construction invoicing standard requiring retainage calculations). The forecast is consistently wrong by 10% because the software can't model retainage. The company has to rip and replace the system. The lesson: Industry-specific depth often trumps generalist UI polish.

Emerging Trends and Contrarian Take

Emerging Trends (2025-2026): The Rise of Agentic AI

The dominant trend for the next 24 months is the shift from "Generative AI" (which writes text) to "Agentic AI" (which executes tasks). Gartner predicts that by 2028, 33% of enterprise software applications will include agentic AI, up from less than 1% in 2024 [16]. In cash flow forecasting, this means software that doesn't just predict a cash shortfall, but actively initiates a transfer from a line of credit or drafts an email to a late-paying customer for approval. We are moving from "Read-Only" forecasts to "Read-Write" financial autonomy.

Contrarian Take: The Mid-Market Data Delusion

The industry sells the dream that AI is the missing link in forecasting. The contrarian truth is that AI is useless for 90% of mid-market businesses because their underlying data hygiene is atrocious. Most businesses would get a higher ROI from hiring a data clerk to clean up their vendor master files and inconsistent billing codes than they would from buying the most expensive AI forecasting platform. The bottleneck isn't the algorithm; it's the fact that your sales team doesn't update close dates in the CRM. Software vendors profit from selling the "AI magic bullet," but without fixing the human process of data entry, an AI forecast is just an automated hallucination.

Common Mistakes

Overbuying Complexity: Purchasing an enterprise-grade system (like Anaplan or Oracle Hyperion) when a lighter, more agile tool (like Float or Jirav) would suffice. This leads to "shelfware"—software that is paid for but never used because it takes 6 months to configure.

Ignoring the "Cash Culture": Treating forecasting as a "finance team problem." If Sales doesn't understand that accurate pipeline data = accurate cash forecasts, the system will fail. Successful rollouts involve training non-finance stakeholders.

Confusing Profit with Cash: Implementing a budgeting tool that is P&L focused (accrual) and assuming it solves cash flow visibility. It doesn't. Profitable companies go bankrupt every day because they cannot manage working capital timing.

Questions to Ask in a Demo

  • "Can you show me the exact workflow for reconciling a forecast variance? I want to see how I drill down from the 'variance number' to the specific transaction that caused it."
  • "Does your AI model 'learn' from my specific business seasonality, or is it a generic model applied to all customers? How long does it take to train on my data?"
  • "Show me how the system handles a scenario where a major client pays 45 days late. How many clicks does it take to update the forecast?"
  • "What happens to my data if we terminate the contract? Can I export the full historical model, or just the raw flat files?"

Before Signing the Contract

Final Decision Checklist:

  • Data Validation: Have we successfully connected our actual bank feeds and ERP during the trial? Do not sign based on a demo environment.
  • Support SLAs: Does the contract guarantee a response time for critical bugs? If the forecast breaks during board prep week, can you get a human on the phone?
  • Scalability Clause: Negotiate the "overage" costs now. If you grow 20% next year, will the software cost double?

Deal-Breakers to Watch For:

  • Implementation Fees > 50% of Year 1 ACV: High implementation fees suggest the software is brittle and requires heavy customization.
  • No Sandbox Environment: If they don't provide a safe space to test forecast models without breaking production data, walk away.

Closing

Navigating the landscape of cash flow tools requires skepticism and precision. The goal is clarity, not complexity. If you have specific questions about your tech stack or need a sounding board for your evaluation, I’m here to help.

Reach out at albert@whatarethebest.com.