More businesses are reporting losses but things may not be quite as bad as the numbers make it seem. 

Inland Revenue data shows one in five businesses aren't turning a profit. 

But ABC Business Sales Managing Director Chris Small says most of those are businesses structured to make a loss, like trusts and property companies. 

He told Mike Hosking the situation he's seeing is far more positive. 

Small says 90% of businesses that are coming to see him are making a profit, with others making a paper loss. 

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