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The last big breakthrough in aviation when it comes to boarding your flight came in the early 2000s, with the arrival of eTicketing. But a new proposed overhaul of how you get on planes could shake things up in a much larger way. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a United Nations agency that oversees international airline policy, has revealed plans for a digital travel credential (DTC), which will do away with boarding passes and current check-in procedures and instead rely on technology like facial recognition. (Some 193 countries, including the U.S., are members of the ICAO.) A pilot program testing the DTC has been underway in Finland for almost a year, with approval ratings of higher than 90%. Participating passengers look at a camera and place their passport on a reader device. The ICAO overhaul, though, would see passport data securely stored on passenger smartphones. Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, in 2019, also introduced facial recognition technology for boarding on select flights. France and Mexico also use the technology in some instances. It’s still unclear whether or when we might ditch boarding passes and physical passports in the U.S. Development of a digital travel credential is something that will be optional for each nation. The U.S. Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) did not respond to a Fast Company request for comment about how, when, or if this would be implemented in U.S. airports, though many airports already use facial recognition technology. Boarding: Now versus then The changes proposed by the ICAO would upend the airport experience, however. Today, most passengers must check in with their carrier either online or at the airport, then scan a boarding pass before they enter the plane. It can be a bit slow, especially if you’re running late. Under the new system, passengers would download what’s called a “journey pass” to their phones when they book their flights. This will contain all your booking details and let you move throughout the airport without having to fish out your passport or boarding pass from your pocket. Facial recognition will identify you when you enter the airport and alert the carrier you have arrived. Delta, at its CES keynote in January, hinted at some of these features, showing an imagined travel day for one passenger using the upcoming AI-driven Delta Concierge service, including the use of facial recognition to bypass the check-in process. Hurdles and advances A global rollout of the system is expected to take place over the next two to three years, with full adoption expected by 2028, though it might be later for smaller airports. That timetable might be overly ambitious, however. It would require airports and airlines to radically change their systems. Many airlines silo the various parts of their operations (reservations, for example, are not tied directly with passenger processing at the airport). Transitioning to a DTC system will require airports to make extensive infrastructures upgrades and would require significant investments. Passengers could also have issues with not being able to opt out of facial recognition technology. And facial recognition technology does not have the best track record when it comes to recognizing people of color. The Times, a British daily newspaper, reports the equipment that will be used at airports will only verify information, making sure the passenger’s face matches the passport. Data will not be stored, to lower the chances of a data breach. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) estimates the number of air passengers will double to 8 billion by 2040. The ICAO is attempting to reduce the friction of travel with the new system and is betting DTC can not only increase the accuracy of flight systems, but make those coming crowds easier to navigate. View the full article

10-year yield falls for first time since April 4 as investors scoop up TreasuriesView the full article

Slowdown in high-yield bond market issuance threatens a tentative rebound in dealmakingView the full article

Pop star Katy Perry, journalist Gayle King, and Lauren Sánchez, a former journalist who is Jeff Bezos’s fiancé, were among six women who traveled aboard Blue Origin’s all-female, celebrity-studded, suborbital space mission on Monday morning. This marks the New Shepard’s 11th crewed trip from Blue Origin, the private space company founded by Amazon CEO and billionaire Jeff Bezos. Some critics have called it a publicity stunt for space tourism, or even just an ad for the Amazon founder’s company. King herself expressed some concern about that, telling CBS that she has questioned some of Bezos’s “troubling” decisions. Bezos, who also owns the Washington Post, has been criticized for his allegiance to President Donald The President and for his recent decision to overhaul the Washington Post‘s Opinion page, which critics say undermines the newspaper’s editorial independence. Others question whether the 11-minute ride to the “edge of space,” about 62 miles above sea level past the Kármán line, makes the passengers true astronauts, as the flights are suborbital, meaning they don’t achieve full orbital velocity and the distance is limited. The liftoff took place at 9:30 a.m. ET from Blue Origin’s launch site in Van Horn, Texas. Also aboard: Aisha Bowe, a former NASA rocket scientist; Amanda Nguyen, a bioastronautics research scientist and the first Vietnamese woman to travel to space; and Kerianne Flynn, a film producer. This marks the New Shepard’s 11th crewed trip to space, and the first all-women crew to enter space since Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova’s solo mission in 1963. Women make up only about 15% of all those who have traveled to space. However, despite that effort toward equality, critics have argued space tourism has become a playground for billionaires like Bezos—and rivals Richard Branson, who owns Virgin Galactic, and Elon Musk, who owns SpaceX—that only the ultra-wealthy can afford. And as the New York Times reported, “If the flight proves anything, it is that women are now free to enjoy capitalism’s most decadent spoils alongside the world’s wealthiest men.” It’s also worth noting that critics say space tourism clearly isn’t viable for most of us. While Blue Origin did not publicly release the price of tickets for Monday’s flights, Virgin Galactic has advertised ticket sales for between $250,000 and $450,000, according to CNN. (A Blue Origin spokesman told the news network some passengers flew free of charge.) Fast Company has reached out to Blue Origin for comment on the criticism around space tourism. This isn’t the first time Blue Origin has flown a celebrity to the edge of space: Since 2021, 52 people have boarded its space flights, including Star Trek actor William Shatner. Meanwhile, Blue Origin has also sued SpaceX over billions of dollars in government funding, as some have argued that SpaceX founder Musk is trying to create a monopoly in the private space industry. View the full article

Key Takeaways Understand Clearance Sales: Clearance sales are designed to clear excess inventory, typically featuring significant discounts that appeal to budget-conscious consumers. Identify Seasonal Trends: Be aware that clearance sales often align with seasonal changes and holidays, offering an opportunity to plan purchases and stock levels accordingly. Research Before Shopping: Research local retailers and their clearance offerings to make informed decisions, allowing you to maximize savings on quality products. Timing is Key: Attend clearance sales early and stay informed about when they occur, such as during weekends or holidays, to access the best selection. Inspect Products Thoroughly: Carefully check clearance items for any damage or defects to ensure they meet your needs and avoid disappointments. Maximize Savings with Discounts: Combine clearance prices with additional store promotions, coupons, or loyalty program benefits to significantly enhance your savings. Clearance sales are a treasure trove for savvy shoppers like you. With steep discounts and limited-time offers, you can snag incredible deals on everything from clothing to home goods. But navigating these sales can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for. Understanding Clearance Sales Understanding the dynamics of clearance sales is crucial for small businesses looking to maximize profitability. Clearance sales occur when retailers, including your storefront, aim to clear out excess inventory. These sales typically feature significant discounts on various products, appealing to cost-conscious consumers. You should identify seasonal trends, as clearance sales often coincide with the changing of seasons or holidays. For example, winter clothing clears out in spring, while summer items reduce in fall. Tracking these patterns helps you plan relative stock levels. Consider the potential for building customer loyalty. Participating in clearance sales can draw in new customers who value savings. If they find a great deal, they’re more likely to return for future purchases. Offer exclusive deals that encourage repeat business, enhancing your reputation as a value-oriented retailer. Maximize visibility during clearance periods by promoting sales through various channels. Utilize social media, email newsletters, and in-store signage for effective communication. The more people know about your clearance sales, the more foot traffic and online visits your small business can generate. Benefits of Shopping During Clearance Sales Shopping during clearance sales offers significant advantages for savvy consumers and can enhance the profitability of small businesses. By understanding these benefits, you can maximize savings while supporting local retailers. Saving Money Saving money presents the most enticing benefit of clearance sales. Retailers often discount products by 50% or more, allowing you to purchase quality items at a fraction of their original prices. For small businesses, these sales help clear excess inventory while attracting customers who seek budget-friendly options. By promoting clearance sales effectively, you can boost foot traffic in your storefront and steadily increase sales volume. Finding Unique Items Finding unique items adds an element of excitement to clearance shopping. Clearance sections often showcase items that may not be restocked, meaning you might discover one-of-a-kind products unavailable in standard inventory. These unique finds can set your retail space apart, offering customers distinctive choices that encourage them to explore your storefront more frequently. For small businesses, stocking clearance items with character can create a niche market, enhancing your brand’s appeal. Clearance Sale Tips for Successful Shopping Clearance sales offer significant opportunities for you as a small business owner to attract more customers and clear inventory effectively. Implementing targeted strategies ensures beneficial outcomes when shopping during these sales. Research and Prepare Research local retailers and their clearance offerings before heading out. Check multiple storefronts to compare prices and discounts. Note specific items you aim to purchase and create a price guide based on regular prices. This preparation allows for informed decisions and maximizes savings on quality products you can resell or use in your business. Timing Your Purchases Timing greatly influences your success during clearance sales. Attend sales early to access the best selection, especially during the end-of-season promotions. Observe retailers’ patterns; many clear out inventory on weekends or during holidays. Knowing when sales occur lets you plan purchases strategically, optimizing your chances to snag high-quality items at reduced prices. Inspecting Products Carefully Inspect products meticulously during clearance sales. Look for signs of damage, defects, or missing items, as clearance goods may have imperfections. Assess the quality and functionality to ensure the items meet your business needs. Being thorough prevents unexpected disappointments and promotes thoughtful purchases that enhance your retail offerings. Strategies for Getting the Best Deals Maximizing savings during clearance sales requires strategic approaches that can benefit both you and your small business. Stacking Discounts You can enhance savings by stacking discounts during clearance sales. Look for opportunities to combine clearance prices with store promotions, coupons, or cashback offers. For example, if a clothing item has a 30% clearance discount, check if additional coupons apply. Many retailers allow combining these offers, effectively increasing your savings. Stacking multiple discounts can lead to substantial price reductions, making quality items more accessible for your retail storefront. Utilizing Loyalty Programs Utilizing loyalty programs can significantly boost your savings during clearance sales. Many retailers offer exclusive discounts and early access to sales for loyalty members. By enrolling in these programs, you access deals not available to the general public. Pay attention to rewards points earned on purchases, as these contribute to future savings or free items. This approach helps not only you as a shopper but also enhances your small business’s inventory with quality products at reduced costs. Conclusion Embracing clearance sales can transform your shopping experience and boost your business strategy. By applying the tips mentioned and staying informed about seasonal trends, you can maximize your savings and enhance your inventory. Remember to stack discounts and leverage loyalty programs for even greater benefits. Shopping smart during these sales not only helps you find unique items at unbeatable prices but also supports small businesses in managing their stock effectively. With a little planning and awareness, you’ll make the most of every clearance opportunity that comes your way. Happy shopping! Frequently Asked Questions What are clearance sales? Clearance sales are special promotions that retailers offer to sell off excess inventory or seasonal items at significantly reduced prices. These sales typically feature discounts of 50% or more, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers. How do clearance sales benefit small businesses? Clearance sales help small businesses clear out excess stock while attracting cost-conscious consumers. By running these sales, businesses can improve cash flow, manage inventory effectively, and foster customer loyalty through enticing offers. What should I look for during clearance sales? When shopping clearance sales, focus on high-quality items, well-known brands, and unique finds. Inspect products for any damage or defects and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. How can shoppers maximize savings during clearance sales? Shoppers can maximize savings during clearance sales by stacking discounts, using coupons, or taking advantage of loyalty programs. Additionally, shopping early and researching local retailers can lead to better deals and selection. Are clearance sales worth it? Yes, clearance sales are worth it due to the potential for significant savings and the chance to discover unique items. Shoppers can often find quality products at a fraction of the original price, making them a smart choice for savvy consumers. Image Via Envato This article, "Maximize Savings with These Smart Clearance Sale Tips for Savvy Shoppers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Understand Clearance Sales: Clearance sales are designed to clear excess inventory, typically featuring significant discounts that appeal to budget-conscious consumers. Identify Seasonal Trends: Be aware that clearance sales often align with seasonal changes and holidays, offering an opportunity to plan purchases and stock levels accordingly. Research Before Shopping: Research local retailers and their clearance offerings to make informed decisions, allowing you to maximize savings on quality products. Timing is Key: Attend clearance sales early and stay informed about when they occur, such as during weekends or holidays, to access the best selection. Inspect Products Thoroughly: Carefully check clearance items for any damage or defects to ensure they meet your needs and avoid disappointments. Maximize Savings with Discounts: Combine clearance prices with additional store promotions, coupons, or loyalty program benefits to significantly enhance your savings. Clearance sales are a treasure trove for savvy shoppers like you. With steep discounts and limited-time offers, you can snag incredible deals on everything from clothing to home goods. But navigating these sales can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for. Understanding Clearance Sales Understanding the dynamics of clearance sales is crucial for small businesses looking to maximize profitability. Clearance sales occur when retailers, including your storefront, aim to clear out excess inventory. These sales typically feature significant discounts on various products, appealing to cost-conscious consumers. You should identify seasonal trends, as clearance sales often coincide with the changing of seasons or holidays. For example, winter clothing clears out in spring, while summer items reduce in fall. Tracking these patterns helps you plan relative stock levels. Consider the potential for building customer loyalty. Participating in clearance sales can draw in new customers who value savings. If they find a great deal, they’re more likely to return for future purchases. Offer exclusive deals that encourage repeat business, enhancing your reputation as a value-oriented retailer. Maximize visibility during clearance periods by promoting sales through various channels. Utilize social media, email newsletters, and in-store signage for effective communication. The more people know about your clearance sales, the more foot traffic and online visits your small business can generate. Benefits of Shopping During Clearance Sales Shopping during clearance sales offers significant advantages for savvy consumers and can enhance the profitability of small businesses. By understanding these benefits, you can maximize savings while supporting local retailers. Saving Money Saving money presents the most enticing benefit of clearance sales. Retailers often discount products by 50% or more, allowing you to purchase quality items at a fraction of their original prices. For small businesses, these sales help clear excess inventory while attracting customers who seek budget-friendly options. By promoting clearance sales effectively, you can boost foot traffic in your storefront and steadily increase sales volume. Finding Unique Items Finding unique items adds an element of excitement to clearance shopping. Clearance sections often showcase items that may not be restocked, meaning you might discover one-of-a-kind products unavailable in standard inventory. These unique finds can set your retail space apart, offering customers distinctive choices that encourage them to explore your storefront more frequently. For small businesses, stocking clearance items with character can create a niche market, enhancing your brand’s appeal. Clearance Sale Tips for Successful Shopping Clearance sales offer significant opportunities for you as a small business owner to attract more customers and clear inventory effectively. Implementing targeted strategies ensures beneficial outcomes when shopping during these sales. Research and Prepare Research local retailers and their clearance offerings before heading out. Check multiple storefronts to compare prices and discounts. Note specific items you aim to purchase and create a price guide based on regular prices. This preparation allows for informed decisions and maximizes savings on quality products you can resell or use in your business. Timing Your Purchases Timing greatly influences your success during clearance sales. Attend sales early to access the best selection, especially during the end-of-season promotions. Observe retailers’ patterns; many clear out inventory on weekends or during holidays. Knowing when sales occur lets you plan purchases strategically, optimizing your chances to snag high-quality items at reduced prices. Inspecting Products Carefully Inspect products meticulously during clearance sales. Look for signs of damage, defects, or missing items, as clearance goods may have imperfections. Assess the quality and functionality to ensure the items meet your business needs. Being thorough prevents unexpected disappointments and promotes thoughtful purchases that enhance your retail offerings. Strategies for Getting the Best Deals Maximizing savings during clearance sales requires strategic approaches that can benefit both you and your small business. Stacking Discounts You can enhance savings by stacking discounts during clearance sales. Look for opportunities to combine clearance prices with store promotions, coupons, or cashback offers. For example, if a clothing item has a 30% clearance discount, check if additional coupons apply. Many retailers allow combining these offers, effectively increasing your savings. Stacking multiple discounts can lead to substantial price reductions, making quality items more accessible for your retail storefront. Utilizing Loyalty Programs Utilizing loyalty programs can significantly boost your savings during clearance sales. Many retailers offer exclusive discounts and early access to sales for loyalty members. By enrolling in these programs, you access deals not available to the general public. Pay attention to rewards points earned on purchases, as these contribute to future savings or free items. This approach helps not only you as a shopper but also enhances your small business’s inventory with quality products at reduced costs. Conclusion Embracing clearance sales can transform your shopping experience and boost your business strategy. By applying the tips mentioned and staying informed about seasonal trends, you can maximize your savings and enhance your inventory. Remember to stack discounts and leverage loyalty programs for even greater benefits. Shopping smart during these sales not only helps you find unique items at unbeatable prices but also supports small businesses in managing their stock effectively. With a little planning and awareness, you’ll make the most of every clearance opportunity that comes your way. Happy shopping! Frequently Asked Questions What are clearance sales? Clearance sales are special promotions that retailers offer to sell off excess inventory or seasonal items at significantly reduced prices. These sales typically feature discounts of 50% or more, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers. How do clearance sales benefit small businesses? Clearance sales help small businesses clear out excess stock while attracting cost-conscious consumers. By running these sales, businesses can improve cash flow, manage inventory effectively, and foster customer loyalty through enticing offers. What should I look for during clearance sales? When shopping clearance sales, focus on high-quality items, well-known brands, and unique finds. Inspect products for any damage or defects and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. How can shoppers maximize savings during clearance sales? Shoppers can maximize savings during clearance sales by stacking discounts, using coupons, or taking advantage of loyalty programs. Additionally, shopping early and researching local retailers can lead to better deals and selection. Are clearance sales worth it? Yes, clearance sales are worth it due to the potential for significant savings and the chance to discover unique items. Shoppers can often find quality products at a fraction of the original price, making them a smart choice for savvy consumers. Image Via Envato This article, "Maximize Savings with These Smart Clearance Sale Tips for Savvy Shoppers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

David Die Dejean is passionate about studying tuna. Last year, he landed a dream job at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Miami to pursue his research. By January, he was settled in, had received a good review and loved working with his colleagues, he said. Then in mid-February he received an email to vacate the premises within 90 minutes. He and hundreds of others had been dismissed in job cuts targeting probationary workers as U.S. President Donald The President’s new administration began slashing funding for universities and research bodies. Now Die Dejean is applying for positions in Europe. “I want to work wherever they allow me to do the research,” said the scientist, who studies fish stocks to ensure tuna is being fished sustainably. “I’m eagerly waiting for some of the things that are coming from the European Union…increasing the opportunities for scientists like me to come back,” said Die Dejean, who was born in Spain but has spent most of his career in the U.S. and Australia. The President’s administration says billions of dollars in cuts are needed to curb the federal deficit and bring the U.S. debt under control. His cutbacks on research come amid a broader clash that has seen The President criticise universities as discriminatory for their diversity policies and denounce what he sees as a failure by some institutions to protect Jewish students from antisemitism. The threat to academics’ livelihoods at universities including Yale, Columbia and Johns Hopkins has given Europe’s political leaders hope they could reap an intellectual windfall. A letter, reviewed by Reuters, signed in March by 13 European countries including France, Germany and Spain, urged the EU Commission to move fast to attract academic talent. The European Research Council, an EU body that finances scientific work, told Reuters it would double the relocation budget for funding researchers moving to the EU to 2 million euros ($2.16 million) per applicant. That goes towards covering the cost of moving to a European institution, which may involve setting up a laboratory. In Germany, as part of coalition talks for a new government, conservatives and Social Democrats have drawn up plans to lure up to 1,000 researchers, according to negotiation documents from March seen by Reuters that allude to the upheaval in U.S. higher learning. Reuters spoke to 13 European universities and research institutes that reported seeing an increase in U.S-based employees considering crossing the Atlantic, as well as half a dozen U.S.-based academics pondering a move to Europe. “Regulatory uncertainty, funding cuts, immigration restrictions, and diminished international collaboration create a perfect storm for brain drain,” said Gray McDowell at U.S. digital consultancy firm Capgemini Invent. A White House official said the administration is analysing research grants and prioritizing funding for areas likely to deliver returns for taxpayers “or some sort of meaningful scientific advancement”. The NOAA cuts were designed to avoid compromising its ability to do its duties, the official added. European momentum Pulling in U.S. talent to Europe requires more than good will though. It requires money. For decades, Europe has lagged far behind the U.S. on investment in its seats of higher learning. Total expenditure on research and development in the EU among businesses, governments, universities and private non-profit organizations in 2023 was 381 billion euros ($411 billion), according to the latest figures by Eurostat – the statistical office of the European Union. That same year, total research and experimental development in the U.S. was estimated at $940 billion, according to the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, a federal agency that provides data on the performance of science and engineering in the U.S. And while the U.S’s richest university, Harvard, has an endowment worth $53.2 billion, that of Britain’s wealthiest, Oxford, is only 8.3 billion pounds ($10.74 billion). One academic and an expert in academia said, even with a concerted and substantial effort, Europe would likely need a long time to overturn that spending advantage. “I don’t foresee a rapid build-up of additional scientific capability that could match what the U.S. now has…for several decades”, Michael Oppenheimer, a Professor of Geosciences and International Affairs at Princeton, told Reuters. The White House official said even with the cuts, the U.S. would still account for the most global research funding, adding: “Europe is not going to and cannot fill the void.” Dozens of scientists have taken to social media encouraging peers to stay in the U.S., while others acknowledge a number of drawbacks may deter them from moving. Michael Olesen, director of an infection prevention program for a healthcare system in Washington, D.C., said language barriers were one potential drawback, as were unfamiliar laws and employment practices. Salary is another. “My impression is that I would get paid a lot less as an anaesthesiologist in Europe,” said Holden K. Groves, an Assistant Professor of Anaesthesiology at Columbia University, which received funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). “It’s a huge ordeal to change.” ‘Huge opportunity’ Still, Europe’s political leaders feel the stance of the The President administration has put the wind in their sails. “The American government is currently using brute force against the universities in the USA, so that researchers from America are now contacting Europe,” Germany’s chancellor-in-waiting, Friedrich Merz, said last month. “This is a huge opportunity for us.” John Tuthill, a American neuroscience professor at the University of Washington in Seattle, is assessing his options. He cannot apply for new funding to plan beyond 2027 because grant applications have now been frozen. The lab of 17 people he runs gets about three-quarters of its funding from the NIH, where the The President administration has earmarked major cuts. “Europe is the obvious one, because it is the other hub of biomedical research in the world,” said Tuthill, who is originally from Maine, adding he is weighing up a move with his wife and daughter. Aix Marseille University in France told Reuters it had received interest from 120 researchers at institutions in the U.S., including NASA and Stanford, for a 15-million euro ‘safe space for science’ programme launched on March 7. The initiative aims to attract U.S. staff from fields including health, LGBT+ medicine, epidemiology and climate change. “Our colleagues were frightened…It was our duty to rise to the occasion,” university director Eric Berton said, noting 10 European universities have contacted him about launching similar programs. In the Netherlands, the government wants to establish a fund to attract top foreign scientists and bolster the EU’s ‘strategic autonomy’ aims, Education Minister Eppo Bruins said in a letter to parliament on 20 March. That marks a policy shift as the government had previously announced plans to cut half a billion euros in research and higher education. Eindhoven Tech University President Robert-Jan Smits told Reuters that bringing in U.S. scientists could boost Europe’s technological sovereignty in areas like semiconductors. Belgium’s sister universities Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Université Libre de Bruxelles have launched a scheme encouraging U.S.-based researchers to apply for 36 postdoctoral positions. And the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, which promotes the exchange of top scientists to Germany, plans to increase its programs by about 20 percent. The Grantham Institute at Imperial College London, which specialises in climate change research, is creating at least two more research fellowship posts for early-career climate researchers from the U.S. and has already seen an clear uptick in applications, said its Director of Research, Joeri Rogelj. Sarah Weisberg, a fisheries biologist at the National Marine Fisheries Service, based in Woods Hole Massachusetts, said she was fired in February’s probationary cuts and has since been offered a job in Europe. “I had not ever considered taking [my career] to Europe,” she told Reuters. “Now, I kind of have no choice but to think that way.” ($1 = 0.7754 pounds) ($1 = 0.9264 euros) (This story has been refiled to add the dropped word ‘of’ in paragraph 3) —Olivia Le Poidevin, Kate Abnett and Gloria Dickie, Reuters View the full article

The The President administration's tariffs are having swift and serious consequences on global markets. Companies are pausing sales to the United States, while others are thinking about price increases to compensate for the added tariff fees. Combine that instability with inflation and other financial insecurities, and it's a tough time for economies everywhere. Unfortunately, these increased costs of doing business don't usually end up benefitting the consumer. In fact, quite the opposite: We end up eating the extra cost. Such is the case with the PlayStation 5. Depending on where you live, it's now more expensive than ever—despite being more than four years old. PS5 prices are going upIn a Sunday post on the PlayStation Blog, Sony announced that SIE (Sony Interactive Entertainment) made the decision to bump the MSRP for the PS5 in "select markets." That includes Europe, Middle East and Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. (However, Sony did not specify price increases for its Middle East and Africa markets.) The company did not mention tariffs as part of its reasoning, and, to that point, spared the U.S. from a price increase—as well as the rest of North America. These are not incremental price increases, either. Australia, for example, gets a AUD $100 increase on the Digital Edition PS5, while its standard PS5 is now above AUD $800. I suppose the small silver lining is Sony reduced the price of the Disc Drive accessory in these markets, but I doubt that will come as too much comfort for affected consumers here: Here's what the PS5 now costs in these regions: Europe PS5 Digital Edition: €499.99 (€50 increase) Disc Drive: €79.99 (€40 decrease) UK PS5 Digital Edition: £429.99 (£40 increase) Disc Drive: £69.99 (£30 decrease) Australia PS5 Digital Edition: AUD $749.95 (AUD $100 increase) PS5 with disc drive: AUD $829.95 (AUD $30 increase) Disc Drive: AUD $124.95 (AUD $30 decrease) New Zealand PS5 Digital Edition: NZD $859.95 (NZD $90 increase) PS5 with disc drive: NZD $949.95 (NZD $50 increase) Disc Drive: NZD $135.95 (NZD $30 decrease) Could the U.S. be next?It's definitely possible. The U.S. under the The President administration is roiling global markets with inconsistent and severe tariffs. If Sony finds they're on the hook for importing PS5 units into the U.S., they very well may pass the increased costs onto American consumers. Experts believe the situation could go either way. Christopher Dring of The Game Business thinks Sony won't increase PS5 prices in the U.S. even if they're affected by tariffs. Dring believes Sony wants to "protect" the U.S. market, and, as such, is willing to increase global prices instead. Serkan Toto of Kantan Games thinks the opposite, that Sony will likely raise prices and soon, as the timing is "right." View the full article

Few statements communicate a sentiment more directly than the four words Jack Dorsey, the cofounder of Twitter, posted over the weekend on the platform he no longer controls: “delete all IP law,” was his simple message. delete all IP law — jack (@jack) April 11, 2025 That sentiment was backed by Elon Musk, the current owner of the platform Dorsey founded—since renamed X. And given that big tech appears to be working hand in glove with the U.S. president, and Musk remains a close confidante of Donald The President (despite a few tariff-shaped bumps in the road), their seemingly casual exchange deserves serious attention. “A conversation that in another context, in another time, could have just been seen as casual conversation or irrelevant or interesting and part of the public debate, now inspires realistic regulation and fears about whether it might become policy in a week’s time,” says Carissa Veliz, an AI ethicist at the University of Oxford. The fact that short, snappy tweets making seemingly outlandish claims about dismantling intellectual property rights need to be taken seriously, she adds, says a lot “about how power has changed hands and power relations are working.” Tech companies have already been lobbying hard for changes to copyright laws. In the U.K., the government recently consulted both the public and industry on proposed reforms to longstanding copyright protections—reforms that would require copyright owners to opt out if they don’t want their work to be legally used to train AI systems. Those in the creative industries have responded to this latest proposal with mockery and outrage. “‘Delete’ IP law and you delete one of the main incentives to create at all,” says Ed Newton-Rex, a former executive at Stability AI and now one of the most outspoken critics of big tech’s approach to copyright and AI. Newton-Rex calls the Musk-Dorsey exchange “a ludicrous suggestion, from tech execs who are completely out of touch with working creators.” “It’s not surprising that two businessmen who would stand to gain a lot from the disappearance of IP law support that view,” Veliz points out. But that doesn’t make it a smart idea for the rest of us—nor one supported by people outside the Musk-Dorsey tech bro axis. According to a YouGov survey, four in 10 Americans believe AI should be much more regulated than it currently is, with another three in 10 saying “somewhat more” regulation is needed. Nearly 80% of people worry that AI will diminish human creativity and drive. In the U.K., more than three in four people believe AI companies should pay royalties for using people’s work to train their models—and public skepticism about AI’s creative impact is widespread. “Among the many worries that there are is that if we do away with IP law, we disincentivize creators from creating,” says Veliz. That would make it more likely for AI to train on its own outputs, degrading the quality of its results over time. But beyond that, it risks dismantling more than a century of functioning copyright law just to support a business model that’s already made plenty of money for its founders—revealing where those same tech leaders think individual rights should stand. View the full article

The re-engineering of the convertible note arrangement between the two parties includes a one-time cash payment of $110 million by Better. View the full article

Federal Reserve Board member Christopher Waller said he would not be deterred from classifying inflation as "transitory" despite the board's recent experience underestimating inflationary pressures. View the full article

US president says he is considering ‘something to help car companies’ View the full article

With Tax Day 2025 finally here, many of us are pressed for time to file our returns. You might be wondering, "Hey, what if I just... don't pay my taxes at all?" And you're not alone in this line of thinking. But even if you can't pay right now, you absolutely want to file before the deadline. Fortunately, the IRS offers taxpayers an easy way to get more time: by filing for an extension. Let's take a look at how to properly request an extension, what it means for your tax obligations, and important considerations to avoid penalties. What a tax extension actually gives youLet's start with a critical point: A tax extension grants you additional time to file your tax return, not additional time to pay any taxes you owe. More specifically: You get six more months to complete and submit your tax forms (until Oct. 15, 2025). You still must estimate and pay any taxes due by April 15, 2025. An extension helps you avoid the failure-to-file penalty, which is much more severe than the failure-to-pay penalty. Anyone can request an extension for any reason—whether you're missing documentation, traveling, or simply need more time to organize your finances. You don't need a "good reason" or to submit any explanation. Plus, filing an extension does not increase your chances of being audited. The IRS treats extended returns the same as timely filed returns. How to file for an extensionYou have a few options to secure that six-month extension. Option 1: File Form 4868The official way to request an extension is by submitting IRS Form 4868, "Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return." Download Form 4868 from the IRS website. Complete the form with your personal information. Estimate your total tax liability for 2024. Determine if you owe any remaining tax. Submit the form by April 15, 2025, along with payment for any estimated taxes due. The form is relatively straightforward and requires basic information like your name, address, Social Security number, and estimated tax figures. Option 2: Electronic filingYou can also file for an extension electronically. The IRS Free File program offers an extension here. Commercial tax softwares, like TurboTax and H&R Block, should also have "File an extension” options on their sites. Electronic filing offers confirmation that your extension request was received and processed. Option 3: Payment method as extension requestIf you'll be making a payment, you can get an extension without filing Form 4868. Let's say you make a payment through the IRS Direct Pay system, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), or using your credit/debit card through an approved payment processor. When using these methods, indicate the payment is for an extension, and the IRS will automatically process an extension for your filing. Estimating your tax liabilityThe challenging part of filing an extension is estimating your tax liability when you don't have all your documentation ready. To tackle this, some strategies include: Use last year's return as a baseline, adjusting for major changes in income or deductions. Gather whatever documents you do have (W-2s, 1099s, mortgage interest statements) and make a best-effort calculation. When in doubt, overestimate rather than underestimate (you'll get any overpayment back as a refund). And going forward, I recommend you start using a spreadsheet to track all your tax-related information throughout the year. I've created a basic template to get you started here. The purpose is to create a handy archive of all your tax records in one spot, making it much easier to file on time next year. State tax extensionsMost states grant automatic extensions if you've received a federal extension, but rules vary widely. Key points: Some states require their own extension forms Many states have different deadlines than the federal extension Some states require payment of estimated taxes with the extension request Check with your state's tax agency for specific requirements. Special situationsFiling for an extension typically means an automatic Oct. 15 deadline, except in some specific circumstances. Americans living abroadU.S. citizens living abroad automatically receive a two-month extension until June 15 without filing a formal request. (Filing Form 4868 extends this deadline to Oct. 15.) Military personnel in combat zonesIf you're serving in a combat zone, you receive an automatic extension for both filing and paying for the duration of your service plus 180 days. Disaster victimsThe IRS often provides special extensions for taxpayers affected by federally declared disasters. Check the IRS website for announcements if you've been impacted. What happens if you still miss the extended deadlineIf you obtain an extension but still fail to file by Oct. 15, you're in a tough spot. From here, the failure-to-file penalty starts accruing. That means 5% of unpaid taxes per month, up to 25%. You may lose the ability to make certain elections on your tax return, and you risk losing any unclaimed refund if you wait more than three years to file. The bottom lineFiling an extension is a straightforward process that can save you from significant penalties if you need more time. Remember these key points: File Form 4868 or make an extension-related payment by April 15. Pay your estimated tax liability by April 15 to avoid failure-to-pay penalties. Complete your actual tax return by Oct. 15. An extension gives you breathing room to file an accurate tax return rather than rushing and potentially making costly errors. If you're not ready to file by Tax Day, taking a few minutes now to request an extension is a smart financial move that can save you from much larger penalties down the road. View the full article

The 2025 spring housing market is off to a slower than normal start for homebuilders. That’s what KB Home—a giant homebuilder ranked No. 545 on the Fortune 1000—told investors last month, echoing a similar sentiment shared by the even larger homebuilder Lennar earlier in the month. “Demand at the start of this spring’s selling season was more muted than what we have seen historically, despite a healthy level of traffic in our communities,” wrote Jeffrey Mezger, CEO of KB Home, in their earnings report. “Demand at the start of this spring’s selling season was more muted than what we have seen historically, despite a healthy level of traffic in our communities. In mid-February, we took steps to reposition our communities to offer the most compelling value, and buyers responded favorably to these adjustments.” Below are six big takeaways from KB Home’s earnings. 1. KB Home made bigger affordability adjustments in some Sun Belt markets heading into spring 2025 When and where needed, giant publicly-traded homebuilders are making affordability adjustments to maintain home sales pace. Sometimes that means bigger incentives like mortgage rate buydowns. And other times it means outright price cuts. Given market softness, KB Home had to do just that over the past quarter in some markets. “We thoughtfully and selectively adjusted pricing as needed on a community by community basis to stimulate demand and achieve a higher selling pace,” KB Home Chief Operating Officer Rob McGibney told investors on the company’s recent earnings call. “While base price is the main motivator for our customers, we also provided mortgage related support to our buyers as needed.” McGibney added that: “Consumers responded to these adjustments. We believe we have found the market.” In Q1 2025, KB Home reported an average sales price of $500,700. For the full 2025 fiscal year, the homebuilder told investors it expected its average sales price to fall between $480,000 and $495,000. 2. KB Home is seeing the greatest weakness in Florida On KB Home’s latest earnings call, COO McGibney pointed to Florida as the homebuilder’s softest-performing state in the first quarter—prompting the company to cut net effective home prices to better align with local market conditions. “In broad terms, Florida was our softest state in terms of sales demand in the first quarter,” McGibney said. “Because of that, we took the most pricing action there to find the market.” He noted that most affordability adjustments or price cuts KB Home had to do range from $5,000 to $30,000 per home. However, it “had to do more in Florida to find that market.” Jacksonville, in particular, has been a focal point. McGibney said the metro is sitting at about seven months of housing supply—above the historical norm—driving the builder to make deeper price adjustments. “One positive that we see in that [Jacksonville] market is it [inventory] is [now] getting absorbed. So you’ve got days on market actually down year-over-year despite that higher supply, but it’s likely because pricing has moved [down]. So we’re seeing that [Jacksonville] market react,” McGibney said. McGibney added that the company has also seen weakness in its Orlando and Tampa communities. 3. Las Vegas is KB Home’s “strongest” performer “Our Las Vegas business is one of our largest and strongest performers, having consistently generated the highest gross margins and profitability in the company,” CEO Mezger told investors. 4. Homebuilder profit margin compression continues During the pandemic housing boom, publicly-traded homebuilders achieved record profit margins as home prices soared and buyer demand ran red hot. Once the national housing demand boom fizzled out in the summer of 2022, many large homebuilders made affordability adjustments where and when needed to maintain their sales pace. That created margin compression. In recent quarters, margin compression has continued as homebuilders have turned again to affordability adjustments to move unsold completed inventory, which is on the rise. “Excluding inventory related charges, our housing gross profit margin was 20.3%, above the midpoint of our guidance for Q1 2025,” Bill Hollinger, KB Home Chief Accounting Officer, told investors. “For the year earlier quarter, it was 21.6%. We are forecasting housing gross profit margin for the 2025 Q2 in the range of 19.1% to 19.5% and for the full year [of 2025] in the range of 19.2% to 20%, assuming no inventory related charges.” Hollinger added that: “Our gross margin outlook for both periods reflects lower selling prices than we anticipated in January, reduced operating leverage on lower delivery volume, and the challenging operating environment.” 5. No impact from immigration policy changes—yet So far, neither Lennar or KB Home have seen “immigration policy changes” impact their businesses. “On the labor, I’d say outside of the normal things that we would deal with, outside of any kind of regulatory change or ICE or immigration policy changes, it’s really just been the same,” KB Home COO McGibney told investors. “We’ve seen nothing at all related to immigration. I mean, any kind of normal type labor shortage we might see on a day to day basis in a typical year may still be there, but nothing at all related to immigration policy [changes].” 6. KB Home is keeping an eye on tariffs Both Lennar and KB Home told investors in late March that they weren’t yet seeing impacts from tariffs. “I haven’t seen [impact from tariffs] . . . That may be something that’s coming down the road. We haven’t seen that yet. As to the lumber, we try to diversify on how we lock [in orders]. And we’ll have ninety days, maybe 100 and 120 on the long-term end,” COO McGibney told investors. Note: Since KB Home made these comments, additional tariffs have been announced. ResiClub will continue to monitor homebuilder earnings calls to see if their tune changes this quarter. View the full article

Cross 2025-H3 has moderate leverage, according to KBRA, with a weighted average (WA) loan-to-value ratio of 72.3%, and a debt-to-income ratio of 33.5%. View the full article

Key Takeaways Change as a Catalyst: Embracing change opens up opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally, allowing you to step outside your comfort zone. Recognizing Opportunities: Each shift in your environment can reveal potential for improvement, whether through new strategies, technologies, or operational adjustments. Enhancing Adaptability: Organizational adaptability is crucial for small businesses; recognizing changes leads to improved workflows, management practices, and overall operational efficiency. Successful Real-Life Examples: Case studies show that businesses can thrive by adopting new strategies and technologies, leading to significant growth in sales and customer engagement. Cultivating a Positive Mindset: Encouraging a positive attitude towards change among your team can foster innovation and collaboration, enhancing overall productivity. Effective Change Management: Establishing a clear change management plan and maintaining transparent communication helps navigate transitions smoothly, aligning team efforts towards common goals. Change can feel daunting, but it’s often the catalyst for growth and new opportunities. When faced with change, you have a unique chance to step outside your comfort zone and explore uncharted territories. Embracing change isn’t just about adapting; it’s about recognizing the potential that lies within every shift in your life. Every transition, whether personal or professional, opens doors you might never have considered. By shifting your perspective, you can transform challenges into stepping stones for success. Instead of fearing the unknown, you can harness the power of change to create a brighter future. Let’s dive into how you can turn change into a powerful ally on your journey. Understanding Change Means Opportunity Change brings new possibilities for small businesses. By embracing transformation, you can enhance workflows, optimize management, and improve overall operations. Definition of Change Change refers to any shift within your business environment that affects operations, employee dynamics, or market conditions. This can include altering business strategies, adapting to new technologies, or pivoting service offerings. Recognizing these changes allows you to identify areas requiring adaptation and fosters readiness to embrace innovation. The Concept of Opportunity Opportunity arises within change. When you face a challenge, it often reveals potential for growth. For example, adjusting your marketing strategy may enhance customer acquisition efforts. Adopting new technology solutions can streamline your project management and improve productivity. Viewing change through this lens fosters an agile mindset, enabling effective decision-making and the pursuit of new ventures. The Importance of Embracing Change Embracing change is vital for both personal and organizational growth, unlocking opportunities and enhancing your small business. Personal Growth and Development Change acts as a catalyst for continuous improvement and personal growth. You can develop new skills, overcome challenges, and achieve goals that once seemed unattainable. This aligns with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, emphasizing self-actualization and motivation to reach your full potential. Accepting change enables adaptability. This resilience is crucial for navigating life’s ups and downs, especially when striving for personal and professional growth. Organizational Adaptability Organizational adaptability sets the foundation for success in your small business. Recognizing changes in your business environment allows for enhanced workflow and improved management practices. Implementing technology solutions streamlines business operations, making decision-making more efficient. Fostering an agile mindset empowers your team to view challenges as opportunities. By prioritizing employee development and performance reviews, you strengthen team management and operational efficiency. Ultimately, embracing change cultivates a culture of collaboration and innovation, positioning your business for future growth and success. Real-Life Examples Change presents opportunities for growth, especially for small businesses. By embracing change, you can enhance your business operations, adapt your strategies, and ultimately improve productivity. Case Studies of Successful Change Consider a small retail business that faced declining sales. The owner implemented a new marketing strategy, focusing on social media and online customer engagement. This shift not only improved brand visibility but also increased customer acquisition by 30% within six months. By leveraging technology solutions to streamline inventory management, they reduced excess stock and improved cash flow. Another example involves a local restaurant that adopted a technology solution for online ordering and delivery. This decision led to a 25% increase in sales during peak times, proving that adapting to consumer behavior directly influences business growth. Lessons Learned from Change Key lessons arise from these change initiatives. Prioritizing effective communication fosters teamwork and ensures everyone is aligned with business goals. An agile approach to decision-making allows for quick adaptations when challenges arise, enhancing your ability to manage risks. Indeed, investing in employee training boosts productivity and empowers your team to embrace new processes. Collaborating with your staff during transitions not only mitigates resistance but also enhances performance reviews and overall job satisfaction. By treating change as an opportunity, you cultivate a culture of innovation that drives your business forward. Strategies to Leverage Change for Opportunity Embracing change offers small businesses a pathway to enhanced operations and new possibilities. Implementing strategic methods makes it easier to navigate shifts and capture the benefits of transformation. Developing a Positive Mindset Cultivating a positive mindset toward change can significantly impact your small business. Recognize that change often leads to improved workflows, more robust business models, and enhanced customer service. Encourage your team to view challenges as opportunities for problem-solving and innovation. Share success stories of businesses that have thrived post-change to inspire your staff and promote a culture of adaptability. Focus on employee development by providing training that aligns with new objectives. This approach empowers your workforce, enhances productivity, and ensures alignment with business goals. Implementing Effective Change Management Establishing effective change management practices is essential for small business success during transitions. Begin with a clear change management plan that specifies tasks, timelines, and responsibilities. Engage in transparent communication to explain the reasons for change and expected benefits, ensuring all team members understand how their roles contribute to overall success. Utilize technology solutions to facilitate project management and enhance collaboration among staff. Regular performance reviews can help identify areas for improvement, enabling better delegation and more efficient operations. Address employee concerns promptly to reduce resistance and foster an environment of open dialogue, enhancing the potential for business growth. Conclusion Embracing change opens the door to endless possibilities. By shifting your mindset and viewing challenges as opportunities, you can unlock your potential and drive both personal and professional growth. Whether you’re navigating transitions in your career or adapting your business strategies, remember that change is a powerful ally. It encourages innovation and equips you with the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic environment. Take the leap and explore the opportunities that change presents. You’ll find that every challenge can lead to a brighter, more successful future. Frequently Asked Questions What are the benefits of embracing change? Embracing change can lead to personal and professional growth, opening up new opportunities. It helps individuals develop new skills, overcome challenges, and achieve goals. For businesses, change enhances workflows, improves management, and fosters innovation, positioning them for future success. How can I shift my perspective on change? To shift your perspective on change, focus on the potential benefits rather than the challenges. View transitions as opportunities for growth and learning. Surround yourself with supportive people and share success stories to inspire a positive mindset towards change. How does change impact small businesses specifically? Change in small businesses can improve operations by optimizing workflows and management practices. Adopting new technologies, such as online ordering and social media marketing, can significantly enhance performance and lead to increased sales and customer satisfaction. What strategies can help in managing change effectively? Effective change management includes establishing clear plans, maintaining transparent communication, and engaging employees during transitions. Investing in training and regular performance reviews can help reduce resistance and promote a collaborative culture conducive to growth. Can you provide examples of successful change in small businesses? Yes, examples include a retail business that increased sales by 30% through a social media marketing strategy and a restaurant that boosted sales by 25% after implementing online ordering. These cases highlight the importance of agile decision-making and effective team communication. Image Via Envato This article, "Embracing Change Means Opportunity: Unlocking Potential for Growth and Success" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Change as a Catalyst: Embracing change opens up opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally, allowing you to step outside your comfort zone. Recognizing Opportunities: Each shift in your environment can reveal potential for improvement, whether through new strategies, technologies, or operational adjustments. Enhancing Adaptability: Organizational adaptability is crucial for small businesses; recognizing changes leads to improved workflows, management practices, and overall operational efficiency. Successful Real-Life Examples: Case studies show that businesses can thrive by adopting new strategies and technologies, leading to significant growth in sales and customer engagement. Cultivating a Positive Mindset: Encouraging a positive attitude towards change among your team can foster innovation and collaboration, enhancing overall productivity. Effective Change Management: Establishing a clear change management plan and maintaining transparent communication helps navigate transitions smoothly, aligning team efforts towards common goals. Change can feel daunting, but it’s often the catalyst for growth and new opportunities. When faced with change, you have a unique chance to step outside your comfort zone and explore uncharted territories. Embracing change isn’t just about adapting; it’s about recognizing the potential that lies within every shift in your life. Every transition, whether personal or professional, opens doors you might never have considered. By shifting your perspective, you can transform challenges into stepping stones for success. Instead of fearing the unknown, you can harness the power of change to create a brighter future. Let’s dive into how you can turn change into a powerful ally on your journey. Understanding Change Means Opportunity Change brings new possibilities for small businesses. By embracing transformation, you can enhance workflows, optimize management, and improve overall operations. Definition of Change Change refers to any shift within your business environment that affects operations, employee dynamics, or market conditions. This can include altering business strategies, adapting to new technologies, or pivoting service offerings. Recognizing these changes allows you to identify areas requiring adaptation and fosters readiness to embrace innovation. The Concept of Opportunity Opportunity arises within change. When you face a challenge, it often reveals potential for growth. For example, adjusting your marketing strategy may enhance customer acquisition efforts. Adopting new technology solutions can streamline your project management and improve productivity. Viewing change through this lens fosters an agile mindset, enabling effective decision-making and the pursuit of new ventures. The Importance of Embracing Change Embracing change is vital for both personal and organizational growth, unlocking opportunities and enhancing your small business. Personal Growth and Development Change acts as a catalyst for continuous improvement and personal growth. You can develop new skills, overcome challenges, and achieve goals that once seemed unattainable. This aligns with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, emphasizing self-actualization and motivation to reach your full potential. Accepting change enables adaptability. This resilience is crucial for navigating life’s ups and downs, especially when striving for personal and professional growth. Organizational Adaptability Organizational adaptability sets the foundation for success in your small business. Recognizing changes in your business environment allows for enhanced workflow and improved management practices. Implementing technology solutions streamlines business operations, making decision-making more efficient. Fostering an agile mindset empowers your team to view challenges as opportunities. By prioritizing employee development and performance reviews, you strengthen team management and operational efficiency. Ultimately, embracing change cultivates a culture of collaboration and innovation, positioning your business for future growth and success. Real-Life Examples Change presents opportunities for growth, especially for small businesses. By embracing change, you can enhance your business operations, adapt your strategies, and ultimately improve productivity. Case Studies of Successful Change Consider a small retail business that faced declining sales. The owner implemented a new marketing strategy, focusing on social media and online customer engagement. This shift not only improved brand visibility but also increased customer acquisition by 30% within six months. By leveraging technology solutions to streamline inventory management, they reduced excess stock and improved cash flow. Another example involves a local restaurant that adopted a technology solution for online ordering and delivery. This decision led to a 25% increase in sales during peak times, proving that adapting to consumer behavior directly influences business growth. Lessons Learned from Change Key lessons arise from these change initiatives. Prioritizing effective communication fosters teamwork and ensures everyone is aligned with business goals. An agile approach to decision-making allows for quick adaptations when challenges arise, enhancing your ability to manage risks. Indeed, investing in employee training boosts productivity and empowers your team to embrace new processes. Collaborating with your staff during transitions not only mitigates resistance but also enhances performance reviews and overall job satisfaction. By treating change as an opportunity, you cultivate a culture of innovation that drives your business forward. Strategies to Leverage Change for Opportunity Embracing change offers small businesses a pathway to enhanced operations and new possibilities. Implementing strategic methods makes it easier to navigate shifts and capture the benefits of transformation. Developing a Positive Mindset Cultivating a positive mindset toward change can significantly impact your small business. Recognize that change often leads to improved workflows, more robust business models, and enhanced customer service. Encourage your team to view challenges as opportunities for problem-solving and innovation. Share success stories of businesses that have thrived post-change to inspire your staff and promote a culture of adaptability. Focus on employee development by providing training that aligns with new objectives. This approach empowers your workforce, enhances productivity, and ensures alignment with business goals. Implementing Effective Change Management Establishing effective change management practices is essential for small business success during transitions. Begin with a clear change management plan that specifies tasks, timelines, and responsibilities. Engage in transparent communication to explain the reasons for change and expected benefits, ensuring all team members understand how their roles contribute to overall success. Utilize technology solutions to facilitate project management and enhance collaboration among staff. Regular performance reviews can help identify areas for improvement, enabling better delegation and more efficient operations. Address employee concerns promptly to reduce resistance and foster an environment of open dialogue, enhancing the potential for business growth. Conclusion Embracing change opens the door to endless possibilities. By shifting your mindset and viewing challenges as opportunities, you can unlock your potential and drive both personal and professional growth. Whether you’re navigating transitions in your career or adapting your business strategies, remember that change is a powerful ally. It encourages innovation and equips you with the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic environment. Take the leap and explore the opportunities that change presents. You’ll find that every challenge can lead to a brighter, more successful future. Frequently Asked Questions What are the benefits of embracing change? Embracing change can lead to personal and professional growth, opening up new opportunities. It helps individuals develop new skills, overcome challenges, and achieve goals. For businesses, change enhances workflows, improves management, and fosters innovation, positioning them for future success. How can I shift my perspective on change? To shift your perspective on change, focus on the potential benefits rather than the challenges. View transitions as opportunities for growth and learning. Surround yourself with supportive people and share success stories to inspire a positive mindset towards change. How does change impact small businesses specifically? Change in small businesses can improve operations by optimizing workflows and management practices. Adopting new technologies, such as online ordering and social media marketing, can significantly enhance performance and lead to increased sales and customer satisfaction. What strategies can help in managing change effectively? Effective change management includes establishing clear plans, maintaining transparent communication, and engaging employees during transitions. Investing in training and regular performance reviews can help reduce resistance and promote a collaborative culture conducive to growth. Can you provide examples of successful change in small businesses? Yes, examples include a retail business that increased sales by 30% through a social media marketing strategy and a restaurant that boosted sales by 25% after implementing online ordering. These cases highlight the importance of agile decision-making and effective team communication. Image Via Envato This article, "Embracing Change Means Opportunity: Unlocking Potential for Growth and Success" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The measles outbreak in West Texas didn’t happen just by chance. The easily preventable disease, declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, ripped through communities sprawling across more than 20 Texas counties in part because health departments were starved of the funding needed to run vaccine programs, officials say. “We haven’t had a strong immunization program that can really do a lot of boots-on-the-ground work for years,” said Katherine Wells, the health director in Lubbock, a 90-minute drive from the outbreak’s epicenter. Immunization programs nationwide have been left brittle by years of stagnant funding by federal, state and local governments. In Texas and elsewhere, this helped set the stage for the measles outbreak and fueled its spread. Now, cuts to federal funding threaten efforts to prevent more cases and outbreaks. Health departments got an influx of cash to deal with COVID-19, but it wasn’t enough to make up for years of neglect. On top of that, trust in vaccines has eroded. Health officials warn the situation is primed to get worse. Recent cuts by the The President administration have pulled billions of dollars in COVID-19 related funding — $2 billion of it slated for immunization programs for various diseases. Overseeing the cuts is Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who rose to prominence leading an anti-vaccine movement. While Kennedy has said he wants his agency to prevent future outbreaks, he’s also declined to deliver a consistent and forceful message that would help do so — encouraging people to vaccinate their children against measles while reminding them it is safe. At the same time, lawmakers in Texas and about two-thirds of states have introduced legislation this year that would make it easier to opt out of vaccines or otherwise put up barriers to ensuring more people get shots, according to an analysis by The Associated Press. That further undercuts efforts to keep infectious diseases at bay, health officials said. The more than 700 measles cases reported this year in the U.S. have already surpassed last year’s total. The vast majority — more than 540 — are in Texas, but cases have popped up in 23 other states. Two Texas children have died. A 6-year-old girl from Gaines County, the center of the outbreak, died in February, the first measles death in the U.S. in a decade. An 8-year-old girl from the same town, Seminole, died earlier this month. Children in the U.S. are generally required to be vaccinated to go to school, which in the past ensured vaccination rates stayed high enough to prevent infectious diseases like measles from spreading. But a growing number of parents have been skipping the shots for their kids. The share of children exempted from vaccine requirements has reached an all-time high, and just 92.7% of kindergartners got their required shots in 2023. That’s well below the 95% coverage level that keeps diseases at bay. Keeping vaccination rates high requires vigilance, commitment and money. Though the outbreak in Texas started in Mennonite communities that have been resistant to vaccines and distrustful of government intervention, it quickly jumped to other places with low vaccination rates. There are similar under-vaccinated pockets across the country that could provide the tinder that sparks another outbreak. “It’s like a hurricane over warm water in the Caribbean,” said Dr. Peter Hotez, co-director of the Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development in Houston. “As long as there’s warm water, the hurricane will continue to accelerate. In this case, the warm water is the unvaccinated kids.” Flatlined vaccine funding in Texas Lubbock receives a $254,000 immunization grant from the state annually that can be used for staff, outreach, advertising, education and other elements of a vaccine program. That hasn’t increased in at least 15 years as the population grew. It used to be enough for three nurses, an administrative assistant, advertising and even goodies to give out at health fairs, Wells said. “Now it covers a nurse, a quarter of a nurse, a little bit of an admin assistant, and basically nothing else.” Texas has among the lowest per capita state funding for public health in the nation, just $17 per person in 2023, according to the State Health Access Data Assistance Center. Vaccines are among the most successful tools in public health’s arsenal, preventing debilitating illnesses and lowering the need for expensive medical care. Childhood vaccines prevent 4 million deaths worldwide each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which says the measles vaccine will save some 19 million lives by 2030. U.S. immunization programs are funded by a variable mix of federal, state and local money. Federal money is sent to every state, which then decides how much to send to local health departments. The stagnant immunization grant funding in Texas has made it harder for local health departments to keep their programs going. Lubbock’s health department, for example, doesn’t have the money to pay for targeted Facebook ads to encourage vaccinations or do robust community outreach to build trust. In Andrews County, which borders Gaines County, the biggest cost of its immunization program is personnel. But while everything has gotten more expensive, the grant hasn’t changed, Health Director Gordon Mattimoe said. That shifts the burden to county governments. Some kick in more money, some don’t. His did. The problem: keeping people safe from outbreaks requires high vaccination rates across a broad region, and germs don’t stop at county borders. Andrews County, population 18,000, offers a walk-in vaccine clinic Monday through Friday, but other West Texas communities don’t. More than half the people who come to the clinic travel from other counties, Mattimoe said, including much larger places and Gaines County. Some had to drive an hour or more. They did so because they had trouble getting shots in their home county due to long waits, lack of providers and other issues, Mattimoe said. “They’re unable to obtain it in the place that they live. … People are overflowing, over to here,” Mattimoe said. “There’s an access issue.” That makes it more likely people won’t get their shots. In Gaines County just 82% of kindergartners were vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella. Even in Andrews County, where, at 97%, the vaccination rate is above the 95% threshold for preventing outbreaks, it has slipped two percentage points since 2020. Vaccine funding crises aren’t only in Texas The health departments millions of Americans depend on for their shots largely rely on two federal programs: Vaccines for Children and Section 317 of the Public Health Services Act. Vaccines for Children mostly provides the actual vaccines. Section 317 provides grants for vaccines but also to run programs and get shots into arms. About half of kids qualify for Vaccines for Children, a safety-net program created in response to a 1989-1991 measles epidemic that sickened 55,000 people and killed 123. Section 317 money sent to state and local health departments pays for vaccines as well as nurses, outreach and advertising. Health departments generally use the programs in tandem, and since the pandemic they’ve often been allowed to supplement it with COVID-19 funds. The 317 funds have been flat for years, even as costs of everything from salaries to vaccines went up. A 2023 CDC report to Congress estimated $1.6 billion was needed to fully fund a comprehensive 317 vaccine program. Last year, Congress approved less than half that: $682 million. This, along with insufficient state and local funding, forces hard choices. Dr. Kelly Moore, a preventive medicine specialist, said she faced this dilemma when directing Tennessee’s immunization program from 2004 to 2018. “What diseases can we afford to prevent and how many people can we afford to protect? Those decisions have to be made every year by every state,” said Moore, who now runs the advocacy group Immunize.org. A rural clinic may have to be closed, or evening and weekend hours eliminated, she said. “It becomes difficult for them to staff the clinics they have and difficult for the people in those communities to access them, especially if they’re the working poor.” At the same time, health officials say more funding is needed to fight misinformation and mistrust about vaccines. In a 2023 survey by the National Association of County and City Health Officials, 80% of local health departments reported vaccine hesitancy among patients or their parents in the previous year, up from 56% in 2017. “If we don’t invest in education, it becomes even more difficult to get these diseases under control,” Moore said. An unclear future given continuing cuts and hesitancy Facing these headwinds, things got much worse in March when Kennedy’s health department canceled billions of dollars in state and local funding. After 23 states sued, a judge put a hold on the cuts for now in those states but not in Texas or other states that didn’t join the lawsuit. But local health departments are not taking chances and are moving to cut services. HHS said the money, allocated through COVID-19 initiatives, was cut because the pandemic was over. But CDC had allowed the money to be used to shore up public health infrastructure generally, including immunization programs. Before he was confirmed as health secretary, Kennedy vowed not to take vaccines away. But in Texas, his department’s cuts mean state and local health departments are losing $125 million in immunization-related federal funding as they deal with the measles outbreak. A spokesperson for the federal health department did not respond to an AP request for comment. Dallas County, 350 miles from where the outbreak began, had to cancel more than 50 immunization clinics, including at schools with low measles vaccination rates, said Dr. Philip Huang, the county’s health director. Near the center of the outbreak, Lubbock’s health department said seven jobs are on the line because they were paid by those grants. Included in the affected work are immunizations. Across the border in New Mexico, where the outbreak has spread, the state lost grants that funded vaccine education. Kennedy’s cuts also hit vaccination programs in other states It’s still unclear how the recently announced $2 billion in cuts will affect immunization programs across the country, but details are starting to trickle out from some states. Washington state, for example, would lose about $20 million in vaccination-related funding. Officials were forced to pause mobile vaccine efforts on their “Care-A-Van,” which has administered more than 6,800 COVID-19 vaccines, 3,900 flu vaccines and 5,700 childhood vaccines since July. The state also had to cancel more than 100 vaccine clinics scheduled through June, including more than 35 at schools. Connecticut health officials estimate if the cuts stand, they will lose $26 million for immunization. Among other reductions, this means canceling 43 contracts with local health departments to increase vaccination rates and raise confidence in vaccines, losing vaccination clinics and mobile outreach in underserved neighborhoods, and stopping the distribution of vaccine-related educational materials. Several of the 23 states suing the federal government, including Minnesota, Rhode Island and Massachusetts, cite losses to vaccine programs. As the cuts further cripple already struggling health departments, alongside increasingly prominent and powerful anti-vaccine voices, doctors worry that vaccine hesitancy will keep spreading. And measles and other viruses will too. “My whole life’s purpose is to keep people from suffering. And vaccines are a tremendous way to do that,” Moore said. “But if we don’t invest in them to get them in arms, then we don’t see their benefits.” ___ The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. —Laura Ungar, Michelle R. Smith, and Devi Shastri, Associated Press View the full article

Over the weekend, crypto traders were likely anything but zen, as the price of OM—the native token to the Mantra blockchain—crashed more than 90%. On Sunday, OM prices fell from around $6.30 to less than $0.50 within a couple of hours, shaking up the crypto markets and likely leaving many people with crypto holdings wondering if they were witnessing another catastrophe like the FTX collapse. But that doesn’t appear to be the case so far. Here’s a rundown of the important facts to know, as we understand them on Monday morning. What happened with Mantra? As noted, OM values plummeted sharply on Sunday, April 14 by more than 90%. It was unclear what exactly was happening at the time, so many crypto traders and investors were justifiably spooked. In all, OM’s crash resulted in roughly $72 million in liquidations, and its market capitalization fell from around $6 billion to around $683 million. Again, this all happened within a matter of hours, creating a good amount of confusion and worry. What caused the Mantra crypto crash? While initial fears centered around a rug-pull scheme—a common crypto scam similar to a pump-and-dump typically seen in the traditional stock markets—Mantra’s co-founder JP Mullin posted on X that his team was sorting things out in an effort to calm investors. In that post, Mullin said: “We have determined that the OM market movements were triggered by reckless forced closures initiated by centralized exchanges on OM account holders. The timing and depth of the crash suggest that a very sudden closure of account positions was initiated without sufficient warning or notice.” He continued: “That this happened during low-liquidity hours on a Sunday evening UTC (early morning Asia time) points to a degree of negligence at best, or possibly intentional market positioning taken by centralized exchanges.” Some back-and-forth on X also highlighted some prior concerns about Mantra and its founding team, including that some of its members had been involved in online gambling platforms. In response to the OM crash, one large crypto exchange, OKX, released a statement noting that its team “conducted investigations and identified major changes to the MANTRA token’s tokenomics model since Oct 2024, based on both publicly available on-chain data and internal exchange data. Our investigation also uncovered that several on-chain addresses have been executing potentially coordinated large-scale deposits and withdrawals across various centralized exchanges since Mar 2025.” The exchange also noted that it had added warnings to the OM token page on its website, and taken additional measures to control risks related to the token. Where things stand with the Mantra crypto crash It appears that things are still being sorted out as of midday Monday. Prices for Mantra’s coin OM have yet to rebound as of midday Monday, and the token is trading at around $0.68. Again, that’s down significantly from where it was a week ago, trading at more than $6.50. As it stands, some reporting indicates that OM’s crash could be the next Terra-Luna crypto scandal, which resulted in the destruction of roughly $60 billion in investor funds and sparked a “crypto winter” a few years ago. That also led to the arrest of Do Kwon, the founder of both Terra and Luna. Some crypto traders are even speculating that this marks the end of the current crypto bull market. However, Mullin continues to reassure the crypto community that his team has things under control for now. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. It's amazing how many problems can be solved with good sleep hygiene. If you often feel low on energy, one of the first things you should ask yourself is how much sleep you're getting. Good sleep also helps our overall health, our recovery from exercise, our ability to focus, and more. And while there are plenty of gadgets and biohacks that claim to help, the fundamentals of sleep hygiene are basic and simple. How to know if you need more sleepMost adults need seven to nine hours of sleep, on average, each night. This varies: Uou might be a seven-hour person or a nine-hour person. (Young people usually need even more; older adults may be okay with less.) So if you’re feeling tired all the time, an easy gut check is to note how much time you spend in bed, on average. If it's fewer than seven hours, it's probably not enough. And even if it's within that seven- to nine-hour window, try getting an extra hour or two of sleep for a few days in a row. If you feel a lot better, you have your answer. If you have trouble waking up on time but easily fall asleep when you’re sitting quietly (like watching a movie), that's another sign you're probably not getting enough sleep. If you sleep in when you get the chance, your wake-up time is another hint. If you sleep in two hours or more past your normal time, that's your body applying a short-term fix (getting enough sleep now) to a long-term problem (chronically getting too little sleep). If you know you should sleep more, but you can’t seem to figure out how, below are the basics of sleep hygiene you need to master. Stick to a sleep scheduleSet a wake-up time that you can stick to every day. Consistency is important here: don’t set the alarm for 6 a.m. on weekdays and sleep until noon on weekends. If you can’t be perfectly consistent—for example, if you work different shifts—adjust as needed, but try to do your best. Next comes setting a bedtime. Figure out what time you need to hit the hay to get enough sleep before your alarm goes off. Then work backward from that to figure out when to start changing into jammies and whatever else your nighttime routine involves. (More on that routine below.) Crucial to both steps is prioritizing sleep so you can actually get yourself on schedule. If you’ve been having trouble getting enough sleep lately, give yourself a week or two to make your bedtime and wake-up time (and nine or so hours in between) the highest priority appointments in your calendar. Don’t go out too late, and don’t stay up revenge procrastinating. There will be time for occasional indulgences once your everyday schedule is more consistent. Include these four things in your bedtime routineOkay, so what goes into that routine? Feel free to personalize the specific, but sleep experts recommend that you include the following as basic building blocks: At least 30 minutes dedicated to winding down. Don’t expect to switch off the lights and instantly be able to zonk out. No screens right before bedtime. No, not even with blue-blocking glasses. Those glasses don’t actually block very much blue light anyway. Videos and social media keep your brain awake and unrelaxed, so they don’t really have a place in your wind-down time anyway. Dim the lights. A cool, dark bedroom makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Do something relaxing. Read a chill book. Take a luxurious bath. Do some breathing exercises. Whatever works for you. Sticking to this routine not only helps you get into a relaxed mood for sleeping, it also helps you stick to that sleep schedule you set in the first step. After all, you can't be halfway through a movie at 10 p.m. if you refrained from starting it at 9 p.m. Set your body clock during the daySleep and darkness aren't the only things that set your body's circadian rhythms. Daytime activities help to keep your internal clock on track, and these can help your overall health as well. Get plenty of sunlight in the morning. (In the winter, a light box may help.) Exercise during the day. You can combine this with sunlight by going for a morning or lunchtime walk. But any type of exercise will help you to sleep better. Eat meals during the day. We sleep best when we eat during the daytime; if a nice early breakfast fits your schedule, consider making it a regular thing. But at the very least, don’t eat right before bed. Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the eveningsCaffeine keeps you up, and its effects linger longer than you may realize. Caffeine has a half-life of five hours, with some of us processing it a little faster or a little slower. To put this another way, If the average person has a 250-milligram cup of coffee at noon (such as a Starbucks Tall sized brewed coffee), they'll still have about 125 milligrams in their system at 5 p.m. and 63 milligrams at 10 p.m. The speed with which we break down caffeine varies from person to person, but in general: It’s affecting you more than you realize. If you think of yourself as a person who “can have an energy drink and then fall right to sleep” you are probably (a) in denial—hey, you’re the one who clicked on an article about getting better sleep—and/or (b) you have built up a massive caffeine tolerance because you drink so much of the stuff to stay awake, which in turn is because you don’t get enough sleep so you’re tired all the time. Do yourself a favor and break the cycle. An easy way to back off is to give yourself a cutoff time. No caffeine after 5 p.m., let’s say. Once that’s part of your routine, walk it back to 2 p.m. or noon. Alcohol is another chemical that affects our sleep. A nightcap before bed may make you feel sleepy, but it tends to disrupt the quality of your sleep. If you aren’t convinced, just start keeping a sleep diary—on paper is fine if you don’t have a sleep-tracking gadget—and see if you don’t get more and better sleep on the nights you don’t drink. Make your bedroom a dark little caveA welcoming, cozy bed will help you get to sleep faster. Make it dark, with blackout curtains or an eye mask, if needed. Make it quiet, with a white noise machine or earplugs if you can’t completely silence your surroundings. And make it a comfortable temperature. Most people prefer a cool environment—usually around 66 degrees—but again, this varies from person to person. Comfortable sheets and pillows can help. If you’re always tossing and turning, try to figure out if there’s something that physically bothers you. A new mattress might not be in the budget, but a mattress topper or a different pillow is an easy fix. ExperimentWhile the tips here are the basic things you should at least try, you may not need every single aspect to be textbook. I freeze if my room is set to 66 degrees, for example, so I keep the thermostat a tick warmer and I make sure I always have a warm duvet, even in summertime. You may find that you can bend certain rules but not others. I always have a crappy night’s sleep if I’ve been drinking, but late meals don’t bother me much. Once you’re getting a solid night’s sleep on the regular, you can start playing with the routine. And if you’re doing everything you can for good sleep hygiene and you still feel tired all the time, consider seeking medical help in case you have sleep apnea or another condition that could be affecting your sleep or energy levels. View the full article

The U.S. Postal Service announced that it has filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) of proposed mailing services price changes scheduled to take effect on July 13, 2025. The proposed changes include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp, from 73 cents to 78 cents. According to the Postal Service, the proposed adjustments were approved by its Board of Governors and would raise mailing services product prices by approximately 7.4 percent. The PRC must review and approve the proposed rates before they go into effect. Summary of Proposed Price Changes The Postal Service provided the following breakdown of key planned rate increases: Letters (1 ounce): from 73 cents to 78 cents Metered letters (1 ounce): from 69 cents to 74 cents Domestic postcards: from 56 cents to 62 cents International postcards: from $1.65 to $1.70 International letters (1 ounce): from $1.65 to $1.70 Additional-ounce price for single-piece letters: from 28 cents to 29 cents The Postal Service also proposed price adjustments for Special Services products, including a 12 percent reduction in the cost of postal insurance when mailing an item. Part of Delivering for America Plan The Postal Service cited continued changes in the mailing and shipping marketplace as the rationale for the price adjustments. It stated that these changes are necessary to achieve the financial stability outlined in the organization’s Delivering for America 10-year strategic plan. The Postal Service emphasized that its rates remain among the most affordable globally. Marketing Mail and Package Services Pricing In response to a directive from the PRC, the Postal Service is filing two sets of prices for Marketing Mail and Package Services products. While only one set will go into effect on July 13, the dual pricing structure is intended to address a pending proposal to eliminate Bound Printed Matter and expand Marketing Mail, pending PRC approval. Additional communications regarding price changes in these categories are expected as the commission continues its review. Next Steps and Additional Information The PRC will now review the proposed changes filed under Docket No. R2025-1. Customers can find the full price filing and additional details on the PRC’s website under the Daily Listings section, and also on the Postal Service’s Postal Explorer website at pe.usps.com/PriceChange/Index. Customers may continue purchasing stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by phone at 844-737-7826, by mail via USA Philatelic, or at Post Office locations nationwide. Officially licensed stamp products are also available through the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon. Image: Envato This article, "USPS Proposes Rate Hike for Forever Stamp in July" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The U.S. Postal Service announced that it has filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) of proposed mailing services price changes scheduled to take effect on July 13, 2025. The proposed changes include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp, from 73 cents to 78 cents. According to the Postal Service, the proposed adjustments were approved by its Board of Governors and would raise mailing services product prices by approximately 7.4 percent. The PRC must review and approve the proposed rates before they go into effect. Summary of Proposed Price Changes The Postal Service provided the following breakdown of key planned rate increases: Letters (1 ounce): from 73 cents to 78 cents Metered letters (1 ounce): from 69 cents to 74 cents Domestic postcards: from 56 cents to 62 cents International postcards: from $1.65 to $1.70 International letters (1 ounce): from $1.65 to $1.70 Additional-ounce price for single-piece letters: from 28 cents to 29 cents The Postal Service also proposed price adjustments for Special Services products, including a 12 percent reduction in the cost of postal insurance when mailing an item. Part of Delivering for America Plan The Postal Service cited continued changes in the mailing and shipping marketplace as the rationale for the price adjustments. It stated that these changes are necessary to achieve the financial stability outlined in the organization’s Delivering for America 10-year strategic plan. The Postal Service emphasized that its rates remain among the most affordable globally. Marketing Mail and Package Services Pricing In response to a directive from the PRC, the Postal Service is filing two sets of prices for Marketing Mail and Package Services products. While only one set will go into effect on July 13, the dual pricing structure is intended to address a pending proposal to eliminate Bound Printed Matter and expand Marketing Mail, pending PRC approval. Additional communications regarding price changes in these categories are expected as the commission continues its review. Next Steps and Additional Information The PRC will now review the proposed changes filed under Docket No. R2025-1. Customers can find the full price filing and additional details on the PRC’s website under the Daily Listings section, and also on the Postal Service’s Postal Explorer website at pe.usps.com/PriceChange/Index. Customers may continue purchasing stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by phone at 844-737-7826, by mail via USA Philatelic, or at Post Office locations nationwide. Officially licensed stamp products are also available through the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon. Image: Envato This article, "USPS Proposes Rate Hike for Forever Stamp in July" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The second The President administration has launched the next stage in the half-century-long battle between commerce and conservation over Alaskan oil and gas development. But its moves are delivering a mixed message to the petroleum industry. The administration has opened – or reopened – large swaths of government land in Alaska to oil and gas drilling, though only some of those opportunities have drawn much commercial interest in recent years. And an 800-mile pipeline across Alaska that the administration says it supports is not yet funded, and other administration policies risk turning off prospective partners. President Donald The President says he wants to grow oil and gas production and advance the goal of what he calls U.S. “energy dominance.” The White House says that term means both reducing the amount of energy imported from other countries and increasing the amount of energy exported from the U.S., especially to allies. The U.S. is already the world’s largest producer and exporter of natural gas as well as the largest producer of crude oil. And the nation’s oil industry boomed under the Biden administration. However, the U.S. does import an average of over 6 million barrels per day of crude oil, most of it from Canada. The President’s efforts seek to boost U.S. production to still greater heights by expanding access to areas for drilling and building related infrastructure. But as a former petroleum geoscientist and industry observer, I would suggest his various actions, taken as a whole, may have more limited effects than he seems to hope. Returned to leasing In one of his first executive orders after retaking office on Jan. 20, 2025, The President declared that the U.S. would develop Alaska’s petroleum resources “to the fullest extent possible.” The Biden administration had banned oil leasing in three areas of Alaska. One was all but 400,000 acres in the coastal plain portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Another was a 13-million-acre swath of the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, a massive parcel of federal land west of the refuge. The third area was 44 million acres of the offshore coastal portion of the northern Bering Sea, based on concerns for tribal rights and the migration routes of marine mammals. The President moved quickly to reverse all these bans, describing them as an “assault on Alaska’s sovereignty and its ability to responsibly develop (its) resources for the benefit of the Nation.” And The President went farther, expanding the available land by an additional 6 million acres in the petroleum reserve and another 1.1 million acres of the wildlife refuge. All those areas are home to many different types of wildlife, as well as Indigenous groups. The view of industry For the petroleum industry, I expect these actions are both welcome and irrelevant. Reopening the northeastern portion of the petroleum reserve creates a real opportunity: Exploration has found a significant amount of oil and gas in that area, and indications are that there may be more yet to discover. But prospects on the land in the wildlife refuge and the shallow waters of the Bering Sea are not likely of much interest to drilling companies unless oil prices rise significantly from their levels in early 2025. There is no established production in either area at present. And, though the refuge has oil and gas potential, there are no roads or pipelines, and Arctic drilling is especially expensive. In fact, the last two attempts by the government to lease oil development rights in the wildlife refuge drew very little interest. In 2020, the first The President administration teamed with Republicans in Congress to overcome long-standing legal and political opposition to leasing in the refuge. But the 2021 lease sale was a bust, with none of the top oil producers in the state participating. A second round of bidding, in January 2025, received no interest at all from oil companies. Pipe dreams that could come true A strong gain for the petroleum industry would be a major new pipeline to carry natural gas more than 800 miles south from the Prudhoe Bay area on the Arctic coast to a port near Anchorage on south-central Alaska’s Cook Inlet. The idea has its own decades-long history, and has been both pushed forward and set back over the years by changing economics, government plans, and tribal interest and opposition. The main challenge is that there is no way to transport natural gas off the North Slope. Since drilling began in the late 1970s, some has been used locally for heating and running equipment, with the vast majority being reinjected into oil reservoir rock to help maintain oil production. Rising demand and elevated prices in Asia, however, suggest the project could be profitable, despite the current cost estimate of US$44 billion. Project plans indicate most of it would go to build a liquefied natural gas export terminal near Anchorage, with the rest spent to construct an 807-mile pipeline paralleling the existing Trans-Alaska Pipeline, and a plant at Prudhoe Bay that would capture carbon from the atmosphere, compress it and inject it into oil-producing reservoirs to boost production. The pipeline is designed to carry 3.3 billion cubic feet of natural gas each day, which would make it one of the largest pipelines in North America. The export terminal, to be built near the town of Nikiski on Cook Inlet, would have a capacity of roughly 1 trillion cubic feet per year, enough to heat about 15 million homes for a year. The pipeline could take as little as two to three years to build, but the terminal and carbon-capture plant would take longer – five years or so. The exports from Alaska could go to other ports in the U.S., but they could also fetch higher prices in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and possibly China. Gasline Development Corporation A wrench in the works Most of the permits needed for the pipeline-and-export-terminal project have been secured by the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation, a company created by the state of Alaska to build the project. However, no company or foreign government has yet agreed to foot the bill, and despite the support of the The President White House, there’s no indication the federal government will do so either. The The President administration has also created a new barrier to the project. Its sweeping tariffs and the resulting trade war crashed prices in the global oil and gas market in early April 2025. In addition, uncertainty about the permanence of tariffs or other restrictions on international trade are now widespread and directly affect the oil industry. Lower gas and oil prices and less stability make any project less attractive. It’s true that The President exempted oil and gas from his most recent tariffs. But that matters less than the broader effect the trade war is already having, with analysts projecting it is driving the global economy toward recession. Less economic activity means less demand for oil and gas, and therefore less incentive for companies to drill new wells and build new pipelines. To top everything off, the White House slapped heavy tariffs on Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, the very countries that might be inclined to help fund the pipeline project. Even before the trade war, they were hesitant about supporting it. The potential suspension, or reinstatement, or adjustment of tariffs is not likely to help them view the situation as more stable. Those who favor oil and gas development in Alaska may be wondering whether the president is truly on their side. It remains to be seen whether their hopes might end up a casualty of White House economic policy. Scott L. Montgomery is a lecturer in international studies at the University of Washington. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

2024 was the hottest summer ever recorded, and there’s a good chance that future summers will be even warmer. For most people, planning for those future summers involves upgrading their air-conditioning systems and taking other steps to turn the interior of their homes into cool, dark caves. But what happens if you want to get outside for some fresh air? If your yard is too hot to enjoy during the summer, you might as well not have a yard at all. You can’t air condition the outdoors—but you can lower the temperature with some thoughtful landscaping decisions. If you hesitate to throw a cookout in your outdoor space because you feel like you’re on a grill when you’re out there, consider implementing some of these simple suggestions for how your landscaping is designed. Plant shade treesStep one for making your outdoor areas cooler is to remove all that pesky solar energy that makes every moment in your yard feel like a trip to Mercury. Trees are the most attractive, natural, and effective way to shade your yard. Shade can lower the air temperature of your outdoor space by 15 to 20 degrees, which is a significant drop. Concentrate on deciduous trees (trees that lose their leaves annually), as these will shade your yard and house in the summer but let the warming sun through in the winter. Fast-growing choices include sycamores, which have varieties that thrive in a wide range of climates, as well as maple, oak, and honey locust trees. Ditch hardscapesIf you’ve ever walked out onto your patio in bare feet in the summer, you know that pavement and hardscaping absorb the sun’s heat. While a grass yard has an average temperature of about 78° in full sun, concrete can reach temperatures as high as 135°. Eliminating as much hardscaping as possible in your outdoor areas will not only spare your feet, it will help tamp down the ambient temperature because less heat will be radiating from the ground. For the hardscaping you want or need to keep, consider using a lighter color scheme, as lighter colors reflect more heat. When installing pavers or other hardscape materials, check the light reflectance value (LRV), which is a measurement of how much light the color reflects. The higher the number, the cooler the surface will be—an LRV above 50 percent is a good starting point. Finally, consider using permeable pavers or pavements. These materials allow water to pass through, soaking the ground, which can help cool off your outdoor space. Grow ground coverYou can lower the temperature of the ground or hard surfaces by planting ground cover plants like creeping thyme or vinca. These low-growing plants will spread out and block the sun, lowering the overall temperature of the area and avoiding surfaces that are like skillets against your feet. You can also use a reflective mulch in your plant beds; these include aluminum or other reflective materials to bounce the sun’s light away from the ground, resulting in a small but appreciable decrease in temperature. Use layersOne strategy for cooling down your outdoor area is to trap and hold onto cool, shaded air. You can accomplish this by creating a layered effect, with plants of different heights helping to hold cooler air in and warmer air out. Trees would obviously be your tallest layer, but planting shrubs and other medium-height plants along with a robust ground cover can insulate your outdoor space naturally, moderating the temperature (and enhancing privacy). Encourage vinesWhile tree canopies can keep the sun off your outdoor space when it’s high in the sky, when it starts to sink those punishing rays can still bake your space. Vines and other climbing plants can provide shade horizontally, creeping up fences, trellises, or other vertical surfaces and blocking the sunlight while allowing air movement. Just don’t let them grow on your house—that can lead to serious damage. Channel the airEven on hot summer days, a cool breeze can make an incredible difference in your comfort levels. Designing your landscaping to guide those breezes to the areas where you utilize your outdoor space can help tremendously. Planting a line of tall shrubs or evergreen trees on the opposite side of a fence or wall can create a “wind tunnel” effect that drives refreshing breezes toward you, and pruning your shade trees low will facilitate air movement. On the other hand, if your outdoor space is baked by hot winds, you can plant shrubs or trees to block those winds. Even tall grasses can be effective windbreaks, absorbing and breaking up oven-like breezes before they invade your patio area. Install a rain gardenRain gardens are typically used to control water runoff, but they can also be effective in lowering the surrounding temperature of an outdoor space. Rain gardens are located in depressions where deep-rooted native plants are planted, allowing rainwater to drain into the garden instead of pooling elsewhere (on hardscapes, for example). The cooling effect of the rainwater on the ground can impact what’s known as the Urban Heat Island Effect, lowering the overall temperature of the space. Add water featuresYou can also add water features like fountains or ponds to help with the temperature of an outdoor space—especially when used in conjunction with layered plantings of trees, shrubs, and grasses. The impact of a small water feature might not be huge, but every little bit will help, and water features also bring beauty and a sense of tranquility to any space—which might make the heat more tolerable. View the full article

Omeed Malik, who runs a merchant bank and a hedge fund, is a Republican donor and works with Republican-linked businessmen including Donald The President Jr. View the full article