ResidentialBusiness

The wildfires in Los Angeles have destroyed entire neighborhoods, ravaging more than 16,000 homes and structures in Altadena and Pasadena, alone. Asher Bingham, an L.A.-based portrait artist, spends her days taking in the extent of what has been lost. She spends hours at her drawing table, illustrating homes that have been lost and then mailing them to the people who used to live there. One day, she hopes to have an art show that features different neighborhoods, with pictures of homes along with the stories of the people who lived there. [Illustration: Asher Bingham] Two days after the fires began, Bingham took to Instagram, inviting people who had lost their home to send in a request, and she would draw their home for free. She was’t expecting a big response—perhaps a few dozen people. But the post went viral. She’s already received more than a thousand requests. Bingham came up with the idea for the project because a close friend of hers was profoundly impacted by the Eaton fire. This friend was getting married in Las Vegas and when the fires broke out, she enlisted Bingham to go over to her house to save her cats. The fire eventually burned down the house. “It was both the best and worst day of her life,” she recalls. “She got married at the same time as she lost her home.” [Illustration: Asher Bingham] Bingham didn’t know what to do to comfort her friend. But as an artist, she figured she could draw the home and give it to her. “I had just been to her house, and I could remember all the details,” she says. She gave it to her friend and didn’t hear back for several days. “I was worried I had perhaps done the wrong thing,” she recalls. But eventually her friend said she was so deeply moved by this gesture of kindness and a piece of art that would allow her to remember her beloved home. The Instagram post followed. And suddenly, thousands of people were asking for similar pictures of their home. It takes Bingham between 30 and 90 minutes to do an illustration of a home, depending on how complex it is. She now works 12 hours a day on these pictures. [Illustration: Asher Bingham] The fact that these pictures are hand drawn is important, Bingham says. With AI technology, it’s possible to create digital illustrations of these homes. But she says that the time and labor that goes into these drawings is the whole point. “These people have gone through an unbelievable loss,” she says. “This is not just a representation of their house, but a small gesture of kindness from a stranger.” She quickly realized there’s no way she would be able to get through the entire list in a timely manner. So she’s reached out to other artists around the country, asking if they were willing to contribute to this work. More than a hundred responded. Bingham selected a handful that shared her aesthetic approach, and they now work collaboratively to go through the pile. [Illustration: Asher Bingham] Now, they have a spreadsheet where they track each person who has made a request for an illustration. Those sending in requests send in photos of their house, and sometimes stories, which Bingham saves in the spreadsheet. They then go through the list, illustrating each house before creating a high resolution scan of the picture and mailing the illustration to the homeowner. Bingham’s friend has volunteered to pay for the shipping fees. “It’s six dollars per picture, which isn’t much, but it adds up when you’re sending over a thousand,” she says. Eventually, Bingham would like to show all of the pictures together in an art exhibit. It would be a way for people to explore the neighborhoods that have been lost forever, and get a sense of the charm and uniqueness of the various homes. She can already imagine captions next to each picture, with stories from the people who lived there. But for now, she’s spending her days at her drawing table, trying to capture each tiny detail of people’s home with as much care as possible. View the full article

Tucked in a forest of trees in Luxembourg City is a hulking piece of urban infrastructure that, if all goes to plan, will soon be taken over by birds. The structure is a two-columned concrete water tower that has been designed to function as a habitat for local and migratory birds. In contrast to most essential elements of a city’s infrastructure that usually try to avoid being infested by wild animals, this water tower had birds in mind from the very start. The water tower habitat was designed by Temperaturas Extremas Arquitectos SLP, an architecture firm based in Madrid. The project’s site is part of Natura 2000, a European ecological network of areas dedicated to biodiversity conservation, and several local and migratory bird species are known to nest in this area, including swallows, cuckoos and peregrine falcons. Because of the site’s protected status and bird population, designing a large piece of infrastructure there raised the unusual challenge of prioritizing animal needs over human ones. The project’s client, the water service of the capital city of Luxembourg, launched a design competition in 2019 to tackle this challenge. [Photo: Miguel Fernández-Galiano/courtesy Temperaturas Extremas Arquitectos SLP] Completed in the fall, the dual towers are 164 feet high and have a combined capacity of about 260,000 gallons. The concrete bulk of the towers are framed by a permeable wooden skin that encourages bird nesting as well as vegetation growth. Bat roosts are also attached at various points of the structure. The top of the tower has a nesting space for peregrine falcons. [Photo: Miguel Fernández-Galiano/courtesy Temperaturas Extremas Arquitectos SLP] In just the few months since construction finished, the structure is already transforming into a habitat for plants and animals, with several species nesting in its wooden frame. “Vegetation has begun to conquer the building and its surroundings,” the architects explain via email. “It is beginning to be a calm place.” [Photo: Miguel Fernández-Galiano/courtesy Temperaturas Extremas Arquitectos SLP] The architects say the project’s true value will be shown this spring, during the biannual migration that will bring millions of birds through the region. It could also become a model for a new way of designing water towers, which are beginning to see a wider range of designs compared to the recent past. While some buildings are known to be incredibly deadly to birds, the designers argue that this kind of project offsets the unintentional but harmful effects architecture can have on the natural world. “One of the great challenges of architecture today is to not only contribute to cushioning of the impacts it has, but fundamentally to give back to nature part of what was taken from it,” the architects write. “In other words, the challenge is to increase the planet’s natural capital.” View the full article

Homeownership increased the most in Connecticut between 2019 and 2024. View the full article

When it comes to printing, ink can be a costly expense. That’s why finding a printer with affordable ink is essential for anyone who frequently prints. With so many printer options available, it can be overwhelming to know which one offers the best value. In this article, we will explore which printers have the cheapest ink, helping you find the most cost-effective option for your printing needs. Let’s get started! Which printer is the cheapest to run? The Epson EcoTank ET-2760 is the cheapest printer to run with affordable refillable ink bottles. It costs, on average, 1 cent per color ISO page compared to ink cartridges, which cost about 20 cents. It also includes up to two years of ink. Meanwhile, any of the printers from the list that follows are strong contenders. Business owners, be sure to check them out! Which printers are most economical on ink? Inkjet printers are the most economical on ink, using less ink per page than other types. However, printer model, usage pattern, and ink cartridge type can affect consumption and cost. Consider upfront printer costs and ongoing ink costs when making a purchase decision. Best Cheap Ink Printers for Business Use Running a successful business requires keeping expenses low without sacrificing quality. One effective way to cut costs is by choosing printers with cheap ink. Whether you work in a standard office or are learning how to start a sticker business, here are the best ones for business use: Canon PIXMA G6020 The Canon PIXMA G6020 MegaTank All-In-One Inkjet Printer comes with a complete set of ink bottles, including two additional black bottles, resulting in ink savings exceeding $1,100. It utilizes Canon MegaTank Ink Bottles, which contain more than 30 times the ink of standard cartridges. With each set of bottles, the PIXMA G6020 can print up to 7,700 color pages or 6,000 black text pages. Pros: Exceptional ink value with considerable up-front savings Produces excellent print quality, particularly for photos Includes a duplexer for double-sided printing and copying Dual paper trays hold 350 sheets total: 250 in the main cassette, 100 in rear Cons: There’s no automatic document feeder The two-sided printing feature is slow Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5880 The EcoTank Pro ET-5880 is a wireless all-in-one printer that utilizes supersized ink tanks as opposed to cartridges, resulting in low-cost printing and zero cartridge waste. It has PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology for high-quality output and a 500-sheet paper capacity. The printer features a 4.3″ color touchscreen and hands-free voice-activated printing. It has SmartWay certification for environmentally friendly operation. Pros: High-quality print output with sharp and clear text and graphics EcoTanks provide an extended ink supply, reducing the need for replacement ink Three paper sources (2 trays and 1 rear feed) Auto 2-sided printing for convenience Cons: Steep purchase price Users report it going offline on its own Epson EcoTank ET-4850 The Epson EcoTank ET-4850 all-in-one printer combines fast color printing, copying, scanning, and faxing capabilities. It features a 2.4″ color touchscreen and a 250-sheet paper tray, allowing for borderless 4″ x 6″ photo prints. Additionally, it includes Ethernet and wireless connectivity, voice-activated printing, and the Epson Smart Panel App for convenient printing from smart devices. Thanks to its cartridge-free ink system, users can print over 7,000 black text pages or approximately 6,000 color pages. This printer delivers exceptionally sharp text and stunning color photos and graphics on nearly any paper type, making it a key consideration for anyone asking, “Which printer has the cheapest ink?” Pros: It prints, copies, scans, and faxes Can be connected via Wi-Fi, USB, or Ethernet Able to print from mobile devices and scan to them as well Really simple setup Cons: Not the most expensive purchase price, but it is still pretty high Can be difficult to see small fonts Brother MFC-J4335DW The Brother MFC-J4335DW provides up to 1-year of ink in-box, has front-loading ink cartridges, a mobile app for easy printing, and can produce up to 20 black text pages per minute and 19 color pages per minute. It is also ENERGY STAR certified and has a 2-year limited warranty. Pros: A great purchase price at under $150 Among the top ADFs of printers in the affordable all-in-one category Beautifully prints highly detailed images and produces crisp, precise documents Fast printing speed Cons: Auto document feeder (ADF) duplex scanning is not supported Not great for photos, which come out grainy Epson EcoTank ET-2760 The EcoTank ET-2760 printer uses easy-to-fill ink tanks for cartridge-free printing. It offers low-cost replacement ink bottles that can save up to 90% and up to 2 years of ink. With each replacement set, users can print up to 7,500 pages in black or 6,000 in color, which is equal to about 80 individual cartridges. The printer also features automatic two-sided printing, scanning, copying and a 1.44-inch color display. Pros: Incredible ink savings High-quality prints with good color Light and compact, making it easy to carry or transport Compatible with SD memory cards Cons: Printing speed is painfully slow Guides can be a pain to adjust HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e The HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e is a high-performance all-in-one printer suitable for small businesses and for use as home office printers. It comes with advanced features such as fast color printing, dual-band Wi-Fi, automatic 2-sided printing and scanning, and security essentials such as basic encryption and password protection. The printer can be activated with HP+ for 6 months of free ink delivery and access to smart features such as mobile printing and enhanced cloud-based security. Pros: Exceptional printing speed across the board Produces high-quality documents in both black and color Priced affordably 35-sheet auto-duplexing ADF Cons: Designed to work with original HP-compatible ink cartridges only The scanner isn’t great at picking up fine details Pantum P3302DW The Pantum P3302DW printer offers fast, high-definition printing up to 33ppm, supports various media sizes and weights, and features a sleek off-white color and compact size. Its metal frame structure ensures long-term use, and it can be easily installed wirelessly with multiple connection options, including mobile devices. It comes with a separate drum and toner, and its starter cartridge can print up to 1500 pages, while the drum unit has a lifetime of 12000 pages. If you’re wondering which printer has the cheapest ink, this model is worth considering. Pros: A high print speed at a low price point Capable of both wired and wireless connections Good text-quality printing Feeds thicker card stock well Cons: Mobile printing setup instructions are poor Not compatible with Chrome HP Neverstop Laser MFP 1202w The HP Neverstop 1202w All-in-One laser printer provides black-and-white printing at a speed of 21 pages per minute. It also has scanning and copying functions, along with wireless printing capabilities. The printer comes with enough toner for up to 5,000 pages, and there is an option to buy a separate kit for over 2,000 pages of Original HP Toner. Additionally, the printer holds an ENERGY STAR 3.0 certification. If you’re wondering which printer has the cheapest ink, this model could be a good consideration. Pros: Affordable purchase price Budget-friendly ongoing costs Print quality is very good The toner refill kit is easy to use and mess-free Cons: No automatic double-sided printing Doesn’t print in color Canon MAXIFY MB2720 The Canon MAXIFY MB2720 is designed for the small business owner who needs to print, copy, scan, and fax. It offers high-speed printing of up to 24 images per minute (ppm) for black-and-white and 15.5 ppm for color. It also features a large 500-sheet paper capacity and a 20,000-page duty cycle. The MAXIFY ink tanks deliver a high page yield from one set of ink and are resistant to smudging, highlighting, and fading. Pros: Fast print speeds and high page yield. Dual Resistant High-density ink is smudge-proof and highlighter-resistant. Built-in Wi-Fi and support for AirPrint and Google Cloud Print. Relatively low cost per print. Cons: Bulkier than some other models, requiring more space. The initial cost is higher than some competitors. Brother INKvestment Tank MFC-J995DW The Brother INKvestment Tank MFC-J995DW is an all-in-one inkjet printer with a unique INKvestment Tank system that delivers uninterrupted printing, exceptional features, super convenience, and low-cost printing. It comes with up to one year of ink in the box. This printer offers printing, copying, scanning, and faxing capabilities, along with a 2.7-inch touchscreen for easy navigation. Pros: Up to a year of ink included with purchase. Versatile all-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan, fax). Wireless connectivity and easy to use touchscreen. Automatic two-sided printing. Cons: Slower printing speeds compared to some other models. Not the best choice for high-volume printing environments due to smaller paper trays. Printer ModelKey FeaturesProsCons Canon PIXMA G6020Canon MegaTank Ink Bottles, high print volume, excellent photo qualityExceptional ink value, duplex printing, dual paper traysNo automatic document feeder, slow two-sided printing Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5880Supersized ink tanks, PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology, hands-free voice-activated printingHigh-quality print output, three paper sources, auto 2-sided printingSteep purchase price, reported offline issues Epson EcoTank ET-4850Cartridge-free ink system, fast color printing, Ethernet and wireless connectivityPrints, copies, scans, faxes, multiple connection optionsRelatively high purchase price, visibility issues with small fonts Brother MFC-J4335DWFront-loading ink cartridges, mobile app, fast printing speed, 2-year limited warrantyAffordable purchase price, excellent ADF, high-quality printsNo ADF duplex scanning, grainy photo prints Epson EcoTank ET-2760Cartridge-free printing, low-cost replacement ink bottles, automatic two-sided printingIncredible ink savings, good color prints, compact and lightweightSlow printing speed, finicky guides for adjustments HP OfficeJet Pro 9015eFast color printing, dual-band Wi-Fi, HP+ activation for smart features, 35-sheet auto-duplexing ADFExceptional printing speed, high-quality documents, affordable priceLimited to original HP ink cartridges, scanner lacks fine detail pickup Pantum P3302DWFast HD printing, metal frame structure, multiple connection options, separate drum and tonerHigh print speed at a low price, supports wired and wireless connectionsPoor mobile printing setup instructions, not compatible with Chrome HP Neverstop Laser MFP 1202wBlack-and-white laser printing, wireless printing capabilities, includes up to 5,000 pages of tonerAffordable purchase price, budget-friendly ongoing costs, good print qualityNo automatic double-sided printing, doesn't print in color Canon MAXIFY MB2720High-speed printing, 500-sheet capacity, 20,000-page duty cycleFast print speeds, high page yield, smudge-proof ink, Wi-Fi connectivity, low cost per printBulkier design, higher initial cost Brother INKvestment Tank MFC-J995DWINKvestment Tank system, up to 1 year of ink in-box, all-in-one functionality, 2.7-inch touchscreenYear of ink included, all-in-one functionality, wireless connectivity, easy to use, auto duplexingSlower printing speeds, not ideal for high-volume environments due to smaller paper trays Additional things to look for when looking for a printer with cheap ink Cost-Per-Page Analysis: Before purchasing a printer, calculate the cost-per-page for both black and color printing. This calculation takes into account the price of ink cartridges and their estimated yield. Choose a printer that offers a lower cost-per-page to ensure ongoing savings. Third-Party Ink Cartridges: Certain printers can use third-party or compatible ink cartridges, which tend to be less expensive than original-brand cartridges. Look for printers that support third-party ink to help lower your ink expenses. Subscription Ink Services: Many printer manufacturers offer subscription-based ink services, such as HP Instant Ink or Epson EcoTank ReadyPrint. These programs provide a set number of pages per month for a fixed fee, eliminating the need to purchase ink cartridges separately. Duplex Printing: Printers that offer automatic duplex printing (double-sided printing) can help reduce paper costs and minimize ink consumption. This eco-friendly feature not only benefits the environment but also lowers overall printing expenses. Ink-Saving Software Features: Seek out printers equipped with built-in software features aimed at conserving ink. Certain printers provide options like “economy mode” or “draft mode,” which reduce ink usage for routine printing jobs. Also, look for: Print Management Software: Consider using print management software to monitor and control print jobs in your business. Such software can help track ink usage and optimize printing practices to minimize waste. Buy in Bulk: If your business requires heavy printing, consider buying ink cartridges in bulk. Purchasing in larger quantities can often lead to significant cost savings. Energy Efficiency: While not directly related to ink costs, opting for energy-efficient printers can reduce overall operational expenses. Energy Star certified printers are designed to consume less power, leading to cost savings in the long run. Recycling Programs: Investigate whether the printer manufacturer provides ink cartridge recycling programs. Engaging in these initiatives can help you save money on upcoming purchases while also supporting environmental sustainability. Research User Reviews: Before finalizing a printer purchase, read user reviews to gain insights into the actual ink usage and overall cost-effectiveness of the printer. Real-world experiences from other users can help you make an informed decision. By considering these supplementary factors, you can narrow down your options and find the best printer with affordable ink that meets your business needs and budget requirements. How to Choose the Best Printer with the Cheapest Ink Choosing the right printer is key to ensuring you get the most bang for your buck in terms of ink costs. When selecting the best printer with cheap ink, consider these factors: Printer Type Inkjet models are generally the most economical choices, as they are equipped with separate cartridges for each color and use a different printing method than laser types. Ink Refill Kits When selecting a printer, check if there are refill ink kits available for it as this can help reduce your total cost of ownership significantly. Cartridge Price and Yield Make sure you understand what kind of cartridge prices and page yield you’re expecting from your chosen printer model to get an accurate picture of long-term costs. Print Quality and Speed Look out for the print speed and quality specs when making your decision, as some printers may have lower costs up front but slow print times or poor output quality that ends up eating away at any potential savings. Maintenance and Support Costs If possible, also consider potential maintenance and support costs associated with the printer model you choose to make sure there won’t be any hidden expenses on top of the initial cost of purchase and refills. What is the best printer that uses less ink? When looking for a printer that uses less ink, any of the ones on our list will do. It’s important to choose an ink-efficient model that’s right for your printing demands and specific business needs. Which is cheaper overall, laser printers or inkjet printers? Laser printers are typically cheaper than inkjet printers in both purchase price and running costs. As laser toners have more pages per cartridge, it reduces the frequency of buying ink and associated costs. Does Epson or HP have cheaper ink? Even with HP Instant Ink being so affordable, Epson is the clear winner when it comes to saving money with the cheapest ink cartridges, costing an average of only about 6.9 cents per page, which is hard to beat. Where is the best place to buy cheap ink cartridges? The cheapest places to buy printer ink online include online retailers such as the ones mentioned in this article. They offer competitive prices, good quality products, and fast shipping on cheap office supplies. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Which Printer Has the Cheapest Ink? Find the Best Value for Your Prints" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When it comes to printing, ink can be a costly expense. That’s why finding a printer with affordable ink is essential for anyone who frequently prints. With so many printer options available, it can be overwhelming to know which one offers the best value. In this article, we will explore which printers have the cheapest ink, helping you find the most cost-effective option for your printing needs. Let’s get started! Which printer is the cheapest to run? The Epson EcoTank ET-2760 is the cheapest printer to run with affordable refillable ink bottles. It costs, on average, 1 cent per color ISO page compared to ink cartridges, which cost about 20 cents. It also includes up to two years of ink. Meanwhile, any of the printers from the list that follows are strong contenders. Business owners, be sure to check them out! Which printers are most economical on ink? Inkjet printers are the most economical on ink, using less ink per page than other types. However, printer model, usage pattern, and ink cartridge type can affect consumption and cost. Consider upfront printer costs and ongoing ink costs when making a purchase decision. Best Cheap Ink Printers for Business Use Running a successful business requires keeping expenses low without sacrificing quality. One effective way to cut costs is by choosing printers with cheap ink. Whether you work in a standard office or are learning how to start a sticker business, here are the best ones for business use: Canon PIXMA G6020 The Canon PIXMA G6020 MegaTank All-In-One Inkjet Printer comes with a complete set of ink bottles, including two additional black bottles, resulting in ink savings exceeding $1,100. It utilizes Canon MegaTank Ink Bottles, which contain more than 30 times the ink of standard cartridges. With each set of bottles, the PIXMA G6020 can print up to 7,700 color pages or 6,000 black text pages. Pros: Exceptional ink value with considerable up-front savings Produces excellent print quality, particularly for photos Includes a duplexer for double-sided printing and copying Dual paper trays hold 350 sheets total: 250 in the main cassette, 100 in rear Cons: There’s no automatic document feeder The two-sided printing feature is slow Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5880 The EcoTank Pro ET-5880 is a wireless all-in-one printer that utilizes supersized ink tanks as opposed to cartridges, resulting in low-cost printing and zero cartridge waste. It has PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology for high-quality output and a 500-sheet paper capacity. The printer features a 4.3″ color touchscreen and hands-free voice-activated printing. It has SmartWay certification for environmentally friendly operation. Pros: High-quality print output with sharp and clear text and graphics EcoTanks provide an extended ink supply, reducing the need for replacement ink Three paper sources (2 trays and 1 rear feed) Auto 2-sided printing for convenience Cons: Steep purchase price Users report it going offline on its own Epson EcoTank ET-4850 The Epson EcoTank ET-4850 all-in-one printer combines fast color printing, copying, scanning, and faxing capabilities. It features a 2.4″ color touchscreen and a 250-sheet paper tray, allowing for borderless 4″ x 6″ photo prints. Additionally, it includes Ethernet and wireless connectivity, voice-activated printing, and the Epson Smart Panel App for convenient printing from smart devices. Thanks to its cartridge-free ink system, users can print over 7,000 black text pages or approximately 6,000 color pages. This printer delivers exceptionally sharp text and stunning color photos and graphics on nearly any paper type, making it a key consideration for anyone asking, “Which printer has the cheapest ink?” Pros: It prints, copies, scans, and faxes Can be connected via Wi-Fi, USB, or Ethernet Able to print from mobile devices and scan to them as well Really simple setup Cons: Not the most expensive purchase price, but it is still pretty high Can be difficult to see small fonts Brother MFC-J4335DW The Brother MFC-J4335DW provides up to 1-year of ink in-box, has front-loading ink cartridges, a mobile app for easy printing, and can produce up to 20 black text pages per minute and 19 color pages per minute. It is also ENERGY STAR certified and has a 2-year limited warranty. Pros: A great purchase price at under $150 Among the top ADFs of printers in the affordable all-in-one category Beautifully prints highly detailed images and produces crisp, precise documents Fast printing speed Cons: Auto document feeder (ADF) duplex scanning is not supported Not great for photos, which come out grainy Epson EcoTank ET-2760 The EcoTank ET-2760 printer uses easy-to-fill ink tanks for cartridge-free printing. It offers low-cost replacement ink bottles that can save up to 90% and up to 2 years of ink. With each replacement set, users can print up to 7,500 pages in black or 6,000 in color, which is equal to about 80 individual cartridges. The printer also features automatic two-sided printing, scanning, copying and a 1.44-inch color display. Pros: Incredible ink savings High-quality prints with good color Light and compact, making it easy to carry or transport Compatible with SD memory cards Cons: Printing speed is painfully slow Guides can be a pain to adjust HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e The HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e is a high-performance all-in-one printer suitable for small businesses and for use as home office printers. It comes with advanced features such as fast color printing, dual-band Wi-Fi, automatic 2-sided printing and scanning, and security essentials such as basic encryption and password protection. The printer can be activated with HP+ for 6 months of free ink delivery and access to smart features such as mobile printing and enhanced cloud-based security. Pros: Exceptional printing speed across the board Produces high-quality documents in both black and color Priced affordably 35-sheet auto-duplexing ADF Cons: Designed to work with original HP-compatible ink cartridges only The scanner isn’t great at picking up fine details Pantum P3302DW The Pantum P3302DW printer offers fast, high-definition printing up to 33ppm, supports various media sizes and weights, and features a sleek off-white color and compact size. Its metal frame structure ensures long-term use, and it can be easily installed wirelessly with multiple connection options, including mobile devices. It comes with a separate drum and toner, and its starter cartridge can print up to 1500 pages, while the drum unit has a lifetime of 12000 pages. If you’re wondering which printer has the cheapest ink, this model is worth considering. Pros: A high print speed at a low price point Capable of both wired and wireless connections Good text-quality printing Feeds thicker card stock well Cons: Mobile printing setup instructions are poor Not compatible with Chrome HP Neverstop Laser MFP 1202w The HP Neverstop 1202w All-in-One laser printer provides black-and-white printing at a speed of 21 pages per minute. It also has scanning and copying functions, along with wireless printing capabilities. The printer comes with enough toner for up to 5,000 pages, and there is an option to buy a separate kit for over 2,000 pages of Original HP Toner. Additionally, the printer holds an ENERGY STAR 3.0 certification. If you’re wondering which printer has the cheapest ink, this model could be a good consideration. Pros: Affordable purchase price Budget-friendly ongoing costs Print quality is very good The toner refill kit is easy to use and mess-free Cons: No automatic double-sided printing Doesn’t print in color Canon MAXIFY MB2720 The Canon MAXIFY MB2720 is designed for the small business owner who needs to print, copy, scan, and fax. It offers high-speed printing of up to 24 images per minute (ppm) for black-and-white and 15.5 ppm for color. It also features a large 500-sheet paper capacity and a 20,000-page duty cycle. The MAXIFY ink tanks deliver a high page yield from one set of ink and are resistant to smudging, highlighting, and fading. Pros: Fast print speeds and high page yield. Dual Resistant High-density ink is smudge-proof and highlighter-resistant. Built-in Wi-Fi and support for AirPrint and Google Cloud Print. Relatively low cost per print. Cons: Bulkier than some other models, requiring more space. The initial cost is higher than some competitors. Brother INKvestment Tank MFC-J995DW The Brother INKvestment Tank MFC-J995DW is an all-in-one inkjet printer with a unique INKvestment Tank system that delivers uninterrupted printing, exceptional features, super convenience, and low-cost printing. It comes with up to one year of ink in the box. This printer offers printing, copying, scanning, and faxing capabilities, along with a 2.7-inch touchscreen for easy navigation. Pros: Up to a year of ink included with purchase. Versatile all-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan, fax). Wireless connectivity and easy to use touchscreen. Automatic two-sided printing. Cons: Slower printing speeds compared to some other models. Not the best choice for high-volume printing environments due to smaller paper trays. Printer ModelKey FeaturesProsCons Canon PIXMA G6020Canon MegaTank Ink Bottles, high print volume, excellent photo qualityExceptional ink value, duplex printing, dual paper traysNo automatic document feeder, slow two-sided printing Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5880Supersized ink tanks, PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology, hands-free voice-activated printingHigh-quality print output, three paper sources, auto 2-sided printingSteep purchase price, reported offline issues Epson EcoTank ET-4850Cartridge-free ink system, fast color printing, Ethernet and wireless connectivityPrints, copies, scans, faxes, multiple connection optionsRelatively high purchase price, visibility issues with small fonts Brother MFC-J4335DWFront-loading ink cartridges, mobile app, fast printing speed, 2-year limited warrantyAffordable purchase price, excellent ADF, high-quality printsNo ADF duplex scanning, grainy photo prints Epson EcoTank ET-2760Cartridge-free printing, low-cost replacement ink bottles, automatic two-sided printingIncredible ink savings, good color prints, compact and lightweightSlow printing speed, finicky guides for adjustments HP OfficeJet Pro 9015eFast color printing, dual-band Wi-Fi, HP+ activation for smart features, 35-sheet auto-duplexing ADFExceptional printing speed, high-quality documents, affordable priceLimited to original HP ink cartridges, scanner lacks fine detail pickup Pantum P3302DWFast HD printing, metal frame structure, multiple connection options, separate drum and tonerHigh print speed at a low price, supports wired and wireless connectionsPoor mobile printing setup instructions, not compatible with Chrome HP Neverstop Laser MFP 1202wBlack-and-white laser printing, wireless printing capabilities, includes up to 5,000 pages of tonerAffordable purchase price, budget-friendly ongoing costs, good print qualityNo automatic double-sided printing, doesn't print in color Canon MAXIFY MB2720High-speed printing, 500-sheet capacity, 20,000-page duty cycleFast print speeds, high page yield, smudge-proof ink, Wi-Fi connectivity, low cost per printBulkier design, higher initial cost Brother INKvestment Tank MFC-J995DWINKvestment Tank system, up to 1 year of ink in-box, all-in-one functionality, 2.7-inch touchscreenYear of ink included, all-in-one functionality, wireless connectivity, easy to use, auto duplexingSlower printing speeds, not ideal for high-volume environments due to smaller paper trays Additional things to look for when looking for a printer with cheap ink Cost-Per-Page Analysis: Before purchasing a printer, calculate the cost-per-page for both black and color printing. This calculation takes into account the price of ink cartridges and their estimated yield. Choose a printer that offers a lower cost-per-page to ensure ongoing savings. Third-Party Ink Cartridges: Certain printers can use third-party or compatible ink cartridges, which tend to be less expensive than original-brand cartridges. Look for printers that support third-party ink to help lower your ink expenses. Subscription Ink Services: Many printer manufacturers offer subscription-based ink services, such as HP Instant Ink or Epson EcoTank ReadyPrint. These programs provide a set number of pages per month for a fixed fee, eliminating the need to purchase ink cartridges separately. Duplex Printing: Printers that offer automatic duplex printing (double-sided printing) can help reduce paper costs and minimize ink consumption. This eco-friendly feature not only benefits the environment but also lowers overall printing expenses. Ink-Saving Software Features: Seek out printers equipped with built-in software features aimed at conserving ink. Certain printers provide options like “economy mode” or “draft mode,” which reduce ink usage for routine printing jobs. Also, look for: Print Management Software: Consider using print management software to monitor and control print jobs in your business. Such software can help track ink usage and optimize printing practices to minimize waste. Buy in Bulk: If your business requires heavy printing, consider buying ink cartridges in bulk. Purchasing in larger quantities can often lead to significant cost savings. Energy Efficiency: While not directly related to ink costs, opting for energy-efficient printers can reduce overall operational expenses. Energy Star certified printers are designed to consume less power, leading to cost savings in the long run. Recycling Programs: Investigate whether the printer manufacturer provides ink cartridge recycling programs. Engaging in these initiatives can help you save money on upcoming purchases while also supporting environmental sustainability. Research User Reviews: Before finalizing a printer purchase, read user reviews to gain insights into the actual ink usage and overall cost-effectiveness of the printer. Real-world experiences from other users can help you make an informed decision. By considering these supplementary factors, you can narrow down your options and find the best printer with affordable ink that meets your business needs and budget requirements. How to Choose the Best Printer with the Cheapest Ink Choosing the right printer is key to ensuring you get the most bang for your buck in terms of ink costs. When selecting the best printer with cheap ink, consider these factors: Printer Type Inkjet models are generally the most economical choices, as they are equipped with separate cartridges for each color and use a different printing method than laser types. Ink Refill Kits When selecting a printer, check if there are refill ink kits available for it as this can help reduce your total cost of ownership significantly. Cartridge Price and Yield Make sure you understand what kind of cartridge prices and page yield you’re expecting from your chosen printer model to get an accurate picture of long-term costs. Print Quality and Speed Look out for the print speed and quality specs when making your decision, as some printers may have lower costs up front but slow print times or poor output quality that ends up eating away at any potential savings. Maintenance and Support Costs If possible, also consider potential maintenance and support costs associated with the printer model you choose to make sure there won’t be any hidden expenses on top of the initial cost of purchase and refills. What is the best printer that uses less ink? When looking for a printer that uses less ink, any of the ones on our list will do. It’s important to choose an ink-efficient model that’s right for your printing demands and specific business needs. Which is cheaper overall, laser printers or inkjet printers? Laser printers are typically cheaper than inkjet printers in both purchase price and running costs. As laser toners have more pages per cartridge, it reduces the frequency of buying ink and associated costs. Does Epson or HP have cheaper ink? Even with HP Instant Ink being so affordable, Epson is the clear winner when it comes to saving money with the cheapest ink cartridges, costing an average of only about 6.9 cents per page, which is hard to beat. Where is the best place to buy cheap ink cartridges? The cheapest places to buy printer ink online include online retailers such as the ones mentioned in this article. They offer competitive prices, good quality products, and fast shipping on cheap office supplies. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Which Printer Has the Cheapest Ink? Find the Best Value for Your Prints" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A helicopter flying over your head, the ground rumbling under your feet, bullets whizzing by your ears: If it’s up to Google and Samsung, then your movie nights will soon sound like you’re in the middle of the action. The two companies announced a new 3D audio format called Eclipsa Audio this month that will soon bring spatial audio to compatible devices, starting with this year’s Samsung TVs and soundbars. Google is also bringing Eclipsa Audio to YouTube, where creators will soon be able to upload content with immersive audio, and has plans to extend support for it to Android phones, Chrome browsers, as well as TVs, soundbars and streaming devices made by a number of other companies. Does all of this sound familiar? That’s no accident: Dolby has been offering very similar capabilities with its own Dolby Atmos immersive audio format, which has been licensed by most major device makers and streaming services. But while Dolby charges its licensing partners for every device shipped to consumers, Google and Samsung are offering Eclipsa royalty-free. And while other open media initiatives have struggled to catch on in the past, Eclipsa’s backers are betting that a consumer-friendly brand will help the 3D audio format to become an all-around success story. “Spatial audio, immersive audio is going to be the new big thing in the audio space,” says Google’s Eclipsa Audio project lead Jani Huoponen. A fifty-year-old invention, rediscovered for the streaming age Spatial audio itself is not new: British researchers first developed a way to immerse listeners in a 3D sphere of music, with sounds coming not just from left and right but all directions, including different vertical heights, in the 1970ies. But while Ambisonics, as immersive audio was called at the time, made for a great demo, there has been a lot more momentum for it in recent years. One reason for this is the growth of streaming, and consumers embracing sound bars and home theater set-ups to make the most out of their Netflix movie nights. Music services like Apple Music have also begun to use Dolby Atmos spatial audio for an on-stage-with-the-band-like listening experience, and Apple’s AirPods are using head tracking to make music performances even more immersive. However, not every company has rushed to embrace Dolby Atmos. Many entry-level TVs and soundbars don’t support the format out of the box, and YouTube and Spotify don’t stream any Dolby Atmos content at all. Even consumers who have the right gear and service subscriptions may not actually get to enjoy the audio format: Netflix, Max and Amazon are all asking their customers to upgrade to their priciest plan to enjoy movies and shows with Atmos soundtracks. Some of that is due to the licensing fees Dolby charges for the use of its media formats. The company doesn’t publicly disclose its Atmos licensing fees, but it is said to charge between $2 and $3 per device for similar video format licenses. That doesn’t sound much, but can add up for an industry working with razor-thin profit margins. Costs for content creators are also significant: Licensing Atmos for the popular Pro Tools audio software alone costs around $300 – chump change for a Hollywood studio, but not for an amateur working on YouTube videos in their spare time. “There should be an open source alternative [available] to make immersive and spatial audio more accessible,” says Huoponen. That includes lowering the barrier of entry for content creators by extending spatial audio to user-generated content. “When YouTube introduces something new, creators figure out a way to take advantage of these new features,” he says. “That’s the exciting part here.” Omdia media & entertainment analyst Paul Erickson agrees. “Eclipsa Audio has the potential to democratize access to spatial audio technology across the consumer landscape,” he says, adding that industry giants like Google and Samsung are best positioned to establish a new audio format. Immersive media is already a complicated word salad Not everyone is as upbeat about Eclipsa Audio. “The world of immersive sound is already complicated,” cautions Danish sound designer Lars Tirsbæk. “Adding another format might create more confusion for both creators and consumers.” It’s an issue Eclipse Audio’s backers have struggled with in the past. Unwilling to pay the licensing fees for Dolby’s HDR video format Dolby Vision, Samsung threw its support behind the royalty-free alternative HDR10+ back in 2017. But while Amazon and Google were quick to support the format, consumers were left confused by the overly technical acronym, and many other streaming services opted for Dolby Vision due to better brand recognition. That’s why branding has been key this time. When Eclipsa Audio was first developed, it was called Immersive Audio Model & Format. “It’s a mouthful,” admits Huoponen. “We figured that we needed something a little bit easier for folks to remember.” Google first previewed its plans for open media formats with consumer-friendly branding at a closed-door meeting with consumer electronics makers in 2022. At the time internally called Project Caviar, the idea was to establish brands that consumers would immediately recognize when they’re in the market for a new TV or soundbar. Brands capable of competing with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision, complete with logos that device makers can slap on their packaging. Eclipsa Audio is the first such brand, and Google plans to establish a device certification program for consumer electronics makers soon. Which begs the question: Will TVs on store shelves eventually feature a logo for Eclipsa Video as well? Huoponen acknowledges that as a possibility, but cautioned that nothing was set in stone yet. “Right now, we are still focusing just on the audio part,” he says. “When the time comes, we will probably have something around video as well. We’ll see what the future will bring.” View the full article

An overwhelming number of Americans are in the market for a new job. According to a recent Monster poll, 93% of workers think 2025 might be the time to change employers. With an increased number of applications, you could see tougher competition for roles, which makes the interview process even more critical. The way you approach the job hunt is similar to how a professional gambler approaches the poker table, says Jamie Wall, casino analyst and body language expert at Gamblizard, a website that evaluates online casinos and their offers. “Both are high-stakes situations, considering you really want to land the job or win the game,” he says. “Both follow formal rules, have clear goals, and involve some initial inputs. In poker, it’s the cards you need to play right. In an interview, it’s your experience, which also needs to be presented strategically.” In both poker and interviews, luck plays a role, but success largely depends on your skills and ability to read others, says Wall. “Thinking this way shifts your mindset toward managing risks and maximizing rewards,” he says. “Plus, viewing the interview as a competitive game, where you and the interviewer are testing each other’s strategies, can spark excitement and drive, replacing anxiety with a sense of challenge.” Before you go into your next interview, consider these poker-inspired tips that could help you stand out from the crowd of other candidates. 1. Read the Room At the poker table, players try to read their opponents so they can adjust their game. In the interview process, the goal is to build a rapport with the person interviewing you by matching energy and gestures. Wall recommends “reading the room” by picking up on non-verbal cues that help you adjust your actions. “In-person interviews give the full spectrum of information: facial expressions, posture, movements, and real eye contact,” he says. “For example, engagement can be shown by the interviewer leaning forward or maintaining consistent eye contact.” Mirroring someone’s movements can help forge a subtle connection. Just don’t be blatant about it. If your interview is on video, Wall suggests looking for micro-expressions, which are involuntary facial movements that can reveal someone’s true thoughts. Raised eyebrows, for example, could indicate that the interviewer is surprised by your answer. You may want to take this as a clue to provide more information. If your interview is over the phone, Wall says tone, pacing, and pauses become the primary indicators. “A quick intake of breath might mean they’re eager to interject or intrigued by your answer,” he says. “Unusually long pauses [mean that they’re] skeptical or distracted.” 2. Maintain a Poker Face You may think having a poker face means being blank and expressionless, but Wall says it’s about controlling your emotions in high-pressure situations. Fortunately, this is a skill you can practice with friends, such as trying to keep a straight face while engaging in a heated debate when emotions want to break through, he says. In an interview, a poker face is useful during tough or unexpected questions. For instance, instead of nervously tightening your lips, looking down, or mumbling, maintain steady eye contact, take a pause, and answer with a calm tone to project confidence, says Wall. “You don’t need to stay neutral the whole time,” he says. “Show enthusiasm, smile, and connect authentically when it feels right. A poker face is just a tool to help you stay composed when it matters most.” 3. Use the ‘Check-Raise’ Strategy In poker, a “check-raise” is when a player starts off weakly, then surprises their opponent with a strong move later. They may match bets in early rounds to keep people in only to go all in at the end. You can use this strategy in interviews by downplaying your strengths in areas where you exceed. This often prompts the interviewer to dig deeper, giving you a chance to provide a well-prepared and impressive response that catches their attention, says Wall. “The main danger of this strategy is withholding information that could be critical for decision-making,” he says. “To minimize risks, hold back only information already in your résumé and always leave an opening to elaborate, like ‘One thing I’d also like to highlight [is]. . . .’” Wall says this strategy works best when withholding doesn’t underplay your potential. For entry-level candidates, where every detail matters, the risk is higher and likely not worth it. 4. Bluff (When Appropriate) Bluffing is a common technique used in poker. For example, only places a bet when they have a strong hand, they might throw off their opponents by raising big on a weak hand once in a while, says Wall. You can also bluff in an interview. While you don’t want to outright lie, it’s possible to polish or reframe the narrative around your skills and knowledge by building on a truthful foundation. If you’re asked about your proficiency in a skill you’re still learning, Wall suggests saying, “I’m quick to pick up new skills, like I did with [X related skill].” “This shows eagerness and flexibility, keeping the conversation positive while subtly showcasing your strengths,” he says. A foolish bluff, on the other hand, is making a wild move that doesn’t align with your story. “Never bluff about hard skills, certifications, or major accomplishments that can be easily verified or are essential for the role,” says Wall. “But when it comes to things like reasons for leaving a previous job, gaps in your résumé, or your motivation for applying, a bit of creative storytelling can work to your advantage.” 5. Make Your Final Bet At the end of the interview, Wall recommends placing your final bet. “Just like the last bet in poker can win you the game, ending your interview on a high note can boost your chances,” he says. “Show enthusiasm and reinforce your value by saying something like, ‘Thanks, I really enjoyed the interview. While I’m exploring other options, this one stands out.’ This demonstrates you’re invested, confident, and aware of your worth.” Sometimes the cards fall in your favor, and sometimes your “opponent” wins. The key for landing that next job is to stay in the game. View the full article

US president contrasts British position with that of the EUView the full article

So you flew too close to the sun—downloading app after app, recording hi-res video, binging podcasts—and now you’re faced with the dreaded “Storage Almost Full” pop-up on your iPhone. It’s OK: we can handle this together. Here are three extremely expeditious tricks you can use to clear out the clutter and get back to a carefree life of digital hoarding. Detach from big message attachments Every hilarious GIF. Every video of someone’s kid skiing. Every duck-faced selfie. They’re all taking up space, and you’ll almost never need to revisit them. Free up a metric pant-load of storage in mere moments by heading to Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Review Large Attachments (you may need to tap “Show All” to see it. All your space hoggers will be presented, from the largest to smallest. Hit the Edit button and eradicate with extreme prejudice. I’ve found this to be the best way to clear up a ton of cruft quickly. I’d say your mileage may vary, but it won’t. We’ve all been clinging to this stuff for way too long. Intelligently offload unused (or seldom used) apps Finally, a useful application of artificial intelligence. Yes, my family and I elf ourselves one day every December. No, the app doesn’t need to be taking up space the rest of the year. For all the one-off, long forgotten, and rarely used apps, there’s Apple’s offloading feature. It doesn’t get rid of apps entirely— it just gets rid of them until you need to use them again. Navigate to Settings > General > App Store > Enable “Offload Unused Apps” (way at the bottom) to mothball them. When you need them again, one tap brings them back, complete with all your settings. Send your photos to the cloud I realize the irony of suggesting you pay for cloud storage to house all the photos that are taking up too much space on your phone, but the fact of the matter is that at some point, you’re eventually going to have so many photos they won’t even fit on your phone anyway. For that, there’s iCloud, and shelling out $3 a month for 200 GB of storage isn’t outrageous. Now, that doesn’t mean you should let a bunch of other digital junk take up too much iCloud space. If you think of it primarily as a photo backup tool and work to keep your other files pruned, pared, and organized, you’ll be able to optimize your storage. Speaking of optimization, head to Settings > Apps > Photos > Optimize iPhone Storage to enable the feature. You’ll need to enable the iCloud Photos toggle if it isn’t already, at which point the Optimize iPhone Storage Option will appear. This keeps a smaller copy of each photo on your phone itself, while housing its higher-resolution version in iCloud. If you take a lot of photos, this is a great way to keep their respective storage sizes in check. View the full article

If you own a house, your insurance premiums have probably surged over the last several years. A new report outlines how much worse it could get as climate disasters keep growing: In Florida, for example, the insurance cost for an average house could go up 89% in the next 30 years. In Miami, the cost for a homeowner could go up by 322%, or an additional $11,000 a year. As you pay more for insurance, the value of your house is likely to simultaneously drop if you’re in a high-risk area. The report, from the climate risk analysis nonprofit First Street, estimates that an average house in Florida will lose around 29% of its value by the 2050s. Meanwhile, home values will rise in certain areas—like Madison, Wisconsin—that face lower climate risk. The report classifies around 21,000 communities as “climate abandonment neighborhoods”—places with high climate risk and spikes in insurance premiums where populations are likely to decrease. Thousands of other areas are likely to later reach that tipping point. In other high-risk areas, like Miami, populations will keep growing because there are enough other amenities that people are willing to live with the risk and expense. “What we’re seeing is that in some places where the economic structure is a little bit weaker, the impact of climate is stronger,” says Jeremy Porter, head of climate implications research at First Street. “It’s something that’s just an additional factor that people decide, ‘Okay, that’s enough. I can’t get a job here, and I also don’t want to put up with persistent extreme rainfall events’ or something like that.” As more people leave and cities have lower tax revenue, those local economies will struggle even more. Nationally, home insurance premiums are expected to rise by an average of 25.3%, with some of the steepest jumps in the West and Southwest. Idaho will see costs rise 50%; premiums in New Mexico could go up by 82%. In the past, insurance costs were relatively stable. In the 2000s and early 2010s, they were 7%-8% of mortgage payments. But over a little more than a decade, they’ve grown by 115%. That’s because of the enormous losses that insurance companies are facing as disasters grow. In 2023, insurers paid out around 10% more than they collected in premiums. (Ironically, despite the impact on their business from climate change, insurance companies continue to invest in fossil fuels.) The report calculated how much insurers’ costs are likely to grow because of climate change, and how much premiums will correspondingly rise. When a homeowner’s insurance premiums go up, their house will be worth less when it sells. And as buyers better understand climate risks, that also impacts value. When a house gets added to a FEMA zone, for example, that discounts the value by 4%. “Once awareness is raised around it, it does make the property a little less desirable,” Porter says. “It raises the flag that there’s going to be a little more in terms of cost of homeownership for this property.” In Paradise, California, after a devastating wildfire in 2018, insurance costs rose 36.8% by 2023. Property values dropped by 42%. First Street makes tools that homebuyers can use to better understand the risk of climate disasters like flooding or wildfire for a specific house. Now, if you search for a house on Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, or Homes.com, that data is integrated. A recent Zillow study found that 80% of homebuyers now consider at least one climate risk when they’re searching for a house. Homeowners can use the same tools to find ways to make their houses more resilient. If you live in a neighborhood that hasn’t flooded in the past, for example, but First Street’s models tell you that there’s now a strong likelihood of flooding, you might invest in a rain garden, permeable pavement, or ditches in your yard (or, depending on your risk, you might spend much more to elevate your house). Insurance companies are beginning to more proactively encourage homeowners to make changes to prepare for disasters, including a California startup that focuses on homes in high-risk fire zones. City planners can use the same tools to plan for resilience, and try to help residents avoid some of the financial costs that the report predicts. While only a handful of large cities have teams focused on climate risk, the tools can help fill the gap for others. “Understanding what parts of the community are at risk, which residents, which assets, which infrastructure pieces, gives them the ability then to effectively and efficiently allocate resources to protect the community and really adapt to the climate risk,” Porter says. View the full article

The end to self-delusion?View the full article

While it is still early to see the full impact on delinquencies, 5% fewer borrowers in these areas made their monthly mortgage payment by Jan. 17. View the full article

Quarter-point reduction forecast even as short-term inflation pressures are set to increaseView the full article

Companies from Boeing to Amazon have sought out the world’s richest man as he seeks to remake US government View the full article

UK’s most valuable listed company raised NHS rejection of its new breast cancer drug and the drug pricing mechanism during negotiationsView the full article

Fruit, tequila and even cars could be more expensive as a result of the US president’s decisionView the full article

The Aluminium Association of Canada has strongly criticized the 25% tariffs imposed by the U.S. administration on Canadian aluminium, warning of significant economic repercussions for American workers and consumers. The tariffs will immediately increase the cost of aluminium, affecting industries that rely on the metal for manufacturing. The U.S. consumes six times the amount of primary aluminium it produces, and Canada plays a critical role in supplying the shortfall. “This situation will unfortunately impact workers and consumers in America with the immediate increase on the price of aluminium,” said Jean Simard, President and CEO of the Aluminium Association of Canada. The association highlighted the interdependence of North American aluminium industries, stating that 9,500 Canadian aluminium workers supply metal to over 500,000 American manufacturing jobs, generating more than $200 billion in U.S. economic output annually. The Canadian aluminium industry intends to work closely with government officials, business leaders, and unions to maintain economic stability despite the tariffs. The industry also plans to engage with U.S. stakeholders—including businesses, workers, and policymakers—to underscore the negative economic impact of the tariffs. The Aluminium Association of Canada stressed that the real threat to the North American aluminium sector comes from China’s state-subsidized overproduction, not from Canada. The organization urged both nations to prioritize addressing unfair Chinese trade practices rather than imposing tariffs on Canadian aluminium. “Going forward the focus for our industry and our countries must be set on addressing the devastating impacts of unfair Chinese trading practices stemming from massive state subsidies on the entire aluminium ecosystem,” the statement noted. Canada has already taken several measures to align its trade policies with the U.S. to protect North America from Chinese aluminium dumping, including: Implementing a 25% surtax on Chinese aluminium imports. Establishing a Market Watch Unit within the Canada Border Services Agency to monitor aluminium trade. Enhancing anti-circumvention rules to prevent transshipment. Launching an Aluminium Imports Monitoring System in 2019. Developing a digital traceability system to track metal shipments in real-time. The association reiterated that Canadian aluminium should remain exempt from tariffs due to its strategic importance in North America’s industrial supply chain. With U.S. production limited to one million metric tons per year, tariffs on Canadian imports will increase costs for American manufacturers and consumers, counteracting efforts to curb inflation. Image: Envato This article, "Aluminum Assoc. of Canada: US Tariffs on Canadian Aluminium WIll Disrupt Industry, Drive Up Costs" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The Aluminium Association of Canada has strongly criticized the 25% tariffs imposed by the U.S. administration on Canadian aluminium, warning of significant economic repercussions for American workers and consumers. The tariffs will immediately increase the cost of aluminium, affecting industries that rely on the metal for manufacturing. The U.S. consumes six times the amount of primary aluminium it produces, and Canada plays a critical role in supplying the shortfall. “This situation will unfortunately impact workers and consumers in America with the immediate increase on the price of aluminium,” said Jean Simard, President and CEO of the Aluminium Association of Canada. The association highlighted the interdependence of North American aluminium industries, stating that 9,500 Canadian aluminium workers supply metal to over 500,000 American manufacturing jobs, generating more than $200 billion in U.S. economic output annually. The Canadian aluminium industry intends to work closely with government officials, business leaders, and unions to maintain economic stability despite the tariffs. The industry also plans to engage with U.S. stakeholders—including businesses, workers, and policymakers—to underscore the negative economic impact of the tariffs. The Aluminium Association of Canada stressed that the real threat to the North American aluminium sector comes from China’s state-subsidized overproduction, not from Canada. The organization urged both nations to prioritize addressing unfair Chinese trade practices rather than imposing tariffs on Canadian aluminium. “Going forward the focus for our industry and our countries must be set on addressing the devastating impacts of unfair Chinese trading practices stemming from massive state subsidies on the entire aluminium ecosystem,” the statement noted. Canada has already taken several measures to align its trade policies with the U.S. to protect North America from Chinese aluminium dumping, including: Implementing a 25% surtax on Chinese aluminium imports. Establishing a Market Watch Unit within the Canada Border Services Agency to monitor aluminium trade. Enhancing anti-circumvention rules to prevent transshipment. Launching an Aluminium Imports Monitoring System in 2019. Developing a digital traceability system to track metal shipments in real-time. The association reiterated that Canadian aluminium should remain exempt from tariffs due to its strategic importance in North America’s industrial supply chain. With U.S. production limited to one million metric tons per year, tariffs on Canadian imports will increase costs for American manufacturers and consumers, counteracting efforts to curb inflation. Image: Envato This article, "Aluminum Assoc. of Canada: US Tariffs on Canadian Aluminium WIll Disrupt Industry, Drive Up Costs" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Rand falls after president singles out Brics nation over expropriation of propertiesView the full article

The U.S. residential construction market is expected to expand by $242.9 million between 2025 and 2029, growing at a 4.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), according to a new report from Technavio. Rising household formation rates and a growing emphasis on sustainable construction practices are key factors driving market growth. However, the industry continues to face challenges, particularly in the availability of skilled labor for large-scale projects. The U.S. residential construction sector is seeing increased demand for affordable housing, spurred by lower mortgage rates and federal programs aimed at expanding access to homeownership. The Federal Reserve’s interest rate policies remain a crucial factor influencing housing affordability, while supply chain disruptions and labor shortages continue to limit the pace of new construction. The market is also experiencing a shift towards eco-friendly and energy-efficient homes, with homeowners seeking solar panels, energy-efficient insulation, and sustainable building materials. Federal incentives, including tax credits and rebates, are further encouraging the adoption of green building practices. Millennials, a major segment of first-time homebuyers, are driving demand for single-family homes, while urbanization trends continue to fuel the development of apartments and condominiums in metropolitan areas. Challenges in the Construction Sector Despite strong demand, the industry faces significant hurdles, particularly a shortage of skilled labor. An aging workforce, lack of new training programs, and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to worker shortages, leading to delays and increased costs for residential projects. In 2023, the construction sector required an estimated 723,000 new workers annually to meet demand, a gap that continues to strain the industry. Additionally, while home construction spending has seen double-digit growth, the supply of new homes has failed to keep pace with demand, contributing to rising home prices. Mortgage rates, lending guidelines, and stricter credit requirements remain key barriers for potential buyers. Industry Outlook and Market Segmentation The residential construction market is segmented by: Product: Apartments and condominiums, villas, and other housing types. Type: New construction and renovation. Application: Single-family and multi-family homes. Geography: Primarily North America, with U.S. market trends closely tied to Canadian housing conditions. AI’s Impact on Market Trends Artificial intelligence is playing an increasing role in the residential construction sector, driving efficiencies in project planning, cost estimation, and workforce management. AI-powered analytics tools help builders optimize material procurement, reduce waste, and improve construction timelines, offering a competitive edge in an industry facing labor shortages and rising costs. Looking Ahead The U.S. residential construction market is expected to experience continued growth through 2029, supported by demand for affordable housing, sustainability initiatives, and evolving homebuyer preferences. However, economic uncertainty, labor constraints, and regulatory challenges remain factors to watch in the coming years. Image: Envato This article, "US Residential Construction Market Projected to Grow by $242.9 Million from 2025 to 2029" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The U.S. residential construction market is expected to expand by $242.9 million between 2025 and 2029, growing at a 4.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), according to a new report from Technavio. Rising household formation rates and a growing emphasis on sustainable construction practices are key factors driving market growth. However, the industry continues to face challenges, particularly in the availability of skilled labor for large-scale projects. The U.S. residential construction sector is seeing increased demand for affordable housing, spurred by lower mortgage rates and federal programs aimed at expanding access to homeownership. The Federal Reserve’s interest rate policies remain a crucial factor influencing housing affordability, while supply chain disruptions and labor shortages continue to limit the pace of new construction. The market is also experiencing a shift towards eco-friendly and energy-efficient homes, with homeowners seeking solar panels, energy-efficient insulation, and sustainable building materials. Federal incentives, including tax credits and rebates, are further encouraging the adoption of green building practices. Millennials, a major segment of first-time homebuyers, are driving demand for single-family homes, while urbanization trends continue to fuel the development of apartments and condominiums in metropolitan areas. Challenges in the Construction Sector Despite strong demand, the industry faces significant hurdles, particularly a shortage of skilled labor. An aging workforce, lack of new training programs, and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to worker shortages, leading to delays and increased costs for residential projects. In 2023, the construction sector required an estimated 723,000 new workers annually to meet demand, a gap that continues to strain the industry. Additionally, while home construction spending has seen double-digit growth, the supply of new homes has failed to keep pace with demand, contributing to rising home prices. Mortgage rates, lending guidelines, and stricter credit requirements remain key barriers for potential buyers. Industry Outlook and Market Segmentation The residential construction market is segmented by: Product: Apartments and condominiums, villas, and other housing types. Type: New construction and renovation. Application: Single-family and multi-family homes. Geography: Primarily North America, with U.S. market trends closely tied to Canadian housing conditions. AI’s Impact on Market Trends Artificial intelligence is playing an increasing role in the residential construction sector, driving efficiencies in project planning, cost estimation, and workforce management. AI-powered analytics tools help builders optimize material procurement, reduce waste, and improve construction timelines, offering a competitive edge in an industry facing labor shortages and rising costs. Looking Ahead The U.S. residential construction market is expected to experience continued growth through 2029, supported by demand for affordable housing, sustainability initiatives, and evolving homebuyer preferences. However, economic uncertainty, labor constraints, and regulatory challenges remain factors to watch in the coming years. Image: Envato This article, "US Residential Construction Market Projected to Grow by $242.9 Million from 2025 to 2029" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

New levies expected to lift the US dollar and prompt market turbulence, investors say View the full article

Time is our most valuable resource, but it’s also often the most mismanaged. When you’re juggling the efforts of multiple people working on the same project, the struggle of time management becomes amplified. You don’t necessarily want to monitor an employee’s every move, but you do need to know where they are in their work The post Streamlining team workflows: The power of shared time tracking for project success appeared first on RescueTime Blog. View the full article

There was a time when artists representing two of America’s biggest homegrown musical genres wouldn’t get a look in at the Grammys. Hip-hop and house both have their origins in the 1970s and early 1980s—in fact, they recently celebrated a 50th and 40th birthday, respectively. But it was only in 1989 that an award category for “best rap performance” started recognizing hip-hop’s contribution to U.S. music, and house had to wait another decade, with the introduction of “best dance/electronic recording” in 1998. At this year’s awards, taking place on February 2, hip-hop and house artists will be among the most talked about. House duo Justice and Kendrick Lamar, a hip-hop superstar who incorporates elements of house himself, are among those looking to pick up an award. Meanwhile, a nomination for a collaboration between DJ Kaytranada and rapper Childish Gambino shows how artists from both genres continue to feed off each other. And while both genres are now celebrated for their separate contributions to the music landscape, as a scholar of African American culture and music, I am interested in their commonality: Both are distinctly Black American art forms that originated on the streets and dance floors of U.S. cities, developing a devoted underground following before being accepted by—and transforming—the mainstream. The pulse of the 1970s The roots of hip-hop and house music both lie in the seismic shifts of the late 1970s, a period of sociopolitical unrest and electronic experimentation that redefined the possibilities of sound. For hip-hop, this was expressed through the turntable manipulation pioneered by DJ Kool Herc in 1973, when he extended and looped breakbeats to energize crowds. House music’s innovators turned to the drum machine to create the genre’s foundational four-on-the-floor dance rhythm. That rhythm, foreshadowed by Eddy Grant’s 1977 production of “Time Warp” by the Coachouse Rhythm Section, would go on to shape house music’s distinct pulse. The track showed how electronic instruments such as the synthesizer and drum machine could recast traditional rhythmic patterns into something entirely new. This dance vibe—in which a base drum provides a steady four-four beat—became the heartbeat of house music, creating an enduring structure for DJs to layer bass lines, percussion, and melodies. In a similar way, Kool Herc’s breakbeat manipulation provided the scaffolding for MCs and dancers in hip-hop’s formative years. Marginalized communities in urban centers like Chicago and New York were at the forefront of these innovations. Despite experiencing grinding poverty and discrimination, it was Black and Latino youth—armed with turntables, drum machines, and samplers—who made these groundbreaking advances in music. For hip-hop, this meant manipulating breakbeats from songs like Kraftwerk’s “Trans-Europe Express” and “Numbers” to energize B-boys and B-girls; for house, it meant extending disco’s rhythmic pulse into an ecstatic, inclusive dance floor. Both genres exemplified—and continue to exemplify—the ingenuity of predominantly Black and Hispanic communities who turned limited resources into cultural revolutions. From this shared origin of technological experimentation, cultural resilience and creative ingenuity, hip-hop and house music grew into distinct yet globally influential movements. The message and the MIDI By the early 1980s, both genres had found their feet. Hip-hop emerged as a powerful voice for storytelling, resistance and identity. Building on the foundations laid down by DJ Kool Herc, artists like Afrika Bambaataa emphasized hip-hop’s cultural and communal aspects. Meanwhile, Grandmaster Flash elevated the genre’s technical artistry with innovations like cutting and scratching. By 1984, hip-hop had evolved from its grassroots beginnings in the Bronx into a cultural movement on the cusp of mainstream recognition. Run-DMC’s self-titled debut album released that year introduced a harder, stripped-down sound that departed from disco-influenced beats. Their music, paired with the trio’s Adidas tracksuits and gold chains, established an aesthetic that resonated far beyond New York City. Music videos on MTV gave hip-hop a new medium for storytelling, while films like Beat Street and Breakin’ showcased the features and tenets of hip-hop culture: DJing, rapping, graffiti, breaking and knowledge of self – cementing its cultural presence, and presenting it to a world outside the U.S. But at its core, hip-hop remained a voice for the voiceless that sought to address systemic inequities through storytelling. Tracks like Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five’s “The Message” vividly depicted the reality of living in poor, urban communities, while Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power” and Tupac Shakur’s “Keep Ya Head Up” became anthems for social justice. Together these artists positioned hip-hop as a platform for resistance and empowerment. Becoming a cultural force Unlike hip-hop’s lyrical storytelling, house music focused on the physicality of rhythm and the collective experience of the dance floor. And as hip-hop moved away from disco, house leaned into it. Italy’s “father of disco,” Giorgio Moroder, showed the way with his pioneering use of synthesizers in Donna Summer’s “I Feel Love.” Over in New York, Larry Levan’s DJ sets at Paradise Garage demonstrated how electronic instruments could create immersive, emotionally charged experiences as a club that centered crowd participation through dance and not lyrics. By 1984, Chicago DJs Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy were repurposing disco tracks with drum machines like the Roland TR-808 and 909 to create hypnotic beats. Knuckles, known as the “Godfather of House,” transformed his sets at the Warehouse club into euphoric experiences, giving the genre its name in the process. House music thrived on inclusivity, served as a safe space for Black and Latino members of the LGBTQ+ communities at a time when hip-hop was severely unwelcoming of gay men. Tracks like Jesse Saunders’s “On & On” and Marshall Jefferson’s “Move Your Body” celebrated freedom, love, and unity, encapsulating its liberatory spirit, as rap music and hip-hop culture embarked on its mainstream journey with songs like Run DMC’s “Sucker M.C.s (Krush Groove)” and Salt-N-Pepa debuted their album Hot, Cool, & Vicious. As with hip-hop, by the the mid-1980s house music had become a cultural force, spreading from Chicago to Detroit to New York and, eventually, to the U.K.’s rave scene. Its emphasis on repetition, rhythm, and electronic instrumentation solidified its global appeal, uniting people across identities and geographies. Mainstays in modern music Despite their differences, moments of crossover highlight their shared DNA. From the late 1980s, tracks like “Yo Yo Get Funky” by Fast Eddie and “I’ll House You” by the Jungle Brothers merged house beats with hip-hop’s lyrical flow. Artists like Kaytranada and Doechii continue to blend the two genres today, staying true to the genres’ legacies while pushing their boundaries. And technology continues to drive both genres. Platforms like SoundCloud have democratized music production, allowing emerging artists to build on the decades of innovations that preceded them. Collaborations, such as Disclosure and Charli XCX’s “She’s Gone, Dance On,” highlight their adaptability and enduring appeal. Whether through hip-hop’s lyrical narratives or house’s rhythmic euphoria, these genres continue to inspire, challenge and transcend. As the 2025 Grammy Awards celebrate today’s leading house and hip-hop artists and their contemporary achievements, it is clear that the legacies of these two genres are mainstays in the kaleidoscope of American popular music and culture, having come a long way from back-to-school park jams and underground dance parties. Joycelyn Wilson is an assistant professor of ethnographic and cultural studies at the Georgia Institute of Technology. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Central American nation is violating canal treaty’s neutrality clause View the full article