ResidentialBusiness

Registrations in Germany fall 59% amid consumer backlash against Elon Musk’s political activismView the full article

You know you’ve said it. We all have. “Mmm, that looks so delicious—I want to try some!” That’s because when it comes to what we eat, it’s not just a matter of taste. What foods and drinks look like—the colors we see before the first morsels or sips hit our taste buds—have mattered to people for millennia. And nowhere has that been more blatant than the American food palate, where the visual spectrum we choose from includes not only the primary colors but artificial ones that nature couldn’t even dream up. For well over a century, food manufacturers in the United States have used synthetic dyes in their products as part of their production and marketing efforts. Often, it’s been in hopes of making a mass-produced food look as fresh and natural as possible, reminiscent of the raw ingredients used in its production. In other cases, it’s been about making an item look interesting or distinctive from competitors, like candies or desserts in an electric blue or neon pink. Think “blue raspberry Slurpee” or “Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.” It hasn’t been without controversy. Over the decades, there have been pushback and government regulation over just how food and drink have been colored, most recently with the decision last month from the federal Food and Drug Administration to ban red dye No. 3 from foods and oral-ingested drugs because of concerns over a possible cancer risk. But no one’s calling for food NOT to be colorful. That’s because there’s no escaping the importance of what we see when it comes to what we eat, says Devina Wadhera, faculty associate at the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts of Arizona State University. “Your first sensory contact, if your eyes are open, is going to be sight,” she says. “That’s going to be the first judgment we’re going to make.” Visual appeal is pivotal The food manufacturers of the late 19th century knew they had to get the visual appeal right. It was part of their marketing, as a shorthand to encourage brand recognition, to make consumers feel comfortable about quality and overcome worries (or realities) about spoilage as food production became industrialized, says Ai Hisano, author of Visualizing Taste: How Business Changed the Look of What You Eat. Synthetic dyes helped overcome problems like foods losing color in the production process and helped make foods look more “natural,” she says. Then, over time, dyes were deployed to make foods look “fun” and appealing to audiences like young children. (That doesn’t mean manufacturers didn’t sometimes use colorants that could even be deadly—hence the reason there’s regulation.) She pointed to the mid-20th century example of cake mixes, which reduced the amount of effort required to bake a cake at home because most of the ingredients were already included. Food companies began promoting colorful icing for the cakes as a way women baking at home “could kind of present their personality even though they are making a premixed cake,” Hisano says. We become conditioned to coloring The connections we make between colors and foods are learned, Wadhera says. “Throughout our lives, we make associations which mean things. Cake is associated with birthdays. Ice cream is associated with parties and good times, so everything is associative learning. Color is one of those things that we have this tendency to learn about different flavor pairings.” She gave the example of the spate of products like chips and other snacks that are marketed as having an extra kick. Often “they’re super red because (companies are) trying to say, ‘Hey, this is going to be spicy’ because they’re trying to get to this sensation or perception that this is going to be really spicy—buy it.” The connections that we make between color and taste can also change according to the context, says Charles Spence, professor of experimental psychology at the University of Oxford. A blue liquid in a plastic cup in a bathroom? Could be minty mouthwash. The exact same color liquid, in a bar, held in a rocks glass? Could be bitter gin. Different cultures around the world also have different color associations, he says, although it’s fairly constant across geographies that the more vivid a color is, the more intense people assume the flavor will be. It can even extend past the food itself to the colors involved in its presentation, Wadhera says, pointing to research showing people eating different amounts or preferring certain foods linked to the colors of the dishes used to serve them. And much of the time, she says, people aren’t necessarily aware they’re doing it. “There’s a lot of things with color that you can manipulate and affect judgments,” she says. “You don’t think of it, though. . . . We make automatic judgments on the food and we don’t even realize it.” —By Deepti Hajela, Associated Press View the full article

Gilt yields fall and stocks rise as Bank of England prepares to announce first decision of 2025View the full article

In the digital world where creativity knows no bounds, Patreon has emerged as a powerful membership platform that allows creators to earn a sustainable income. With Patreon, creatives across all fields can turn their passion into profit, engaging a community of fans who are willing to pay for exclusive access to their work. This article explores how to make money on Patreon and provides tips for maximizing your success. What is Patreon? So, what is Patreon, and how can creators leverage it to make money? Patreon is a membership platform that allows creators to earn income by offering a subscription service to their fans. It acts as a virtual tip jar or fan club, where supporters, referred to as patrons, contribute a set amount regularly to gain access to exclusive content from their favorite creators. Why Patreon is an Ideal Platform for Creators Patreon excels by creating a platform where creators can establish direct connections with their fans, allowing them to earn money while delivering exclusive content and experiences. Below are some of the key features that differentiate Patreon: Exclusive Content: Creators can offer patrons exclusive access to new work, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Community Engagement: The platform allows creators to interact directly with their fans, fostering a sense of community. Flexible Membership Tiers: Creators can offer multiple levels of membership, each with its own set of rewards and benefits. Recurring Income: Rather than depending on one-time sales, creators have the opportunity to generate consistent income through ongoing patron subscriptions. Setting Up Your Patreon Account for Success Before launching into the world of Patreon, there are some key steps to ensure your success. Choosing Your Niche Identifying a niche that aligns with your interests and has potential demand is critical. Some popular niches on Patreon include: Podcasting Visual Art Writing Video Production Music Gaming Setting Up Your Patreon Page Once you have a niche in mind, it’s time to set up your Patreon page. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started: Sign Up: Create an account on Patreon’s website. Choose Your Niche: Identify what type of creator you are and what you plan to offer. Set Up Membership Tiers: Decide on what tiers of membership you will offer and the perks for each tier of membership fee. Build Your Page: Add a bio, images, a welcome video, and other details to make your page engaging. Launch: Once your page is ready, promote it on your other social media platforms to attract patrons. Ways to Make Money on Patreon Monetizing your creativity on Patreon can take many different forms. In this section, we’ll explore several strategies to help you maximize your income potential. Ways to Make Money on PatreonStrategy DescriptionTip for Success Offer Multiple Membership TiersCater to fans with different budget levels and engagement interests, thereby maximizing your earning potential.Survey your audience to determine what tiers and benefits would be most appealing to them. Create High-Quality, Exclusive ContentAttract and retain patrons by consistently delivering high-quality content that they can't find anywhere else.Set a consistent content schedule and keep a pipeline of ideas to ensure regular, unique output. Regular Interaction and Engagement with PatronsFrequent interaction and engagement with your patrons not only fosters a sense of community but also encourages them to maintain their memberships.Use Patreon's polling and messaging features to engage patrons regularly, and respond promptly to comments and messages. Utilize YouTube to Drive Patreon SubscriptionsLink your Patreon page to your YouTube channel, offering early access or exclusive content to your patrons, thereby encouraging more subscriptions.Promote the exclusive benefits of Patreon membership in your YouTube videos and link back to your Patreon in the video description. Set Attractive Subscription FeesStriking the right balance between what value you provide and how much you charge for it is key to setting attractive subscription fees.Monitor patron feedback and be ready to adjust pricing based on the perceived value and your income goals. Organize Paid Live Streams or WebinarsHosting live streams or webinars can provide added value to your patrons and provide an additional income source.Choose topics that resonate with your audience, and ensure the tech setup is flawless for a smooth streaming experience. Sell MerchandiseSelling merchandise like t-shirts, posters, or custom art pieces can add a lucrative income stream.Create high-quality, unique merchandise that fits with your brand and appeals to your audience. Provide Early or Exclusive Access to Your WorkOffering early or exclusive access to your work can incentivize more patrons to subscribe.Make sure early access content is truly valuable and well-promoted, and that you deliver on promises to ensure patron satisfaction. Offer Multiple Reward Tiers and Membership OptionsOffering a variety of rewards and membership options caters to a wider audience, increasing potential earnings.Vary the rewards based on the level of support, offering something for everyone, from casual fans to die-hard supporters. Utilize Other Social Media PlatformsPromote your Patreon page on other social media platforms to attract a broader audience.Tailor your promotional messages to fit the unique dynamics of each platform and encourage followers to support you on Patreon. Offer Multiple Membership Tiers By providing a variety of membership options, you can appeal to fans with varying budgets and levels of engagement, which will help you maximize your earning potential. Create High-Quality, Exclusive Content Attract and retain patrons by consistently delivering high-quality content that they can’t find anywhere else. Regular Interaction and Engagement with Patrons Frequent interaction and engagement with your patrons fosters a sense of community and encourages them to maintain their memberships. Utilize YouTube to Drive Patreon Subscriptions Link your Patreon page to your YouTube channel, offering your patrons early access or exclusive content, thereby encouraging more subscriptions. Set Attractive Subscription Fees Striking the right balance between what value you provide and how much you charge for it is key to setting attractive subscription fee tiers. Organize Paid Live Streams or Webinars Hosting live streams or webinars can provide added value to your patrons and provide an additional income source. Sell Merchandise Selling merchandise like t-shirts, posters, or custom art pieces can add a lucrative income stream. Provide Early or Exclusive Access to Your Work Offering early or exclusive access to your work can incentivize more patrons to subscribe. Offer Multiple Reward Tiers and Membership Options Offering a variety of rewards and membership options caters to a wider audience, increasing potential earnings. Utilize Other Social Media Platforms Promote your Patreon page on other social media platforms to attract a broader audience. How to Make Money on Patreon as a Writer Writers can harness Patreon’s potential by offering unique content or experiences to their patrons. Here are a few strategies: Serialized Novels: Release your novel chapter by chapter exclusively to your patrons. Writing Workshops: Host digital writing workshops or webinars. Behind-the-Scenes Access: Give patrons an inside look into your writing process. Early Access: Offer patrons early access to your latest work. How to Make Money on Patreon as an Artist Artists can use Patreon to transform their passion into profit. Here are a few strategies: Art Tutorials: Share your expertise through tutorials or classes. Commissioned Work: Offer custom artwork for higher-tier patrons. Digital Art Downloads: Provide downloadable digital art pieces. Studio Tours: Give patrons virtual tours of your workspace or process. Patreon Earnings and Fee Structure Patreon operates on a tiered fee structure based on the plan you choose, taking a percentage of your earnings each month. Currently, the pricing tiers include Pro and Premium. Pro Plan: Patreon takes an 8% commission with the Pro plan. This plan offers advanced features like membership tiers, analytics and insights, promotional tools, priority customer support, and more. It’s designed for creators who want to grow their businesses and offer more to their patrons. Premium Plan: The Premium plan is for well-established creators or businesses that need a little more. It offers everything in the Pro plan plus merchandise for membership and a dedicated partner manager for either a 12% commission or $600 a month, whichever is higher. According to Patreon, the plan is best for creators who expect to make at least $5,000 per month on Patreon, so the 12% fee equals at least $600 per month to Patreon. In addition to Patreon’s commission, your earnings will also be subject to transaction fees. These fees can fluctuate based on the payment method chosen by your patrons, but they generally amount to approximately 2.9% + $0.30 for each successful payment exceeding $3, and 5% + $0.10 for payments of $3 or less. Case Study: Successful Patreon Creators Many creators have successfully transformed their passions into profitable ventures on Patreon. Here are a few inspiring examples: Chapo Trap House: This political comedy podcast earns over $160,000 per month on Patreon. Amanda Palmer: The musician and artist earn over $40,000 for each piece of content she creates. The Try Guys: Known for their hilarious and informative YouTube videos, they earn over $30,000 per month. Darknet Diaries: This podcast, centered on cybercrime and hosted by Jack Rhysider, generates approximately $30,000 each month from its loyal listeners. Jessica Nigri: This cosplayer uses Patreon to deliver exclusive photoshoots and behind-the-scenes content, earning over $20,000 per month. FAQ: Making Money on Patreon Questions often arise when creators begin their journey on Patreon. Here are concise answers to some of the most frequently asked ones. How Much Can a Patreon Creator Expect to Earn? Earnings on Patreon vary widely depending on factors such as the number of patrons, membership tier prices, and frequency of content release. How Can I Attract More Patrons to My Page? Attract more patrons by offering high-quality, unique content, engaging with your audience regularly, and promoting your Patreon page on various platforms. How Long Does It Take to Start Earning on Patreon? The time it takes to start earning on Patreon can vary. It often depends on factors like the size of your existing audience, the quality of your content, and your promotion strategies. How Often are Membership Payments Processed on Patreon? Membership payments are processed on the 1st of every month. What Are Some Challenges I Might Face on Patreon? Some challenges might include building and maintaining an audience, setting appropriate subscription prices, and consistently creating high-quality, exclusive content. If these challenges prevent you from using Patreon effectively, there are other options. For example, you could explore how to make money on TikTok, how to make money on Twitch, or how to make money on PayPal. Image: Envato Elements This article, "How to Make Money on Patreon" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In the digital world where creativity knows no bounds, Patreon has emerged as a powerful membership platform that allows creators to earn a sustainable income. With Patreon, creatives across all fields can turn their passion into profit, engaging a community of fans who are willing to pay for exclusive access to their work. This article explores how to make money on Patreon and provides tips for maximizing your success. What is Patreon? So, what is Patreon, and how can creators leverage it to make money? Patreon is a membership platform that allows creators to earn income by offering a subscription service to their fans. It acts as a virtual tip jar or fan club, where supporters, referred to as patrons, contribute a set amount regularly to gain access to exclusive content from their favorite creators. Why Patreon is an Ideal Platform for Creators Patreon excels by creating a platform where creators can establish direct connections with their fans, allowing them to earn money while delivering exclusive content and experiences. Below are some of the key features that differentiate Patreon: Exclusive Content: Creators can offer patrons exclusive access to new work, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Community Engagement: The platform allows creators to interact directly with their fans, fostering a sense of community. Flexible Membership Tiers: Creators can offer multiple levels of membership, each with its own set of rewards and benefits. Recurring Income: Rather than depending on one-time sales, creators have the opportunity to generate consistent income through ongoing patron subscriptions. Setting Up Your Patreon Account for Success Before launching into the world of Patreon, there are some key steps to ensure your success. Choosing Your Niche Identifying a niche that aligns with your interests and has potential demand is critical. Some popular niches on Patreon include: Podcasting Visual Art Writing Video Production Music Gaming Setting Up Your Patreon Page Once you have a niche in mind, it’s time to set up your Patreon page. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started: Sign Up: Create an account on Patreon’s website. Choose Your Niche: Identify what type of creator you are and what you plan to offer. Set Up Membership Tiers: Decide on what tiers of membership you will offer and the perks for each tier of membership fee. Build Your Page: Add a bio, images, a welcome video, and other details to make your page engaging. Launch: Once your page is ready, promote it on your other social media platforms to attract patrons. Ways to Make Money on Patreon Monetizing your creativity on Patreon can take many different forms. In this section, we’ll explore several strategies to help you maximize your income potential. Ways to Make Money on PatreonStrategy DescriptionTip for Success Offer Multiple Membership TiersCater to fans with different budget levels and engagement interests, thereby maximizing your earning potential.Survey your audience to determine what tiers and benefits would be most appealing to them. Create High-Quality, Exclusive ContentAttract and retain patrons by consistently delivering high-quality content that they can't find anywhere else.Set a consistent content schedule and keep a pipeline of ideas to ensure regular, unique output. Regular Interaction and Engagement with PatronsFrequent interaction and engagement with your patrons not only fosters a sense of community but also encourages them to maintain their memberships.Use Patreon's polling and messaging features to engage patrons regularly, and respond promptly to comments and messages. Utilize YouTube to Drive Patreon SubscriptionsLink your Patreon page to your YouTube channel, offering early access or exclusive content to your patrons, thereby encouraging more subscriptions.Promote the exclusive benefits of Patreon membership in your YouTube videos and link back to your Patreon in the video description. Set Attractive Subscription FeesStriking the right balance between what value you provide and how much you charge for it is key to setting attractive subscription fees.Monitor patron feedback and be ready to adjust pricing based on the perceived value and your income goals. Organize Paid Live Streams or WebinarsHosting live streams or webinars can provide added value to your patrons and provide an additional income source.Choose topics that resonate with your audience, and ensure the tech setup is flawless for a smooth streaming experience. Sell MerchandiseSelling merchandise like t-shirts, posters, or custom art pieces can add a lucrative income stream.Create high-quality, unique merchandise that fits with your brand and appeals to your audience. Provide Early or Exclusive Access to Your WorkOffering early or exclusive access to your work can incentivize more patrons to subscribe.Make sure early access content is truly valuable and well-promoted, and that you deliver on promises to ensure patron satisfaction. Offer Multiple Reward Tiers and Membership OptionsOffering a variety of rewards and membership options caters to a wider audience, increasing potential earnings.Vary the rewards based on the level of support, offering something for everyone, from casual fans to die-hard supporters. Utilize Other Social Media PlatformsPromote your Patreon page on other social media platforms to attract a broader audience.Tailor your promotional messages to fit the unique dynamics of each platform and encourage followers to support you on Patreon. Offer Multiple Membership Tiers By providing a variety of membership options, you can appeal to fans with varying budgets and levels of engagement, which will help you maximize your earning potential. Create High-Quality, Exclusive Content Attract and retain patrons by consistently delivering high-quality content that they can’t find anywhere else. Regular Interaction and Engagement with Patrons Frequent interaction and engagement with your patrons fosters a sense of community and encourages them to maintain their memberships. Utilize YouTube to Drive Patreon Subscriptions Link your Patreon page to your YouTube channel, offering your patrons early access or exclusive content, thereby encouraging more subscriptions. Set Attractive Subscription Fees Striking the right balance between what value you provide and how much you charge for it is key to setting attractive subscription fee tiers. Organize Paid Live Streams or Webinars Hosting live streams or webinars can provide added value to your patrons and provide an additional income source. Sell Merchandise Selling merchandise like t-shirts, posters, or custom art pieces can add a lucrative income stream. Provide Early or Exclusive Access to Your Work Offering early or exclusive access to your work can incentivize more patrons to subscribe. Offer Multiple Reward Tiers and Membership Options Offering a variety of rewards and membership options caters to a wider audience, increasing potential earnings. Utilize Other Social Media Platforms Promote your Patreon page on other social media platforms to attract a broader audience. How to Make Money on Patreon as a Writer Writers can harness Patreon’s potential by offering unique content or experiences to their patrons. Here are a few strategies: Serialized Novels: Release your novel chapter by chapter exclusively to your patrons. Writing Workshops: Host digital writing workshops or webinars. Behind-the-Scenes Access: Give patrons an inside look into your writing process. Early Access: Offer patrons early access to your latest work. How to Make Money on Patreon as an Artist Artists can use Patreon to transform their passion into profit. Here are a few strategies: Art Tutorials: Share your expertise through tutorials or classes. Commissioned Work: Offer custom artwork for higher-tier patrons. Digital Art Downloads: Provide downloadable digital art pieces. Studio Tours: Give patrons virtual tours of your workspace or process. Patreon Earnings and Fee Structure Patreon operates on a tiered fee structure based on the plan you choose, taking a percentage of your earnings each month. Currently, the pricing tiers include Pro and Premium. Pro Plan: Patreon takes an 8% commission with the Pro plan. This plan offers advanced features like membership tiers, analytics and insights, promotional tools, priority customer support, and more. It’s designed for creators who want to grow their businesses and offer more to their patrons. Premium Plan: The Premium plan is for well-established creators or businesses that need a little more. It offers everything in the Pro plan plus merchandise for membership and a dedicated partner manager for either a 12% commission or $600 a month, whichever is higher. According to Patreon, the plan is best for creators who expect to make at least $5,000 per month on Patreon, so the 12% fee equals at least $600 per month to Patreon. In addition to Patreon’s commission, your earnings will also be subject to transaction fees. These fees can fluctuate based on the payment method chosen by your patrons, but they generally amount to approximately 2.9% + $0.30 for each successful payment exceeding $3, and 5% + $0.10 for payments of $3 or less. Case Study: Successful Patreon Creators Many creators have successfully transformed their passions into profitable ventures on Patreon. Here are a few inspiring examples: Chapo Trap House: This political comedy podcast earns over $160,000 per month on Patreon. Amanda Palmer: The musician and artist earn over $40,000 for each piece of content she creates. The Try Guys: Known for their hilarious and informative YouTube videos, they earn over $30,000 per month. Darknet Diaries: This podcast, centered on cybercrime and hosted by Jack Rhysider, generates approximately $30,000 each month from its loyal listeners. Jessica Nigri: This cosplayer uses Patreon to deliver exclusive photoshoots and behind-the-scenes content, earning over $20,000 per month. FAQ: Making Money on Patreon Questions often arise when creators begin their journey on Patreon. Here are concise answers to some of the most frequently asked ones. How Much Can a Patreon Creator Expect to Earn? Earnings on Patreon vary widely depending on factors such as the number of patrons, membership tier prices, and frequency of content release. How Can I Attract More Patrons to My Page? Attract more patrons by offering high-quality, unique content, engaging with your audience regularly, and promoting your Patreon page on various platforms. How Long Does It Take to Start Earning on Patreon? The time it takes to start earning on Patreon can vary. It often depends on factors like the size of your existing audience, the quality of your content, and your promotion strategies. How Often are Membership Payments Processed on Patreon? Membership payments are processed on the 1st of every month. What Are Some Challenges I Might Face on Patreon? Some challenges might include building and maintaining an audience, setting appropriate subscription prices, and consistently creating high-quality, exclusive content. If these challenges prevent you from using Patreon effectively, there are other options. For example, you could explore how to make money on TikTok, how to make money on Twitch, or how to make money on PayPal. Image: Envato Elements This article, "How to Make Money on Patreon" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

This article is republished with permission from Wonder Tools, a newsletter that helps you discover the most useful sites and apps. Subscribe here. When’s the last time you fielded a tech support call from a parent? You want your parents—or anyone you support—to benefit from email, photo sharing, and video calls. You also have to protect them from scams, malware, and unnecessary complexity. Or maybe you are that parent and want to stay safe online. Either way, today’s post aims to support you. I periodically help my parents make sense of confusing WebEx conferencing instructions or Microsoft Word settings. So when Wonder Tools reader and tech expert Paul Schreiber offered to write a guest post based on his professional and personal experience, I welcomed his input. Below he outlines specific hardware recommendations, security steps, and practical tips you can implement today. The next section of this piece is by Paul. Paul’s advice Over the past few years, I’ve helped my parents and some friends’ parents stay safe online. Here are some things I’ve found work well. Skip the computer Many folks don’t need a powerful computer. They just need access to email, messaging, and the web. An iPad or Chromebook for around $300 provides this (along with thousands of apps), while reducing the burden of maintenance. . . . or pick a simple one A MacBook Air is a great choice if they do need a computer. There’s less malware and Apple provides a single, simple source of support. No need to worry about separate or conflicting instructions from hardware and OS manufacturers. Plus, if they already have an iPhone, the Air works with it seamlessly. Replace the router Replace their current router with one or more eero devices. Eeros: Automatically connect to each other in a mesh for large homes—no more clunky extenders with separate network names. They also work for apartments with thick walls Automatically configure themselves with the right network settings Automatically stay up-to-date Can be monitored and administered remotely from your phone Add guardrails Make yourself the admin. When setting up the computer, create two accounts: One for yourself, with administrative rights A standard account for your parent If they accidentally install adware or other junk, it will only affect their account, not the whole computer, and it’ll be easier to remedy. Install an ad blocker Ads slow down the page and trick people into installing malware. I recommend the free uBlock Origin for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. (Note: avoid the similarly named uBlock.) For Safari, consider buying 1Blocker, Wipr, or AdGuard. Set up a family account Apple (iCloud+) and Google (Google One) both sell cloud storage that can be shared with your family. For about $10 per month, you ensure everyone’s device is backed up and their photos are synced. You can also share some apps without repurchasing them. Make yourself the recovery contact Add your email and phone number as a recovery contact (Apple, Google) for your parents’ important accounts. This lets you help when they forget their password. It also lets you reset it if they become incapacitated or die. Set up legacy contacts Unlike recovery contacts, legacy contacts control an account after someone dies. Setting these up gives you legal permission to access the account. Each service handles it differently, so read instructions from Facebook, Apple, and Google carefully. Today is trash day Go through your parents’ computer and/or phone. Delete unused apps. Clean up the downloads folder, removing installers (such as .pkg and .dmg files) as well duplicate or outdated files. Passwords Passwords are a pain. Good news: You no longer need to memorize them. With a password manager, the only two passwords you’ll need to remember are those for your computer and your email. Your password manager will automatically create hard-to-guess passwords and fill them in for all other logins. It won’t fill your password in on sites trying to steal your information. Set up password autofill and teach them to use it Spend a few hours using Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or 1Password to generate new passwords for their 25 most important sites Share key account passwords with yourself Final Tips If you want personalized advice, visit Consumer Reports’ security planner. If your parents or relatives are easily duped by fake reviews, set up bookmarks for Consumer Reports, Wirecutter, the Good Housekeeping Institute, Vetted, or other trustworthy review services. P.S. bonus tools—recommended by Jeremy Print Friendly makes it easy to print anything online. Postlight Reader removes clutter from articles, making reading easier. Permission Slip is a free app from Consumer Reports that helps you learn what companies are collecting data about you or your parents or children. You can send a request that they stop selling your personal info. Consumer Reports testing found that paid data removal services often fail to fully scrub personal information from people-search sites. I’ve been testing Incogni, which wasn’t assessed in that report. So far it’s been helpful in requesting that data brokers erase information about me that they’re storing and selling. See the big data broker opt-out list for more info. CleanMyMac is a simple Mac app that makes it easy to remove old installers, duplicate files, and other files cluttering up your computer or taking up space. I’ve used it for a few years and recommend it. Yorba is another promising new service in beta. It can help in several ways: Unsubscribe from emails. Wipe old unused accounts and associated logins. Cancel subscriptions you forgot about. It’s free to start. This article is republished with permission from Wonder Tools, a newsletter that helps you discover the most useful sites and apps. Subscribe here. 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The waters of Cape Cod Bay are coming for the big brown house perched on the edge of a sandy bluff high above the beach. It’s just a matter of when. Erosion has marched right up to the concrete footings of the multimillion-dollar home where it overlooks the bay. Massive sliding doors that used to open onto a wide deck, complete with hot tub, are now barricaded by thin wooden slats that prevent anyone from stepping through and falling 25 feet to the beach below. The owner knew it. He removed the deck and other parts of the house, including a small tower that held the primary bedroom, before stopping work and falling into a standoff with the town. He’s since sold the place to a salvage company that says it won’t pay for work. Officials in Wellfleet worry the home’s collapse will damage delicate beds in their harbor where farmers grow oysters that are among New England’s most prized. A report commissioned by the town projects if nothing is done, the 5,100-square-foot home will tumble into the bay within three years—and possibly much sooner. Its certain fate is a reminder of the fragility of building along the cape, where thanks to climate change sea level rise has accelerated in recent years. “I mean, the cape has always been moving,” said John Cumbler, a retired environmental history professor who also serves on the Wellfleet Conservation Commission. “The sand is moving.” History of the home The house was built in 2010 on Cape Cod on the bay side of the peninsula. Its original owners, Mark and Barbara Blasch, sought permission from the commission in 2018 to build a 241-foot-wide seawall to stave off erosion. The commission’s seven members—all volunteers—rejected the seawall on the grounds that it might have unintended effects on the beach and the way water carries nutrients in the bay. They also questioned whether it would actually save the house. The property is within Cape Cod National Seashore. The National Seashore Administration supported rejection of the seawall because of the “critical location” within the seashore and Wellfleet Harbor area, including critical habitat and valuable shellfish operations. The Blasches appealed the rejection in state district court and lost. An appeal to the state’s Superior Court is pending. A New York man, attorney John Bonomi, bought the house in 2022 for $5.5 million, even as its future was in doubt. Bonomi’s attorneys declined to comment for this story. Threat to the bay and oyster beds A report prepared for Wellfleet last year by Bryan McCormack, a coastal processes specialist with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Sea Grant, estimates that the bluffs are eroding at a rate of 3.8 to 5.6 feet a year. The report estimated collapse in up to three years, but likely sooner. The report said a collapse could send debris into Wellfleet Harbor, where the town’s namesake oysters, well-known to shellfish lovers, take two to three years to reach maturity. “The house has a lot of fiberglass insulation in it. It has toxic material in it,” Cumbler said. “If that toxic material gets into Wellfleet Harbor, which is where the currents will take it, it could endanger the oyster industry in Wellfleet, our major industry outside of tourism.” Standoff over what to do with the house Bonomi “came to us back in October and said, yes, we understand the house is in danger of falling into the sea, and we will give you a plan by January for what we will do with the house,” Cumbler said. “We asked for a plan to remove it from the danger.” That plan was supposed to be presented at the commission’s January meeting. But Bonomi’s attorney, Tom Moore, wrote to the town in December to say Bonomi had sold the house to CQN Salvage, a company incorporated in October, that Moore was also representing. Moore wrote that the town “is on notice to take whatever steps it deems prudent to prevent the collapse of the embankment and the other consequences of further erosion. CQN Salvage is ready to work alongside the town in such efforts but will not fund them.” It’s not clear who owns CQN Salvage. Its incorporation records in New York state don’t list any officials. Moore declined to speak with The Associated Press. At the January meeting, Moore appeared by video and told the commission that the “bare minimum estimate” to remove the house was at least $1 million. “So, you plan to do nothing and allow it to fall into the water?” Lecia McKenna, the town’s conservation agent, asked Moore. “I plan to ask you to not let it fall into the water,” Moore responded. The commission voted to extend to June 1 the deadline to comply with its enforcement order. Wellfleet is left to watch and wait For now, the town is left to simply watch the house. When the AP recently visited the site, 20 mph winds were hitting the bluffs and sand could be seen trickling down. The sea level at nearby Falmouth has risen 11 inches in the past 90 years, but the pace is accelerating. An AP analysis of data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration found the sea level around Cape Cod between 1995 and 2024 was rising at an annual rate of 0.16 inch faster than the prior 30-year period. McCormack, the Woods Hole specialist who prepared the report for the town, said it’s difficult to attribute erosion at a single property to climate change and sea level rise. And he said Cape Cod has been eroding “for tens of thousands of years.” But he said the bluffs have receded 54 feet since 2014, and the erosion rate over the past decade “has exceeded long-term rates published by the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management.” —By Andre Muggiati, Associated Press AP data journalist Mary Katherine Wildeman contributed to this report. The Associated Press’s climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. View the full article

Struggling Japanese carmaker is pursuing tech rather than automotive ally to revive its businessView the full article

An X post recently made the rounds for its “old money” visuals. The video depicting weekends spent sailing Lake Como in tuxedos and candlelit dinners at impossibly long dining tables screams “upper crust.” Or so we thought. It was another X user who quickly shattered the illusion. “Sorry to burst the fantasy, but I know one of the girls in this video, and none of this is casual or real,” Louis Pisano wrote in a post. “It’s an ‘Instagram club’ where, if you get accepted, you pay to dress up and create ‘old money’ content with them.” This is the Tuxedo Society, a U.K.-based members-only club promising access to “experiences in the most iconic locations” and a chance to “elevate your network” by connecting with like-minded people. Founded by classic-car dealer Riccardo Capotosti, the group markets itself as an exclusive gateway to a more glamorous, monied world with the motto “Attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places.” “Having access to this elite club will give you the opportunity to connect with enlightened people from all over the world,” the group’s website states. Or, as one X user put it: “So it’s basically Disneyland for wannabe socialites.” The Tuxedo Society, also known as the Tuxedo Members Club, has two websites: one showing the luxurious lifestyle you can expect with a membership and another for applications, though the latter is still in the “Coming Soon” phase as of this writing. To join, you must earn more than 500,000 euros per year (that’s around $520,000) or have a seven-figure net worth (although Pisano claims this isn’t true, based on his personal knowledge of one of the members). Prospective members must also pass an approval process, including an introductory video call with a board member, according to the website. An annual membership then costs 6,000 euros (about $6,200), and if you don’t renew, your spot goes to someone else. Current members, including influencers like Federico di Custoza and model Chiara Basso, pose against classic cars and suited up in formal wear on tennis courts. The most notable member, who can actually claim “old money” status, is Eugenia Hannover, a model linked to the historic House of Hanover. Fascination with the rich and well-connected is nothing new, but in the age of social media, it’s easier than ever to cosplay as wealthy, even if just for content. The secret lives and unspoken rules of the upper classes have been the subject of countless films and TV shows, from The Great Gatsby and The Talented Mr. Ripley to Saltburn. Remember how those stories ended? View the full article

Influencers are not only good for skinny jean and matcha recommendations. Now, they can advise you on where to invest your money. Founded by 23-year-old Steven Wang, Dub is an influencer-driven marketplace where users can now copy the entire portfolios of the likes of Rep. Nancy Pelosi or billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman for just $9.99 a month or $89.99 a year. At the same time, retail traders accepted into Dub’s top creator program will be paid royalties for users to access their model portfolio. “I want the next five Warren Buffetts to be surfaced and famous on Dub,” Wang told CNBC last month. “If we’re really successful with the top creator program, the next generation of the best fund managers, the best traders in the world that people follow will rise from Dub.” Rather than picking stocks, users just need to make sure they pick the right person (kind of like copying the homework of the smartest kid in class rather than actually doing your homework). These portfolios are tracked for changes over time, with any trades automatically copied, eliminating the human error of missing any trades. Dub is also focused on educating users and helps investors make informed decisions by displaying risk scores, risk-adjusted returns, and portfolio stability metrics all on the platform. Retail investing has changed rapidly over the past two decades. Now, almost half of Gen Zers invest in the stock market, according to the Oliver Wyman Forum survey. They are 45% more likely to start investing by age 21 than Millennials and two to four times more likely than Gen X and baby boomers. In for a penny in for a pound, Gen Z are also saving a sizable 14% of their incomes. At the same time, social media is reshaping how people, and Gen Z in particular, choose to spend, save and invest their money. Gen Zers are nearly five times more likely to say they get financial advice, including investing tips, from social media than those in their 40s or above. So Gen Z is going to take advice from anyone, might as well be from those who can put their money where their mouth is. View the full article

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Private-sector employment increased by 183,000 jobs in January, according to the latest ADP National Employment Report, produced in collaboration with the Stanford Digital Economy Lab. The report, based on payroll data from more than 25 million U.S. employees, also showed that annual pay grew by 4.7% year-over-year. Job Growth Trends and Industry Breakdown While hiring momentum from late 2024 carried into January, growth was uneven across industries. Consumer-facing sectors led the expansion, while business services and manufacturing posted weaker results. Industry Employment Changes: Goods-producing sectors: -6,000 jobs Natural resources/mining: +4,000 Construction: +3,000 Manufacturing: -13,000 Service-providing sectors: +190,000 jobs Trade/transportation/utilities: +56,000 Leisure/hospitality: +54,000 Education/health services: +20,000 Professional/business services: +14,000 Information: +18,000 Financial activities: +13,000 Other services: +15,000 Regional Employment Changes Northeast: +22,000 Midwest: +64,000 South: +50,000 West: +70,000 Job Growth by Business Size Small businesses (1-49 employees): +39,000 Medium businesses (50-499 employees): +92,000 Large businesses (500+ employees): +69,000 Pay Insights: Stability in Wage Growth Annual pay increases remained steady in January. Job-stayers saw a median annual pay increase of 4.7%. Job-changers experienced a 6.8% wage increase. Median Annual Pay Growth by Industry (Job-Stayers): Construction: 5.0% Manufacturing: 4.9% Education/health services: 5.0% Leisure/hospitality: 4.8% Financial activities: 5.0% Median Annual Pay Growth by Firm Size (Job-Stayers): Small firms (1-19 employees): 2.9% Medium firms (50-249 employees): 5.0% Large firms (500+ employees): 5.0% Labor Market Outlook Despite strong overall job growth, disparities remain across industries, and some sectors continue to face hiring challenges. “We had a strong start to 2025 but it masked a dichotomy in the labor market,” said Nela Richardson, chief economist at ADP. “Consumer-facing industries drove hiring, while job growth was weaker in business services and production.” Image: ADP This article, "Private Sector Employment Rises by 183,000 in January" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Private-sector employment increased by 183,000 jobs in January, according to the latest ADP National Employment Report, produced in collaboration with the Stanford Digital Economy Lab. The report, based on payroll data from more than 25 million U.S. employees, also showed that annual pay grew by 4.7% year-over-year. Job Growth Trends and Industry Breakdown While hiring momentum from late 2024 carried into January, growth was uneven across industries. Consumer-facing sectors led the expansion, while business services and manufacturing posted weaker results. Industry Employment Changes: Goods-producing sectors: -6,000 jobs Natural resources/mining: +4,000 Construction: +3,000 Manufacturing: -13,000 Service-providing sectors: +190,000 jobs Trade/transportation/utilities: +56,000 Leisure/hospitality: +54,000 Education/health services: +20,000 Professional/business services: +14,000 Information: +18,000 Financial activities: +13,000 Other services: +15,000 Regional Employment Changes Northeast: +22,000 Midwest: +64,000 South: +50,000 West: +70,000 Job Growth by Business Size Small businesses (1-49 employees): +39,000 Medium businesses (50-499 employees): +92,000 Large businesses (500+ employees): +69,000 Pay Insights: Stability in Wage Growth Annual pay increases remained steady in January. Job-stayers saw a median annual pay increase of 4.7%. Job-changers experienced a 6.8% wage increase. Median Annual Pay Growth by Industry (Job-Stayers): Construction: 5.0% Manufacturing: 4.9% Education/health services: 5.0% Leisure/hospitality: 4.8% Financial activities: 5.0% Median Annual Pay Growth by Firm Size (Job-Stayers): Small firms (1-19 employees): 2.9% Medium firms (50-249 employees): 5.0% Large firms (500+ employees): 5.0% Labor Market Outlook Despite strong overall job growth, disparities remain across industries, and some sectors continue to face hiring challenges. “We had a strong start to 2025 but it masked a dichotomy in the labor market,” said Nela Richardson, chief economist at ADP. “Consumer-facing industries drove hiring, while job growth was weaker in business services and production.” Image: ADP This article, "Private Sector Employment Rises by 183,000 in January" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Suntory boss expects to sell less in Europe, Canada and Mexico as a result of US president’s protectionist trade policiesView the full article

Black-owned small businesses are embracing digital tools at higher rates than their non-Black counterparts, helping them navigate financial challenges and drive long-term success, according to a new Intuit QuickBooks Black History Month Survey. The report highlights how early technology adoption is proving to be a key factor in business resilience and financial health, even as access to funding remains a major hurdle. Technology Adoption as a Competitive Advantage The study, based on insights from 2,490 Black and 3,000 non-Black small business owners, found that 28% of Black entrepreneurs are early adopters of new technology, compared to 20% of non-Black entrepreneurs. Businesses that adopt technology later or not at all are nearly twice as likely to struggle or face closure, highlighting the importance of digital tools in long-term business viability. Social media, mobile point-of-sale (POS) systems, customer relationship management (CRM) software, and AI-powered solutions were identified as key drivers of success, with 84% of Black business owners stating that technology is a major contributor to their growth. Social Media and AI Fuel Business Growth Among digital tools, social media stands out, with 70% of Black entrepreneurs crediting it as a critical business driver. It is primarily used for product promotion (64%), brand awareness (51%), and customer engagement (50%). AI adoption is also significantly higher among Black-owned businesses, with 79% integrating AI tools, compared to 62% of non-Black business owners. AI is being used for idea generation (47%), customer support (34%), and marketing (31%), reinforcing its role in streamlining operations and improving efficiency. Financial Challenges Persist Despite Progress While Black entrepreneurs are making strides with technology, financial barriers remain a significant challenge. The study found that 80% of Black business owners used personal funds to cover business expenses in the past year—down from 85% last year but still higher than the 47% of non-Black entrepreneurs who rely on credit cards. Additionally, Black business owners were twice as likely to be denied a bank loan (30%) compared to their non-Black counterparts (15%). Fewer Black entrepreneurs applied for startup loans in the past year, with 45% seeking funding, down from 76% in 2023, mirroring an industry-wide shift away from traditional lending sources. Early Tech Adoption Reduces Financial Strain The report suggests that businesses leveraging technology early are 20% less likely to use personal funds to sustain operations. Seventy-eight percent of Black entrepreneurs believe that digital tools better prepare them for financial challenges, while 93% agree that technology adoption is helping close the racial wealth gap. Lower Barriers to Business Entry The study also found a sharp decline in startup costs for Black entrepreneurs. The average cost to start a Black-owned business fell to $9,800, down from $21,000 in 2023, and lower than the $12,900 average for non-Black entrepreneurs. Looking Ahead: Technology as an Equalizer Black entrepreneurs overwhelmingly view technology as a leveling force in business, with 82% agreeing that it is creating more equitable opportunities. As more Black-owned businesses embrace AI, digital marketing, and automation tools, early adoption trends are likely to continue, reinforcing technology’s role in reducing financial risk and fostering business sustainability. This article, "Black-Owned Businesses Leverage Early Tech Adoption to Overcome Financial Barriers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Black-owned small businesses are embracing digital tools at higher rates than their non-Black counterparts, helping them navigate financial challenges and drive long-term success, according to a new Intuit QuickBooks Black History Month Survey. The report highlights how early technology adoption is proving to be a key factor in business resilience and financial health, even as access to funding remains a major hurdle. Technology Adoption as a Competitive Advantage The study, based on insights from 2,490 Black and 3,000 non-Black small business owners, found that 28% of Black entrepreneurs are early adopters of new technology, compared to 20% of non-Black entrepreneurs. Businesses that adopt technology later or not at all are nearly twice as likely to struggle or face closure, highlighting the importance of digital tools in long-term business viability. Social media, mobile point-of-sale (POS) systems, customer relationship management (CRM) software, and AI-powered solutions were identified as key drivers of success, with 84% of Black business owners stating that technology is a major contributor to their growth. Social Media and AI Fuel Business Growth Among digital tools, social media stands out, with 70% of Black entrepreneurs crediting it as a critical business driver. It is primarily used for product promotion (64%), brand awareness (51%), and customer engagement (50%). AI adoption is also significantly higher among Black-owned businesses, with 79% integrating AI tools, compared to 62% of non-Black business owners. AI is being used for idea generation (47%), customer support (34%), and marketing (31%), reinforcing its role in streamlining operations and improving efficiency. Financial Challenges Persist Despite Progress While Black entrepreneurs are making strides with technology, financial barriers remain a significant challenge. The study found that 80% of Black business owners used personal funds to cover business expenses in the past year—down from 85% last year but still higher than the 47% of non-Black entrepreneurs who rely on credit cards. Additionally, Black business owners were twice as likely to be denied a bank loan (30%) compared to their non-Black counterparts (15%). Fewer Black entrepreneurs applied for startup loans in the past year, with 45% seeking funding, down from 76% in 2023, mirroring an industry-wide shift away from traditional lending sources. Early Tech Adoption Reduces Financial Strain The report suggests that businesses leveraging technology early are 20% less likely to use personal funds to sustain operations. Seventy-eight percent of Black entrepreneurs believe that digital tools better prepare them for financial challenges, while 93% agree that technology adoption is helping close the racial wealth gap. Lower Barriers to Business Entry The study also found a sharp decline in startup costs for Black entrepreneurs. The average cost to start a Black-owned business fell to $9,800, down from $21,000 in 2023, and lower than the $12,900 average for non-Black entrepreneurs. Looking Ahead: Technology as an Equalizer Black entrepreneurs overwhelmingly view technology as a leveling force in business, with 82% agreeing that it is creating more equitable opportunities. As more Black-owned businesses embrace AI, digital marketing, and automation tools, early adoption trends are likely to continue, reinforcing technology’s role in reducing financial risk and fostering business sustainability. This article, "Black-Owned Businesses Leverage Early Tech Adoption to Overcome Financial Barriers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Nearly half of Americans believe that we will see a civil war in the United States in our lifetime. As a corporate leader of a large, diverse team that operates across the United States, I am simultaneously horrified by this and hopeful that it will not come to fruition. The workplace gives me a window into the relationships that are at stake if our country further divides. It also gives me hope that relationships can hold us together, two people at a time. I met my colleague Ted last year. We are a generation apart. I’m a city girl. He’s a country guy. I’ve never voted Republican. I doubt he’s ever voted for a Democrat. We both call ourselves Christian, while our similar faith identities guide distinct political choices. Ted and I met at a company-sponsored volunteer week, swinging hammers and painting bold yellow safety lines on the floor of a Habitat for Humanity warehouse in rural Kaua’i. Amidst bruised thumbs (mine) and splattered paint (also mine) we talked about our opposing views on social issues. We also shared tears about loved ones lost and pride for the purpose of our company, Thrivent, where Ted is a 41-year veteran financial advisor, and I am a relatively new executive. Ted and I came away knowing that, despite differences, we have many more values that we share, including our passion for service and community-building among colleagues. We’ve stayed in touch. Ted has both questioned and complimented my marketing team’s work in how we are evolving telling Thrivent’s story in our advertising. He’s also graciously welcomed my family at corporate events. Post-election day On Wednesday, November 6, 2024, I knew it might be difficult for many colleagues—regardless of how they voted—to show up for work the morning after the election. As soon as I arrived, an email came in from Ted. “Good Mornin’ Sunshine!!!” read the subject. One could bristle at seeing that, but I did not. Seeing this come from Ted is like seeing it come from my favorite uncle. I smile as I open the message. Ted was not writing to gloat. He didn’t even mention the election. He was writing to offer thoughts on an article on Thrivent’s intranet site highlighting veterans’ work. He discussed Thanksgiving plans and wished my family well. He was making an authentic connection despite political divisiveness around us and demonstrating genuine care. In a world where we are increasingly sucked into echo chambers of our individual beliefs, the workplace remains a place where we can connect with people with different beliefs and recognize that it is possible not only to work together, but to do work together. For those of us lucky enough to work at a purpose-based and values-driven company, now is the time to lean into those strengths, focus on growth and the impact we have, even amidst differences. Everyone should belong at work Thrivent is a Fortune 500 financial services company whose purpose is to empower lives of service and faith. It is a unique organization that faces cultural challenges of divisiveness just like any large corporation today. Regardless of politics, I want Thrivent to continue to be a place where both Ted and I belong. I read Ted’s email and thought about this for a moment, and then about my team, and our upcoming day—today of all days—of team building that had been on the calendar for months. I sent them an email with the subject “Taking on the day.” In it, I included the following: I am cognizant of how divisive our country is right now, and how divided we are, and how, regardless of the outcome of the election, we would all be among people who are hurting and worried today. I know you all care about this team just as I do. I was thinking about our shared values at Thrivent and how relevant they can be as guiding principles for how we get through tough days together: Empathy—recognize that we all have our own emotional journeys today and be there for one another Authenticity—don’t be afraid to be real with each other, and know that that realness will be met with empathy Commitment—keep moving forward and look for opportunities to serve, and live into the community that we want to be a part of Impact—recognize the strength of our collective effort, and the good that we can do in the world when we focus our energy together Gratitude—even on the difficult days, take comfort in all the gifts that we have, including the gift of each other These are Thrivent’s values. They are not the values of Republicans or Democrats, red states or blue. At work—at my work—they rally us despite forces that could otherwise divide. There are many corporations whose purpose and values put them squarely on one side of a social issue. Most large organizations, though, do not have a purpose that puts them on one end of a political spectrum or another, and, therefore, can be a place where people can work together to have impact despite political differences. In the worldview that Ted and I share, our greatest role in work, and life, is to love one another. There is no room for civil war in this worldview. Using shared purpose and values at work is a unifier that helps us find love for all. Let’s get to work. Carolyn Sakstrup is EVP and chief growth and generosity officer at Thrivent. View the full article

Changes will pave the way for construction of a new generation of small modular reactorsView the full article

In just a couple of years, generative AI (GenAI) has made a big impact on the way people, companies, and entire industries think about work. It’s helping doctors and nurses, who spend more than a third of their work week on paperwork, free up more time to focus on patients. Scientists are using GenAI ideation to achieve research breakthroughs. In the field of law, where time is so valuable it’s often measured in six-minute increments, GenAI’s ability to understand and analyze documents faster than any person can is quickly becoming indispensable. Many legal teams doing text-heavy work are using innovative GenAI tools to speed their race against the ever-present clock. The next time you’re in a time crunch with your work, GenAI can also come in clutch for you. Here are three inspirational ways that GenAI is giving legal teams an unmistakable advantage in speed. 1. Cut through the chaos Even the most sensational courtroom dramas rely on evidence. Complex matters such as criminal cases, business disputes, corporate mergers, and countless others are based on the facts found in millions of evidentiary documents. For example, litigation against the opioid industry has created more than four million documents. The vast majority of legal cases never make it to trial. Instead, they unfold in what feels like a game of chess, as opposing parties maneuver and negotiate back and forth. Knowledge and speed are strategic assets here, and GenAI has become an important tool that lawyers are using to achieve both. Cole, Scott & Kissane, a law firm specializing in civil litigation, has experienced the real-world impacts in resolving matters faster than before with the help of AI technology. “GenAI legal software proved helpful in reaching a settlement,” Manuel Delgado, the firm’s litigation support manager told us. “With it, we were able to quickly summarize dozens of financial reports prior to conference. Some of the insights we gained caught the plaintiff by surprise. A settlement was solidified thereafter, and our client was thrilled.” 2. Find the needle in the haystack, faster Discovery is the stage of a civil lawsuit where opposing parties gather and exchange information and evidence relevant to their respective cases. It is part of the law of civil procedure adopted by the U.S. legal system in 1938. As recently as the late 1990s, discovery was a paper-based chore. With large cases, hundreds of cardboard “bankers boxes” would be delivered to law firms; junior associates then spent hours scanning thousands of pages, searching for bits of invaluable information like a needle in a haystack. It was tedious, “brain deadening” work. Today, the problem seems harder: Millions of discovery documents may arrive at once, electronically, often at the last allowable minute. Sometimes a needle is found in the haystack. In civil litigation against Theranos cofounder Elizabeth Holmes, prosecutors dove into evidentiary metadata to find more than 40 key documents, all potentially bolstering the case that Holmes and other company executives were well aware of the deception the company was later accused of, and of which Holmes was eventually found criminally guilty. But historically, legal teams have had to spend enormous amounts of time, usually measured in months and often requiring dozens of attorneys, reviewing discovery documents manually to find such needles. GenAI-powered e-discovery legal tech software has completely changed the game, allowing large volumes of electronic documents to quickly be analyzed, summarized, and assembled into a structured story. Cal Yeaman completed the review of more than 10,000 documents in minutes—something that would have taken a team of human reviewers several days. Yeaman is a project attorney at Orrick, one of the largest law firms in the country. He said at our company summit that GenAI’s coding suggestions, which help identify relevant documents in discovery, were more accurate and consistent than human review. Running the numbers, Yeaman estimated that the new AI-powered review process reduced their cost of document review by more than 50%. 3. Get the lay of the land in minutes Law is a service business with high client expectations. Firms pride themselves on their commitment to serving client needs, an attitude that extends to the legal support teams behind the scenes. Jen Jackson, a senior analyst at the boutique employment law firm Baker Dolinko & Schwartz, had GenAI come in clutch when 10 new business requests for proposals, including over 120 pages of questions and 500 items, landed in her inbox. She also mentioned at our summit that instead of handing the task off to a junior attorney, wasting time and billable hours, she uploaded the documents to a GenAI tool that functions as a “smart intern” and got a condensed two-page summary of the tasks in minutes. How will GenAI come in clutch for you? Do you need to cut through the chaos? Find a needle in a haystack? Get the lay of the land, fast? With a little imagination, GenAI can be an invaluable tool the next time you’re in a time crunch. AJ Shankar is CEO of Everlaw. View the full article

With the Federal Reserve eying changes to its annual examination of large bank resilience, this year's test could be the last of its kind. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you missed the chance to grab a new TV during recent Prime Day or Black Friday sales, the Super Bowl is your next best shot at scoring a deep discount. Plenty of TVs from the top brands are on sale right now, and you still have time to get them before the game on Sunday, Feb. 9. (Note: Some models may not be available in your part of the country.) The best deals on TVs under 45 inchesDon't be distracted by the fact that TVs keep getting bigger and bigger. If your living room isn't huge, or you don't have wall space, a massive TV isn't better. 40 inch TVs are still big. Amazon Fire TV 43" 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV with Alexa $229.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $369.99 Save $140.00 Get Deal Get Deal $229.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $369.99 Save $140.00 Hisense 43" Class A7 Series 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $199.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $249.99 Save $50.00 Shop Now Shop Now $199.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $249.99 Save $50.00 SAMSUNG 43-Inch Class QLED 4K QN90D $897.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $1,297.99 Save $400.00 Shop Now Shop Now $897.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $1,297.99 Save $400.00 SEE 0 MORE Amazon Fire TV 43" 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV with AlexaI've had an Amazon Fire TV for the last year, and I'm always impressed at how easy it is tune into whatever you want, on whichever streamer you want, using Alexa. Bring movies and shows to life with support for vivid 4K Ultra HD, HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Plus. 4K Ultra HD Use Alexa to turn the tv on and off, and as a smart assistant unrelated to the TV Easy to add streaming apps Live, free TV channels 4 HDMI inputs Was $369.99, discounted to $229.99 Hisense 43" Class A7 Series 4K UHD Smart Fire TVHisense has become a major player with televisions, competing against legacy brands like Sony and Samsung. This model also comes equipped with Alexa, which means you have an additional smart speaker in your home (the tv). Dolby Vision-Atmos Fire TV built in, able to add unlimited apps for streamers 4k upscaling- even older shows and movies look natural in 4k. Was $249.99, now $199.99 SAMSUNG 43-Inch Class QLED 4K Smart TV I've been living with this Samsung line for 16 months and every single day I turn the TV on, I am still amazed by the clarity and depth of the picture. Another notable point is how much Samsung has reduced the frame, so you see picture from edge to edge. 4K TV features Quantum Matrix with Mini LEDs for precise lighting Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound+ The NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor powers the 4K AI Upscaling, so color and picture of HDR is crisp and clear in 4K. Samsung and Amazon voice assistants on board, and ability to add as many streaming apps as you'd like. Was $1297.99, discounted to $897.99 The best deals on TVs up to 55 inchesThis is the range most TV purchases fall into, as most homes simply weren't built with wall space to accommodate a 70 inch television. These are still plenty large to get every detail out of the game. Amazon Fire TV 55" 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV $319.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $519.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $319.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $519.99 Save $200.00 55" Samsung Q60D Series QLED 4K Smart TV $547.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $797.99 Save $250.00 Shop Now Shop Now $547.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $797.99 Save $250.00 SEE -1 MORE Amazon Fire TV 55" 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV 4K Ultra HD Use Alexa to turn the tv on and off, and as a smart assistant unrelated to the TV Easy to add streaming apps Live, free TV channels 4 HDMI inputs Was $519.99, now $319.99 SAMSUNG 55-Inch Class QLED 4K Q60D Series Over a billion shades of brilliant color and exceptional contrast Dedicated gaming hub Plenty of HDMI and USB ports, this TV seamlessly integrates with your home theater setup and other devices. Ultra-slim AirSlim profile Was $797.99, discounted to $547.99 The best deals on TVs up to 70 inchesThis new class of objectively huge televisions means you can magnify each play during the game, and these models have enough resolution that you won't lose detail doing so. SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class Crystal UHD 4K $747.95 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $747.95 at Amazon TCL 65-Inch Class S5 UHD 4K LED Smart TV $339.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $446.84 Save $106.85 Shop Now Shop Now $339.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $446.84 Save $106.85 Hisense 65-Inch Class QD7 Series QLED 4K UHD $399.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $572.63 Save $172.64 Shop Now Shop Now $399.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $572.63 Save $172.64 SEE 0 MORE SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class Crystal UHD 4KWhile not the QLED or OLED model, this model offers a lot of value at a more budget price point, while maintaining some of the nicer features of more expensive models. 3840 x 2160 resolution Smart assistants on board, and unlimited streaming apps Virtual 3D surround sound experience Was $469.99, now $397.99 TCL 65-Inch Class S5 UHD 4K LED Smart TVNot all TV's are Airplay compatible, making this one worth checking out. Apple Airplay compatible 3840 x 2160 resolution, 4 times the clarity of Full HD Fire TV onboard, unlimited streaming apps Game Accelerator 120 with up to 120 Hz VRR for responsive gameplay Was $446.84, now $339.99 Hisense 65-Inch Class QD7 Series QLED 4K UHDOver a billion shades of color for a vibrant and lifelike viewing experience. 4K AI upscaling 144Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and Auto Low Latency Mode for gaming mode. Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision Google Smart TV onboard, Alexa combability Was $572.63, discounted to $399.99 The best deals on TVs Over 70 inchesThese gigantic televisions didn't exist only a few years ago, but with resolutions always increasing, the additional inches of television create a cinema experience in your home. TCL 85-Inch Q65 QLED 4K UHD Smart TV with Google TV $798.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $1,297.99 Save $499.99 Shop Now Shop Now $798.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $1,297.99 Save $499.99 Sony 85 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X77L Series $998.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $1,498.00 Save $500.00 Shop Now Shop Now $998.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $1,498.00 Save $500.00 Hisense - 100" Class U8 Series Mini-LED 4K UHD QLED Google TV (2023) $2,997.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $3,998.00 Save $1,000.01 Shop Now Shop Now $2,997.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $3,998.00 Save $1,000.01 SEE 0 MORE TCL 85-Inch Q65 QLED 4K UHD Smart TV with Google TV3840 x 2160 resolution Built-in stereo speakers and a subwoofer Smooth gaming-120Hz refresh rate and Motion Rate 480 technology, as well as dedicated gaming features like Auto Game Mode and Game Accelerator 240 for responsive gameplay Was $1297.99, now $798.00 Sony 85 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X77L SeriesGoogle TV on board, compatible with Apple Airply 3840 x 2160 resolution 4K Processor X1 upscaling content Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode for enhanced visuals and performance Was $1498.00, now $998.00 Hisense 100-Inch Class U8 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD4K ULED, mini LED and full array local dimming Over a billion colors 144Hz refresh rate Dolby Vision IQ & Dolby Atmos 5 speakers including rear ‘overhead’ speakers and a built-in subwoofer 144HZ gaming mode for uninterrupted play Voice control, no remote needed Was $3998.00, discounted to $2,997.99 View the full article