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We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. For those looking for affordable smart security without monthly fees, the TP-Link Tapo D225 Video Doorbell is now $79.99 (down from $99.99). It covers all the basics, plus a few features that even pricier models skip, earning itself an Editors’ Choice award from PCMag. At about 6 inches tall, the Tapo D225 isn’t the slimmest doorbell out there, but it’s built to handle the elements with an IP66 water-resistant rating. And should someone try to steal your doorbell, its built-in 98dB siren is loud enough to scare off intruders. Tapo TP-Link Smart Video Doorbell Camera with Chime, Battery or Wired, 2K QHD Color Night Vison, 180° Ultra-Wide Head-to-Toe View, Ring Call, Smart AI Detection, 2-Way Audio, Up to 512 GB SD, D225 $79.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $99.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Get Deal $79.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $99.99 Save $20.00 Power options are flexible. You can either go battery-powered (with up to eight months per charge) or hardwire it with your existing wiring (8-24V) and record 24/7 footage. During the day, colors look sharp and well-saturated. At night, the black-and-white vision holds up well, though the color night vision isn’t as vibrant as daytime footage (but that’s typical for many cameras in this range), notes this PCMag review. Its 2K camera (20fps) with a 180-degree field of view gives you a full head-to-toe image of whoever’s at your door—its intelligent motion alerts accurately distinguish between people, vehicles, pets, and packages, helping to cut down on unnecessary pings. Plus, it comes with a plug-in chime, so you don’t have to rely on phone notifications alone. Unlike many video doorbells at this price, the Tapo D225 supports local storage with a microSD slot (up to 512GB, sold separately), letting you save footage without a cloud subscription. If you prefer cloud storage, subscribing to Tapo Care Premium ($3.49/month) gives you 30 days of video history for one camera. The doorbell connects via 2.4GHz wifi and works with Alexa and Google Assistant, though it doesn’t support Apple HomeKit. However, if you use IFTTT, it can integrate with other smart home devices for added automation. You can manage and control the D225 using the TP-Link Tapo mobile app, including streaming live video, recording manually, setting motion zones, using two-way audio, enabling motion tagging, and more. View the full article

Lender’s statement highlights issues with predictability that help explain its lingering valuation discountView the full article

Eurosceptic junior coalition partner quits after PM’s push to implement energy directives from BrusselsView the full article

A jet with 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an Army helicopter Wednesday while approaching the Ronald Reagan National Airport near Washington. The aircraft plummeted into the Potomac River, and multiple people were killed. The crash occurred in some of the most tightly controlled and monitored airspace in the world, just over 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of the White House and the U.S. Capitol. Here are some things to know about the collision: The crash The midair crash happened around 9 p.m. when a regional jet at the end of a flight from Wichita, Kansas, collided with a military helicopter on a training exercise, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. A few minutes before the jet was to land, air traffic controllers asked American Airlines Flight 5342 if it could land on a shorter runway, and the pilots agreed. Controllers cleared the jet to land and flight tracking sites showed the plane adjust its approach to the new runway. Less than 30 seconds before the crash, an air traffic controller asked a helicopter if it had the arriving plane in sight. The controller made another radio call to the helicopter moments later: “PAT 25 pass behind the CRJ.” There was no reply. Seconds after that, the two aircraft collided. The plane’s radio transponder stopped transmitting about 2,400 feet short of the runway, roughly over the middle of the Potomac. Emergency response Authorities were conducting a massive search-and-rescue operation. Inflatable boats were launched into the river and first responders set up light towers from the shore to illuminate the area. Helicopters from law enforcement agencies across the region also flew over the scene in a methodical search for bodies and survivors. Passengers and fatalities There was no official death toll announced at an early Thursday news conference, but a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press there were multiple fatalities. The person was not authorized to publicly discuss details of the investigation and spoke on condition of anonymity. Sen. Roger Marshall of Kansas hinted that the number killed will be high. “When one person dies it’s a tragedy, but when many, many, many people die it’s an unbearable sorrow,” he said. Russian figure skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov were aboard the plane, along with other Russian nationals, according to the Kremlin. Coaches, skaters and others had been in Wichita for the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, which concluded Sunday, and a development camp. Shishkova and Naumov were married and won a 1994 world championship in pairs figure skating. Airport Located along the Potomac River, just southwest of Washington, Reagan National is a popular choice because it’s much closer to the city than the larger Dulles International Airport. All takeoffs and landings from Reagan Airport were halted. It will reopen at 11 a.m. Thursday, the Federal Aviation Administration announced. Investigation Investigators will try to piece together the aircraft’s final moments before their collision, including contact with air traffic controllers as well as a loss of altitude by the passenger jet. Aircraft involved The helicopter was a UH-60 Blackhawk based at Fort Belvoir in Virginia, according to the U.S. Army. A crew of three soldiers were on board the helicopter, an Army official said. The other aircraft was a Canadian-made Bombardier CRJ-701 twin-engine jet and was manufactured in 2004. It can be configured to carry up to 70 passengers. History of fatal aircraft crashes Fatal crashes of commercial aircraft in the U.S. have become a rarity. The last was in 2009 near Buffalo, New York. All 45 passengers and the four crew members were killed when the Bombardier DHC-8 propeller plane crashed into a house. One person on the ground also was killed. The incident Wednesday recalled the crash of an Air Florida flight that plummeted into the Potomac on January 13, 1982, killing 78 people. That crash was attributed to bad weather. —Hallie Golden, Associated Press View the full article

It should be as easy to cancel a service as it is to subscribe to it, and at long last, it's about to be. For anyone who's ever found themselves trapped in an endless maze of customer service calls trying to cancel a subscription—especially when the company doesn't want you to—relief is finally on the way. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has introduced a new rule that will require companies to make canceling subscriptions as simple as signing up for them. Here's what you need to know. The "Click to Cancel" ruleUnder the new FTC regulation, if you can sign up for a service online with a single click, companies must provide an equally straightforward cancellation process. No more lengthy phone calls, buried cancellation links, or complicated multi-step procedures. This consumer-friendly rule aims to eliminate what's known as "dark patterns," aka deceptive design practices that make it unnecessarily difficult to cancel subscriptions. What this means for youWhen the rule fully takes effect later this year on March 31, subscribers will have the right to: Cancel their subscriptions through the same method they used to sign up Access a simple cancellation mechanism that's easy to find and use Avoid mandatory conversations with retention specialists Receive clear confirmation when their subscription has been canceled While waiting for the new rule to be enforced, let's take a look at some strategies for managing and canceling unwanted subscriptions. Manage your subscriptions nowStart by reviewing your credit card and bank statements to identify all active subscriptions. You may be surprised to discover you're paying for services you rarely or never use. Create a spreadsheet or use a subscription tracking app to maintain an overview of your recurring payments. Here's our round-up of the best subscription managers for canceling services you aren’t actually using anymore. For immediate action, try these methods: Check your account settings on the service's website for cancellation options Search for "[Company Name] + cancel subscription" to find direct links Use the company's mobile app, which sometimes offers easier cancellation processes Email customer service with a clear, direct cancellation request Document all cancellation attempts, including screenshots and email correspondence Additionally, your bank or credit card company can be a powerful ally. Use your card issuer's subscription management tools, or contact your bank to stop automatic payments. Going forward, consider using virtual credit card numbers for new subscriptions, which allow you to control payment permissions. The bottom lineThe FTC's new rule is a major relief. While companies adjust to comply with these regulations, staying vigilant about your subscriptions and knowing your rights as a consumer remains essential. The days of frustrating cancellation experiences may be numbered, but until then, being proactive about managing your subscriptions is your best defense against unwanted charges. Protect yourself going forward by reading cancellation terms while signing up for new subscriptions, setting calendar reminders before free trials end, and keeping records of all cancellation confirmations. Remember that the most effective approach to subscription management is prevention: Before signing up for any new service, make sure you understand not just how to start it, but how to end it as well. View the full article

The employees of bankrupt retailer Big Lots have had to live with a lot of uncertainty ever since the company announced in mid-December that it was going out of business and closing all its stores. Just over a week later, Big Lots announced that it had struck a deal with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners to transfer some Big Lots assets to Variety Wholesalers and other retailers. According to the announcement, that meant some Big Lots locations, between 200 and 400 stores, would stay open and operating, potentially saving thousands of jobs. Unfortunately, there’s yet no word on which Big Lots locations will continue to operate, leaving many Big Lots workers uncertain about their future employment. In mid-January, Gordon Brothers published a list of Big Lots leases that it was putting up for sale, suggesting that the stores on that list wouldn’t be among those saved. Now, Gordon Brothers has updated that list to include more stores, giving a little more insight into which locations are closed or going to close for good. Phase 2 of Big Lots lease sales A few weeks ago, Gordon Brothers published a list titled “New Market Locations Phase 1.” That list included hundreds of Big Lots locations with leases for sale. When a store’s lease is sold, the owner is looking for a buyer to move into the store’s location, freeing it from its rental obligations. The list included locations in 47 states, with Florida, New York, and Texas among the states with the most leases for sale. Now Gordon Brothers has released an updated list, titled “New Market Locations Phase 2.” The Phase 2 list includes many of the stores from the Phase 1 list but adds nearly 150 new locations, suggesting that these locations, too, will not be among the locations saved via the deal with Variety Wholesalers and other retailers. Among the states with the most additional stores marked for sale of their leases include Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. When will the saved Big Lots stores be revealed? While the Phase 1 and Phase 2 lists give us a good indication that the stores on them will not be among those that are saved, many Big Lots employees and customers are anxiously awaiting information on which stores will pull through. Unfortunately, we may not have a definitive list for some time yet. As Fast Company previously reported, in a January bankruptcy court filing, Big Lots revealed that all parties were “working expeditiously to determine which [locations] can drive additional value to the estates or comprise the group of continuing Big Lots stores. However, the parties understandably require additional time to complete this analysis.” Big Lots asked the court to give it until April 7 to develop a list of stores that will continue to operate. View the full article

Hackers use clickjacking to fool people into downloading malware or revealing confidential information. There’s usually a hidden frame over an innocuous web page. The malicious invisible frame gets activated when users click on the web page. Sensitive data can be stolen and accessed, resulting in reputational and financial harm for small businesses. Additionally, there are penalties associated with data protection laws such as The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Implementing a content security policy frame offers some effective safeguards. What is Clickjacking? One common clickjacking technique includes the use of a decoy button or link. The user thinks they are clicking on a visible element, but they are actually interacting with a concealed malicious iframe. This could lead to the sharing of sensitive information or the activation of a hidden webcam without their knowledge. Common Types of Clickjacking Attacks Here are some clickjacking attack tactics. In the classic version of clickjacking attacks, a hacker places a transparent iframe over a web page. Some iframes that get used are barely noticeable because hackers can set the opacity to zero on the target website. Some clickjacking attacks can manipulate a cursor. Some attackers present a video or survey featuring a concealed malicious video player disguised beneath an innocent-looking user interface. A notable instance of this is observed in situations where Google publishers use clickjacking. How Clickjacking Can Affect Your Business This can lead to hackers getting access to sensitive business data. Stolen information can be used for identity theft or sold on the dark web. Understanding more about cybersecurity terms can be beneficial in recognizing and preventing such threats. Severe Breaches Other impacts on businesses include clickjacking, which can serve as an entry point for more serious breaches. Hackers can leverage clickjacking vulnerabilities to infiltrate business systems and redirect users to harmful pages. ErodeTrust Clickjacking can undermine trust in a small business, potentially leading to decreased revenue, increased customer churn, and damage to its reputation. Recognizing Clickjacking Here are a few things you should be looking for to recognize an attack. If clicking on a landing page redirects you to a different site, triggers downloads, or opens new tabs, you could be the victim of an attack. Frequent pop-ups on a website could be another clear indicator. It’s another red flag if your cursor is acting strangely, like it’s misaligned. Poor website performance is another element you should be looking at. Unresponsiveness and slower load times can be the result. Clickjacking Prevention Strategies Here are a few proven methods to prevent this problem. Don’t forget the security policy frame enhances security. The CSP is a security standard. Website owners who use it can tell which content is legitimate. It’s a great way to prevent an attack. Software updates are essential. That’s particularly true for plugins and web browsers. Remember to include patches for any security vulnerabilities that could be exploited. Remember to enable any built-in browser security features to protect against this issue. Utilizing the X-Frame-Options Header Frame-Ancestors Directive This controls which websites can embed content. Frame ancestors can list different domains that are allowed. It allows the resources that a browser can load for any given page. X-Frame-Options Header This tool can prevent click-jacking attacks by ensuring a page is not embedded into other websites. Developers can set it in their service configuration and or web application framework. Updating and Patching Web Applications Closing security gaps so you don’t visit malicious web pages through click-jacking is essential. Regularly updating modern web applications and browsers to ensure security policy features are current is necessary. Take advantage of software updates that include patches and update these regularly. Conducting a Clickjacking Test Performing a test to access a website’s vulnerability against attacks from invisible iframes means taking advantage of the following guide: You’ll need to understand the invisible iframe, which is one of the standard methods used. You can choose from several different test tools like OWASP. Next, create a test page that includes an embedded iframe. You can utilize automated scanners such as OWASP ZAP to assist you. Documenting all of your testing processes, findings, and vulnerabilities is essential. Consider tweaking your x frame options. Remember to schedule regular tests. New vulnerabilities are constantly emerging with time. AspectDescriptionPrevention StrategiesTools/Methods DefinitionClickjacking is a deceptive technique where a user is tricked into clicking on something different from what the user perceives.Be aware of the nature of clickjacking and educate employees.Security Awareness Training Common TargetsOften targets buttons, links on websites, and social media platforms.Regularly update and patch website and applications.Software Updates, Patches TechniqueInvolves layering a transparent iframe over a legitimate button or link.Implement a Content Security Policy (CSP) to control what content can be loaded on a page.Content Security Policy (CSP) Impact on BusinessCan lead to data theft, unauthorized actions, and security breaches.Conduct regular security audits and assessments.Security Audits, Risk Assessments Signs of ClickjackingUnexpected redirects, strange cursor behavior, unresponsive or slow website performance.Monitor web traffic and user activity for anomalies.Traffic Monitoring Tools Legal ConsequencesPossible non-compliance with data protection laws like GDPR due to data breaches.Ensure compliance with relevant data protection laws.Compliance Management Software Clickjacking VarietiesIncludes cursorjacking, likejacking (on social media), and filejacking (file download manipulation).Deploy anti-clickjacking measures like X-Frame-Options header.X-Frame-Options Header, Anti-Clickjacking Tools User Interface DefenseSecure the UI against unauthorized iframe overlays.Use frame busting scripts and ensure secure UI design.Frame Busting Scripts, Secure UI Design Response to IncidentsQuick identification and isolation of affected systems.Have an incident response plan in place.Incident Response Plan Long-term MitigationRegular updates to security policies and practices.Build a culture of cybersecurity awareness within the organization.Ongoing Employee Training, Policy Updates Best Practices in Web Page Design to Prevent Clickjacking Designing a landing page involves using X-frame options. There are three values you can set for this header. The value ‘Deny’ prevents your website’s pages from being displayed in an iframe, which is an effective way to safeguard against a clickjacking attack. The Content Security Policy (CSP) enables you to create a whitelist of sources from which you can download content, such as images, style sheets, and scripts. Responding to a Clickjacking Incident Here are the steps to take if your business is attacked. An immediate response is essential where you identify and isolate what systems are affected. You need to disable and remove any malicious code and identify involved parties. Reset session tokens and change passwords. Patch up any vulnerabilities and implement updates to your web platform and software. Over the long term, you need to update and implement a Content Security Policy and other headers like X-frame options. Building a Culture of Cybersecurity Awareness https://youtube.com/watch?v=_tz0O5-cndE%3Fsi%3DRO8tsQSMplZMDLdh Interactive training sessions are an excellent way to educate employees to prevent a clickjacking attack. Incorporate these sessions and others about cyber security threats into onboarding. FAQs: Clickjacking Here are some answers to frequently asked questions. What is a likejacking attack? This is a form of clickjacking where people are tricked into clicking the ‘Like’ button on Facebook or other social media platforms. Is clickjacking serious? This is serious because it can trick people into turning over confidential data or allowing access to their devices. Can clickjacking affect all types of websites? In technical terms, this type of attack can impact any website. Nevertheless, websites that use content security policy headers, x-frame options headers, and frame-busting scripts are more resilient to such threats. How do you avoid visiting a malicious page? Verify the URL before you click on it. Look for common tricks like misspellings or unusual domain extensions like .net instead of .com. Type the website address you want to visit in the address bar directly. How do security policy frame ancestors help in clickjacking defense? Content Security Policy has a frame-ancestors directive that controls the websites that can frame the content. It prevents hackers from using an iframe to mislead users. Image: Envato Elements, Depositphotos This article, "What is Clickjacking? How to Protect Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Hackers use clickjacking to fool people into downloading malware or revealing confidential information. There’s usually a hidden frame over an innocuous web page. The malicious invisible frame gets activated when users click on the web page. Sensitive data can be stolen and accessed, resulting in reputational and financial harm for small businesses. Additionally, there are penalties associated with data protection laws such as The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Implementing a content security policy frame offers some effective safeguards. What is Clickjacking? One common clickjacking technique includes the use of a decoy button or link. The user thinks they are clicking on a visible element, but they are actually interacting with a concealed malicious iframe. This could lead to the sharing of sensitive information or the activation of a hidden webcam without their knowledge. Common Types of Clickjacking Attacks Here are some clickjacking attack tactics. In the classic version of clickjacking attacks, a hacker places a transparent iframe over a web page. Some iframes that get used are barely noticeable because hackers can set the opacity to zero on the target website. Some clickjacking attacks can manipulate a cursor. Some attackers present a video or survey featuring a concealed malicious video player disguised beneath an innocent-looking user interface. A notable instance of this is observed in situations where Google publishers use clickjacking. How Clickjacking Can Affect Your Business This can lead to hackers getting access to sensitive business data. Stolen information can be used for identity theft or sold on the dark web. Understanding more about cybersecurity terms can be beneficial in recognizing and preventing such threats. Severe Breaches Other impacts on businesses include clickjacking, which can serve as an entry point for more serious breaches. Hackers can leverage clickjacking vulnerabilities to infiltrate business systems and redirect users to harmful pages. ErodeTrust Clickjacking can undermine trust in a small business, potentially leading to decreased revenue, increased customer churn, and damage to its reputation. Recognizing Clickjacking Here are a few things you should be looking for to recognize an attack. If clicking on a landing page redirects you to a different site, triggers downloads, or opens new tabs, you could be the victim of an attack. Frequent pop-ups on a website could be another clear indicator. It’s another red flag if your cursor is acting strangely, like it’s misaligned. Poor website performance is another element you should be looking at. Unresponsiveness and slower load times can be the result. Clickjacking Prevention Strategies Here are a few proven methods to prevent this problem. Don’t forget the security policy frame enhances security. The CSP is a security standard. Website owners who use it can tell which content is legitimate. It’s a great way to prevent an attack. Software updates are essential. That’s particularly true for plugins and web browsers. Remember to include patches for any security vulnerabilities that could be exploited. Remember to enable any built-in browser security features to protect against this issue. Utilizing the X-Frame-Options Header Frame-Ancestors Directive This controls which websites can embed content. Frame ancestors can list different domains that are allowed. It allows the resources that a browser can load for any given page. X-Frame-Options Header This tool can prevent click-jacking attacks by ensuring a page is not embedded into other websites. Developers can set it in their service configuration and or web application framework. Updating and Patching Web Applications Closing security gaps so you don’t visit malicious web pages through click-jacking is essential. Regularly updating modern web applications and browsers to ensure security policy features are current is necessary. Take advantage of software updates that include patches and update these regularly. Conducting a Clickjacking Test Performing a test to access a website’s vulnerability against attacks from invisible iframes means taking advantage of the following guide: You’ll need to understand the invisible iframe, which is one of the standard methods used. You can choose from several different test tools like OWASP. Next, create a test page that includes an embedded iframe. You can utilize automated scanners such as OWASP ZAP to assist you. Documenting all of your testing processes, findings, and vulnerabilities is essential. Consider tweaking your x frame options. Remember to schedule regular tests. New vulnerabilities are constantly emerging with time. AspectDescriptionPrevention StrategiesTools/Methods DefinitionClickjacking is a deceptive technique where a user is tricked into clicking on something different from what the user perceives.Be aware of the nature of clickjacking and educate employees.Security Awareness Training Common TargetsOften targets buttons, links on websites, and social media platforms.Regularly update and patch website and applications.Software Updates, Patches TechniqueInvolves layering a transparent iframe over a legitimate button or link.Implement a Content Security Policy (CSP) to control what content can be loaded on a page.Content Security Policy (CSP) Impact on BusinessCan lead to data theft, unauthorized actions, and security breaches.Conduct regular security audits and assessments.Security Audits, Risk Assessments Signs of ClickjackingUnexpected redirects, strange cursor behavior, unresponsive or slow website performance.Monitor web traffic and user activity for anomalies.Traffic Monitoring Tools Legal ConsequencesPossible non-compliance with data protection laws like GDPR due to data breaches.Ensure compliance with relevant data protection laws.Compliance Management Software Clickjacking VarietiesIncludes cursorjacking, likejacking (on social media), and filejacking (file download manipulation).Deploy anti-clickjacking measures like X-Frame-Options header.X-Frame-Options Header, Anti-Clickjacking Tools User Interface DefenseSecure the UI against unauthorized iframe overlays.Use frame busting scripts and ensure secure UI design.Frame Busting Scripts, Secure UI Design Response to IncidentsQuick identification and isolation of affected systems.Have an incident response plan in place.Incident Response Plan Long-term MitigationRegular updates to security policies and practices.Build a culture of cybersecurity awareness within the organization.Ongoing Employee Training, Policy Updates Best Practices in Web Page Design to Prevent Clickjacking Designing a landing page involves using X-frame options. There are three values you can set for this header. The value ‘Deny’ prevents your website’s pages from being displayed in an iframe, which is an effective way to safeguard against a clickjacking attack. The Content Security Policy (CSP) enables you to create a whitelist of sources from which you can download content, such as images, style sheets, and scripts. Responding to a Clickjacking Incident Here are the steps to take if your business is attacked. An immediate response is essential where you identify and isolate what systems are affected. You need to disable and remove any malicious code and identify involved parties. Reset session tokens and change passwords. Patch up any vulnerabilities and implement updates to your web platform and software. Over the long term, you need to update and implement a Content Security Policy and other headers like X-frame options. Building a Culture of Cybersecurity Awareness https://youtube.com/watch?v=_tz0O5-cndE%3Fsi%3DRO8tsQSMplZMDLdh Interactive training sessions are an excellent way to educate employees to prevent a clickjacking attack. Incorporate these sessions and others about cyber security threats into onboarding. FAQs: Clickjacking Here are some answers to frequently asked questions. What is a likejacking attack? This is a form of clickjacking where people are tricked into clicking the ‘Like’ button on Facebook or other social media platforms. Is clickjacking serious? This is serious because it can trick people into turning over confidential data or allowing access to their devices. Can clickjacking affect all types of websites? In technical terms, this type of attack can impact any website. Nevertheless, websites that use content security policy headers, x-frame options headers, and frame-busting scripts are more resilient to such threats. How do you avoid visiting a malicious page? Verify the URL before you click on it. Look for common tricks like misspellings or unusual domain extensions like .net instead of .com. Type the website address you want to visit in the address bar directly. How do security policy frame ancestors help in clickjacking defense? Content Security Policy has a frame-ancestors directive that controls the websites that can frame the content. It prevents hackers from using an iframe to mislead users. Image: Envato Elements, Depositphotos This article, "What is Clickjacking? How to Protect Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In a world where work-life boundaries are increasingly blurred, the well-being of employees has emerged as a pivotal issue. Despite leaders’ good intentions, a stark reality persists: While a staggering 91% of executives believe they prioritize employee well-being, only 56% of employees share that sentiment. This disconnect, revealed in a recent Deloitte study, underscores a critical gap that companies must bridge if they are to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. As businesses grapple with the complexities of modern work, a framework is emerging to guide leaders: The Four Pillars of Worker Well-Being. These pillars offer a comprehensive approach to fostering a healthier, more productive workforce. 1. Predictability Meets Flexibility In an era where change is the only constant, employees crave a sense of predictability. Structured environments where expectations are clear can significantly reduce workplace anxiety, providing a stable foundation for productivity. Yet, the need for flexibility is equally crucial. The ability to adapt to personal and professional demands empowers employees, creating a harmonious balance that enhances overall productivity and satisfaction. Imagine a tech company where employees know their project deadlines well in advance but have the freedom to choose their working hours. This blend of predictability and flexibility not only boosts morale but also drives efficiency. Employees can better manage their work-life integration, reducing stress and increasing their commitment to the organization. By fostering both stability and adaptability, companies can create an environment where employees feel secure yet empowered to manage their responsibilities effectively. 2. Mental Health Takes Center Stage Mental health is no longer a sidebar in corporate discussions, it’s the headline. With half of the global population likely to encounter a mental health disorder, the urgency for comprehensive mental health resources is undeniable. Forward-thinking companies are stepping up, offering counseling services, mental health apps, and wellness programs that are accessible and effective. Take, for instance, a multinational firm that has partnered with mental health platforms like BetterUp. Employees have access to on-demand counseling, fostering a culture where mental well-being is prioritized, and stigma is shattered. 3. Leaders Who Walk the Talk The saying “actions speak louder than words” has never been more relevant. Leaders who visibly prioritize their well-being set a powerful precedent. When the CEO openly takes mental health days or regularly disconnects from work, it sends a clear message: It’s okay to prioritize yourself. This visible commitment from the top fosters a culture of acceptance and support, encouraging employees to follow suit without fear of judgment. Consider a scenario where a company’s leadership team practices what they preach. They take breaks, use their vacation days, and discuss their mental health journeys. This not only humanizes them but also encourages employees to follow suit, fostering a supportive and understanding workplace culture. When leaders lead by example, they create an environment where well-being is integrated into the very fabric of the organization. Employees feel more connected and motivated, knowing that their leaders genuinely care about their health and well-being. 4. Building Bridges Through Relationships In the digital age, genuine connections can often feel like a relic of the past. Yet, building strong relationships within teams remains essential. Whether it’s through virtual coffee chats, team-building exercises, or regular check-ins, fostering a sense of belonging is key. What if your remote team makes time for weekly virtual gatherings where work talk is off-limits? These sessions, focused on personal stories and shared interests, build trust and camaraderie, transforming colleagues into a cohesive unit. In a world dominated by screens, these human moments are invaluable, reinforcing the social bonds that underpin successful teams. By fostering deeper connections, companies can enhance team dynamics, leading to higher productivity and a more engaged workforce. Putting the Pillars into Action The journey from theory to practice can be challenging, but it’s far from impossible. Leaders can start by enhancing communication—clear, consistent updates that set expectations and reduce uncertainty. Regular feedback sessions and open dialogues can bridge the gap between management and employees. Providing resources is another critical step. Companies can leverage technology to offer mental health support, whether through apps or tele-counseling. The goal is to make mental health resources as integral as health insurance. Leading by example is perhaps the most impactful strategy. When leaders demonstrate their commitment to well-being, it creates a ripple effect. Employees feel empowered to prioritize their health, knowing they have the support of their organization. The ROI of Well-Being Investing in well-being isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a business strategy. Companies that embed well-being into their culture see tangible benefits: higher productivity, lower turnover rates, and significant healthcare savings. Johnson & Johnson, for example, saved $250 million over a decade through its wellness programs. The corporate world is at a critical juncture. As economic pressures mount and the demand for innovation intensifies, leaders must recognize that well-being is no longer a luxury but a strategic necessity. Companies that fail to adapt risk losing their competitive edge, as disengaged and burnt-out employees cannot drive sustained growth. In contrast, those who embrace the Four Pillars of Worker Well-Being will likely see transformative results. These companies will attract and retain top talent, foster a resilient organizational culture, and ultimately, achieve long-term success. To illustrate, let’s look at an innovative retail company that integrated these pillars into its operations. By offering flexible schedules, mental health resources, and fostering a culture of openness, they saw a 30% reduction in employee turnover and a significant boost in customer satisfaction. Employees reported feeling more engaged and valued, directly impacting the company’s bottom line. Moreover, the shift towards prioritizing well-being aligns with broader societal trends. As public awareness of mental health and work-life balance grows, companies that lead in these areas will not only meet employee expectations but also set industry standards. The future of work demands a new kind of leadership, one that places well-being at the core of organizational strategy. This isn’t just about improving employee morale; it’s about creating a sustainable model for success in an ever-evolving business landscape. By adopting these practices, leaders can navigate the complexities of the modern workplace and unlock the full potential of their teams. Excerpted with permission from the publisher, Wiley, from Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership by Christie Smith and Kelly Monahan. Copyright © 2025 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights reserved. This book is available wherever books and eBooks are sold. View the full article

During my tenure at Facebook, now Meta, from 2014 to 2017, posters were plastered all over the grounds. “The job is only 1% done.” “Move fast and break things.” I was struck by one in particular on my first day of orientation: “Nothing at Facebook is someone else’s problem.” No matter my department or title, I had permission to take ownership of a problem and fix it. It’s the corporate version of “If you see something, say something,” or, in this case, do something. The irony is that I’m saying something because I see what Meta is now doing. It is actively making their problem with diversity, equity, and inclusion (“DEI”) everyone else’s problem. To me it’s clear the company’s ethos has changed from those days of open innovation. DEI helped Facebook grow, make better products and be more profitable During my time at Facebook, I was an attorney who primarily served supply chain and procurement. One thing that was not in my purview was diversity. However, I couldn’t help but notice that I was the only Black attorney in the Legal department, and I was well aware of the infrequency with which I saw Black colleagues walking around campus. Within our supply chain, I saw an opportunity to save the company money, create goodwill in the communities where Facebook had offices, and build better products by working with suppliers as diverse as the company’s users. So, I started the supplier diversity program. It was strategic to take the heat off of the company for the low employee diversity numbers that were the focal point of each annual report by providing another mechanism to demonstrate our partnership with marginalized communities while opening bids for business that would save the company money. In addition to the cost savings and the goodwill the program could provide, it was also a mechanism to build better products by partnering with diverse-owned businesses that reflected our user base. There is no better collaborator than people representing those you want to use your products, and with over a billion users at the time and growing, that needs to reflect the world. While no DEI program is perfect, improvements are part of playing a long game, and gains won’t be made overnight but incrementally. The supplier diversity program was an answer to several problems—collaboration for better products and new use cases, harm mitigation, economic opportunity for marginalized communities, and to slow the creep of gentrification of Facebook headquarters into the Black and brown community of East Palo Alto. I was incredibly devoted to this cause. I gave up weekends, late nights, and early mornings. I even spent part of my maternity leave to get the program off the ground. Both Facebook’s General Counsel and Chief Financial Officer reviewed and approved the program at various stages—the company was fully onboard with the aims when the program launched in October 2016. Confident I had built something that would last, I moved on to other opportunities. From a billion-dollar commitment to shifting blame and denouncing DEI In June 2020, Facebook pledged a $1.1 billion “investment in Black and diverse suppliers and communities in the U.S.” In 2022, the company reported: “In 2021, we exceeded our diverse supplier commitment, spending $1.26 billion with US certified diverse suppliers and more than $306 million with Black-owned businesses in the US.” As recently as October 2024, Meta hosted the Billion Dollar Roundtable conference celebrating corporations that spend $1 billion with minority and women-owned suppliers. Now, over the course of just six weeks, Meta has dismantled diversity programs, including supplier diversity, that took years to build, and Mark Zuckerberg has attributed them to former COO Sheryl Sandberg as he distances himself from all DEI. While no DEI program is perfect, these programs are part of a long game, with incremental progress built on top of hard work and trust. Companies and their leaders are free to change their minds and priorities due to politics, economics, or anything else. But if the pendulum swings in the other direction in the future, companies like Meta that scrap DEI programs will now have an infinitely harder time rebuilding them. The trust of users, employees, and suppliers has been destroyed. Users can’t trust Meta, so disengagement is the only answer From my experience at Facebook, what happens on the inside is what is mirrored externally in the products. When you eliminate DEI initiatives, you lose people from around your table. When you lose those voices at the table, you lose product insight. And for those still at Meta, their voices will carry less weight as soon as they advocate for those viewpoints, use cases, and outcomes. I imagine that the environment inside Meta is very different from when I worked there. Some employees and suppliers are likely nervous about what this new landscape will mean for their jobs. Users can expect a different product experience as a result, and they will judge whether it is for the better. I believe the only path forward for users is to show Meta the true cost of abandoning diversity. If we aren’t welcome within these companies, and we aren’t welcome to service them, then we shouldn’t reward them with our engagement, our data, or their ability to earn ad revenue from us. For marginalized communities, boycotts worked once before and also spurred entrepreneurship and safe spaces a generation ago during the Civil Rights Movement. In my view, disengagement is the only answer. Meta is no longer following its own adages. This is the opposite of “Shipping Love,” but it shows us what Zuckerberg and Meta do when they aren’t afraid. Sometimes, people don’t realize that there are consequences until they are faced with them. Users control the end of this story. This can be the opportunity to see how Zuckerberg and Meta rise to the occasion (or not). Regardless of their response, we must remember, “When people show you who they are, believe them.” We need to believe this is the world Meta wants to create, and if we don’t want to be part of it, we need to leave. View the full article

I don't like how scrolling makes me feel these days. Every headline, meme, and take I scroll past leaves me feeling worse about the world. It isn't entirely unwarranted—there's a lot of bad happening—but marinating in that feeling doesn't help. Scrolling isn't always detrimental, of course. It can be relaxing, for one thing, and it can be a way to keep up with what's happening with your friends. But I think we all know there are diminishing returns when it comes to scrolling—the overall quality goes down the longer you keep going. And that's why reading is possibly more important now than its ever been: There aren't diminishing returns. Scrolling is briefly thinking about lots of things; reading is taking the time to think about one thing. That's why I'm trying to do more reading and less scrolling. Seeing hundreds of memes about the latest dumb thing that one billionaire said doesn't help me reach any of my goals. Taking the time to get context on the issues I care about—and thinking deeply about them—might. So I've been taking active steps to nudge myself toward scrolling less and reading more. I hope these tips will help you achieve the same. Hide (or uninstall) social media appsAre there social media icons on your phone's home screen? The simplest thing you can do in order to scroll less is to get those icons off of there. You can do this by removing the icons from the home screen or by uninstalling the application entirely. Either way, the process is easy: tap and hold on the icon. Both Android and iOS will give you the option to either remove the application from your home screen or delete it. I, personally, tend to just remove the apps from my home screen. This reduces the number of times I turn on my phone and reflexively open an app to scroll in, but leaves the applications available when I actively want them. That might not be enough for you, though. You might find yourself going out of your way to scroll even if it means pulling up the app outside the home screen, or sucked in when there's a notification. If that's you, I recommend just uninstalling the application entirely, if only while you're trying to create the habit of scrolling less. It will cut off the problem entirely. Put books on your phoneGetting books onto your phone isn't hard. There are the big apps, including Kindle and Kobo, if you want to purchase current titles. (Apple has its own proprietary "Books" app as well.) You can access millions of books in the public domain with a little bit of searching. And there's also a good chance your local library offers free e-books: Libby is a common app for this. Set up one or multiple of these applications and put them right on the home screen of your phone. Ideally, you'll put the icon right where the social application you used to open constantly lives. The idea is to trick yourself into opening books. This isn't magic—you're going to need to force yourself to actually read. Over time, though, the habit may begin to form. Another thing to consider: audiobooks. Some people can't get into reading no matter how hard they try. Others can't find the time. In either case, I think audiobooks can be a great alternative. Listening to a book while driving, cleaning the house, or just hanging out at home is a great way to take in and reflect on books. Some people get elitist about this—ignore them. Listening to books is great. Most local libraries offer audiobooks, whether in the Libby app or as physical CDs. Otherwise, there are services like Audible and even Spotify to get your audiobook fix. Make reading articles easy for yourselfIf you don't want to read entire books on your phone (I personally don't), you'll likely find its the perfect device for reading articles, and there are plenty of ways to do that without the need to scroll. I like having read-it-later apps on my phone's home screen. These let you save articles you find on the web for future reading. I tend to clip articles during my work day, when I shouldn't be reading, and come back to them in the evening. I personally use FlyLeaf, which is a great option for Apple users, but Instapaper is also a very good tool for the job. But it's also a good idea to have a few publications that you browse regularly. There are all kinds of ways to do this. The simplest is to bookmark the homepages of a few of your favorite websites and blogs so that they show up every time you open your browser. The more techie solution is to find an RSS reader, which shows you the headlines from as many websites as you like. That way, you can keep up with everything in one place. Or, you could look into apps that let you read entire print publications. I recently discovered Press Reader, which offers full versions of magazines and newspapers. It's offered for free by some libraries and lets you read the entire print version of all sorts of publications. Odds are your local library has something similar, or you could physically go there and read the magazine they have on the shelf. (I love doing this.) Mange your notificationsNothing disrupts reading faster than being pulled into something else. If you're actually going to read, take advantage of your phone's Do Not Disturb (DND) functionality. We've talked a bit about how to customize your Android notifications and your iOS notifications, so dig into those articles for more details. But the gist is you don't want notifications popping up when you're trying to read. You can turn DND modes on or off manually, if you want, but can also schedule them. For example, if you read before bed, you could set up your phone to never buzz during your usual nighttime routine. You can get fancy about this: Newer Apple devices can use AI to filter out all but the most important notifications. I've tried this feature and so far it's a great way to unplug without missing the important stuff. Swap out your phone for something elseI've been talking about phones a lot in this article because that's where the bulk of scrolling happens. If you really want to read more, though, it's probably a good idea to do it on something other than your phone. E-ink devices work, but so do paper books and magazines. It's literally impossible to scroll Reddit on a book. Depending on how your brain works, though, a new gadget might help. My colleague Joel Cunningham wrote about how the Boox Portable helped him stop doomscrolling, and I can can understand why. This is basically an e-ink Android device, roughly the size of a phone. If you want something bigger, you can look into an e-ink tablet. These are great for both reading and jotting down ideas. I personally use a Remarkable for reading papers and researching articles. Getting away from my colorful and animated computing devices for a bit is helpful. There are all kinds of e-ink devices out there that can give you the best of both paper and electronics. Look into them—they might be what you need to trick your brain into reading more. View the full article

The start-up’s breakthrough confounds outworn prejudices about the two countries View the full article

Ever heard the term “recession?” Chances are, your definition is quite different from what economists actually mean when they use the word. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what a recession is and explore some of the reasons why this economic decline happens. What Does Recession Mean? A recession is a decline in economic activity spread across the economy, lasting more than a few months. Recessions are characterized by a drop in gross domestic product, higher unemployment, and falling prices in financial markets. In the United States, a recession is typically defined as two consecutive quarters of negative economic growth. What Causes a Recession? There isn’t just one cause of a recession; rather, recessions usually arise from a mix of different factors. Here, we will explore the six primary reasons that can lead to a recession: Decrease in Consumer Spending and Economic Growth Consumer spending is a key driver of a growing economy. When people stop spending money, businesses make less money and are forced to cut back on their own spending. This can lead to layoffs and a decrease in production, which further reduces consumer spending and creates a feedback loop that can cause a recession. Cutbacks in Business Investment Business investments are essential for driving economic activity and growth. When companies begin to scale back their investment efforts, a number of consequences can arise: Delayed Expansion: Businesses might postpone or abandon plans for expansion, such as opening new branches or introducing new product lines. This not only affects the immediate prospects of the company but can also ripple through the economy by affecting related sectors and job markets. Reduced Capital Expenditures: A decline in spending on critical machinery, technology, or infrastructure can adversely affect the industries that provide these goods and services, exacerbating the economic downturn and potentially causing supply chain disruptions. Impact on Employment: With reduced investment projects, there’s often a direct impact on job creation. This can result in layoffs or a hiring freeze, which, in turn, affects consumer spending and confidence, further straining the economy. READ MORE: 19 Recession-Proof Businesses Government Cuts Back on Spending Government spending can also play a role in causing a recession. When the government reduces its spending, it may result in fewer jobs and a decline in production. Decrease in Exports One of the pivotal contributors to a country’s economic well-being is its ability to sell goods and services to other countries. When there’s a significant decline in exports: Trade Balance Impact: The trade balance, which is the difference between a country’s exports and imports, can go into a deficit if the exports decrease sharply. Persistent trade deficits can drain a country’s foreign reserves and lead to unfavorable trade terms. Decreased Production: Reduced demand from international markets can cause factories and producers to cut back on their production. This can lead to a domino effect where related industries, such as logistics and suppliers, also face reduced demand. Job Losses: As production declines, there’s often a subsequent reduction in the workforce. Industries that heavily rely on exports might lay off employees or halt hiring, leading to increased unemployment rates. Reduced Income for Government: Export duties and taxes are a significant source of revenue for many governments. A slump in exports means lesser income for the government, which can affect public spending and investments. Negative Impact on Currency Value: Consistent decrease in exports can lead to a devaluation of the national currency. A weaker currency can make imports more expensive, which can increase the cost of living and reduce purchasing power. Reduced Business Confidence: Prolonged periods of decreased exports can erode business confidence. Investors and businesses might become reluctant to invest in sectors that are export-heavy, fearing continued lack of demand from international markets. Increase in Imports An increase in imports can also cause a recession. When we buy more goods and services from other countries, it can lead to a decrease in production and jobs here at home. Interest Rates Increasing An increase in interest rates can also cause a recession. When the Federal Reserve Bank raises interest rates, it becomes more expensive to borrow money. This can lead to a decrease in investment and consumer spending, which can lead to a decrease in production and jobs. Summary AspectImpact Delayed ExpansionPostponed or cancelled growth plans, affecting company prospects and related sectors. Reduced Capital ExpendituresDecrease in spending on machinery, tech, or infrastructure, impacting related industries and causing supply chain disruptions. Impact on EmploymentLayoffs or hiring freezes due to reduced projects, decreasing consumer spending and overall economic confidence. Economic Indicators of a Recession There are several key economic indicators that can help to show whether or not an economy is experiencing a recession. When an economic analysis is performed, these indicators are often taken into account in order to give a more accurate picture of the current state of the economy. Let’s take a look at four indicators of a recession: A Significant Decline in Economic Activity One of the most obvious indicators of a recession is a significant decline in activity in the economy for consecutive quarters. This can be measured in various ways, but one of the most common is to look at the gross domestic product (GDP). GDP is the total value of all goods and services produced within a country’s borders in a given period of time, and it is often used as a measure of a country’s economic health. Rising Unemployment Rate Another key indicator of a recession is the rise of the unemployment rate. When people lose their jobs, they have less money to spend, which can lead to a decrease in consumer spending and a further decline in activity in the economy. Plummeting Stock Market A plummeting stock market is another key indicator of a recession. When the stock market crashes, it can signal that investors are losing confidence in the economy and are selling off their assets. This can lead to a decline in economic activity as well. Decrease in Housing Prices Finally, a decrease in housing prices is another key indicator of a recession. When housing prices go down, it can signal that the economy is weak and that people are not interested in buying homes. This can lead to more foreclosures and a decrease in the value of homes, which can further hurt the economy. Recessions and Business in Economic Research In business, as in life, we are subject to the ebb and flow of cycles. Recessions are a part of these business cycles. They’re periods of slowdown or contraction during which businesses experience decreased demand for their products or services. As a result, they may cut back on production, lay off workers, or otherwise scale back their operations. How Long Do Recessions Last? This is a question that’s been asked since the world economy collapsed in the wake of World War II. In the years immediately following the war, the world was in the grips of a global recession. It lasted for more than a decade and saw unemployment levels reach unprecedented heights. T hen there was the gulf war recession, which began in 1990 as a result of the Gulf War, and it lasted just over two consecutive quarters. How Do Recessions Work? A recession is when people stop buying stuff, and it’s a part of the business cycle. That’s all. The act of not buying stuff is called “deleveraging.” Deleveraging is when people and businesses reduce their debt levels by paying off their loans and credit lines. This is done by either selling assets or increasing savings. Once people start deleveraging, the economy slows down because there is less money being spent. This leads to layoffs and more businesses going bankrupt. The further the economy falls, the more deleveraging occurs and the deeper the recession becomes. Recession Vs. Depression An economic recession is a period of temporary decline in the economy during which trade and industrial activity are reduced. A depression is a more prolonged and severe period of the economy being in a decline that typically involves a sharp decrease in output, employment, and prices (deflation). They’re alike in that both economic downturns feature declining output and employment. However, depressions tend to be significantly more severe, with more pronounced reductions in both output and employment. Strategies for Businesses During a Recession In times of a recession, businesses must confront economic challenges that challenge their resilience and adaptability. Although a recession can create obstacles, it also provides an opportunity for companies to reevaluate their strategies, optimize their operations, and seek out new paths for growth. Here’s a guide on how businesses can fortify themselves during these challenging times: Cost Management and Efficiency Streamline Operations: Review your business operations for any inefficiencies that can be eliminated. Streamlining processes can lead to significant cost savings. Flexible Work Arrangements: Consider flexible work arrangements such as remote work or reduced hours to lower operational costs while maintaining productivity. Negotiate with Suppliers: Re-negotiate terms with suppliers or explore alternative suppliers to reduce costs. Strong relationships with suppliers can be leveraged for more favorable payment terms or discounts. Diversification and Innovation Explore New Markets: Diversification can be key to surviving a recession. Explore new markets or demographics that may be less affected by the economic downturn. Innovate: View the recession as a chance to innovate. Creating new products or services can generate extra revenue streams and provide you with a competitive advantage. Adapt to Consumer Needs: Stay attuned to changing consumer behaviors and adapt your offerings accordingly. Value-oriented products or services may be more appealing during economic hardships. Strengthening Customer Relationships Enhance Customer Service: Exceptional customer service can set your business apart during tough times. Focus on building strong relationships with your existing customer base. Loyalty Programs: Implement or enhance loyalty programs to encourage repeat business and deepen customer loyalty. Communicate Transparently: Keep your customers informed about how your business is navigating the recession. Transparent communication can foster trust and support. Financial Planning and Access to Capital Maintain a Cash Reserve: Aim to maintain a healthy cash reserve to cushion against reduced cash flow. This can provide financial stability and flexibility during uncertain times. Explore Financing Options: Be aware of financing options available, including government grants, loans, or lines of credit that can provide a financial lifeline if needed. Revisit Budgets and Forecasts: Regularly update your financial forecasts and budgets to reflect current economic conditions. This will help you make informed decisions and plan for the future. Planning Ahead and Taking The Positives Recessions have come and gone since the beginning of our country’s existence, and they’ll continue to do so. Economic research shows they’re a natural part of the business cycle, and while they can be painful, they’re also a necessary part of the economy’s growth. Believe it or not, there are some benefits to a recession, such as: Recessions can be a time of great opportunity – Many people are able to buy homes and invest in businesses at bargain prices. They can force businesses to become leaner and more efficient – This can lead to increased productivity and profitability in the long run. Recessions can lead to innovation – Necessity is the mother of invention, and businesses may be forced to develop new products and services to survive during a recession. While a recession poses undeniable challenges, it also compels businesses to become more agile, efficient, and innovative. By focusing on cost management, diversification, customer relationships, and financial planning, businesses can not only weather the storm but also emerge stronger. The key is to see the recession not merely as a time for survival but as a chance for reflection, adaptation, and growth. READ MORE: What Happens During a Recession? Your Complete Guide How to Prepare for a Recession Image: Depositphotos This article, "What is a Recession?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Ever heard the term “recession?” Chances are, your definition is quite different from what economists actually mean when they use the word. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what a recession is and explore some of the reasons why this economic decline happens. What Does Recession Mean? A recession is a decline in economic activity spread across the economy, lasting more than a few months. Recessions are characterized by a drop in gross domestic product, higher unemployment, and falling prices in financial markets. In the United States, a recession is typically defined as two consecutive quarters of negative economic growth. What Causes a Recession? There isn’t just one cause of a recession; rather, recessions usually arise from a mix of different factors. Here, we will explore the six primary reasons that can lead to a recession: Decrease in Consumer Spending and Economic Growth Consumer spending is a key driver of a growing economy. When people stop spending money, businesses make less money and are forced to cut back on their own spending. This can lead to layoffs and a decrease in production, which further reduces consumer spending and creates a feedback loop that can cause a recession. Cutbacks in Business Investment Business investments are essential for driving economic activity and growth. When companies begin to scale back their investment efforts, a number of consequences can arise: Delayed Expansion: Businesses might postpone or abandon plans for expansion, such as opening new branches or introducing new product lines. This not only affects the immediate prospects of the company but can also ripple through the economy by affecting related sectors and job markets. Reduced Capital Expenditures: A decline in spending on critical machinery, technology, or infrastructure can adversely affect the industries that provide these goods and services, exacerbating the economic downturn and potentially causing supply chain disruptions. Impact on Employment: With reduced investment projects, there’s often a direct impact on job creation. This can result in layoffs or a hiring freeze, which, in turn, affects consumer spending and confidence, further straining the economy. READ MORE: 19 Recession-Proof Businesses Government Cuts Back on Spending Government spending can also play a role in causing a recession. When the government reduces its spending, it may result in fewer jobs and a decline in production. Decrease in Exports One of the pivotal contributors to a country’s economic well-being is its ability to sell goods and services to other countries. When there’s a significant decline in exports: Trade Balance Impact: The trade balance, which is the difference between a country’s exports and imports, can go into a deficit if the exports decrease sharply. Persistent trade deficits can drain a country’s foreign reserves and lead to unfavorable trade terms. Decreased Production: Reduced demand from international markets can cause factories and producers to cut back on their production. This can lead to a domino effect where related industries, such as logistics and suppliers, also face reduced demand. Job Losses: As production declines, there’s often a subsequent reduction in the workforce. Industries that heavily rely on exports might lay off employees or halt hiring, leading to increased unemployment rates. Reduced Income for Government: Export duties and taxes are a significant source of revenue for many governments. A slump in exports means lesser income for the government, which can affect public spending and investments. Negative Impact on Currency Value: Consistent decrease in exports can lead to a devaluation of the national currency. A weaker currency can make imports more expensive, which can increase the cost of living and reduce purchasing power. Reduced Business Confidence: Prolonged periods of decreased exports can erode business confidence. Investors and businesses might become reluctant to invest in sectors that are export-heavy, fearing continued lack of demand from international markets. Increase in Imports An increase in imports can also cause a recession. When we buy more goods and services from other countries, it can lead to a decrease in production and jobs here at home. Interest Rates Increasing An increase in interest rates can also cause a recession. When the Federal Reserve Bank raises interest rates, it becomes more expensive to borrow money. This can lead to a decrease in investment and consumer spending, which can lead to a decrease in production and jobs. Summary AspectImpact Delayed ExpansionPostponed or cancelled growth plans, affecting company prospects and related sectors. Reduced Capital ExpendituresDecrease in spending on machinery, tech, or infrastructure, impacting related industries and causing supply chain disruptions. Impact on EmploymentLayoffs or hiring freezes due to reduced projects, decreasing consumer spending and overall economic confidence. Economic Indicators of a Recession There are several key economic indicators that can help to show whether or not an economy is experiencing a recession. When an economic analysis is performed, these indicators are often taken into account in order to give a more accurate picture of the current state of the economy. Let’s take a look at four indicators of a recession: A Significant Decline in Economic Activity One of the most obvious indicators of a recession is a significant decline in activity in the economy for consecutive quarters. This can be measured in various ways, but one of the most common is to look at the gross domestic product (GDP). GDP is the total value of all goods and services produced within a country’s borders in a given period of time, and it is often used as a measure of a country’s economic health. Rising Unemployment Rate Another key indicator of a recession is the rise of the unemployment rate. When people lose their jobs, they have less money to spend, which can lead to a decrease in consumer spending and a further decline in activity in the economy. Plummeting Stock Market A plummeting stock market is another key indicator of a recession. When the stock market crashes, it can signal that investors are losing confidence in the economy and are selling off their assets. This can lead to a decline in economic activity as well. Decrease in Housing Prices Finally, a decrease in housing prices is another key indicator of a recession. When housing prices go down, it can signal that the economy is weak and that people are not interested in buying homes. This can lead to more foreclosures and a decrease in the value of homes, which can further hurt the economy. Recessions and Business in Economic Research In business, as in life, we are subject to the ebb and flow of cycles. Recessions are a part of these business cycles. They’re periods of slowdown or contraction during which businesses experience decreased demand for their products or services. As a result, they may cut back on production, lay off workers, or otherwise scale back their operations. How Long Do Recessions Last? This is a question that’s been asked since the world economy collapsed in the wake of World War II. In the years immediately following the war, the world was in the grips of a global recession. It lasted for more than a decade and saw unemployment levels reach unprecedented heights. T hen there was the gulf war recession, which began in 1990 as a result of the Gulf War, and it lasted just over two consecutive quarters. How Do Recessions Work? A recession is when people stop buying stuff, and it’s a part of the business cycle. That’s all. The act of not buying stuff is called “deleveraging.” Deleveraging is when people and businesses reduce their debt levels by paying off their loans and credit lines. This is done by either selling assets or increasing savings. Once people start deleveraging, the economy slows down because there is less money being spent. This leads to layoffs and more businesses going bankrupt. The further the economy falls, the more deleveraging occurs and the deeper the recession becomes. Recession Vs. Depression An economic recession is a period of temporary decline in the economy during which trade and industrial activity are reduced. A depression is a more prolonged and severe period of the economy being in a decline that typically involves a sharp decrease in output, employment, and prices (deflation). They’re alike in that both economic downturns feature declining output and employment. However, depressions tend to be significantly more severe, with more pronounced reductions in both output and employment. Strategies for Businesses During a Recession In times of a recession, businesses must confront economic challenges that challenge their resilience and adaptability. Although a recession can create obstacles, it also provides an opportunity for companies to reevaluate their strategies, optimize their operations, and seek out new paths for growth. Here’s a guide on how businesses can fortify themselves during these challenging times: Cost Management and Efficiency Streamline Operations: Review your business operations for any inefficiencies that can be eliminated. Streamlining processes can lead to significant cost savings. Flexible Work Arrangements: Consider flexible work arrangements such as remote work or reduced hours to lower operational costs while maintaining productivity. Negotiate with Suppliers: Re-negotiate terms with suppliers or explore alternative suppliers to reduce costs. Strong relationships with suppliers can be leveraged for more favorable payment terms or discounts. Diversification and Innovation Explore New Markets: Diversification can be key to surviving a recession. Explore new markets or demographics that may be less affected by the economic downturn. Innovate: View the recession as a chance to innovate. Creating new products or services can generate extra revenue streams and provide you with a competitive advantage. Adapt to Consumer Needs: Stay attuned to changing consumer behaviors and adapt your offerings accordingly. Value-oriented products or services may be more appealing during economic hardships. Strengthening Customer Relationships Enhance Customer Service: Exceptional customer service can set your business apart during tough times. Focus on building strong relationships with your existing customer base. Loyalty Programs: Implement or enhance loyalty programs to encourage repeat business and deepen customer loyalty. Communicate Transparently: Keep your customers informed about how your business is navigating the recession. Transparent communication can foster trust and support. Financial Planning and Access to Capital Maintain a Cash Reserve: Aim to maintain a healthy cash reserve to cushion against reduced cash flow. This can provide financial stability and flexibility during uncertain times. Explore Financing Options: Be aware of financing options available, including government grants, loans, or lines of credit that can provide a financial lifeline if needed. Revisit Budgets and Forecasts: Regularly update your financial forecasts and budgets to reflect current economic conditions. This will help you make informed decisions and plan for the future. Planning Ahead and Taking The Positives Recessions have come and gone since the beginning of our country’s existence, and they’ll continue to do so. Economic research shows they’re a natural part of the business cycle, and while they can be painful, they’re also a necessary part of the economy’s growth. Believe it or not, there are some benefits to a recession, such as: Recessions can be a time of great opportunity – Many people are able to buy homes and invest in businesses at bargain prices. They can force businesses to become leaner and more efficient – This can lead to increased productivity and profitability in the long run. Recessions can lead to innovation – Necessity is the mother of invention, and businesses may be forced to develop new products and services to survive during a recession. While a recession poses undeniable challenges, it also compels businesses to become more agile, efficient, and innovative. By focusing on cost management, diversification, customer relationships, and financial planning, businesses can not only weather the storm but also emerge stronger. The key is to see the recession not merely as a time for survival but as a chance for reflection, adaptation, and growth. READ MORE: What Happens During a Recession? Your Complete Guide How to Prepare for a Recession Image: Depositphotos This article, "What is a Recession?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

US group has pushed heavily into facilities needed to feed AI boom amid breakneck spending by Big TechView the full article

Nearly three in five people worldwide—a significant 58%—plan to look for a new job in 2025. That’s a lot of people in the hunt and if you’re one of them, it can feel a bit overwhelming. It doesn’t help that many job seekers are also feeling stuck, applying to more positions than ever yet hearing back less often. The shifting job market, influenced by more competition and the growth of AI, has made old strategies less effective. To succeed, job seekers need to rethink their strategy—focusing on roles that align with their skills, crafting tailored applications, and finding ways to stand out. The good news? With a clear, intentional approach, you can navigate these challenges and make meaningful progress in your career. Here’s how to take control of your job search in 2025: Be Adaptable: Go where the opportunities are The job market is changing quickly. Consider this: Nearly three-quarters of today’s fastest-growing roles—think Artificial Intelligence Engineer or Chief Growth Officer—didn’t even exist 25 years ago. It’s a good reminder that building a sustainable career means staying ahead of the curve. Identify which skills are in demand and which industries are growing. Resources like LinkedIn’s Jobs on the Rise report can be helpful in spotting trends. For example, we’re seeing a willingness among job seekers to pivot into new industries. Making such a leap begins with assessing your transferable skills—attributes like communication, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability—and exploring how they align with roles in unfamiliar sectors. By pairing curiosity with preparation, you can position yourself as a strong candidate in emerging fields. Highlight your expertise Simply claiming expertise isn’t enough—you need to show it. Hiring managers look for specific skills, so align your profile and résumé with the job description. Highlight achievements that show how your skills have produced results. Update your LinkedIn profile as well; listing at least five key skills can help you get up to 5.6 times more profile views from recruiters. Think of this as your opportunity to build a digital portfolio that speaks for you. Whether it’s showcasing a project, sharing industry insights, or highlighting new skills you’ve gained, your profile can become a dynamic representation of your expertise and professional brand. Focus on quality over quantity Applying to as many jobs as possible might seem like a good strategy, but it’s not effective. Instead, focus on quality instead of quantity. To help you be more strategic in the roles you’re applying for, consider using LinkedIn’s new job match feature to see how your skills and experience line up with what hiring managers are looking for. It can also help you identify any skills you may be missing that could improve your chances of hearing back from recruiters. And, take the time to customize your application—writing a cover letter tailored to the role lets you clearly explain how you can meet its needs. It may seem like overkill, but it will help you stand out to employers. Navigating the current job market doesn’t have to be frustrating. Small, focused actions—like improving your profile, expanding your network, or learning a new skill—can move you closer to your next role. In a fast-changing job market, being focused and strategic is the best way to stay ahead. View the full article

Christian Sewing has ‘firm confidence’ lender will hit returns target this year as it reviews weaker unitsView the full article

Starting a new business can come with numerous organizational expenses that can add up quickly. Fortunately, the IRS offers a deduction for startup costs that can help ease the financial burden. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about startup cost deduction and how to take advantage of it in the future. What is the startup cost deduction? The startup cost deduction is a tax provision that allows entrepreneurs and small business owners to deduct a portion of their startup expenses from their taxable income in the year they begin conducting business. The deduction is intended to help offset the costs involved with starting a business, which can include expenses such as market research, legal fees, incorporation fees, and advertising costs. To qualify for the startup cost deduction, the business must be a new business, the expenses must be incurred before the business begins operations, and the expenses must be necessary and ordinary for the type of business being started. The amount of the startup cost deduction is limited to $5,000 for the first year of business, with any remaining startup costs being amortized over a 15-year period. However, businesses whose startup costs exceed $50,000 in total face a reduced limit on their deduction. The best way to get you going in the right direction is to have a business startup checklist. The list can include anything from getting financing to finding legal help and even knowing tax terms. A thorough checklist can keep you from making rash decisions. Who can benefit from the startup costs deduction? New businesses that have incurred startup costs can benefit from the startup cost deduction. This includes entrepreneurs who have recently started a business, as well as those who are in the process of starting one. The deduction is available to businesses of all types and sizes, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations. What business startup costs are deductible? When starting a business, it’s essential to understand what costs are deductible. Deductible startup costs and deductible organizational costs are two categories that can help new business owners save on taxes. Understanding which expenses fit into these categories can greatly impact a business’s financial success. Deductible Startup Costs When starting a new business, there are many costs that need to be considered. Fortunately, some of these costs may be tax-deductible, helping new business owners save money on their taxes. These deductible business startup expenses include costs that are necessary when starting or buying an active trade or business, such as: Research and development expenses may include costs incurred related to the creation and testing of prototypes, the development of new technologies, labor supply, or the refinement of existing products or services. Market research expenses may include costs paid related to surveys, focus groups, or other research methods to understand potential customers’ needs and preferences. Advertising and promotion expenses can encompass costs associated with the development and distribution of marketing materials, including brochures, flyers, and advertisements. Employee training costs may include expenses related to onboarding new employees, such as training materials, instructor fees, and travel expenses. Equipment and supplies costs may include expenses related to purchasing or leasing equipment and supplies necessary to operate the business. Professional fees, such as legal and accounting fees, may be incurred to help with business registration, tax preparation, and other legal or financial matters. Rent and utilities during the startup phase such as rent for office or retail space, as well as utilities such as electricity, water, and internet service. Deductible Organizational Costs Deductible organizational costs are expenses that arise during the establishment of a corporation or partnership. These costs encompass: Legal and accounting fees associated with incorporation or partnership formation can encompass costs for preparing legal documents, including articles of incorporation and partnership agreements, along with any consulting fees from accountants or lawyers. State fees for incorporating or registering the business may include expenses such as filing fees or franchise taxes required to register the business with the state. Organizational meeting costs may include expenses related to the initial meetings of the corporation or partnership, such as travel and lodging expenses for shareholders or partners. Fees for obtaining licenses and permits can encompass the costs associated with acquiring the essential permits and licenses needed to operate the business. Costs associated with transferring assets to the new business may also be tax-deductible. These costs may include expenses related to transferring assets such as real estate, inventory, or intellectual property to the new business. What startup business expenses are not deductible? While there are many startup costs that are deductible, not all expenses qualify. Some costs, such as personal expenses or those incurred before the business is operational, cannot be deducted. Here are examples of startup costs that are not deductible: Personal expenses Capital expenses Research and experimentation costs before the business begins operations Expenses for acquiring intangible assets like patents and copyrights Costs related to acquiring an existing business Expenses related to issuing stock or other securities Fines and penalties Expenses for lobbying or political activities Costs related to tax-exempt income or other tax-exempt entities Expenses for creating or administering a pension plan or trust Costs related to issuing tax-exempt securities or financing through tax-exempt bonds When can you take the startup costs deduction? You can claim the startup costs deduction in the year your business starts. This deduction applies to expenses related to the creation or exploration of a new business, including costs for market research and advertising. The maximum amount of startup costs that can be deducted in the first year is $5,000, with any remaining balance being amortized over a period of 15 years. It’s important to keep accurate records and consult with a tax professional to ensure you are taking advantage of all available tax deductions. How do you calculate startup costs for a small business? Calculating startup costs for a small business involves identifying all expenses necessary to get the business up and running. These expenses may encompass a variety of items, ranging from market research and legal fees to equipment and supplies. To calculate the total startup costs, list each expense and its associated cost and add them together. It’s important to be thorough in identifying all necessary expenses, as underestimating startup costs can lead to financial strain later on. A solid understanding of startup costs is critical for creating a viable business plan and securing the necessary funding for a successful launch. How do you claim the startup costs deduction? Claiming the startup costs deduction can help reduce the tax burden for new businesses. To take advantage of this deduction, there are specific steps that must be followed when filing an IRS tax return. Here are the steps to claim the startup costs deduction: Determine if your business is eligible: To claim the startup costs deduction, your business must have started within the current tax year and incurred expenses related to starting up the business. Calculate your startup costs: The startup costs include any expenses incurred in preparing to operate the business, such as legal and accounting fees, market research, and advertising costs. Choose between deduction or amortization: You have the option of either deducting startup costs up to $5,000 in the first year or amortizing the expenses over a period of time, generally 15 years. File the appropriate tax form: Based on your business entity type, you must submit either Form 1120, 1120-S, 1065, or 1040. Filing the correct form is essential for claiming the startup costs deduction. Include the deduction on your tax return: After calculating the amount of the deduction or amortization, make sure to record it on the correct line of your tax return. This step is crucial to maximize the tax benefit from the startup costs deduction. How much can be claimed with the startup costs deduction? The amount that can be claimed with the startup costs deduction is limited to $5,000 in the first year of business. If your total startup costs exceed $50,000, the deduction will be reduced by the excess amount. Any remaining expenses not deducted in the first year can be amortized and claimed over a period of 180 months. Can an LLC deduct startup costs? Yes, an LLC can deduct startup costs on its tax return. However, the deduction is subject to certain limitations and eligibility requirements. The IRS considers startup costs as capital expenses that are necessary to get the business up and running. It’s important to consult with a tax professional to ensure you are accurately reporting all eligible expenses and taking advantage of all available deductions. Can a sole proprietor deduct startup costs? Yes, a sole proprietor can deduct startup costs on their tax return, subject to certain limits and requirements. The startup costs must be ordinary and necessary expenses incurred in the course of starting the business and cannot exceed $5,000 in the first year, with any remaining costs spread out over 15 years. Can an independent contractor deduct startup costs? Yes, independent contractors may be able to deduct startup costs associated with their business, such as equipment purchases and marketing expenses, on their tax returns. Just like for LLCs and sole proprietors, the deduction is limited to $5,000 in the first year of business and any remaining costs can be spread out. Can you deduct startup costs with no income? If a business owner has no income during the year in which they incur startup costs, they may still be able to deduct these costs on their tax return. The deduction may be limited in the first year and carried forward to future years. Can you depreciate startup costs? Some startup costs, such as equipment purchases or property improvements, may be depreciated over time on a business owner’s tax return. As mentioned previously, the ability to depreciate startup costs on a business owner’s tax return may be limited by certain eligibility requirements established by the IRS. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Your Guide to the Startup Costs Deduction" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Starting a new business can come with numerous organizational expenses that can add up quickly. Fortunately, the IRS offers a deduction for startup costs that can help ease the financial burden. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about startup cost deduction and how to take advantage of it in the future. What is the startup cost deduction? The startup cost deduction is a tax provision that allows entrepreneurs and small business owners to deduct a portion of their startup expenses from their taxable income in the year they begin conducting business. The deduction is intended to help offset the costs involved with starting a business, which can include expenses such as market research, legal fees, incorporation fees, and advertising costs. To qualify for the startup cost deduction, the business must be a new business, the expenses must be incurred before the business begins operations, and the expenses must be necessary and ordinary for the type of business being started. The amount of the startup cost deduction is limited to $5,000 for the first year of business, with any remaining startup costs being amortized over a 15-year period. However, businesses whose startup costs exceed $50,000 in total face a reduced limit on their deduction. The best way to get you going in the right direction is to have a business startup checklist. The list can include anything from getting financing to finding legal help and even knowing tax terms. A thorough checklist can keep you from making rash decisions. Who can benefit from the startup costs deduction? New businesses that have incurred startup costs can benefit from the startup cost deduction. This includes entrepreneurs who have recently started a business, as well as those who are in the process of starting one. The deduction is available to businesses of all types and sizes, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations. What business startup costs are deductible? When starting a business, it’s essential to understand what costs are deductible. Deductible startup costs and deductible organizational costs are two categories that can help new business owners save on taxes. Understanding which expenses fit into these categories can greatly impact a business’s financial success. Deductible Startup Costs When starting a new business, there are many costs that need to be considered. Fortunately, some of these costs may be tax-deductible, helping new business owners save money on their taxes. These deductible business startup expenses include costs that are necessary when starting or buying an active trade or business, such as: Research and development expenses may include costs incurred related to the creation and testing of prototypes, the development of new technologies, labor supply, or the refinement of existing products or services. Market research expenses may include costs paid related to surveys, focus groups, or other research methods to understand potential customers’ needs and preferences. Advertising and promotion expenses can encompass costs associated with the development and distribution of marketing materials, including brochures, flyers, and advertisements. Employee training costs may include expenses related to onboarding new employees, such as training materials, instructor fees, and travel expenses. Equipment and supplies costs may include expenses related to purchasing or leasing equipment and supplies necessary to operate the business. Professional fees, such as legal and accounting fees, may be incurred to help with business registration, tax preparation, and other legal or financial matters. Rent and utilities during the startup phase such as rent for office or retail space, as well as utilities such as electricity, water, and internet service. Deductible Organizational Costs Deductible organizational costs are expenses that arise during the establishment of a corporation or partnership. These costs encompass: Legal and accounting fees associated with incorporation or partnership formation can encompass costs for preparing legal documents, including articles of incorporation and partnership agreements, along with any consulting fees from accountants or lawyers. State fees for incorporating or registering the business may include expenses such as filing fees or franchise taxes required to register the business with the state. Organizational meeting costs may include expenses related to the initial meetings of the corporation or partnership, such as travel and lodging expenses for shareholders or partners. Fees for obtaining licenses and permits can encompass the costs associated with acquiring the essential permits and licenses needed to operate the business. Costs associated with transferring assets to the new business may also be tax-deductible. These costs may include expenses related to transferring assets such as real estate, inventory, or intellectual property to the new business. What startup business expenses are not deductible? While there are many startup costs that are deductible, not all expenses qualify. Some costs, such as personal expenses or those incurred before the business is operational, cannot be deducted. Here are examples of startup costs that are not deductible: Personal expenses Capital expenses Research and experimentation costs before the business begins operations Expenses for acquiring intangible assets like patents and copyrights Costs related to acquiring an existing business Expenses related to issuing stock or other securities Fines and penalties Expenses for lobbying or political activities Costs related to tax-exempt income or other tax-exempt entities Expenses for creating or administering a pension plan or trust Costs related to issuing tax-exempt securities or financing through tax-exempt bonds When can you take the startup costs deduction? You can claim the startup costs deduction in the year your business starts. This deduction applies to expenses related to the creation or exploration of a new business, including costs for market research and advertising. The maximum amount of startup costs that can be deducted in the first year is $5,000, with any remaining balance being amortized over a period of 15 years. It’s important to keep accurate records and consult with a tax professional to ensure you are taking advantage of all available tax deductions. How do you calculate startup costs for a small business? Calculating startup costs for a small business involves identifying all expenses necessary to get the business up and running. These expenses may encompass a variety of items, ranging from market research and legal fees to equipment and supplies. To calculate the total startup costs, list each expense and its associated cost and add them together. It’s important to be thorough in identifying all necessary expenses, as underestimating startup costs can lead to financial strain later on. A solid understanding of startup costs is critical for creating a viable business plan and securing the necessary funding for a successful launch. How do you claim the startup costs deduction? Claiming the startup costs deduction can help reduce the tax burden for new businesses. To take advantage of this deduction, there are specific steps that must be followed when filing an IRS tax return. Here are the steps to claim the startup costs deduction: Determine if your business is eligible: To claim the startup costs deduction, your business must have started within the current tax year and incurred expenses related to starting up the business. Calculate your startup costs: The startup costs include any expenses incurred in preparing to operate the business, such as legal and accounting fees, market research, and advertising costs. Choose between deduction or amortization: You have the option of either deducting startup costs up to $5,000 in the first year or amortizing the expenses over a period of time, generally 15 years. File the appropriate tax form: Based on your business entity type, you must submit either Form 1120, 1120-S, 1065, or 1040. Filing the correct form is essential for claiming the startup costs deduction. Include the deduction on your tax return: After calculating the amount of the deduction or amortization, make sure to record it on the correct line of your tax return. This step is crucial to maximize the tax benefit from the startup costs deduction. How much can be claimed with the startup costs deduction? The amount that can be claimed with the startup costs deduction is limited to $5,000 in the first year of business. If your total startup costs exceed $50,000, the deduction will be reduced by the excess amount. Any remaining expenses not deducted in the first year can be amortized and claimed over a period of 180 months. Can an LLC deduct startup costs? Yes, an LLC can deduct startup costs on its tax return. However, the deduction is subject to certain limitations and eligibility requirements. The IRS considers startup costs as capital expenses that are necessary to get the business up and running. It’s important to consult with a tax professional to ensure you are accurately reporting all eligible expenses and taking advantage of all available deductions. Can a sole proprietor deduct startup costs? Yes, a sole proprietor can deduct startup costs on their tax return, subject to certain limits and requirements. The startup costs must be ordinary and necessary expenses incurred in the course of starting the business and cannot exceed $5,000 in the first year, with any remaining costs spread out over 15 years. Can an independent contractor deduct startup costs? Yes, independent contractors may be able to deduct startup costs associated with their business, such as equipment purchases and marketing expenses, on their tax returns. Just like for LLCs and sole proprietors, the deduction is limited to $5,000 in the first year of business and any remaining costs can be spread out. Can you deduct startup costs with no income? If a business owner has no income during the year in which they incur startup costs, they may still be able to deduct these costs on their tax return. The deduction may be limited in the first year and carried forward to future years. Can you depreciate startup costs? Some startup costs, such as equipment purchases or property improvements, may be depreciated over time on a business owner’s tax return. As mentioned previously, the ability to depreciate startup costs on a business owner’s tax return may be limited by certain eligibility requirements established by the IRS. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Your Guide to the Startup Costs Deduction" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Is what’s good for America’s richest men also good for America?View the full article

It was the year 2000. We survived Y2K and sat at our computers obsessed with a strange new game called The Sims. It was the first game I ever played where the protagonist could be late to work, forget to take out the garbage, or be so preoccupied by the doldrums of life that they might pee themselves. I, alongside millions, was hooked and could not articulate why. Born from the mind of Will Wright—the same designer who bucked the industry’s penchant for arcade games for world simulators like SimCity—The Sims is almost as hard to define now as it was then. Is it a virtual dollhouse? A simulacrum of suburban life? A neighborhood of tamagotchis with jobs? An HGTV home improvement show crossed with Real Housewives? [Image: EA] By design, whatever you call The Sims may reflect on you more than it. From its earliest days, The Sims universe has attempted to be anything but prescriptive—right down to its progressive view on relationships without labels or gender expectations. Twenty-five years later, the franchise, now owned by EA, has amassed half a billion players. The Sims 4 came out over a decade ago at this point, but after it became free-to-play in 2022, its popularity ballooned to reach 85 million players, and it’s released 17 expansions that allow people to do everything from arguing over family inheritance to convening a court of vampires. For the 25th anniversary, I sat down with two creatives that have been with the franchise since the original game to discuss their core design approach of The Sims, what’s kept players obsessed, and why fewer of these little characters are peeing themselves these days. [Image: EA] A funhouse mirror of the world The Sims may have a quiet premise—create a character and their home, choose a profession, and socialize with neighbors—but nothing about the presentation from there is literal. Through every bit of its art, design, and animation, the world balances the mundane with the zany. That not only brings an element of fun to The Sims; it expands what’s plausible at any moment. “We definitely talk more about being relatable than realistic, which means that we do lean more dramatic in our acting and our animation,” says Lyndsay Pearson, VP of franchise creative for The Sims. “That’s partially because of the way you play the game: You’re far away [from characters], you need to be able to read it. But also because that supports the world and the stories we’re trying to enable.” Each gesture of these little characters is exaggerated, as if they’re actors on a stage being read from the audience, even though you’re just sitting at your computer. That ensures that the mundane feels interesting. [Image: EA] “When you’re cooking, or going to sleep, or making up the bed, or doing these life actions, a lot of your players actually want to experience them in this extremely whimsical and playful fashion. Nobody wants to see that in a replica of actual real life the exact same way,” says Nawwaf Barakat, senior animation director for The Sims. “So it needs to be telling its own story every single time. It needs to look interesting the 1,000th time you’ve actually seen it.” The tone of those moments isn’t merely legible or entertaining; they also highlight the farce, expanding what’s possible in the world. “We’ve described it as a fun house mirror to the world, where it looks familiar enough that you can relate to it and feel like, ‘Oh, if I if I take out the trash, I understand the chain of events and the rules of this universe,’ but it’s all skewed so that when a giant monster pops out of the trash, I’m not surprised. [The design] explains that these things can coexist.” [Image: EA] Implying so the player can infer While players enjoy rich, multigenerational stories in The Sims—complete with love, backstabbing, and sudden plot twists—in fact, the design team admits that most of this narrative takes place in your head. “The Sims is really a game of interpretation,” says Barakat. “It’s amazing how much our players will actually fill the stories in themselves.” A key idea behind fiction, born from The University of Iowa’s Writers’ Workshop, is that the writer should imply so the reader can infer. The Sims is designed to do this across a character’s relationships. The Sims speak in Simlish (gibberish that sounds almost like English). You can broach a topic, like “brag about promotion,” but responses from characters are always in either Simlish or word clouds filled with simplistic, emoji-like images. [Image: EA] Many players try to tell multi-generational stories in the game, and recently, The Sims released an expansion all about death and family legacy. The challenge was about creating an opportunity for these stories without determining the plot ahead of time. “We added enough conversation dialog choices or enough icons in the thought balloons to get them to think about the character or think about a gravestone, that you could make that story kind of happen,” says Pearson. “So, we have to carve out those spaces, particularly to leave room for that interpretation to say, ‘Oh, this could be them all mourning at a wake,’ but it could also be, ‘They’re all fighting at a wake.’” [Image: EA] These techniques almost sound silly to deconstruct, but they’re also at the core of how iconography and symbology works across culture. There are points where interpretations are shared, and points where they diverge. Everything in between is the fun of criticism IRL—and where the opportunity for differing interpretations around narrative exist in The Sims. “You see comments online sometimes about how deep our game is, how we thought of everything,” says Barakat. “And we’re like, ‘Wow, we didn’t really think about that!’ It was our players building that story based off of all the elements we provided.” [Image: EA] By avoiding labels, not only is The Sims less prescriptive, it is also more inclusive. (You won’t find Republicans and Democrats in The Sims, for instance.) Since the earliest days of the game, relationships spanned gender boundaries without specific labels around status. Today, The Sims 4 does allow players to very deeply specify a character’s gender and sexual identity (and even if they lactate), but still, the way this background plays out in actual game logic can be fluid and, again, unlabeled. Sims may fight, but they don’t judge. [Image: EA] “Is polyamory just the absence of jealousy? Because functionally, that’s kind of what it is. If you decide what gets jealous of what, the player then can infer a lot of different types of relationships of that,” says Pearson. “And we don’t have to label all of them. We don’t have to provide specific definitions and restrictions. We sort of just have to open up space, which is a really interesting design challenge . . . we say, ‘What’s the lowest common denominator that would unlock a lot of these things?’” [Image: EA] Building forgivable failure (like, why Sims still pee themselves) You cannot win The Sims 4. But you cannot lose either. The way that the franchise has handled the topic of failure has evolved over time, climbing Maslov’s hierarchy of needs to be less about survival than everything else in life. “When you go back and play The Sims 1, it is very hard to keep your Sims alive. They caught fire all the time. It was a very dangerous world in The Sims 1, the plate spinning was really hard,” says Pearson. “So, when we moved into The Sims 2, we wanted to introduce a different level of pushback, a little bit higher up the sort of chain of needs.” Sims began failing at the meta layers of life, like being too lonely. [Image: EA] But by The Sims 3 and 4, everything got a little bit easier about life. “Your Sims don’t fail so much as they just aren’t thriving, and that you can do so much more when you’re working with them, nurturing them, and pushing them along the way,” says Pearson. Screenshot Micromanaging has been tuned down in interest of choose-your-own-adventure story charting. If you aren’t spending every moment feeding yourself so you don’t starve, or showering so you don’t stink, you can spend more time, say, turning an entire town into vampires. But notably, you still need to tend to your Sim. You even need to make sure that they use the bathroom now and again, or else, yes, after 25 years, they will still pee themselves. This micromanagement isn’t just gamification to keep the player active, but core to the emotional draw of The Sims. “There’s a certain amount of pushback that the game still needs for you to believe that these are little people that need you, and that could be a mode of failure, like having an accident or starving. We try to make those entertaining as well: things like being hit by a meteor because you were stargazing for too long,” says Pearson. “Because at the end of the day, that is a reminder that there is a little bit of humanity in them that you need to pay attention to, and that you can’t just treat them like some ants and it’s fine if they die. You want to care about them.“ And perhaps that’s the real appeal of The Sims after two and a half decades. In a world where we constantly dehumanize one another, reflexively hating people as avatars on social media, The Sims offers another way—where even a few polygons and lines of code can be worthy of our care. View the full article

Reid Hoffman returns to Rapid Response to explore today’s AI landscape, and the future promised by a concept he calls “superagency.” Hoffman shares his vision for what an AI-infused workday will soon look like, how we should address society’s greatest fears about technology, and more. As we enter a daunting new era—politically, socially, and technologically—Hoffman urges listeners to choose curiosity over fear. This is an abridged transcript of an interview from Rapid Response, hosted by Robert Safian, former editor-in-chief of Fast Company. From the team behind the Masters of Scale podcast, Rapid Response features candid conversations with today’s top business leaders navigating real-time challenges. Subscribe to Rapid Response wherever you get your podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode. So you have a new book out today called Superagency with coauthor Greg Beato. Some people have called the book a surprisingly positive take on AI and on humanity. I think the surprise is less about you being optimistic than about the topic, that there’s so much skepticism right now about the future of both AI and humanity. Can you start first by defining the word agency, and then what superagency is beyond that? So agency is our ability to express ourselves in the world, to make choices, to configure our environment, to say, “This is . . . what I want to have happen to me, to my environment around me.” Obviously nobody has infinite agency, but we all have some agency, and we aspire to that as part of what we do. AI, like other kinds of general-purpose technologies that have come before, gives us superpowers. Superpowers are like a car gives you superpower for mobility, the phone gives you superpowers for connectivity and information. AI gives you superpowers for the entire world of information, navigation, decision-making, etc. And what superagency is, is not just when you as an individual get the superpower, but when you and many of the people around you, when millions of people throughout society also get that superpower. Just as a car doesn’t just transform your mobility, your ability to go somewhere, when other people’s mobility is similarly transformed, like a doctor can come for a house call, a friend can come to visit. So the society that you experience with this kind of superagency is when many people get the same superpowers, and we’re all benefiting from our own and from others’. I mean, the fears around AI, I guess, are that AI will eventually limit human control. And when you’re talking about superagency, you’re sort of positing the opposite, that we’re going to have more control. Well, it’s actually different, but more in some important ways. These technological transformations of agency are never only additive. They’re mostly additive. Like the car is broadly additive. But of course, if your agency was previously that you were a driver of a horse carriage, that agency changes. Like when you have a phone, you can reach out to other people, but other people can also reach out to you. So you’re available. Agency kind of transforms in these cases. You can already see it if you start playing with these agents. You can now do things and accomplish things that you couldn’t accomplish before, which unlocks your ability to learn things, your ability to communicate things, your ability to do things faster and in more interesting ways. That’s part of the reason why it’s really important that we actually play with these technologies. We engage with them. We do serious things with them. We do what I call in the book “iterative deployment,” and that’s what’s so important for us all engaging on this path heading towards superagency. You’ve been preaching about the potential of AI for some time. You wrote a book with ChatGPT to demonstrate the potential. You’ve made digital twins of yourself to try demystifying it. Not everyone is convinced. What do you feel like you have to fight most in getting people over this, and what prompted you to do the book now as a way to try to make that change? My biggest hope and persuasion is that people who are AI fearful or skeptical may begin to add some AI curiosity and kind of say, “Hey, look, I should try to play with this.” Part of what superagency is about is to say, look, it doesn’t just matter for yourself, but it’s other people getting exposure to this that will also be good for your life. For example, if you think about the fact that I have a smartphone, I have a medical assistant that is as good or better than the average doctor. Would you rather have a radiologist read your X-ray scan, or would you rather have a radiologist with an AI? And the answer is with an AI every day of the week, eight days a week, because that then gives me a much better health outcome. So it’s not just me and my superpowers, but other people gaining superpowers also helps me. Even if I’m not engaging quite the way you would like me to most, I’m still going to get some of the benefits of this. It’s going to be part of cultural changes. Ultimately how people get to adopting and adapting their lifestyle to these new technologies is because they begin to see, “Oh, actually, in fact, this is a new, very good thing.” As opposed to when cars were first introduced, they were considered so dangerous that they had to have a person walking in front of them, waving an orange flag. Now, we got rid of that regulation very quickly. And it’s like, okay, well, they’re dangerous, but can we contain and shape the danger in ways that are small relative to this massive benefit of superagency and mobility? AI acting on its own seems to be what scares people the most about it. But I’ve thought that the likelihood that I’m going to lose my job to an AI alone may happen at some point, but I’m more likely now to lose my job to someone who uses AI better than I do, right? Although if I’m losing my job, maybe it doesn’t matter that much either way, which one I’m losing it to. Part of the thing that I love about thinking about technology is whenever you think there’s a problem, including a problem created by technology, you think, Can technology be a solution? So, yes, I do think that a lot of jobs will then start requiring the use of AI and AI agents as part of being professional. It’s a little bit like if you said, “Hey, I’m a professional today, and I don’t use a computer,” or “I don’t use a smartphone.” It’s like, no, not really good. So there are technological requirements, which increase with new tool sets for doing jobs, and AI is definitely going to be one of those. That being said, part of the solution, you go, “Oh, my God, am I going to be out of a job?” Well, actually . . . this gets back to the book being for technologists and thinking about human agency: How do we help people have their agency to learn the new skills and say, “Hey, yes, my job is going to be taken over by a human using an AI.” Well, how about that human being me? Or, okay, so this particular one doesn’t work, but how can the AI help me find a different job? In many ways, I think we will naturally get there, but I think, you know, just because we’ll naturally get there doesn’t mean we can’t get there better by being intentional in having design. It’s one of the reasons I identify myself as a bloomer in the book versus a zoomer, because I don’t think that everything will just be great with technology. I think we have to steer it intentionally, because when human beings encounter new general-purpose technologies as early as the printing press, all the rest of them, we mess up in various ways. We handle the transition of new technologies badly. And part of the reason why I’m doing this book, this podcast, things like this, is to try to say, “Let’s do this transition much better.” It doesn’t mean we won’t have suffering in the transition. But if you embrace it with some agency, we can possibly make that both less painful and have more opportunities. We are entering into the cognitive industrial revolution, and all you have to do is look at any simple books about the industrial revolution to recognize transitions can be painful. Let’s do this one better. View the full article

Although digital has taken over, having high-quality printed materials for your business remains important. Printing services can provide immense value for your brand when it comes to making a lasting impression and connecting with your customers. Printed materials can be a major differentiator for your business, and that’s why we’re going through everything you need to know about business print services and where to obtain printing services. The Importance of Print Services for Businesses Printed materials such as business cards, brochures, photo books, yard signs, and more can all be valuable tools for creating brand awareness. Printing services can also be used for promotional and custom products for marketing, adding additional value to your business. Printed materials and print services play an integral role in building and promoting a small business’s brand image. Here’s why they are so important: Brand Consistency: By using print services, businesses can ensure that their branding remains consistent across all of their promotional materials. This includes everything from business cards to brochures and yard signs. Marketing Impact: Printed materials such as brochures, posters, and banners act as powerful marketing tools that effectively promote a business’s products or services. Additionally, custom products can further strengthen these marketing initiatives. Professionalism: High-quality printed materials can convey a level of professionalism and credibility to potential customers or clients. This can help a small business stand out from the competition. Tangible Engagement: Unlike digital ads, printed materials offer physical interaction. Customers can hold a brochure, flip through a photo book, or glance at a yard sign, creating a more engaging experience. Versatility: There are many different types of printed materials, each serving its own purpose. This versatility makes it easy for businesses to find the right print product for their specific needs. Affordability: Numerous print services provide competitive pricing, particularly for bulk orders, which makes them a cost-effective marketing investment for small businesses. Local Visibility: Printed materials such as yard signs, banners, and flyers can greatly enhance local visibility, helping small businesses to engage with their local community effectively. In short, investing in high-quality print services can provide significant benefits for a small business, from enhancing brand awareness to boosting local visibility and marketing impact. Online Printing Services: A Modern Solution Online print services allow you to order printed materials and have them delivered directly to you. While you will need to cover shipping costs for the supplies and signage you order, online printing remains one of the simplest options for obtaining promotional products. When you place a print order, you can upload various files, including images like your logo, stock photos, and business images. Some print services also provide graphic design assistance for specific types of materials. During the ordering process, you will choose the materials on which you want your images printed. Additionally, you can add text, such as a slogan, message, or any other information that should appear on the printed items. Once you finalize your order, your materials will be delivered to your business, completing the task. Variety of Print Products for Business Needs Many types of print products are available for businesses depending on what is needed, but they typically include many types of marketing materials. The most common printed products include: Business cards Banners Postcards Flyers Invitations Coupons Brochures Posters Custom Prints: Tailoring to Your Business Needs A custom print order helps your business stand out, as you can customize products and marketing materials according to your brand and industry. You can tailor print materials based on specific needs and brand image and control each part of the process to ensure that every print material you create aligns with your business needs. Choosing the Right Print Services for Your Business Choosing the right print service for your business will require considering several factors. You will need to compare the quality of the printed products, the variety of solutions offered, competitive prices, any deals they may offer, and the customer service provided. Some print services may offer free shipping or volume discounts depending on the order quantity. Quality and Versatility in Print Services Depending on your business, you may need a wide range of printed materials. It’s essential to evaluate printing companies based on the quality of products (e.g., paper weight, volume, thickness) and the variety of services they offer, such as corporate-facing product examples, to ensure that the company is valid and provides the right services for your needs. Where to Find Reliable Print Services for Your Business VistaprintGotPrintMOOZazzleFast Printing Type of ServiceFull service print businessFull service print businessCustomizable print service solutionOnline printing serviceLuxury printing products ProductsPosters, banners, signage, invitations, postcards, and moreBusiness cards, signs, banners, custom apparel, promotional productsSigns, business cards, banners, custom products such as water bottles and hardcover notebooksCustomizable products, products from artists and independent creatorsBusiness cards, posters, banners, signs, invitations, event materials Ordering ProcessStraightforwardStandardFast shipping options availableHighly customizableFree and fast delivery based on order size and quantity Unique FeaturesWide range of productsOffers apparel and promotional productsNationwide deliveryOffers unique items from independent creatorsOffers luxury printing products If you’re looking for dependable, high-quality print services for your business, we have put together a list of vendors that offer printing services specifically for business clients. Vistaprint Vistaprint is a top provider of print services, offering a variety of printed materials for businesses. Ordering from Vistaprint is easy, and they provide an extensive selection of products, such as posters, banners, signage, invitations, postcards, and more. GotPrint GotPrint is a full-service print business that offers a range of printed options for marketing materials. Businesses can print business cards, signs, and banners and even opt for other solutions, such as custom apparel and other promotional products to optimize their marketing. MOO MOO is a customizable print service solution that delivers nationwide, with fast shipping options available. MOO can be used for basic marketing materials such as signs, business cards, and banners for events, but they also offer custom products such as water bottles and hardcover notebooks that can be delivered across the country. Zazzle Online printing services such as Zazzle offer a variety of products for marketing and promotions. With Zazzle, businesses can customize their products and create their own using their logo. But businesses can also purchase products from artists and independent creators, making it a creative option for businesses seeking unique items. Fast Printing Fast Printing offers luxury printing products with a wide variety of printed products for businesses, including promotional products such as business cards, posters, banners, signs, invitations, and other event materials. The Fast Printing shop also includes free and speedy delivery based on the order size and quantity. Frequently Asked Questions about Print Services Navigating print services can be daunting and perplexing, particularly if you are new to it. Grasping the printing process is essential, as is selecting the right service that meets your needs. What are print services? Print services refer to professional services that produce and fulfill printed materials for businesses and individuals. Print services include graphic design, printing, finishing, and delivery, and print service companies can have materials such as business cards, brochures, flyers, posters, banners, stationery, and promotional items. What are the benefits of online printing services? Print services have many benefits for small businesses. With print services, companies can shop for promotional products for their business from all across the country. Whether printing signs, posters, or banners, online printing offers a fast, reliable method for printing with convenient delivery options. What kinds of print products are available for businesses? Various types of print products are available for businesses, including business cards, signs, banners, posters, flyers, and additional options that companies can consider. How do I choose the right print service for my business? Choosing the right print services involves locating a business that provides the specific products you need, along with high-quality paper and appealing graphic design. Additionally, it’s important to verify whether the print services have relevant industry experience and offer benefits like free delivery. Where can I find reliable print services for my business? You can easily locate dependable print services online, as the print service industry has experienced significant growth. Print services can be discovered through various guides and online searches. This article, "Where to Find Print Services for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Although digital has taken over, having high-quality printed materials for your business remains important. Printing services can provide immense value for your brand when it comes to making a lasting impression and connecting with your customers. Printed materials can be a major differentiator for your business, and that’s why we’re going through everything you need to know about business print services and where to obtain printing services. The Importance of Print Services for Businesses Printed materials such as business cards, brochures, photo books, yard signs, and more can all be valuable tools for creating brand awareness. Printing services can also be used for promotional and custom products for marketing, adding additional value to your business. Printed materials and print services play an integral role in building and promoting a small business’s brand image. Here’s why they are so important: Brand Consistency: By using print services, businesses can ensure that their branding remains consistent across all of their promotional materials. This includes everything from business cards to brochures and yard signs. Marketing Impact: Printed materials such as brochures, posters, and banners act as powerful marketing tools that effectively promote a business’s products or services. Additionally, custom products can further strengthen these marketing initiatives. Professionalism: High-quality printed materials can convey a level of professionalism and credibility to potential customers or clients. This can help a small business stand out from the competition. Tangible Engagement: Unlike digital ads, printed materials offer physical interaction. Customers can hold a brochure, flip through a photo book, or glance at a yard sign, creating a more engaging experience. Versatility: There are many different types of printed materials, each serving its own purpose. This versatility makes it easy for businesses to find the right print product for their specific needs. Affordability: Numerous print services provide competitive pricing, particularly for bulk orders, which makes them a cost-effective marketing investment for small businesses. Local Visibility: Printed materials such as yard signs, banners, and flyers can greatly enhance local visibility, helping small businesses to engage with their local community effectively. In short, investing in high-quality print services can provide significant benefits for a small business, from enhancing brand awareness to boosting local visibility and marketing impact. Online Printing Services: A Modern Solution Online print services allow you to order printed materials and have them delivered directly to you. While you will need to cover shipping costs for the supplies and signage you order, online printing remains one of the simplest options for obtaining promotional products. When you place a print order, you can upload various files, including images like your logo, stock photos, and business images. Some print services also provide graphic design assistance for specific types of materials. During the ordering process, you will choose the materials on which you want your images printed. Additionally, you can add text, such as a slogan, message, or any other information that should appear on the printed items. Once you finalize your order, your materials will be delivered to your business, completing the task. Variety of Print Products for Business Needs Many types of print products are available for businesses depending on what is needed, but they typically include many types of marketing materials. The most common printed products include: Business cards Banners Postcards Flyers Invitations Coupons Brochures Posters Custom Prints: Tailoring to Your Business Needs A custom print order helps your business stand out, as you can customize products and marketing materials according to your brand and industry. You can tailor print materials based on specific needs and brand image and control each part of the process to ensure that every print material you create aligns with your business needs. Choosing the Right Print Services for Your Business Choosing the right print service for your business will require considering several factors. You will need to compare the quality of the printed products, the variety of solutions offered, competitive prices, any deals they may offer, and the customer service provided. Some print services may offer free shipping or volume discounts depending on the order quantity. Quality and Versatility in Print Services Depending on your business, you may need a wide range of printed materials. It’s essential to evaluate printing companies based on the quality of products (e.g., paper weight, volume, thickness) and the variety of services they offer, such as corporate-facing product examples, to ensure that the company is valid and provides the right services for your needs. Where to Find Reliable Print Services for Your Business VistaprintGotPrintMOOZazzleFast Printing Type of ServiceFull service print businessFull service print businessCustomizable print service solutionOnline printing serviceLuxury printing products ProductsPosters, banners, signage, invitations, postcards, and moreBusiness cards, signs, banners, custom apparel, promotional productsSigns, business cards, banners, custom products such as water bottles and hardcover notebooksCustomizable products, products from artists and independent creatorsBusiness cards, posters, banners, signs, invitations, event materials Ordering ProcessStraightforwardStandardFast shipping options availableHighly customizableFree and fast delivery based on order size and quantity Unique FeaturesWide range of productsOffers apparel and promotional productsNationwide deliveryOffers unique items from independent creatorsOffers luxury printing products If you’re looking for dependable, high-quality print services for your business, we have put together a list of vendors that offer printing services specifically for business clients. Vistaprint Vistaprint is a top provider of print services, offering a variety of printed materials for businesses. Ordering from Vistaprint is easy, and they provide an extensive selection of products, such as posters, banners, signage, invitations, postcards, and more. GotPrint GotPrint is a full-service print business that offers a range of printed options for marketing materials. Businesses can print business cards, signs, and banners and even opt for other solutions, such as custom apparel and other promotional products to optimize their marketing. MOO MOO is a customizable print service solution that delivers nationwide, with fast shipping options available. MOO can be used for basic marketing materials such as signs, business cards, and banners for events, but they also offer custom products such as water bottles and hardcover notebooks that can be delivered across the country. Zazzle Online printing services such as Zazzle offer a variety of products for marketing and promotions. With Zazzle, businesses can customize their products and create their own using their logo. But businesses can also purchase products from artists and independent creators, making it a creative option for businesses seeking unique items. Fast Printing Fast Printing offers luxury printing products with a wide variety of printed products for businesses, including promotional products such as business cards, posters, banners, signs, invitations, and other event materials. The Fast Printing shop also includes free and speedy delivery based on the order size and quantity. Frequently Asked Questions about Print Services Navigating print services can be daunting and perplexing, particularly if you are new to it. Grasping the printing process is essential, as is selecting the right service that meets your needs. What are print services? Print services refer to professional services that produce and fulfill printed materials for businesses and individuals. Print services include graphic design, printing, finishing, and delivery, and print service companies can have materials such as business cards, brochures, flyers, posters, banners, stationery, and promotional items. What are the benefits of online printing services? Print services have many benefits for small businesses. With print services, companies can shop for promotional products for their business from all across the country. Whether printing signs, posters, or banners, online printing offers a fast, reliable method for printing with convenient delivery options. What kinds of print products are available for businesses? Various types of print products are available for businesses, including business cards, signs, banners, posters, flyers, and additional options that companies can consider. How do I choose the right print service for my business? Choosing the right print services involves locating a business that provides the specific products you need, along with high-quality paper and appealing graphic design. Additionally, it’s important to verify whether the print services have relevant industry experience and offer benefits like free delivery. Where can I find reliable print services for my business? You can easily locate dependable print services online, as the print service industry has experienced significant growth. Print services can be discovered through various guides and online searches. This article, "Where to Find Print Services for Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Paola Antonelli has a litmus test for worthy design. People often ask the Museum of Modern Art’s senior curator of architecture and design how she decides what to add to the museum’s collection, and she gives them simple instructions: “Close your eyes and think, If this object did not exist, would the world miss out?” she says. Of course, filling one of the world’s preeminent art museums is not quite that easy. Antontelli says you also have to consider an object’s form, function, and problem-solving utility—but her litmus test is something she returns to again and again. “It doesn’t mean that something has to be necessary,” Antonelli clarifies. Take, for example, the Tamagotchi. “Totally superfluous,” she says. “[But] I think it would be a pity that it didn’t exist, right?” Antonelli is telling me this at a preview of MoMA’s newest exhibition, Pirouette: Turning Points in Design, which opened on a snowy New York City Sunday. The show examines design objects as change agents that have had a deep impact on society, as far ranging as the humble Post-it note, first Apple desktop computer, and a portable handwashing station developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design changes human behavior, Antonelli contends, and this exhibition proves her case in dozens of design inventions. “Objects have consequences,” she says. “That’s really, in a way, the motto for the exhibition.” [Photo: Jonathan Dorado/courtesy MoMA] This isn’t the first time Antonelli has examined the social impact of designers and the objects they introduce to society. She launched the content series Design Emergency with Alice Rawsthorn in 2020 to examine the many ways design solves problems in moments of crisis. The series later became a book. “Designers are trained to traditionally and classically solve problems,” Antonelli told me in 2020. “Design is a word that is as big as art or culture,” she added. “So it’s difficult to say what design can do in a particular situation. But it definitely is a lot more than just chairs and posters.” [Photo: Jonathan Dorado/courtesy MoMA] Pirouette encompasses, yes, chairs (the Eames’s RAR rocking armchair; the Monobloc chair; the Aeron office chair, to name a few) and posters (okay, let’s say signs: a parking sign; a route sign for British roadways) but also a wide range of objects pulled mostly from MoMA’s collection spanning furniture, electronics, symbols, fashion, wearables, industrial design, product design, and information design from the 1930s to the present. Milton Glaser, I ♥ NY concept sketch, 1976, the Museum of Modern Art, New York [Photo: © 2024 NYS Dept. of Economic Development] The I love New York concept sketch, NASA worm logo, Tabi boots, Crocs, a Telfar bag, a Bic pen, an infographic depicting Brazil’s deforestation rates: What these objects have in common is their invention. They changed the way people thought, saw, or interacted with the world. “They all represent experiments with new materials, technologies and concepts, and offer unconventional solutions to conventional problems,” reads part of the exhibition’s opening text. “In these objects, designers have channeled their vision and ingenuity, distilling energy into momentum and setting them in motion like ballet dancers performing pirouettes.” Ed Hawkins, Warming Stripes 1850-2023, 2018-ongoing [Image: © Ed Hawkins] I asked Antonelli how she curated an exhibition with such a range of seemingly unrelated objects. “In some cases, it’s very free-flowing. It’s almost like word association,” she says. “In others, it’s really juxtaposition”—and putting objects into conversation with each other. I pointed out how she had situated a pair of Crocs, Tabis, a Telfar bag, and a plastic Monobloc chair near each other in one corner of the exhibition. “The Telfar bag is there, and the conversation that it’s having really directly, in my opinion, is with the Margiela Tabis. But also it’s having a conversation with the Crocs next to it because Telfar’s motto is ‘This is not for you, it’s for everyone.’ So there’s also this idea of making things for everybody.” Antonelli then connects the Crocs and Monobloc chair. “They’re so ambiguous,” she says. “[They’re] amazing mass products enjoyed by billions of people.” But they also have this flip side. The Monoblock chair “has become almost synonymous with waste and with consumerism,” she says. Meanwhile, Crocs are at the center of an eternal discussion that gives the design tension: “Are the Crocs beautiful? Are they ugly?” “There are all these different associations that somebody like you, who’s conversant in design might catch,” she says. “Others who are less erudite, because everybody knows design, will catch them anyway, but at a different level. And maybe they will not catch them at all, but they will focus on every single object.” Shigetaka Kurita, Emoji, 1998-1999, the Museum of Modern Art, New York [Image: © 2024 NTT DOCOMO] Each object, Antonelli says—whether M&Ms candies, a Moka Express, Sony Walkman, or Bernadette Thompson’s “money manicure” artificial nails—shifted the way we operate in the world. Some designs are so intuitive and intrinsic to our day-to-day lives as to be imperceptible, like the flat-bottomed paper bag. Other objects are more subtle and esoteric, like Sabine Marcelis’s resin “Candy Cube,” which might have an effect on other designers and percolate into society that way. As she said of information design in 2020: “Our actions don’t have reactions in a very unequivocal way, but rather have reverberations that can go in many directions.” [Photo: Jonathan Dorado/courtesy MoMA] The exhibition text warns that “objects have the power to shift the ways we behave, for good and for bad.” The objects in this exhibition exemplify human ingenuity, providing new answers to previously unsolved challenges that you can see with your own eyes. Some of those solutions, like the injection-molded plastic Monobloc chair invented in the 1950s—a quintessential mass-market product that provides people around the world an easy to clean and cheap place to sit—have consequences that aren’t so black and white as good and bad. “It’s always time to make people understand how important design is,” Antonelli says. “But right now, I would love people to have something constructive to think about. Design is a lens to look at the world in a constructive way. It’s a beautiful expression of human creativity, positively directed, in the case of the objects that are in this exhibition, at least.” View the full article