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Yes, you read that right: Brain-eating amoeba have been found in two popular U.S. national parks, according to a recent study from the U.S. Geological Survey, and a number of other institutions, published in the American Chemical Society’s journal, ES&T Water. Here’s what to know. What happened? Researchers took 185 water samples from five popular U.S. national parks, looking at “40 thermally impacted recreational waters” at Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Olympic National Park, and Newberry National Volcanic Monument over an eight year period from 2016 to 2024. What they found revealed widespread detection of Naegleria fowleri (dubbed “brain-eating amoeba”) in 34% of the samples, or 63 specimens, at Yellowstone, Lake Mead, and Grand Teton hot springs and thermally impacted waters. However, the brain-eating amoeba was not found at Olympic National Park or Newberry National Volcanic Monument. It’s important to note that no infections or deaths due to the brain-eating amoeba have been reported at the detection sites. What is Naegleria fowleri? Naegleria fowleri is a free-living amoeba, a one-celled organism that thrives in warm freshwater lakes, rivers, and hot springs. It’s called the “brain-eating amoeba” because it can infect and destroy brain tissue, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While brain infections caused by Naegleria fowleri are quite rare, they are nearly always fatal, at a rate of 98%. If water containing the amoeba goes up a person’s nose into the brain, it can cause an infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis, or PAM. Typically, fewer than 10 people a year in the U.S. get PAM. However, almost everyone who gets PAM dies from it, per the CDC: Out of 167 reported cases of PAM in the U.S. between 1962 to 2024, only four people survived. Exposure risks Brain infections caused by Naegleria fowleri usually occur after a person goes swimming or diving in a lake, river, or other fresh water in the summer after a prolonged period when it was hot, causing higher water temperatures but lower water levels. The CDC cautions you cannot contract the Naegleria fowleri infection simply by swallowing water containing the amoeba, nor can a person pass it to another person. How to reduce the risk of contracting a Naegleria fowleri infection The CDC suggests people hold their nose or wear a nose clip if they are jumping or diving into fresh water, and to keep their head above water in hot springs. Don’t dig in shallow water, because Naegleria fowleri is more likely to live there. Signs and symptoms of a Naegleria fowleri infection Primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) progresses quickly, with early symptoms that can include headache, fever, nausea and vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, lack of attention to people and surroundings, loss of balance, and hallucinations. Most people with PAM die within 18 days after experiencing initial symptoms, with many entering a coma and dying after 5 days, per the CDC. View the full article

It’s not often that a serious medical condition gets renamed, but that’s the case now for a condition that impacts one in eight women. Polycystic ovary syndrome, a hormonal disorder long known as PCOS, will now be called PMOS – short for polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome. The new name, announced Tuesday at the European Congress of Endocrinology and published in leading medical journal The Lancet, aims to more accurately describe the syndrome and make diagnosis easier for people who suffer from it. A group of specialists who worked to rename the condition criticized its longstanding name as inaccurate, explaining that misunderstandings about its features led to delayed diagnosis and inadequate care, as well as interfering with research. “What we now know is that there is actually no increase in abnormal cysts on the ovary, and the diverse features of the condition were often unappreciated,” said Monash University Professor Helena Teede, an Australian clinical researcher and endocrinologist who spearheaded the change. The hormonal disorder’s new name puts the focus on “endocrine, metabolic, and ovarian dysfunction” – three major areas of symptoms for sufferers. The name change is the result of a 14-year-long worldwide effort that collected input from more than 50 organizations and 14,000 people with the condition. The new name for PCOS will be officially implemented in a 2028 update to international guidelines for treatment of the disorder. “While international guidelines have advanced awareness and care, a name change was the next critical step towards recognition and improvement in the long-term impacts of this condition,” Teede said. Understanding PCOS People who suffer from PCOS often have unusually high levels of androgen hormones like testosterone – a hallmark of the endocrine disorder. Those hormonal imbalances can disrupt ovulation, cause unpredictable and especially painful periods, and lead to fertility problems in PCOS sufferers. The new name for PCOS will deemphasize the condition’s association with ovarian cysts, centering its complex hormonal fluctuations instead. In PCOS, hormone changes can prevent follicles from emptying and releasing eggs, which can create something that looks like a cyst on the ovaries but that is actually distinct from a true ovarian cyst. People with PCOS are also at a higher risk for endometrial cancer due to the disruptions to ovulation and their menstrual cycles. Because they ovulate irregularly, the uterine lining is exposed to more estrogen and less progesterone, a hormonal switch that increases the risk of cancer. PCOS can also lead to symptoms well beyond the reproductive system, disrupting metabolism, causing depression and anxiety, and creating a hormonal environment for severe acne and excess hair growth. People with PCOS are at greater risk for type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and sleep apnea, among other comorbid conditions. LIke many chronic women’s health conditions, PCOS lacks a simple diagnostic test and does not yet have a known cure. Through hormone therapies and lifestyle changes, symptoms can be managed when patients receive an accurate diagnosis – something the disorder’s new name should make more common. “This change was driven with and for those affected by the condition and we are proud to have arrived at a new name that finally accurately reflects the complexity of the condition,” Teede said. “Make no mistake, this is a landmark moment that will lead to desperately needed worldwide advancements in clinical practice and research.” View the full article

More than three dozen snack products sold under numerous brand names are being recalled due to fears that one of their ingredients could be contaminated with the potentially deadly bacterium Salmonella. Here’s what you need to know about the snacks recall. What’s happened? Beginning last month, a company called California Dairies Inc. recalled buttermilk and bulk powdered milk distributed to manufacturers over fears that the ingredients could be contaminated with Salmonella, according to a safety alert posted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Since that initial recall, numerous other brands have recalled their own products that used the recalled ingredients. Given the potentially deadly nature of Salmonella, the FDA has now compiled all recalled products into a single list to highlight their risk to consumers. The list of products primarily contains snack items that were sold at various locations across the United States, including one product that was sold in Target stores. Fast Company has reached out to California Dairies for comment. What products are included in the recalls? The number of recalls associated with the original California Dairies now totals eight, according to a May 11 update from the FDA. Those eight recalls include the following: Williams Sonoma, Fireworks Popcorn (White Cheddar Seasoning) Stoltzfus Family Dairy (Sour Cream and Onion Cheese Curds) Wildlife Seasoning (Flavored popcorn seasoning) Giant Eagle (Ita Chips with Parmesan, garlic and Herbs) Fisher, Southern Style Nuts, Squirrel Brand, Good & Gather (Snack Mixes) Pork King Good (Pork rinds and seasoning bottles) Zapp’s, Dirty (Potato chips) Ghirardelli (Powdered Beverage Mix) The recalled snack item sold at Target is a Good & Gather Mexican Street Corn Trail Mix product. What are the symptoms of Salmonella? Symptoms of a Salmonella infection can vary from individual to individual. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people who contract a Salmonella infection present with the following symptoms: Watery diarrhea that might have blood or mucus Stomach cramps that can be severe Additionally, some people have other symptoms, including: Headache Nausea Vomiting Loss of appetite Symptoms can start anywhere from 6 hours to 6 days after infection. The FDA notes that most people will recover from a Salmonella infection without treatment in 4 to 7 days. However, an infection can sometimes be fatal. Those most at risk include the elderly, children under 5, those who are pregnant, and those with weakened immune systems. What should I do if I have a recalled product? Consumers are urged to read the full recall notices to check the items listed against the ones they may have purchased. Instructions on what to do if you have the recalled items can be found in their individual notices. View the full article

If you tried to launch Spotify today to listen to a song or a podcast, only to find the player endlessly loading, you're not alone: Spotify is down. The company confirmed the issue on X via its "Spotify Support" page, posting "We’re aware of some issues right now with the app and are checking them out!" You didn't need to see this X announcement to learn about the outage, however. Anyone trying to access the service right now will run into a roadblock. I can make it to my library, but when I try to stream a song, I just see the playbar loading over and over again. Downdetector, owned by Lifehacker parent company Ziff Davis, currently displays tens of thousands of user reports confirming the same. Service outages are a dime a dozen these days. Most platforms and services experience downtime at one point or another, and, in most cases, the connection is restored relatively quickly. It doesn't seem to be an issue with a cloud service provider like AWS or Cloudflare, either, since Downdetector isn't showing many other apps and platforms with service issues at this time. We don't know exactly what's causing this Spotify outage, but, barring some unique event, the company's software development team will soon isolate the issue, and release a patch to fix it. Before long, I imagine Spotify users will be streaming again. View the full article

Start-up’s CEO takes the stand in legal battle with billionaire View the full article

U.S. consumer prices climbed sharply again last month as the 10-week war with Iran delivered higher gasoline prices and more pain for Americans. The Labor Department’s consumer price index rose 3.8% from April 2025, the biggest jump in three years, and up from a 3.3% year-over-year gain in March. On a month-to-month basis, April prices rose 0.6% from March as gasoline prices rose 5.4%, according to the data released Tuesday. The month-over-month gain was down from a 0.9% increase in overall prices from February to March, when the initial financial shock from the war hit the U.S. economy. Labor Department figures showed that gasoline prices are up more than 28% compared with a year ago. However, the AAA motor club listed the average regular gallon of gasoline above $4.50 on Tuesday, about 44% more than it cost last year at this time. Excluding volatile food and energy costs, so-called consumer core prices rose 0.4% last month from March and 2.8% from April 2025, relatively modest readings that suggest the energy price burst has yet to spill over more broadly into prices for other goods. Grocery prices rose 0.7% from March to April as meat prices rose after they had declined slightly in the month before. Prices are rising at a time when Americans are already frustrated by the high cost of living. Affordability is likely to be a key issue when voters go to the polls November 3 to determine whether President Donald The President’s Republican Party maintains control of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. “Inflation is the key drag on the U.S. economy now,” Heather Long, chief economist at Navy Federal Credit Union, wrote. “There is a real financial squeeze underway. For the first time in three years, inflation is eating up all wage gains. This is a setback for middle-class and lower-income households, and they know it. They are having to cut back on spending and stretch every dollar.” In April, average hourly wages fell 0.3% from a year earlier after accounting for inflation—the first year-over-year drop in three years. Inflation had been dropping more or less steadily since peaking with a 9.1% year-over-year spike in June 2022, a surge caused by supply chain bottlenecks at the end of COVID-19 lockdowns and a jolt for energy prices following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. But inflation has remained above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. Then, the United States and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, and Tehran responded by shutting off access to the Gulf of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes. That has sent oil prices, and most visibly gasoline, racing higher. The Fed, which had been expected to cut its benchmark interest rate in 2026, has turned cautious as it waits to see how long the conflict lasts and whether higher energy prices spill over into other products and cause a broader inflationary outbreak. The President has lambasted the Fed and its outgoing chair, Jerome Powell, for refusing to slash rates to boost the economy. Kevin Warsh, the president’s hand-picked choice to succeed Powell, is expected to be confirmed by the Senate this week; but it’s unclear whether Warsh would pursue lower rates given the uncertainties arising from the war—or whether he could persuade his colleagues on the Fed’s rate-setting committee to go along if he tried. Some companies are also starting to feel the pain. Whirlpool, which makes KitchenAid and Maytag appliances, reported last week that revenue dropped nearly 10% in its most recent quarter and said that the war has caused a “recession-level industry decline″ that has undermined consumer confidence. Grace King of Ames, Iowa, said that higher prices in the food aisle and at the pump are making her cut back on spending for things like clothing. The administrative assistant, 31, used to spend $200 per month on clothing, mostly on Amazon, but not anymore. “There’s pressure basically everywhere from the groceries that I buy to the gas to fill up the tank,” she said. “I’ve severely cut back on my frill spending.” For example, King noted that while it’s only a five-minute drive to work, she makes the trip twice a day. And if she needs to do any big shopping, that’s a 40-minute drive to malls in Des Moines, Iowa. —By Paul Wiseman, AP economics writer AP Retail Writer Anne D’Innocenzio contributed to this story. View the full article

This story seems straight out of a Hollywood thriller: Up to a dozen scientists working on some of the U.S.’s most advanced and sensitive aerospace and nuclear programs have disappeared or died in mysterious ways over the last five years. The FBI is working with the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, and local law enforcement to find answers. The House Oversight Committee launched its own investigation. Congressman Eric Burlison said the mystery has “all the hallmarks of a foreign operation.” The president called it “pretty serious stuff." Congressman James Comer suggested someone is targeting the nation’s nuclear program. Rep. Tim Burchett alleged a cover-up of UAP activity. Some say it’s aimed at people with knowledge of American security secrets. Or maybe it’s to cover up evidence of time travel. So what’s really going on here? Literally nothing. This is a cobbled-together collection of unrelated deaths and disappearances. As a conspiracy theory, it is, as Daniel Engber pointed out in The Atlantic, "unbelievably dumb." Scientists are dying, but so is everyone elseThere are around two million scientists in the U.S., and, as science writer and debunker Mick West pointed out, over 700,000 people hold top-secret clearances in the U.S. aerospace and nuclear sectors. If 10 or so of this group had died or disappeared in inexplicable ways over five years, it wouldn’t be statistically meaningful, but this theory is even more stupid than that. Many people on the list didn’t seem to have top-secret clearances, and many weren’t scientists. The list includes a construction foreman who once worked at Los Alamos National Lab, a former custodian at the Kansas City National Security Campus, and an administrative assistant. And there are concrete explanations for almost all of these deaths and disappearances. The list includes physicist Ning Li who died at 78 of Alzheimers and Carl Grillmair who was killed in a home invasion by a man with a violent history who had a prior disagreement with Grillmair that had nothing to do with science. The missing scientist conspiracy theories have all the hallmarks of apophenia (people perceiving meaningful connections in random data) and cherry-picking, and even if we give a lot of credit to the most “mysterious” entries on the list, the theory gets muddy very quickly. The strange life and death of Amy EskridgeThe death that arguably supports the “mysterious assassinations” theory most strongly is that of Amy Eskridge. A fringe scientist who founded the Institute for Exotic Science in Huntsville, Alabama to study anti-gravity technology, Eskridge died at 34 of a (supposedly) self-inflicted gunshot wound in 2022, after telling friends she was being stalked and targeted by unknown forces. The conspiracy theorists’ line about Eskridge is that she was a brilliant scientist who made a breakthrough discovery in anti-gravity research and was taken out by mysterious pro-gravity forces before she could go public. It’s a compelling narrative on the surface, but when you unwind it, you find the kind of half-truths and exaggerations you always find when you look into conspiracy theories. What actually is a scientist? Whether Eskridge belongs in a list of scientists in the first place is debatable. Some online have categorized her as an important researcher with a background in physics, but her highest degree was a bachelors in biochemistry, and she doesn't seem to have published any research in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Eskridge didn’t have the kind of professional background that suggests access to top-secret government programs, either. Maybe Eskridge’s gravity research was too esoteric to be accepted by the "mainstream science," but even that is questionable. Judging from this public presentation (and accompanying slides) that Eskridge gave not long before she died, she didn’t seem close to any kind of breakthrough. Her speech points out that you can’t build an anti-gravity machine without first developing a theoretical framework for how one could actually work, and that that theory doesn’t exist right now. This is exactly what the scientific establishment would say. Eskridge’s presentation wasn’t a revelation of ground-breaking new technology. It was a catalog of past attempts to conquer gravity. ending with a stab at finding a patron to fund basic, step-one theoretical research. Despite the posts from conspiracy theorists, there’s no indication that Eskridge, or anyone else, got beyond the whole “based on everything we know about how the physical world works, anti-gravity isn’t possible” thing. Eskridge's death is (somewhat) mysteriousEskridge’s death does raise questions. According to police and the medical examiner, it was a suicide, but according to conspiracy theorists it was a murder, and they have receipts. On May 13, 2022, one month before she died, Eskridge reportedly sent a message to business partner Samuel Reed that read: "If you see any report that I killed myself, I most definitely did not. If you see any report that I overdosed, I most definitely did not…If anything happens to me—suicide or an accident—it wasn't, it's suspicious, treat it as such.” She also reported repeated death threats and other harassment, and posted a video of supposed burns on her hands to prove a directed energy weapon was being used against her. On the other hand, members of Eskridge’s family publicly stated that she had suffered from chronic pain, and reported no suspicion about how she died. Eskridge didn’t post recordings of harassing phone calls or dark messages she received, nor did she provide any other evidence that she was being targeted. That isn't proof she wasn’t murdered, though. The case of Eskridge and the rest of these scientists runs across a common problem of debunking conspiracy theories: We don’t know enough to say for sure, and we can’t prove a negative. That leaves us with asking which explanation is more probable: a shadowy, unnamed cabal of assassins targeting a woman who was interested in anti-gravity, or a woman who was paranoid about a non-existent cabal and took her own life. From what we know for sure, Eskridge was interested in developing an anti-gravity hypothesis. Some claim she was about to break the field wide open by publishing her findings, but she didn’t actually publish anything. Even if we accept that her theory existed, the argument is still “assassins targeted someone for thinking about anti-gravity,” which is still an extraordinary claim that requires extraordinary evidence. And there isn’t any. Eskridge's death, heartbreaking as it is, would not have attracted attention if she hadn't spent her final months making predictions that later appeared, to some, to come true, but that’s not enough to prove anything. We only have Eskridge’s word that harassment took place, and it all could have been the product of paranoid delusions on her part. While plenty of intelligent, mentally healthy people hold unconventional views about physics and government secrecy, Eskridge believed that she, specifically, was being hunted for her research. Psychiatrists call this "persecutory ideation," and it's associated with serious mental illnesses and correlates to suicide. We don’t have evidence to prove Eskridge was suffering from a mental illness, just as we can’t prove that she was murdered, but mental illness is, in general, a more common cause of death than shadowy cabals of assassins targeting people over scientific theories. Roughly 800 to 900 Americans aged 34 die by suicide every year. As Eskridge’s father, a retired NASA employee, told NewsNation, “Scientists die also, just like other people.” The families just want theorists to stopEskridge’s father isn’t the only family member of someone on the list to have spoken out. Carl Grillmair's widow Louise told BBC that she has been fielding calls from conspiracy theorists, despite the fact that her husband’s alleged killer has been charged with murder. Relatives of others on the list have publicly called the conspiracy theories "terrible" and “disgusting.” And not a single family member has publicly suggested there's anything suspicious about any of these deaths or disappearances. It’s fun (and sometimes politically useful) for conspiracy theorists to dream up connections between unrelated events, just like it is fun for people like me to shoot holes in their theories, but these were real people with families, friends, and in many cases genuine scientific legacies. They deserve better than a walk-on role in a conspiracy theory. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. In Dan Fogelman's Paradise, we're apparently in an affluent suburban town in which everything looks fairly tidy. It's the home of Sterling K. Brown's Xavier Collins, a widower and secret service agent, which would be more impressive if the president he'd been serving (James Marsden) hadn't been murdered (much of the narrative is revealed in flashbacks). Oh, and that cute little town? Turns out that it's ... something else. These 10 shows also come at their dystopian narratives sideways, using science fiction in surprising ways. Stream Paradise on Hulu and then head down these other dark holes. Silo (2023 – ) Rebecca Ferguson stars as Juliette Nichols, an engineer who gets wrapped up in an investigation involving the local sheriff (David Oyelowo)—usual procedural stuff, except that the characters all inhabit a massive silo, 144 levels deep, protecting the remaining 10,000 humans from the allegedly poisoned world above. Those running the silo have managed to convince everyone left that only strict adherence to rules and procedures will keep them safe from the dangers outside. This is a more dour, less colorful apocalypse than the one in Fallout—it's a prestige drama that incorporates elements of horror, mystery, and science fiction to tell human stories about fear and control. A third and concluding fourth season are both coming, so the show has the increasingly rare advantage of a planned conclusion. Stream Silo on Apple TV+. Silo (2023 – ) at Apple TV Learn More Learn More at Apple TV Ascension (2014) This smart, not terribly well-remembered miniseries establishes an alternate timeline à la For All Mankind: The Kennedy administration sends a generation ship into space (allegedly) in order to ensure the survival of humanity through the Cold War; as the series opens, it's been just a bit over 50 years since the launch (2014, as it happens). The first murder ever committed on the Ascension raises a ton of questions, as does the fact that nobody back on Earth seems to have ever heard of this massive project. Look out for a couple of shock reveals and smart twists. Stream Ascension on Tubi. Ascension (2014) at Tubi Learn More Learn More at Tubi Snowpiercer (2020 – 2024) Though initially feeling like an unnecessary extension of Bong Joon Ho's allegorical post-apocalyptic film, Snowpiercer ultimately takes on a life of its own as a clever sci-fi melodrama, smartly recognizing that there are no heroes and few true villains at the end of the world—it's mostly just people doing whatever they can to survive. In a frozen future, humanity survives on an extremely long train that circumnavigates the globe. If it stops, the power will go out and everyone (literally everyone) will die. Those who came aboard with wealth live near the front in relative luxury, while the poor live on scraps (or worse) in the train's tail. Daveed Diggs stars as former detective Andre Layton, a "Tailie" deputized by Jennifer Connelly's Melanie Cavill, engineer and the train's Head of Hospitality, to solve a series of murders. The inevitable uprising that follows sets the two of them on different sides of a violent conflict, before each eventually realizes they're just pawns of elites—same as it ever was. It's far less coy about its sci-fi setting than Paradise, but pays as a similarly apocalyptic political thriller. Stream Snowpiercer on Prime Video and Tubi. Snowpiercer (2020 – 2024) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Sugar (2024 – ) Sugar doesn't try to obscure or downplay its reliance on old-school Hollywood noir tropes: Its characters are driven to emulate the style of antiheroes of old, and clips from old movies even play alongside the action as a means of driving the point home. The central mystery sees detective John Sugar (Colin Farrell) summoned to the mansion of a rich movie producer (James Cromwell), whose granddaughter has gone missing. The first few episodes are intriguing, and the premise is unique in that Sugar is kind of an anti-anti-hero—he's an actual nice guy in a world where he's expected to play the tough guy. The sixth episode, though, drops an absolutely wild, love-it-or-hate it plot twist that drives the remaining episode and, presumably, the forthcoming second season—and that's where it it heads into Paradise territory as a bit of sneaky, stealthy sci-fi. The show comes from writer Mark Protosevich (The Cell, I Am Legend) and is smartly directed by City of God's Fernando Meirelles, so it has style to spare. Stream Sugar on Apple TV. Sugar (2024 – ) at Apple TV Learn More Learn More at Apple TV Wayward Pines (2015 – 2016) While we're talking high-concept sci-fi, let's head off to Wayward Pines, from whence you will never leave. Based on a trilogy of Blake Crouch novels, this one stars Matt Dillon as a secret service agent investigating the disappearances of two fellow agents in the Idaho town of Wayward Pines. Things go awry pretty much immediately, and he wakes up from a car accident to find one of the agents (Carla Gugino), who's also his ex, having settled down in the seemingly idyllic community—and 12 years older than when he last saw her only a few weeks ago. Even more dramatically, the local sheriff (Terrence Howard) enforces a strict "no one ever leaves" policy, on pain of having one's neck slit. The mysteries pile up from there. Stream Wayward Pines on Hulu and Disney+. Wayward Pines (2015 – 2016) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Fallout (2024 – ) In the world of Fallout, adapted from the video games, the aesthetic of the 1950s hung on for a lot longer than it did in our own, so plot similarities give way, in part, to a unique sense of style. The background is a little complicated, but not belabored within the show itself: It's 2296 on an Earth devastated two centuries earlier by a nuclear war between the United States and China. Lucy MacLean (Ella Purnell) emerges from the underground fallout shelter where she's lived her entire life in order to find her father, kidnapped by raiders. The aboveground wasteland is dominated by warring factions, each of which considers the others cults and believes that they alone know the correct way forward for mankind. Amid this conflict, the landscape is also overrun by ghouls, gulpers, and other wild radiation monsters, and Lucy seems to be just about the only human with any lingering belief in humanity. Stream Fallout on Prime Video. Fallout (2024 – ) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Silent Sea (2021) Bae Doona (whom you'll know from everything from Cloud Atlas to Sense8 to Rebel Moon) stars in this twisty-turny sci-fi drama that starts on a dry, near-waterless Earth of the near-future, following a team of astronauts and scientists sent on a mission to an abandoned lunar base. They're tasked with retrieving a mysterious sample, and it soon becomes clear that the bureaucrats on Earth know a lot more about that sample than they’re telling. Suffice it to say that nothing goes particularly well—there are deaths, betrayals, and a deadly something that might be humanity's future, but might just as easily be its end. Stream The Silent Sea on Netflix. The Silent Sea (2021) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Heavenly Delusion (Tengoku Daimakyō) (2023) We follow two parallel narratives in this (deeply weird) post-apocalyptic anime: In one, a group of children live in a confined, sterile, closely monitored school environment, called "Heaven" and protected from what we quickly learn is the devastation outside; in the other, bodyguard Kiruko and their companion Maru travel across a devastated Japan. Those relatively straightforward dystopian strands soon give way to some wild twists and turns as the plot lines dovetail into a story involving gender and sexual politics as well as a whole lot of dark secrets. Stream Heavenly Delusion on Hulu. Tengoku Daimakyō (2023) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Class of '09 (2023) In much the same way that Paradise takes us to a sci-fi-inspired world for a political thriller, Class of '09 feels like a crime thriller until it doesn't: Brian Tyree Henry and Kate Mara star as a couple of FBI trainees in 2009 who we follow, concurrently, into two further timeframes: the present, circa 2023, and the future of 2034. The primary thread here is the development of artificial intelligence as a tool to predict crime, and the dangers inherent in targeting people who might only hypothetically commit crime. Prescient only a couple of years ago, the show feels impressively and alarmingly current in our AI-whether-you-like-it-or-not era. Stream Class of '09 on Disney+ and Hulu. Class of '09 (2023) Learn More Learn More Severance (2022 – ) Late-stage capitalism encourages “work-life balance” while simultaneously making it impossible, and then makes us feel guilty about it. In Severance, biotechnology giant Lumon Industries has a solution: They split your consciousness between your life at work and your life outside of it. For our lead characters (among them, Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, and Britt Lower) the work- and home-based consciousnesses grow apart to the point that they become different people. The show blends the conventions of office-based dark comedies with movies like Brazil and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, diving into the dangers of modern American-style totalitarian capitalism while providing a reminder that technology often promises to improve our lives while only making them worse. Stream Severance on Apple TV+. Severance (2022 – ) Learn More Learn More View the full article

Fund it operates took in fraction of capital from year-ago level as worries mount over potential surge in loan defaultsView the full article

In a significant move for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), Sage has announced an expanded collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) aimed at accelerating the adoption of AI in financial workflows. During the Sage Future event in San Francisco, the partnership promises to deliver innovative, cloud-based solutions tailored for evolving market needs. With ever-increasing interest in AI, IDC predicts that global spending will grow by nearly 32% annually through 2029. However, SMBs often grapple with the complexities and costs associated with modernizing their financial systems. Steve Hare, CEO of Sage, emphasized this challenge, stating, “AI presents a massive opportunity for small and mid-sized businesses. But they need AI they can trust, with the right support, tools and infrastructure to adopt it.” This collaboration seeks to bridge that gap. Here’s what small business owners need to know about the key benefits and challenges of this initiative. The collaboration focuses on four main areas: enhanced innovation and go-to-market initiatives, the introduction of Sage Developer Solutions on Amazon Bedrock AgentCore, seamless technology integration, and a quicker migration of traditional desktop systems to the AWS cloud. One of the standout features of this partnership is the Sage AI Developer Solutions. By harnessing Amazon Bedrock AgentCore, these tools will allow businesses to automate crucial financial tasks, such as accounts payable, cash flow management, and compliance reporting. This move automates manual processes, enabling business owners to make faster and more informed decisions—an essential factor in managing an SMB successfully. Julia White, Chief Marketing Officer at AWS, captured another critical part of this initiative: “Small and mid-sized businesses shouldn’t have to choose between powerful technology and simplicity.” The integration of AI enables SMBs to streamline their operations without being bogged down by complexity. For those in the small business community interested in real-world applications, Sage and its partners are expected to introduce a range of AI-powered financial automation tools in the AWS Marketplace. This development creates a simplified and trusted channel for SMBs to adopt these technologies and improve their financial management. Despite the numerous advantages, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. Transitioning from traditional desktop applications to cloud-based solutions can be daunting, particularly in terms of data migration and potential disruptions to everyday operations. However, this collaboration aims to mitigate those worries by leveraging AWS’s cloud infrastructure, which can significantly ease the migration process. Sage and AWS recognized the technical barriers faced by many SMBs, working hard to develop a clear migration pathway that supports real-time financial insights and integrated AI capabilities. This offers organizations a chance to modernize in a cost-effective and less disruptive manner. Moreover, the partnership cultivates a robust ecosystem for Sage’s network of developers and independent software vendors (ISVs). By building on AWS infrastructure, these partners can focus on delivering industry-specific solutions tailored to the distinct needs of SMBs, which enhances customer choice while simplifying integrations. The collaboration undoubtedly imbues a sense of optimism within the SMB sector. As the technology landscape evolves, this partnership offers small business owners the tools to keep pace and gain a competitive edge through automation and intelligent financial ecosystems. However, businesses must remain vigilant in assessing their unique needs and challenges when adopting new technologies. Collaborations such as this one between Sage and AWS can be transformative but require careful consideration to ensure a smooth integration into existing operations. For more details on Sage’s services and its partnership with AWS, you can visit the original press release here. As SMBs continue to adapt, keeping an eye on such collaborations will be crucial in harnessing the ever-evolving capabilities of technology within their operations. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Sage and AWS Team Up to Simplify AI Adoption for Small Businesses" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In a significant move for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), Sage has announced an expanded collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) aimed at accelerating the adoption of AI in financial workflows. During the Sage Future event in San Francisco, the partnership promises to deliver innovative, cloud-based solutions tailored for evolving market needs. With ever-increasing interest in AI, IDC predicts that global spending will grow by nearly 32% annually through 2029. However, SMBs often grapple with the complexities and costs associated with modernizing their financial systems. Steve Hare, CEO of Sage, emphasized this challenge, stating, “AI presents a massive opportunity for small and mid-sized businesses. But they need AI they can trust, with the right support, tools and infrastructure to adopt it.” This collaboration seeks to bridge that gap. Here’s what small business owners need to know about the key benefits and challenges of this initiative. The collaboration focuses on four main areas: enhanced innovation and go-to-market initiatives, the introduction of Sage Developer Solutions on Amazon Bedrock AgentCore, seamless technology integration, and a quicker migration of traditional desktop systems to the AWS cloud. One of the standout features of this partnership is the Sage AI Developer Solutions. By harnessing Amazon Bedrock AgentCore, these tools will allow businesses to automate crucial financial tasks, such as accounts payable, cash flow management, and compliance reporting. This move automates manual processes, enabling business owners to make faster and more informed decisions—an essential factor in managing an SMB successfully. Julia White, Chief Marketing Officer at AWS, captured another critical part of this initiative: “Small and mid-sized businesses shouldn’t have to choose between powerful technology and simplicity.” The integration of AI enables SMBs to streamline their operations without being bogged down by complexity. For those in the small business community interested in real-world applications, Sage and its partners are expected to introduce a range of AI-powered financial automation tools in the AWS Marketplace. This development creates a simplified and trusted channel for SMBs to adopt these technologies and improve their financial management. Despite the numerous advantages, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. Transitioning from traditional desktop applications to cloud-based solutions can be daunting, particularly in terms of data migration and potential disruptions to everyday operations. However, this collaboration aims to mitigate those worries by leveraging AWS’s cloud infrastructure, which can significantly ease the migration process. Sage and AWS recognized the technical barriers faced by many SMBs, working hard to develop a clear migration pathway that supports real-time financial insights and integrated AI capabilities. This offers organizations a chance to modernize in a cost-effective and less disruptive manner. Moreover, the partnership cultivates a robust ecosystem for Sage’s network of developers and independent software vendors (ISVs). By building on AWS infrastructure, these partners can focus on delivering industry-specific solutions tailored to the distinct needs of SMBs, which enhances customer choice while simplifying integrations. The collaboration undoubtedly imbues a sense of optimism within the SMB sector. As the technology landscape evolves, this partnership offers small business owners the tools to keep pace and gain a competitive edge through automation and intelligent financial ecosystems. However, businesses must remain vigilant in assessing their unique needs and challenges when adopting new technologies. Collaborations such as this one between Sage and AWS can be transformative but require careful consideration to ensure a smooth integration into existing operations. For more details on Sage’s services and its partnership with AWS, you can visit the original press release here. As SMBs continue to adapt, keeping an eye on such collaborations will be crucial in harnessing the ever-evolving capabilities of technology within their operations. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Sage and AWS Team Up to Simplify AI Adoption for Small Businesses" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Chromebooks have been a major success for Google, but they have their limits. While they're great for school and light work (especially if you're all-in on Google), they aren't necessarily the best choice for more intense or professional computer work. For that, people often turn to two main platforms: Mac or PC. It seems Google sees an opportunity to add another to the mix: The company looks like it wants to capture Android users who might be choosing from one of the other two platforms for their computing needs. iPhone users often choose Mac, after all, so maybe Android users would choose the right Google computer, too. Googlebooks are a new laptop from GoogleEnter Googlebooks, a new laptop platform spearheaded by Google. The company announced the new product line during Tuesday's presentation of The Android Show: I/O Edition. Because it's 2026, these laptops are designed with AI in mind. And, because this is Google, the AI of choice here is Gemini—specifically, Gemini Intelligence, which Google also announced during its keynote. Based on what I've seen, the OS is quite similar in appearance to Chrome OS. There's a dock at the bottom of the screen with various apps, a menu bar at the top of the display, and apps work in floating windows. Standard stuff. What Google is particularly excited about, however, is the Googlebook's new cursor, which it calls the "Magic Pointer." Like a typical cursor, you move the Magic Pointer across the screen to interact with different elements. But if you give the Magic Pointer a little shake, it'll activate Gemini, which will then let you know what actions it can take on your behalf. For example, you could shake the Magic Pointer over a date in an email and receive an option to set up a meeting. You could select two pictures in your photo library, shake the pointer, and see the option to combine those two images into one. Credit: Google Because this is meant to be a seamless cross-platform experience (à la Apple), you can run your mobile Android apps on your Googlebook. That doesn't just mean installing the Android version on your Googlebook; rather, you can run the apps from your phone on your laptop. Google has some ideas for how you should use it: You could fire up the DoorDash app on your Googlebook if you want to order lunch while working on a Google Doc, or open Duolingo to run through your daily language lesson without leaving your laptop. (These are things you could do already with these companies' web apps, but I get the direction.) On a similar note, you can use Quick Access to retrieve files from your phone on your Googlebook, without having to send the files to yourself. Google says it's bringing Gemini Intelligence's new "Create your Widget" feature to Googlebooks as well. The feature lets you use Gemini to generate your own custom widgets. You could create a widget that shows you the wind speed and rain forecast of any city you wish, or a widget that lists all upcoming concerts at the venue closest to you. It's a neat use of generative AI, and it makes sense that the company would include the feature on Googlebooks, not just Android proper. Unlike other major manufacturers, Google isn't slapping a large "G" on the cover to let you know this is a Googlebook. While the company has a small "Googlebook" logo underneath the keyboard, these machines will come with a "glowbar" on the lid. This is a functioning light bar, too, not just decoration, so it will actually glow as you use the laptop. Credit: Google According to Google, the company has partnered with Acer, ASUS, Dell, and HP to manufacture its first batch of Googlebooks. Google says that each will be built with "premium craftsmanship and materials," and will come in many different shapes and sizes. That said, the company is light on specific details at this time, and it's not clear which company made the device we see in the renders. View the full article

Google's AI has gone through a couple of stages thus far. First, Google launched "Bard" as a direct competitor to ChatGPT. Soon after, the company rebranded to "Gemini," encompassing everything from its chatbot to its LLMs. During The Android Show: I/O Edition, Google revealed its newest AI iteration: Gemini Intelligence. It might sound suspiciously similar to another company's AI suite, but Gemini Intelligence offers a number of unique features—at least, according to Google. Gemini Intelligence's new agentic abilitiesGoogle is positioning "Gemini Intelligence" as an agentic assistant. While the company already offers agentic capabilities, like ordering cabs through Uber or takeout through DoorDash, the new experience should have more abilities. For example, Google says Gemini can book you a front-row bike in your spin class, or order the books you need for a class after finding the syllabus in your Gmail inbox. Google is also touting Gemini's image context for automation. In one example, you could pull up your grocery list in your notes app of choice, then ask Gemini to add the items to your shopping cart. In another situation, you could take a photo of a travel brochure you find in your hotel's lobby and ask Gemini to find you a tour for your group that matches the experience in the literature. Gemini Intelligence offers more advanced autofillAutofill is one of those features I definitely take for granted. It's not always perfect (please don't enter my phone number in the credit card form), but when it works, it saves you a ton of time filling out digital paperwork. According to Google, Gemini Intelligence is upping the ante with autofill, with the goal of filling in just about any information in any form. The big example here concerns traveling: Imagine you're buying a plane ticket, and you need to fill out your identifying information. While traditional autofill can help with your name, phone number, email, and so on, you usually need to find your passport (or a picture of your passport) to fill out that section. Google says Gemini Intelligence can tap into Personal Intelligence to autofill secure details like your passport information. You'll see a button appear marked "Passport," which, when tapped, enters in all of those details. Google says the feature is "strictly opt-in," so you have the choice whether or not to connect to Gemini Intelligence in these instances. You also have the option to disable it at any time. "Rambler" improves dictation on AndroidGemini Intelligence is also aiming to improve dictation, specifically by polishing up our often unpolished thoughts. To do so, Google is introducing a new feature called "Rambler": When you dictate to Gemini Intelligence, instead of writing down all of your "ums" and "uhs," Rambler tries to jot down only what you intend to say. That includes when telling the AI you made a mistake. If you say something like "On my grocery list, I need three bananas, one orange juice, a gallon of milk, (oh wait, never mind, I have milk) and a loaf of bread," Rambler should only write down "On my grocery list, I need three bananas, one orange juice, and a loaf of bread." You can also ask Rambler to adjust the formatting of the dictation, so you can turn that string of grocery items into a bulleted list with emojis. According to Google, there's a visual difference between Rambler and standard dictation, so you should always know when the feature is on. The company says the audio is only used to transcribe it in real time, and isn't stored after the fact. Google also says Rambler supports multiple languages, so you can use dictation while switching languages without having to start and stop dictation. Gemini Intelligence lets you build your own custom widgetsThis is the feature that piqued my interest the most: Gemini Intelligence will, supposedly, offer users the chance to build their own widgets for the home screen. Rather than wait on app developers to make widgets that may or may not do what you what them to, you can ask Gemini Intelligence to build those widgets on your behalf. Google says "Create My Widget" lets you ask Gemini to make widgets from prompts like "show me upcoming concerts at Madison Square Garden," "display wind speed and rain for Golden, CO," or "suggest new meal prep recipes at the start of each week." Should the feature work as advertised, you can generate custom widgets that are uniquely tailored to your needs and interests. View the full article

Google has been beta testing Android 17 since February, and, so far, it's been a pretty small update. Based on the existing beta versions, the new version of Android will introduce "app bubbles," which present apps in floating, easy-to-dismiss windows, as well as a new way to remap game controller buttons across Android. But with the exception of some quality-of-life updates, Android 17 has been shaping up to be a pretty minor update. It seems, however, that Google was saving some of its biggest features for The Android Show: I/O Edition. While the company announced a number of new features across the board, including Gemini Intelligence, 3D emoji, and "Googlebooks," its Android 17 announcements mostly revolved around one thing: social media. Instagram uploads should look better on Android 17 For years, Android hasn't had the best reputation when it comes to social media uploads. Google wants to change that now: With Android 17, Google says it has partnered with Meta to offer new features for Instagram. That includes Ultra HDR support, for image capture and playback, built-in video stabilization to reduce the shakiness of your uploads, and Night Sight integration, which should brighten your Instagram updates when captured in dark environments. But the criticisms were never just about the lack of internal tools. Instagram for Android has been accused of reducing the quality of posts when uploaded, especially when using the in-app camera. Google says this shouldn't be the case with Android 17: The company "optimized the capture-to-upload pipeline" to retain details when posting from Android. Google even claims that videos captured and uploaded from "flagship" Android devices score similar or better on the Universal Video Quality (UVQ) model than the "leading competitor." (It doesn't say this specifically, but I think we all know that means the iPhone.) Android 17 gets its own Edits app featuresInstagram's Edits app is a video editing tool meant for cutting clips for Instagram. The app is available on both iOS and Android, but, according to Google, the Android version is getting some exclusive new features for Android 17. First, there's "Smart enhance," which uses on-device AI to upscale photos and videos. There's also a new "Sound separation" feature that displays all of the sounds in your video on different tracks. If there's something in the video you don't want to hear (wind, noise, extraneous music, etc.) it should be easy enough to isolate it and remove it from the finished video. Instagram is coming to Android tabletsInstagram made waves in September when it released a dedicated iPad app for the first time. After nearly 15 years of small-screen exclusivity, Meta launched an app optimized for the iPad's display. According to Google, these same benefits are now coming to Android tablets, but the company doesn't seem particularly focused on the consumer angle here. Instead, Google says that vloggers and filmmakers can now use the new optimized experience to edit their videos on a "larger canvas." As video editing continues to go mobile—especially for short-form video content—it makes sense that Google would want to offer tools to users who want a larger display to work, but still want a touch-screen experience. Adobe Premiere is coming to Android this summerAs part of these announcements, Google revealed that Adobe Premiere is finally coming to Android. The app has been available on iOS since August, but Google says the Android version will have exclusive templates and effects, meant for posting directly to YouTube Shorts. It's not clear whether you'll need to be running Android 17 to use Premiere on Android, but Google did fold the news into its Android 17 announcements. What does this mean for social media uploads on Android?The fact that Google dedicated its Android 17 announcements to social media says a lot. It tells me that Google is feeling behind Apple in this race, as more users associate iPhones with social media and short-form video uploads. I'm not sure if these features will kickstart a new wave of Android users posting to platforms like Instagram and YouTube Shorts, but perhaps it's time. After all, there was once a time when it seemed like the Mac would never catch up to the PC. View the full article

When you’re in need of a personal loan, choosing the right lender can greatly impact your financial situation. The five agencies highlighted here each offer unique benefits customized to different borrower needs. From fast funding with no fees to low rates for credit union members, comprehending these options can help you make an informed decision. Curious about which lender might be best for your specific circumstances? Let’s explore their offerings in more detail. Key Takeaways SoFi offers loans from $5,000 to $100,000 with competitive APRs and no fees, ideal for borrowers with good credit. PenFed Credit Union provides loans of $600 to $50,000 with low rates and no origination fees, requiring a minimum deposit for membership. Upgrade caters to fair credit borrowers with loans from $1,000 to $50,000 and same-day funding options, requiring a minimum credit score of 600. Discover features a wide range of loans from $2,500 to $40,000 with excellent customer service and a 97% approval rating, with no origination fees. Lightstream offers high loan amounts up to $100,000 with low APRs and same-day funding for qualified applicants, though it requires a hard credit pull. SoFi: Best Overall Personal Loan Lender When you’re looking for a personal loan, SoFi stands out as the best overall lender for December 2025. This lender offers loan amounts ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, with annual percentage rates (APRs) between 8.74% and 35.49%. One of the key advantages of SoFi is its fast funding options; if you meet certain conditions, you could receive your funds the same day you apply. Moreover, SoFi doesn’t charge origination fees, late fees, or prepayment penalties, making it a cost-effective choice. The loan app process is streamlined, allowing you to complete your application quickly and receive a decision in a short timeframe. Keep in mind that SoFi typically favors borrowers with good credit, so it’s accessible primarily for those with strong financial profiles. With these features, SoFi presents a compelling option for anyone considering a personal loan. PenFed Credit Union: Low Rates and No Fees If you’re in the market for a personal loan with competitive rates and no hidden fees, PenFed Credit Union could be a solid choice. They offer personal loans with APR rates ranging from 8.99% to 29.49%, making them an appealing option for those seeking low rates. You can borrow anywhere from $600 to $50,000, which provides the flexibility to meet various financial needs. One of the standout features is that PenFed charges no origination fees, allowing you to save on upfront costs when securing financing. Moreover, loan terms can be set for 24 to 84 months, giving you ample time to repay your loan. Membership is easy to access with a minimum deposit of just $5. If you’re looking for loans based off income, PenFed’s competitive rates and straightforward terms may provide you with an excellent borrowing experience. Upgrade: Accessible Options for Fair Credit Borrowers For those with fair credit looking for accessible loan options, Upgrade presents a viable solution. With personal loans ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, you can find the flexibility to meet various financial needs. Upgrade offers competitive APRs from 7.74% to 35.99%, making it a suitable choice for borrowers with a credit score of at least 600. Furthermore, you can select loan terms between 2 to 7 years, allowing you to create a repayment plan that fits your budget. If you’re a federal employee, Upgrade’s loans can likewise accommodate your specific circumstances. Here’s a quick overview: Feature Details Loan Amounts $1,000 – $50,000 APR Range 7.74% – 35.99% Minimum Credit Score 600 Loan Terms 2 to 7 years Funding Speed Often same-day Discover: Excellent Customer Service and Quick Application How can you improve your borrowing experience? Choosing a reliable loan agency like Discover can make all the difference. With personal loans ranging from $2,500 to $40,000 and an APR between 7.99% and 24.99%, Discover caters to various financial needs. Their swift and intuitive application process guarantees you can easily navigate through your options, making borrowing less stressful. High customer satisfaction is another key feature, as Discover boasts a 97% approval rating for loan applications. Plus, there are no origination fees associated with their loans, making them a cost-effective choice. Once approved, funding is typically available quickly, allowing you to access your loan amount without unnecessary delays. By choosing Discover, you’ll experience excellent customer service and a streamlined application process, enhancing your overall borrowing experience. Lightstream: High Loan Amounts With No Origination Fee With regard to personal loans, many borrowers seek options that offer both flexibility and affordability. LightStream stands out by providing loan amounts ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, making it a great choice for larger financial needs. Their APRs, when you set up autopay, range from 6.24% to 24.89%, giving you competitive rates. Here’s a quick overview of LightStream’s offerings: Feature LightStream Federal Loan Comparison Loan Amounts $5,000 – $100,000 Varies by program Origination Fee None Typically present Funding Speed Same-day for qualified Often slower Credit Score Requirement Good to excellent Varies by lender Early Payoff Fee None May apply LightStream doesn’t charge late fees or early payoff fees, enhancing affordability. Just remember, they require a hard credit pull, which can impact your credit score. Frequently Asked Questions Who Is the Easiest Company to Get a Loan From? The easiest company to get a loan from often depends on your credit score and financial situation. SoFi provides quick funding without origination fees, whereas Upgrade offers a simple application with a minimum credit score of 600. LightStream has no fees and same-day funding, making it appealing. LendingClub allows joint applications, increasing approval chances, and Prosper caters to those with scores starting at 560, providing fast funding for a wider audience. How Much Would a $10,000 Loan Cost per Month Over 5 Years? For a $10,000 loan over five years, your monthly payment will depend on the APR. At 10%, you’d pay about $212.47 monthly, totaling around $12,748 including interest. If the APR rises to 15%, your payment increases to approximately $239.24. Conversely, with a lower rate of 5%, your payment drops to about $188.71. Who Will Give Me a Loan When No One Else Will? If you’re struggling to secure a loan, consider lenders that specialize in bad credit options. Companies like Upstart and OneMain Financial offer loans even with lower credit scores, sometimes as low as 300. Prosper allows joint applications, which can improve approval chances. Research lenders like Avant, LendingClub, and Rocket Loans, which provide flexible terms and quick funding. What Credit Score Is Needed for a $30,000 Personal Loan? To qualify for a $30,000 personal loan, most lenders require a credit score of at least 660. Some may accept scores as low as 580, but expect higher interest rates. If your score is above 700, you’ll likely secure better terms and rates. Remember, lenders likewise consider your income, debt-to-income ratio, and credit history. Pre-qualifying with a soft credit check can help you gauge your eligibility without impacting your credit score. Conclusion In summary, choosing the right personal loan agency can greatly impact your financial situation. SoFi offers a strong overall option with no fees, whereas PenFed Credit Union provides low rates for members. Upgrade caters to those with fair credit, ensuring accessibility. Discover stands out for its customer service, and Lightstream excels in providing high loan amounts with quick funding. By evaluating these options, you can find a lender that meets your specific needs and improves your borrowing experience. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "5 Top Loan Agencies for Your Next Financial Need" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re in need of a personal loan, choosing the right lender can greatly impact your financial situation. The five agencies highlighted here each offer unique benefits customized to different borrower needs. From fast funding with no fees to low rates for credit union members, comprehending these options can help you make an informed decision. Curious about which lender might be best for your specific circumstances? Let’s explore their offerings in more detail. Key Takeaways SoFi offers loans from $5,000 to $100,000 with competitive APRs and no fees, ideal for borrowers with good credit. PenFed Credit Union provides loans of $600 to $50,000 with low rates and no origination fees, requiring a minimum deposit for membership. Upgrade caters to fair credit borrowers with loans from $1,000 to $50,000 and same-day funding options, requiring a minimum credit score of 600. Discover features a wide range of loans from $2,500 to $40,000 with excellent customer service and a 97% approval rating, with no origination fees. Lightstream offers high loan amounts up to $100,000 with low APRs and same-day funding for qualified applicants, though it requires a hard credit pull. SoFi: Best Overall Personal Loan Lender When you’re looking for a personal loan, SoFi stands out as the best overall lender for December 2025. This lender offers loan amounts ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, with annual percentage rates (APRs) between 8.74% and 35.49%. One of the key advantages of SoFi is its fast funding options; if you meet certain conditions, you could receive your funds the same day you apply. Moreover, SoFi doesn’t charge origination fees, late fees, or prepayment penalties, making it a cost-effective choice. The loan app process is streamlined, allowing you to complete your application quickly and receive a decision in a short timeframe. Keep in mind that SoFi typically favors borrowers with good credit, so it’s accessible primarily for those with strong financial profiles. With these features, SoFi presents a compelling option for anyone considering a personal loan. PenFed Credit Union: Low Rates and No Fees If you’re in the market for a personal loan with competitive rates and no hidden fees, PenFed Credit Union could be a solid choice. They offer personal loans with APR rates ranging from 8.99% to 29.49%, making them an appealing option for those seeking low rates. You can borrow anywhere from $600 to $50,000, which provides the flexibility to meet various financial needs. One of the standout features is that PenFed charges no origination fees, allowing you to save on upfront costs when securing financing. Moreover, loan terms can be set for 24 to 84 months, giving you ample time to repay your loan. Membership is easy to access with a minimum deposit of just $5. If you’re looking for loans based off income, PenFed’s competitive rates and straightforward terms may provide you with an excellent borrowing experience. Upgrade: Accessible Options for Fair Credit Borrowers For those with fair credit looking for accessible loan options, Upgrade presents a viable solution. With personal loans ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, you can find the flexibility to meet various financial needs. Upgrade offers competitive APRs from 7.74% to 35.99%, making it a suitable choice for borrowers with a credit score of at least 600. Furthermore, you can select loan terms between 2 to 7 years, allowing you to create a repayment plan that fits your budget. If you’re a federal employee, Upgrade’s loans can likewise accommodate your specific circumstances. Here’s a quick overview: Feature Details Loan Amounts $1,000 – $50,000 APR Range 7.74% – 35.99% Minimum Credit Score 600 Loan Terms 2 to 7 years Funding Speed Often same-day Discover: Excellent Customer Service and Quick Application How can you improve your borrowing experience? Choosing a reliable loan agency like Discover can make all the difference. With personal loans ranging from $2,500 to $40,000 and an APR between 7.99% and 24.99%, Discover caters to various financial needs. Their swift and intuitive application process guarantees you can easily navigate through your options, making borrowing less stressful. High customer satisfaction is another key feature, as Discover boasts a 97% approval rating for loan applications. Plus, there are no origination fees associated with their loans, making them a cost-effective choice. Once approved, funding is typically available quickly, allowing you to access your loan amount without unnecessary delays. By choosing Discover, you’ll experience excellent customer service and a streamlined application process, enhancing your overall borrowing experience. Lightstream: High Loan Amounts With No Origination Fee With regard to personal loans, many borrowers seek options that offer both flexibility and affordability. LightStream stands out by providing loan amounts ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, making it a great choice for larger financial needs. Their APRs, when you set up autopay, range from 6.24% to 24.89%, giving you competitive rates. Here’s a quick overview of LightStream’s offerings: Feature LightStream Federal Loan Comparison Loan Amounts $5,000 – $100,000 Varies by program Origination Fee None Typically present Funding Speed Same-day for qualified Often slower Credit Score Requirement Good to excellent Varies by lender Early Payoff Fee None May apply LightStream doesn’t charge late fees or early payoff fees, enhancing affordability. Just remember, they require a hard credit pull, which can impact your credit score. Frequently Asked Questions Who Is the Easiest Company to Get a Loan From? The easiest company to get a loan from often depends on your credit score and financial situation. SoFi provides quick funding without origination fees, whereas Upgrade offers a simple application with a minimum credit score of 600. LightStream has no fees and same-day funding, making it appealing. LendingClub allows joint applications, increasing approval chances, and Prosper caters to those with scores starting at 560, providing fast funding for a wider audience. How Much Would a $10,000 Loan Cost per Month Over 5 Years? For a $10,000 loan over five years, your monthly payment will depend on the APR. At 10%, you’d pay about $212.47 monthly, totaling around $12,748 including interest. If the APR rises to 15%, your payment increases to approximately $239.24. Conversely, with a lower rate of 5%, your payment drops to about $188.71. Who Will Give Me a Loan When No One Else Will? If you’re struggling to secure a loan, consider lenders that specialize in bad credit options. Companies like Upstart and OneMain Financial offer loans even with lower credit scores, sometimes as low as 300. Prosper allows joint applications, which can improve approval chances. Research lenders like Avant, LendingClub, and Rocket Loans, which provide flexible terms and quick funding. What Credit Score Is Needed for a $30,000 Personal Loan? To qualify for a $30,000 personal loan, most lenders require a credit score of at least 660. Some may accept scores as low as 580, but expect higher interest rates. If your score is above 700, you’ll likely secure better terms and rates. Remember, lenders likewise consider your income, debt-to-income ratio, and credit history. Pre-qualifying with a soft credit check can help you gauge your eligibility without impacting your credit score. Conclusion In summary, choosing the right personal loan agency can greatly impact your financial situation. SoFi offers a strong overall option with no fees, whereas PenFed Credit Union provides low rates for members. Upgrade caters to those with fair credit, ensuring accessibility. Discover stands out for its customer service, and Lightstream excels in providing high loan amounts with quick funding. By evaluating these options, you can find a lender that meets your specific needs and improves your borrowing experience. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "5 Top Loan Agencies for Your Next Financial Need" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you’re in the market for a portable Bluetooth speaker that still doesn’t skimp on the bass, the Tribit StormBox Mini+ speaker is a rugged option built for outdoor use. It’s earned a PCMag Editor’s Choice Award for being a lightweight yet powerful and long-lasting speaker (with a fun lighting feature…more on that below), and right now it’s 24% off and $31.99 (originally $41.99 on Amazon). Tribit StormBox Mini+ Speaker $31.99 at Amazon $41.99 Save $10.00 Get Deal Get Deal $31.99 at Amazon $41.99 Save $10.00 Despite hovering at a $32 price point, the Tribit StormBox Mini+ packs in a lot of features. Available at this price in blue and green, it provides immersive stereo sound with a pair of 48mm drivers facing outward on the left and right sides, delivering a total of 12W of stereo sound. Combined with a passive radiator, it provides a frequency response of 80Hz to 20kHz. It can be made even more immersive by pairing with another StormBox Mini+ in True Wireless Stereo Mode. At just 4.68 by 3.58 inches and just 1.22 pounds, its size is comparable to a softball or water bottle, and is made even more portable with the addition of a small lanyard. PCMag calls the stereo sound “punchy and rich,” despite its compact size, and customizable EQ on the Tribit app lets you tweak it further. It has an IPX7 rating, making it fully waterproof. While it does have a mic for calls and your phone’s smart assistant, it can sound faint and distant at times, even with the volume on high. Battery life lasts up to 12 hours at 50% volume and recharges in 2.5 hours. Another unusual feature is its RGB lighting effects with modes that let the lights spin or flicker (also controlled on the app), allowing you to set the vibe on your adventures. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a tiny but bass-heavy budget speaker that you can easily throw in your bag—and one rugged enough to withstand splashes and rain, with the unexpected party perk of lighting—the Tribit StormBox Mini+ will give you solid sound and portability for a low price point. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $229.00 (List Price $249.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Apple iPad 11" A16 128GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Silver, 2025) — $319.99 (List Price $349.00) Shark AV2501AE AI XL Hepa- Safe Self-Emptying Base Robot Vacuum — $299.99 (List Price $649.99) Dell 15 DC15250 (Intel Core i7 13th Gen, 512GB SSD, 8GB RAM, Touch Display) — $599.99 (List Price $839.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Cove Kaz Capital has already secured up to $1.6bn in government support for project in Kazakhstan View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Garmin has unveiled two new entry-level running watches: the Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170. Both are available starting May 15, 2026, priced at $249.99 and $299.99 respectively, with a Forerunner 170 Music edition coming in at $349.99. Right off the bat, the big selling points are the AMOLED touchscreen displays, along with a suite of training tools that go beyond what I’d call “entry-level.” On paper, these watches are positioned as upgrades to the Forerunner 55 and Forerunner 165—but whether they actually deliver on that promise is more complicated. Here's what we know so far. What we know about the Garmin Forerunner 70To quote Lifehacker senior health editor Beth Skwarecki, “It's about time Garmin offered a modern-looking watch under $250.” The Forerunner 70 is certainly a glow-up over the Forerunner 55 (originally $199.99), adding a touchscreen AMOLED display, Garmin Run Coach, advanced training features, acute load and load ratio tracking, sleep score, morning and evening reports, and a quick workout option. The run/walk workout feature is a particularly nice touch for beginners easing into a running routine. That said, context matters. At $249.99, is the Forerunner 70 really competitive with other brands in this price range? The Coros Pace 4 is also $249 and includes dual-band GPS and 4 GB of offline music storage. The Suunto Run is even more affordable at $199, and it, too, manages to offer dual-band GPS and 4 GB of music storage. The Forerunner 70, by comparison, has single-band GPS and just 0.5 GB of storage. Now, where the 70 does make a name for itself is with Garmin's software ecosystem. Some features that neither Suunto nor Coros typically offer include glances with battery data, sleep coaching with suggested bedtimes, lifestyle logging, weight tracking, sports scores, and a fitness coach that blends strength training with cardio without requiring you to commit to a specific sport. Like with all things Garmin, this is for people looking for more than just to track runs. (Even though watches that “just track runs” are exactly what the London Marathon winners wear.) One small note here: Garmin's website currently lists the 70 and 170 as a single product, which is a little odd. Whether that's a placeholder or something more intentional, I’ll keep an eye on it. What we know about the Garmin Forerunner 170Like the 70 is an upgrade of the 55, the Forerunner 170 is positioned as an upgrade to the Forerunner 165 (originally $249.99 at launch in April 2024, with the Music edition at $299.99). However, it might be more accurate to compare this watch to the fan-favorite Forerunner 265, which was $449 originally, but now regularly goes on sale for $349.99 (which is the current MSRP of the 170 Music). Garmin Forerunner 265 Running Smartwatch (Black/Grey) $348.99 at Walmart $449.99 Save $101.00 Get Deal Get Deal $348.99 at Walmart $449.99 Save $101.00 The 170 actually has shorter battery life than the 165: It has 10 days versus 11-13. It’s not a crazy trade-off, considering all the software updates. As Garmin puts it, the Forerunner 170’s advantage is the expanded feature set. However, the 170 is missing a few features that the 265 had. It doesn't have dual-band GPS, supports fewer GPS networks overall, doesn't have cycling workouts or multisport support, and it's unclear whether it can connect to a power meter (the 265 could; the 165 could not). These are more complicated trade-offs to weigh for anyone who was hoping for a straightforward upgrade. Now, what the 170 does bring to the table are the kind of software features the Forerunner 570 has been receiving, which the -65 series missed out on. That means things like the Garmin Run Coach (a newer, more capable version), advanced training features, quick workout functionality, a calculator, and lifestyle logging. Advanced training features, for context, include Training Readiness (which scores your recovery), Training Status (which monitors training load), HRV Status (heart rate variability tracking), and Daily Suggested Workouts. The heart rate sensor is the same as the 165, which is perfectly solid and on par with its competitors. Still, the Forerunner 570 and 970 have a noticeably better optical HR sensor than the 165/265 generation. The bottom line (for now)On paper, both watches have their merits, particularly for true beginners who want a trustworthy GPS smartwatch with solid Garmin software support. But for runners upgrading from previous Garmin models, or for anyone considering Coros or Suunto, the value proposition isn’t ideal. To quote a Google Chat from Beth to me: "I'm unimpressed." Luckily, we'll be putting both to the test soon. Beth will be comparing the Forerunner 70 with other low-priced running watches to see how it stacks up. And I have the Forerunner 165 Music, so I'll be able to see how the 170 Music fares as a direct successor. Stay tuned for our in-depth verdicts. View the full article

Food delivery service DoorDash is quick to hold restaurants accountable for their mistakes—but not without evidence. Dissatisfied customers have to provide proof that something was wrong with their order, be it a missing item, late delivery, or improperly prepared food, before the company will issue a refund (potentially on the restaurant’s dime, depending on the nature of the mistake). But in the AI era, verifiable proof is harder to come by, and one customer’s viral post about tricking DoorDash into giving her a refund shows that despite the company’s best efforts, its anti-fraud measures aren’t foolproof. On TikTok, a user named Starr (@mi5under5t00d) posted a montage of images showing how she used an AI-doctored image to get a full refund on her DoorDash order. First, an actual picture of her order of chicken wings, including a piece with a bite taken out of it. Next, that same image, but edited with AI to make the bitten chicken wing appear raw. Finally, a screenshot from her DoorDash app, showing that the company issued her $39.24 of credit to use on future DoorDash orders. “Shout out to ChatGPT,” reads text overlaid on the video. Starr’s refund strategy went viral on TikTok, garnering 4.4 million views and thousands of comments—including one from DoorDash itself. ‘This gets people fired’: Social media responds Though Starr seemed flippant about using AI to make her food look undercooked, social media wasn’t on her side. “This gets people fired btw,” one commenter wrote. “Some people’s [lives] depend on DoorDash or Uber and [you’re] gonna get [them] fired over a few dollars? Selfish.” “This is honestly a disgusting thing to do, why would you take advantage of small businesses?!” commented another. DoorDash itself even chimed in with a comment that went viral in its own right. “Oop should’ve blocked us!” the company commented. “Now why would I do that if my chicken was raw?” Starr replied. In the video’s caption, Starr explained that she did have problems with her order, including two missing items and that her chicken was cold when it arrived—but the chicken being raw, a much more serious issue, was apparently her own invention. DoorDash has policies in place to protect merchants from fraudulent claims like Starr’s, including flagging users who repeatedly request refunds and conducting manual review of those customers’ claims. But as AI images become more and more convincing, even manual review can fall through. DoorDash’s love-hate relationship with AI Though DoorDash’s comment may imply it’s anti-AI, the company uses AI throughout its business practice, including a newly announced suite of AI tools for merchants. One of DoorDash’s more controversial AI uses is enhancing and editing images of food. As DoorDash explains on its Photo FAQs page, any photos on the app labeled “AI-enhanced” have been altered by AI to re-plate dishes, replace background elements, fill in missing portions of images, or change the perspective to make food more visible. DoorDash writes that these AI-generated changes are meant to “better showcase menu items and create a more consistent browsing experience.” DoorDash has not responded to Fast Company’s request for comment. View the full article

As operating costs rise and consumers curb spending in the wake of an affordability crisis, restaurants of all stripes are feeling the pinch from multiple directions. Five Guys Burgers and Fries is not immune to such industry-wide headwinds. Even as it has seen its overall U.S. footprint grow in recent years, it has also closed multiple restaurants, including locations in several states so far in 2026. The recent closures have mostly impacted California, but Five Guys restaurants in Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Georgia, and Nebraska have also shuttered this year, according to a review of local media reports, online review platforms, and the Five Guys store locator tool. In all, at least 14 locations have closed or will close at some point in the first half of 2026, although that figure may not be a complete count. It’s also unclear if the closures will amount to a net decline in the chain’s footprint this year. As a privately held company, Five Guys closely guards its financials and does not routinely report store counts. According to a franchise disclosure document filed last year, as reported by QSR Magazine, Five Guys ended 2024 with a net gain of 37 locations over the previous year, but it also closed 14 corporate-owned and 14 franchised restaurants that year. According to its website, Five Guys has over 1,900 locations worldwide. Fast Company reached out to Five Guys for comment. Which Five Guys stores have closed? According to our analysis, the following Five Guys stores have already closed this year: California 2970 W Grant Line Rd, Tracy, CA 95304 2701 Ming Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93304 71-800 Hwy 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 24201 Valencia Blvd #3672, Valencia, CA 91355 Florida 6431 E County Line Rd, Tampa, FL 33647 Illinois 2856 S Rte 59, Naperville, IL 60564 Iowa 3450 Dodge St Suite B, Dubuque, IA 52003 Louisiana 2950 Ryan St, Lake Charles, LA 70601 Georgia 3393 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 Nebraska 2525 Pine Lake Rd, Lincoln, NE 68512 Which Five Guys stores will close later in 2026? Reports of Five Guys closures in California began to surface last month after local media outlets learned of a handful of state-level Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification filings, or WARN notices, which had indicated that dozens of jobs would be lost as a result of the closings. As first reported last week by local media outlets, the following Five Guys locations in California are expected to close later this month and into July: 10140 Carmenita Rd, Whittier, CA 90605 (closing May 25) 1552 S Azusa Ave, City of Industry, CA 91748 (closing May 26) 3572 G St, Merced, CA 95340 (closing June 26) 1693 W Lacey Blvd Suite A, Hanford, CA 93230 (closing July 2) It’s unclear if additional store closures are expected. We’ve asked Five Guys for more information and will update this story if we hear back. Why are Five Guys closing? Restaurants can close for any number of reasons, and it’s not unusual for a large chain or individual franchisee to shutter locations for underperformance or other issues specific to a marketplace. Even chains that may be otherwise growing often optimize their footprint during any given year. Broadly speaking, the quick service restaurant (QSR) segment continues to face challenges from rising costs and diners being more price conscious. According to a recent report from Revenue Management Solutions, which tracks spending trends, traffic to fast food restaurants remained negative during the first quarter of this year, down 1.2% for the quarter compared to the same period last year. But net sales were up 2.1%, which represents a rebound of sorts from the fourth quarter. Five Guys consistently ranks among the top fast food brands in terms of food quality, but the chain is also known for being among the priciest in its competitive set. View the full article

When the history of the internet is written, the story of Digg might be one of its most fascinating chapters. The site that established the template later popularized by Reddit has ebbed in and out of relevance for much of its existence. Two months ago, it shut down. Now it’s back once again, and it wants to keep users up to speed on the fast-growing world of artificial intelligence. Like an overly determined game of whack-a-mole, the Digg website is live once more, with a headline reading “Hello Again” on its home page and a new mission statement. “The bet is simple: the internet has more noise than ever, and the people who can sort signal from it have never been more valuable,” reads the note from founder Kevin Rose. “We’re starting with AI. It’s the noisiest, fastest-moving space on the internet right now. Papers, launches, threads, hot takes flying past faster than anyone can keep up with. If we can surface what actually matters here, we can do it anywhere.” Digg says it plans to monitor the 1,000 “most thoughtful voices in AI” to see what they’re paying attention to. It will then rank those stories to let users know what matters most. Among the sources the site is following are Sam Altman, Elon Musk, Andrej Karpathy, and Geoffrey Hinton. The list also includes professors, investors, researchers, and reporters focused on the AI beat. Rather than using the site’s well-known URL, though, the home page currently refers users to a secondary site: di.gg/ai. That’s only temporary, Digg says. “When things are ready, we’ll move home to digg.com,” the website reads. Also, other areas of focus beyond AI will be forthcoming, Rose said. Déjà vu If you’re viewing this latest direction for Digg with skepticism, that’s understandable. Last year, Rose and Alexis Ohanian bought Digg back with plans to revive it. Backed by True Ventures, where Rose is a partner, and Ohanian’s Seven Seven Six, the revived Digg said it would offer a more human-centered experience. That proved challenging. Justin Mezzell, who was CEO at the time but has seemingly stepped away from the company, announced in March that the relaunch, which had launched just two months earlier, had been scrapped after the site was quickly overwhelmed by bots and AI agents. Spammers, meanwhile, sought to boost their SEO rankings by exploiting Digg’s still-considerable authority with Google. “Within hours, we got a taste of what we’d only heard rumors about,” he wrote. “The internet is now populated, in meaningful part, by sophisticated AI agents and automated accounts. We knew bots were part of the landscape, but we didn’t appreciate the scale, sophistication, or speed at which they’d find us.” Digg also said it underestimated the loyalty users had built with competing sites. Luring them back after such a long absence proved difficult, especially as bots dominated the platform. The latest version of Digg makes no mention of how it plans to overcome those challenges. Something new, something old Like the original Digg, the new site eschews the bells and whistles of modern platforms in favor of a bare-bones approach. The newsfeed sits against a beige background reminiscent of a 1980s computer screen. The site offers headlines and stripped-down summaries of the news, generally just one or two sentences long, followed by what appear to be X.com profiles of the people discussing the story. The site refreshes in real time, and top stories are displayed for both the current and previous day. Rose’s goal is to return Digg to the prominence it once enjoyed. When it was founded in 2004, the repository of internet links quickly became a must-visit destination, with users upvoting and downvoting stories they liked or loathed. That formula has since become commonplace across the web. Digg grew to an estimated valuation of $160 million by 2008. A 2010 redesign was so unpopular, however, that much of its audience migrated to Reddit, which offered a similar voting system. Rose sold the company in 2012 and remained absent until he repurchased it alongside former rival Ohanian last year. View the full article

If you’re considering turning your business into a franchise, you’re initiating an expedition that can greatly expand your reach and profitability. Franchising requires a clear comprehension of operational standards, legal compliance, and financial planning. It’s not just about replicating your business model; it’s about creating a cohesive brand that franchisees can successfully operate. Grasping the crucial steps involved will help you navigate this complex process and set you up for long-term success. What’s the first step? Key Takeaways Assess your business’s profitability and operational processes to ensure it can be replicated by franchisees effectively. Protect your brand by registering trademarks and creating comprehensive brand guidelines to maintain consistency across franchises. Prepare a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) detailing essential business information and comply with legal requirements for franchise disclosure. Draft a Franchise Agreement outlining the rights, responsibilities, and financial obligations of both franchisor and franchisee to ensure clarity. Create a detailed Operations Manual that includes training materials and standard operating procedures to guide franchisees in daily operations. Understanding Franchising: What It Means for Your Business Franchising represents a strategic opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the market with a proven business model. By partnering with franchisees, you can license your successful concept, allowing others to operate under your established brand while paying royalties. To make your business a franchise, you’ll need a solid franchise business plan that outlines operational standards, training, and support. This differs from licensing, as it encompasses the entire business system. Franchising not merely enables quicker market entry but additionally utilizes franchisee capital for expansion, greatly impacting the economy, with the industry generating over $890 billion annually. Comprehending how to turn your business into a franchise involves ensuring consistency in operations and brand representation across multiple locations, which is essential for success. Types of Franchises: Which One Suits You? When considering which type of franchise might work best for you, it’s vital to grasp the various categories available. Business format franchises offer a complete operational blueprint, ideal for those who want to replicate a successful model, like McDonald’s fast-food chains. If you prefer managing one location, a single-unit franchise might suit you, whereas a multi-unit franchise allows you to operate several locations, boosting your potential revenue. Area development franchises enable rapid expansion in a designated region, and master franchises let you sub-franchise within a territory, managing new franchisees. Your choice depends on factors like scalability, desired control, and financial commitment. Grasping these options is fundamental when you learn how to make a franchise business plan that aligns with your goals. Assessing Your Business Readiness for Franchising Before franchising your business, it’s important to evaluate its overall health, focusing on profitability and consistent revenue. You likewise need to assess whether your business model can be easily replicated and taught, as this is critical for franchisees’ success. Finally, protecting your intellectual property is significant, ensuring that your brand and operations remain secure as you expand. Evaluate Business Health Evaluating your business health is a vital step in appraising your readiness for franchising, and it involves several key components. Start by analyzing your financial statements to guarantee consistent revenue and a solid customer base, which are fundamental for attracting potential franchisees. Next, evaluate your business model’s scalability; it should be replicable across multiple locations without significant operational challenges. Consider your brand strength and market presence, as these factors improve franchise appeal. Moreover, review customer demand and feedback to gauge interest in your products or services in other markets, indicating potential for new franchise locations. Finally, verify established systems and processes are in place, as they’re indispensable for training franchisees and maintaining operational consistency across all locations. Assess Replication Capability Analyzing your business’s replication capability is a vital step in determining its readiness for franchising. Start by evaluating your profitability and operational consistency; a successful franchise needs a reliable income stream and efficient systems. Next, evaluate customer interest in potential new locations to confirm there’s a market for expansion. It’s important to determine if your business model can be effectively taught to others; clear, documented processes are necessary for franchisees. Review your operational practices to verify they can be standardized across multiple locations, maintaining brand integrity and quality. Finally, conduct a feasibility analysis to validate that your business can support the additional costs of franchising, including legal fees, training materials, and ongoing franchisee support systems. Protect Intellectual Property Protecting your intellectual property is critical when preparing your business for franchising. You need to evaluate your trademarks and proprietary processes to guarantee brand integrity as you expand. Start by registering your trademarks with the USPTO, safeguarding your brand name and logo, which are fundamental assets in the franchise model. Moreover, create non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) for potential franchisees to protect sensitive information and proprietary training materials during the franchising process. It’s also essential to regularly review and update your intellectual property protections, adapting to market changes and guaranteeing compliance with legal standards. Protecting Your Intellectual Property: Essential Steps Protecting your intellectual property (IP) is crucial for your franchise’s success, as it safeguards your brand and its unique elements. By registering trademarks, you secure exclusive rights and strengthen brand recognition. At the same time, implementing guidelines guarantees uniformity across all franchise operations. Furthermore, maintaining confidentiality with trade secrets and business processes through non-disclosure agreements helps protect your competitive edge in the market. Importance of Trademark Registration Even though you may have a great business idea, securing your brand’s identity through trademark registration is crucial for establishing a solid foundation in the marketplace. Trademark registration protects your business name, logo, and slogan from unauthorized use, ensuring your brand integrity. It can greatly improve your franchise’s value, attracting potential franchisees and investors. Consider the following benefits of trademark registration: Provides legal presumptions of ownership and exclusive rights. Makes it easier to enforce your rights against infringers. Helps prevent loss of brand recognition. Allows you to claim damages in case of infringement. The application process requires proper documentation and fees, so it’s wise to start early. Safeguarding Trade Secrets When you own a franchise, safeguarding your trade secrets is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the market. Start by identifying and documenting your trade secrets, such as recipes, processes, and customer lists, to establish a clear comprehension of what needs protection. Implement non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with employees and provide training on confidentiality to guarantee proprietary information stays secure. Furthermore, consider registering trademarks for your brand names, logos, and slogans to prevent unauthorized use that might dilute your brand identity. Regularly auditing your intellectual property practices can help identify vulnerabilities and assure your protective measures are effective. Consulting legal counsel specializing in intellectual property can provide valuable guidance on best practices and maneuvering any potential legal challenges. Developing Brand Guidelines Establishing brand guidelines is a fundamental step in protecting your intellectual property and ensuring consistency across all franchise locations. These guidelines provide a framework for how your brand assets should be used, which is critical for maintaining brand integrity and reputation. To effectively create brand guidelines, consider the following: Secure trademarks for your brand name, logo, and slogan to prevent unauthorized use. Document proprietary processes and training materials to safeguard trade secrets. Establish clear protocols for franchisees regarding the use of brand assets in marketing and operations. Regularly review and update your intellectual property protections to comply with legal standards. Preparing Your Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) Preparing your Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is a fundamental step in launching a successful franchise. This legally required document provides potential franchisees with important information about your business, including its history, financial performance, and obligations. The FDD typically consists of 23 sections covering topics like franchise fees, territory rights, and your obligations to franchisees. Preparing the FDD usually takes 30-60 days, so it’s vital to make sure all information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid legal issues. Moreover, fourteen states require the FDD to be registered, which involves state-specific requirements and fees. It’s critical to work with legal counsel experienced in franchise law to create a compliant FDD, as mistakes can lead to significant penalties and jeopardize your franchising efforts. Drafting a Comprehensive Franchise Agreement Drafting a thorough franchise agreement is crucial for establishing a clear understanding between you and your franchisees. This document defines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, ensuring compliance with operational standards, fees, and territory rights. A detailed agreement typically covers a 5 to 10-year term, including renewal conditions, termination clauses, and non-compliance provisions. Key elements include: Royalty structures and payment timelines Penalties for late payments Adherence to federal and state regulations Guidelines for brand and operational standards Creating an Operations Manual for Franchisees An operations manual serves as a foundational tool for franchisees, providing them with the guidance needed to run their businesses effectively. This thorough document typically ranges from 100 to 300 pages, detailing vital day-to-day operations, brand standards, and procedures. It’s imperative to keep the manual confidential, granting access only to franchisees, concurrently regularly updating it to reflect evolving practices. Incorporate digital resources, like links to training videos, to improve the learning experience. The manual should cover key areas such as marketing strategies, customer service protocols, inventory management, and quality control measures. Moreover, solicit regular feedback from franchisees to continuously improve the manual, ensuring it remains relevant and addresses real-world challenges they face in the field. Financial Considerations: Costs and Budgeting When considering a franchise, it’s essential to understand the financial terrain, starting with initial investment costs that can range from $10,000 to $5 million. You’ll need to account for ongoing operational costs, which include royalty fees typically between 4-8% of your revenues, in addition to budgeting for working capital to cover early expenses. Having a clear financial plan helps guarantee you’re prepared for the costs associated with franchise development and state-specific registration requirements. Initial Investment Breakdown Comprehending the initial investment required to start a franchise is fundamental for anyone considering this business model. Typically, this investment ranges from $10,000 to $5 million, but most franchises fall between $100,000 and $300,000. You should likewise account for franchise development costs, including: Legal fees and documentation Marketing assets Training materials Additional working capital These costs can total between $15,000 and $100,000, so budgeting carefully is significant. The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) provides a detailed cost breakdown in Item 7, which is critical for grasping your financial obligations. Ongoing Operational Costs Grasping ongoing operational costs is critical for franchisees to maintain profitability and guarantee the long-term success of their business. You’ll face royalty fees, typically ranging from 4-8% of gross sales, paid to the franchisor for continued support. Furthermore, budget for marketing contributions, usually 1-3% of revenue, to fund national advertising campaigns. Regular expenses like lease or rent, utilities, insurance, employee salaries, and inventory can vary based on location and business type. It’s important to have a financial cushion for unexpected costs; studies recommend keeping 20-30% of your initial investment as working capital for at least the first six months. Comprehending both initial and ongoing expenses is critical for ensuring your franchise’s long-term sustainability and profitability. Financial Planning Strategies Effective financial planning strategies are essential for franchisees aiming to navigate the intricacies of costs and budgeting successfully. Start by calculating your initial investment, which typically ranges from $10,000 to $5 million. Develop a thorough financial model that includes: Legal fees and training materials Marketing assets and operational costs Ongoing royalty payments of 4-8% of revenues Additional working capital for the first 2-3 years Understanding state requirements for Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDD) is equally important, as some states mandate registration before selling franchises. Developing a Franchise Sales Strategy How can you effectively develop a franchise sales strategy that attracts the right entrepreneurs? Start by showcasing the unique value of your business model, shifting focus from traditional product sales techniques. Utilize franchise brokers, online portals, and referrals from satisfied franchisees to widen your reach. Initially, target local entrepreneurs; having 2-3 franchisees nearby allows for easier support and system refinement. The success of these early franchisees will greatly influence your franchise’s reputation, so select and support them wisely. Finally, implement a robust strategy that includes compelling marketing materials, testimonials from successful franchisees, and clear communication about the support provided to new franchise owners. This approach guarantees you attract motivated individuals who align with your brand’s vision. Navigating Legal Requirements and Compliance Steering through the legal requirements and compliance for franchising can feel overwhelming, especially since multiple regulations exist at both federal and state levels. You’ll need to prepare a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), which outlines your financial health and obligations. Some key elements to take into account include: FDD Preparation: It usually takes 30-60 days to draft your FDD. State Registration: Fourteen states, including California and New York, require FDD registration with unique requirements. Legal Expertise: Hiring a franchise attorney is essential to navigate compliance and avoid penalties. Budgeting: Initial legal costs typically range from $18,000 to $45,000 for drafting the FDD and other documents. Understanding these aspects will streamline your franchising process and guarantee compliance. Evaluating the Pros and Cons of Franchising When considering franchising, it’s crucial to weigh both the advantages and disadvantages to determine if it’s the right business model for you. On the one hand, franchising allows for rapid growth without you needing to invest in every new location, as franchisees provide the capital. You’ll also benefit from ongoing royalties, typically between 4-8% of their revenues, creating a passive income stream. Nevertheless, significant upfront costs can range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more. Furthermore, legal intricacies can arise, and misclassifying a franchise or failing to comply with laws may lead to penalties. Finally, keep in mind that you’ll have limited control over franchisee operations, which could affect brand consistency if not managed properly. Frequently Asked Questions How Do I Turn My Business Into a Franchise? To turn your business into a franchise, start by evaluating its readiness, including profitability and market demand. Calculate development costs, which can range from $15,000 to $100,000, factoring in legal fees and necessary registrations. Protect your brand by registering trademarks and documenting processes. Create a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) outlining your company’s details, and develop thorough franchise systems, including an operations manual that covers training and quality standards. What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. Product refers to the goods or services that need a proven demand. Price involves setting competitive franchise fees and royalties, typically between 4-8% of revenues. Place focuses on selecting strategic locations based on market demand and demographics. Finally, Promotion encompasses marketing strategies to build brand awareness and drive sales, utilizing both local and national advertising efforts to support franchisees effectively. What Is the 7 Day Rule for Franchise? The 7 Day Rule mandates that franchisors must provide you with the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) at least seven days before you make any financial commitments or sign a franchise agreement. This rule guarantees you have enough time to review essential details about fees, obligations, and the franchisor’s financial performance. Use this period wisely to conduct thorough due diligence, consulting with legal and financial advisors to inform your investment decision effectively. Why Is It Only $10,000 to Open a Chick-Fil-A? Chick-fil-A charges only $10,000 to open a franchise since it greatly subsidizes startup costs. This includes expenses for restaurant construction, equipment, and inventory, which can exceed $1 million. By doing so, the company alleviates financial burdens on franchisees. Nevertheless, franchisees must operate their locations daily and can’t own multiple franchises. Although the 15% royalty fee is high, franchisees benefit from strong brand recognition and marketing support, enhancing their profitability. Conclusion Transforming your business into a franchise can reveal significant growth opportunities. By following the outlined steps—understanding franchising, evaluating readiness, protecting your intellectual property, and preparing crucial documents—you set a strong foundation for success. Remember to analyze financial implications and legal requirements during the development of a robust support system for franchisees. With careful planning and execution, you can create a thriving franchise network that maintains brand integrity and drives profitability, ensuring your business thrives in the competitive marketplace. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Make Your Business a Franchise: A Step-by-Step Guide" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you’re considering turning your business into a franchise, you’re initiating an expedition that can greatly expand your reach and profitability. Franchising requires a clear comprehension of operational standards, legal compliance, and financial planning. It’s not just about replicating your business model; it’s about creating a cohesive brand that franchisees can successfully operate. Grasping the crucial steps involved will help you navigate this complex process and set you up for long-term success. What’s the first step? Key Takeaways Assess your business’s profitability and operational processes to ensure it can be replicated by franchisees effectively. Protect your brand by registering trademarks and creating comprehensive brand guidelines to maintain consistency across franchises. Prepare a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) detailing essential business information and comply with legal requirements for franchise disclosure. Draft a Franchise Agreement outlining the rights, responsibilities, and financial obligations of both franchisor and franchisee to ensure clarity. Create a detailed Operations Manual that includes training materials and standard operating procedures to guide franchisees in daily operations. Understanding Franchising: What It Means for Your Business Franchising represents a strategic opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the market with a proven business model. By partnering with franchisees, you can license your successful concept, allowing others to operate under your established brand while paying royalties. To make your business a franchise, you’ll need a solid franchise business plan that outlines operational standards, training, and support. This differs from licensing, as it encompasses the entire business system. Franchising not merely enables quicker market entry but additionally utilizes franchisee capital for expansion, greatly impacting the economy, with the industry generating over $890 billion annually. Comprehending how to turn your business into a franchise involves ensuring consistency in operations and brand representation across multiple locations, which is essential for success. Types of Franchises: Which One Suits You? When considering which type of franchise might work best for you, it’s vital to grasp the various categories available. Business format franchises offer a complete operational blueprint, ideal for those who want to replicate a successful model, like McDonald’s fast-food chains. If you prefer managing one location, a single-unit franchise might suit you, whereas a multi-unit franchise allows you to operate several locations, boosting your potential revenue. Area development franchises enable rapid expansion in a designated region, and master franchises let you sub-franchise within a territory, managing new franchisees. Your choice depends on factors like scalability, desired control, and financial commitment. Grasping these options is fundamental when you learn how to make a franchise business plan that aligns with your goals. Assessing Your Business Readiness for Franchising Before franchising your business, it’s important to evaluate its overall health, focusing on profitability and consistent revenue. You likewise need to assess whether your business model can be easily replicated and taught, as this is critical for franchisees’ success. Finally, protecting your intellectual property is significant, ensuring that your brand and operations remain secure as you expand. Evaluate Business Health Evaluating your business health is a vital step in appraising your readiness for franchising, and it involves several key components. Start by analyzing your financial statements to guarantee consistent revenue and a solid customer base, which are fundamental for attracting potential franchisees. Next, evaluate your business model’s scalability; it should be replicable across multiple locations without significant operational challenges. Consider your brand strength and market presence, as these factors improve franchise appeal. Moreover, review customer demand and feedback to gauge interest in your products or services in other markets, indicating potential for new franchise locations. Finally, verify established systems and processes are in place, as they’re indispensable for training franchisees and maintaining operational consistency across all locations. Assess Replication Capability Analyzing your business’s replication capability is a vital step in determining its readiness for franchising. Start by evaluating your profitability and operational consistency; a successful franchise needs a reliable income stream and efficient systems. Next, evaluate customer interest in potential new locations to confirm there’s a market for expansion. It’s important to determine if your business model can be effectively taught to others; clear, documented processes are necessary for franchisees. Review your operational practices to verify they can be standardized across multiple locations, maintaining brand integrity and quality. Finally, conduct a feasibility analysis to validate that your business can support the additional costs of franchising, including legal fees, training materials, and ongoing franchisee support systems. Protect Intellectual Property Protecting your intellectual property is critical when preparing your business for franchising. You need to evaluate your trademarks and proprietary processes to guarantee brand integrity as you expand. Start by registering your trademarks with the USPTO, safeguarding your brand name and logo, which are fundamental assets in the franchise model. Moreover, create non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) for potential franchisees to protect sensitive information and proprietary training materials during the franchising process. It’s also essential to regularly review and update your intellectual property protections, adapting to market changes and guaranteeing compliance with legal standards. Protecting Your Intellectual Property: Essential Steps Protecting your intellectual property (IP) is crucial for your franchise’s success, as it safeguards your brand and its unique elements. By registering trademarks, you secure exclusive rights and strengthen brand recognition. At the same time, implementing guidelines guarantees uniformity across all franchise operations. Furthermore, maintaining confidentiality with trade secrets and business processes through non-disclosure agreements helps protect your competitive edge in the market. Importance of Trademark Registration Even though you may have a great business idea, securing your brand’s identity through trademark registration is crucial for establishing a solid foundation in the marketplace. Trademark registration protects your business name, logo, and slogan from unauthorized use, ensuring your brand integrity. It can greatly improve your franchise’s value, attracting potential franchisees and investors. Consider the following benefits of trademark registration: Provides legal presumptions of ownership and exclusive rights. Makes it easier to enforce your rights against infringers. Helps prevent loss of brand recognition. Allows you to claim damages in case of infringement. The application process requires proper documentation and fees, so it’s wise to start early. Safeguarding Trade Secrets When you own a franchise, safeguarding your trade secrets is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the market. Start by identifying and documenting your trade secrets, such as recipes, processes, and customer lists, to establish a clear comprehension of what needs protection. Implement non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with employees and provide training on confidentiality to guarantee proprietary information stays secure. Furthermore, consider registering trademarks for your brand names, logos, and slogans to prevent unauthorized use that might dilute your brand identity. Regularly auditing your intellectual property practices can help identify vulnerabilities and assure your protective measures are effective. Consulting legal counsel specializing in intellectual property can provide valuable guidance on best practices and maneuvering any potential legal challenges. Developing Brand Guidelines Establishing brand guidelines is a fundamental step in protecting your intellectual property and ensuring consistency across all franchise locations. These guidelines provide a framework for how your brand assets should be used, which is critical for maintaining brand integrity and reputation. To effectively create brand guidelines, consider the following: Secure trademarks for your brand name, logo, and slogan to prevent unauthorized use. Document proprietary processes and training materials to safeguard trade secrets. Establish clear protocols for franchisees regarding the use of brand assets in marketing and operations. Regularly review and update your intellectual property protections to comply with legal standards. Preparing Your Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) Preparing your Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is a fundamental step in launching a successful franchise. This legally required document provides potential franchisees with important information about your business, including its history, financial performance, and obligations. The FDD typically consists of 23 sections covering topics like franchise fees, territory rights, and your obligations to franchisees. Preparing the FDD usually takes 30-60 days, so it’s vital to make sure all information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid legal issues. Moreover, fourteen states require the FDD to be registered, which involves state-specific requirements and fees. It’s critical to work with legal counsel experienced in franchise law to create a compliant FDD, as mistakes can lead to significant penalties and jeopardize your franchising efforts. Drafting a Comprehensive Franchise Agreement Drafting a thorough franchise agreement is crucial for establishing a clear understanding between you and your franchisees. This document defines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, ensuring compliance with operational standards, fees, and territory rights. A detailed agreement typically covers a 5 to 10-year term, including renewal conditions, termination clauses, and non-compliance provisions. Key elements include: Royalty structures and payment timelines Penalties for late payments Adherence to federal and state regulations Guidelines for brand and operational standards Creating an Operations Manual for Franchisees An operations manual serves as a foundational tool for franchisees, providing them with the guidance needed to run their businesses effectively. This thorough document typically ranges from 100 to 300 pages, detailing vital day-to-day operations, brand standards, and procedures. It’s imperative to keep the manual confidential, granting access only to franchisees, concurrently regularly updating it to reflect evolving practices. Incorporate digital resources, like links to training videos, to improve the learning experience. The manual should cover key areas such as marketing strategies, customer service protocols, inventory management, and quality control measures. Moreover, solicit regular feedback from franchisees to continuously improve the manual, ensuring it remains relevant and addresses real-world challenges they face in the field. Financial Considerations: Costs and Budgeting When considering a franchise, it’s essential to understand the financial terrain, starting with initial investment costs that can range from $10,000 to $5 million. You’ll need to account for ongoing operational costs, which include royalty fees typically between 4-8% of your revenues, in addition to budgeting for working capital to cover early expenses. Having a clear financial plan helps guarantee you’re prepared for the costs associated with franchise development and state-specific registration requirements. Initial Investment Breakdown Comprehending the initial investment required to start a franchise is fundamental for anyone considering this business model. Typically, this investment ranges from $10,000 to $5 million, but most franchises fall between $100,000 and $300,000. You should likewise account for franchise development costs, including: Legal fees and documentation Marketing assets Training materials Additional working capital These costs can total between $15,000 and $100,000, so budgeting carefully is significant. The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) provides a detailed cost breakdown in Item 7, which is critical for grasping your financial obligations. Ongoing Operational Costs Grasping ongoing operational costs is critical for franchisees to maintain profitability and guarantee the long-term success of their business. You’ll face royalty fees, typically ranging from 4-8% of gross sales, paid to the franchisor for continued support. Furthermore, budget for marketing contributions, usually 1-3% of revenue, to fund national advertising campaigns. Regular expenses like lease or rent, utilities, insurance, employee salaries, and inventory can vary based on location and business type. It’s important to have a financial cushion for unexpected costs; studies recommend keeping 20-30% of your initial investment as working capital for at least the first six months. Comprehending both initial and ongoing expenses is critical for ensuring your franchise’s long-term sustainability and profitability. Financial Planning Strategies Effective financial planning strategies are essential for franchisees aiming to navigate the intricacies of costs and budgeting successfully. Start by calculating your initial investment, which typically ranges from $10,000 to $5 million. Develop a thorough financial model that includes: Legal fees and training materials Marketing assets and operational costs Ongoing royalty payments of 4-8% of revenues Additional working capital for the first 2-3 years Understanding state requirements for Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDD) is equally important, as some states mandate registration before selling franchises. Developing a Franchise Sales Strategy How can you effectively develop a franchise sales strategy that attracts the right entrepreneurs? Start by showcasing the unique value of your business model, shifting focus from traditional product sales techniques. Utilize franchise brokers, online portals, and referrals from satisfied franchisees to widen your reach. Initially, target local entrepreneurs; having 2-3 franchisees nearby allows for easier support and system refinement. The success of these early franchisees will greatly influence your franchise’s reputation, so select and support them wisely. Finally, implement a robust strategy that includes compelling marketing materials, testimonials from successful franchisees, and clear communication about the support provided to new franchise owners. This approach guarantees you attract motivated individuals who align with your brand’s vision. Navigating Legal Requirements and Compliance Steering through the legal requirements and compliance for franchising can feel overwhelming, especially since multiple regulations exist at both federal and state levels. You’ll need to prepare a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), which outlines your financial health and obligations. Some key elements to take into account include: FDD Preparation: It usually takes 30-60 days to draft your FDD. State Registration: Fourteen states, including California and New York, require FDD registration with unique requirements. Legal Expertise: Hiring a franchise attorney is essential to navigate compliance and avoid penalties. Budgeting: Initial legal costs typically range from $18,000 to $45,000 for drafting the FDD and other documents. Understanding these aspects will streamline your franchising process and guarantee compliance. Evaluating the Pros and Cons of Franchising When considering franchising, it’s crucial to weigh both the advantages and disadvantages to determine if it’s the right business model for you. On the one hand, franchising allows for rapid growth without you needing to invest in every new location, as franchisees provide the capital. You’ll also benefit from ongoing royalties, typically between 4-8% of their revenues, creating a passive income stream. Nevertheless, significant upfront costs can range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more. Furthermore, legal intricacies can arise, and misclassifying a franchise or failing to comply with laws may lead to penalties. Finally, keep in mind that you’ll have limited control over franchisee operations, which could affect brand consistency if not managed properly. Frequently Asked Questions How Do I Turn My Business Into a Franchise? To turn your business into a franchise, start by evaluating its readiness, including profitability and market demand. Calculate development costs, which can range from $15,000 to $100,000, factoring in legal fees and necessary registrations. Protect your brand by registering trademarks and documenting processes. Create a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) outlining your company’s details, and develop thorough franchise systems, including an operations manual that covers training and quality standards. What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. Product refers to the goods or services that need a proven demand. Price involves setting competitive franchise fees and royalties, typically between 4-8% of revenues. Place focuses on selecting strategic locations based on market demand and demographics. Finally, Promotion encompasses marketing strategies to build brand awareness and drive sales, utilizing both local and national advertising efforts to support franchisees effectively. What Is the 7 Day Rule for Franchise? The 7 Day Rule mandates that franchisors must provide you with the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) at least seven days before you make any financial commitments or sign a franchise agreement. This rule guarantees you have enough time to review essential details about fees, obligations, and the franchisor’s financial performance. Use this period wisely to conduct thorough due diligence, consulting with legal and financial advisors to inform your investment decision effectively. Why Is It Only $10,000 to Open a Chick-Fil-A? Chick-fil-A charges only $10,000 to open a franchise since it greatly subsidizes startup costs. This includes expenses for restaurant construction, equipment, and inventory, which can exceed $1 million. By doing so, the company alleviates financial burdens on franchisees. Nevertheless, franchisees must operate their locations daily and can’t own multiple franchises. Although the 15% royalty fee is high, franchisees benefit from strong brand recognition and marketing support, enhancing their profitability. Conclusion Transforming your business into a franchise can reveal significant growth opportunities. By following the outlined steps—understanding franchising, evaluating readiness, protecting your intellectual property, and preparing crucial documents—you set a strong foundation for success. Remember to analyze financial implications and legal requirements during the development of a robust support system for franchisees. With careful planning and execution, you can create a thriving franchise network that maintains brand integrity and drives profitability, ensuring your business thrives in the competitive marketplace. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Make Your Business a Franchise: A Step-by-Step Guide" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Amazon can deliver anything—including, increasingly, eyeballs to advertisers. And now, its upcoming slate of content, including an adaptation of the best-selling novel Fourth Wing and a list of young adult content, is sure to have advertisers excited. The e-commerce giant held its annual Upfront event at the Beacon Theater in New York City on Monday night, showcasing new TV shows, movies, sports, and podcasting content destined for its Prime Video streaming platform and podcasting platforms. While there were big names in attendance—the event included appearances by Oprah Winfrey, Chris Pratt, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Michael B. Jordan, among others—what stole the show was the immensity of Amazon’s advertising apparatus. Alan Moss, vice president of global advertising sales at Amazon Ads, said users watched 17% more content on its streaming platforms over the past year than during the preceding year. Tanner Elton, VP of advertising sales at Amazon, noted that the company had penetrated 90% of U.S. households in one form or another, and as a result, had reams of data and customer insights to draw on for advertisers. One Amazon exec even noted that it actively “works backwards from the customer” to create content, analyzing their consumption habits, and then working to create content that’s likely to resonate. That content is in theory more likely to convert for advertisers. And in an ongoing expansion of its entertainment offerings, Amazon is continuing to up the ante on sports content, for instance, and expanding its exclusive podcast offerings, producing more TV shows and movies. Amazon said that the NFL Wild Card playoff game, streamed exclusively on Prime earlier this year, drew a record 31.6 million viewers. Not only that, but those who watched it were on average seven years younger than viewers of NFL playoff games broadcast on linear TV, and 41% more likely to engage with advertiser content in some shape or form. What new programming is coming to Prime? As for the new and upcoming content? Here’s a brief rundown of some of the projects announced at the event: The Oprah Podcast will be distributed exclusively on Wondery starting in July, and produce two new episodes per week. Duke University basketball signed an exclusive streaming deal with Prime, and next season, three high-profile games will be shown via the platform: Matchups against UConn, Michigan and Gonzaga. Amazon is leaning hard into young adult (YA) content, with new seasons or content for Off-Campus, The Summer I Turned Pretty, and others. The hit show The Terminal List, starring Chris Pratt, is getting a second season. An adaptation of the 1980s series Voltron is in the works, as is an adaptation of the video game series God of War. A new series based on Bladerunner is also in the works, called Bladerunner 2099. Oscar-winning actor Michael B. Jordan announced a trio of projects: The Greatest, a series focused on Muhammad Ali; Delphi, a series set in the Creed and Rocky universe; and an adaptation of the best-selling novel Fourth Wing, by Rebecca Yarros. View the full article