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When fintech company Block laid off 40% off its workforce last week, CEO Jack Dorsey explained the decision in a memo to employees that he also shared on social media. He was eliminating more than 4,000 jobs in the name of AI efficiency, he said, even though the company’s profitability was increasing. Though much of his letter was addressed to those who were losing their jobs, he ended with a note to those who’d be staying on. “What I’m asking of you is to build with me,” Dorsey wrote. “We’re going to build this company with intelligence at the core of everything we do. How we work, how we create, how we serve our customers.” But one Block employee who survived the layoffs, Naoko Takeda, chose to leave the company anyway. She matched Dorsey’s post with a viral letter of her own, sharing that she left her position as a data scientist for Cash App, one of Block’s subsidiaries, just a day after the layoffs occurred. “I figured that a company able to Thanos-snap away half of their employees doesn’t need two-week’s notice from me, just another IC that could easily have been in that 40%,” Takeda wrote on LinkedIn (where her profile’s headline now reads, “i’m just a girl”). Takeda says she found out within a 10-minute timeframe that 70% of her immediate and sister teams would be getting the chop. “On my immediate team, the only people left were me and a new hire who had started 3 days ago,” she said. “I felt immense dread and survivor’s guilt.” That guilt wasn’t helped by Block’s retention offer to remaining employees, which Takeda claimed in her case included a pay increase of around 75% plus a hefty one-time bonus that would bring the total up to 90% increase. “Basically, I saw my company discard half of my peers and double my pay. That’s not an honor. It feels shameful and dehumanizing. I’d rather see my peers keep their jobs than personally profit from their trauma,” she said. Fast Company has reached out to Block for comment on the details mentioned in Takeda’s post. After hearing the news, Takeda says she even asked if she could be included in the layoff. “Of course, everyone answered ‘no,’” she said. “Because really, why should you get to choose to leave with dignity when you see your entire team — the people you worked hard to build a positive relationship with over the past year and a half — disappear? But here, take the fat paycheck that’s well above market rate, because we actually value *you*!” In his memo, Dorsey claimed that implementing AI at Block was “enabling a new way of working,” but Takeda painted a different picture of what AI usage looked like behind the scenes. “In the last year, AI was shoved down everyone’s throats. Everything was about AI. We were told to use AI as much as possible,” she wrote. “It’s nothing short of dystopian to be forced to employ the very tools that accelerate the disappearance of the jobs on which our livelihoods depend.” After the layoffs, Block employs an estimated 5,900 full-time workers. Per data from the SEC, that’s almost the same workforce the company had in 2020, before a mid-pandemic hiring boom skyrocketed its headcount to 12,985 by 2023. Without Dorsey’s AI-based explanation, a return to pre-COVID numbers might look like a natural correction by a company that had overhired—though after his memo, the actual logic behind Block’s layoffs is less certain. “Personally, I saw very limited gains in productivity from AI, nothing nearly profound enough to justify tossing out half of the company’s workforce along with their institutional knowledge and expertise (bus factor, anyone?),” Takeda continued. “So 40% of employees had no choice but to take the severance and leave. The remaining 60% of us were offered fat paychecks to stick around and clean up the mess our ‘leadership’ created, all so we can continue contributing to a future where AI leaves us all unemployed. No thanks, I’m out!” The comments on Takeda’s post are filled with LinkedIn users praising her honesty, solidarity, and bravery in standing up to her former employer. “Thank you for speaking where so many of us cannot, for making hard choices, for leading with humanity and empathy,” one commenter wrote. “Thank you so much for sharing this,” commented another. “It’s so gratifying and validating to see people push back against Block’s claim that AI is making the company productive enough to cut 40% of its staff.” View the full article

Chicago-based mortgage lender Rate is partnering with Westlake Financial to offer in-app auto loans, advancing its push into product diversification and broader household financial services. View the full article

UK boss Jon Holt beaten in race to lead 276,000-person Big Four firm internationally View the full article

Officials and analysts say joint operation with US seeks to destroy key capabilities of Islamic regimeView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Apple just announced new Mac products, and among them is a new M5 MacBook Air. As is often the case after such announcements, the previous model is starting to get some discounts: The 15-inch M4 MacBook Air with 16GB Unified Memory and 256GB SSD Storage is currently $999, a $200 discount we haven't seen since January, according to price-tracking tools. Even at full price, this M4 offers remarkable value for your money, even compared to earlier models. 15-inch M4 MacBook Air 15.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage, 12MP Center Stage Camera. $999.00 at Amazon $1,199.00 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $999.00 at Amazon $1,199.00 Save $200.00 Although this is the entry-level MacBook Air (albeit with a larger screen size), it comes with 16GB of RAM, twice what the previous generation's basic model came with. This is enough to take on intensive applications right now and for many years to come. It is equipped with a 15.3-inch "Liquid Retina" display with a resolution of 2,560 by 1,664, a P3 wide color gamut, and a maximum brightness of 500 nits. You'll also get an excellent backlit keyboard with Touch ID, Wi-Fi 6E support, and great speakers and microphones. The 12MP camera comes with Center Stage, a feature that debuted on iPads and on the M4 MacBook Pro. It allows the camera to follow your face as you move around the frame during video calls. There are two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, which means you can extend to up to two 6K external monitors. For a "basic" laptop, the 15-inch M4 MacBook Air is arguably better than it needed to be, and is a much better value than the Pro, according to Lifehacker Senior Tech Editor Jake Peterson. If you factor in the discount, it really is the best MacBook for most people. If you would prefer other storage, RAM, or size models, they'll likely also go on sale soon. But if this 15-inch is the one you've been eyeing, it's a good time to snatch it up. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $119.00 (List Price $179.00) Samsung Galaxy S26, Unlocked Android Smartphone + $100 Gift Card, 512GB, Powerful Processor, Galaxy AI, Immersive Viewing, Durable Battery, 2026, Black — $899.99 (List Price $1,199.99) Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 AI Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds + $20 Amazon Gift Card — $179.99 (List Price $199.99) Google Pixel 10a 128GB 6.3" Unlocked Smartphone + $100 Gift Card — $499.00 (List Price $599.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $329.00 (List Price $349.00) 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) Amazon Fire TV Soundbar — $99.99 (List Price $119.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

For President Donald The President, some of the sharpest criticism he’s faced in the early days of the Iran war has come from once-loyal media figures far more accustomed to singing his praises. Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly, and Matt Walsh are among those to express discontent. It’s been noticed in the White House, which has been playing defense on social media and in interviews. To be sure, these critics are the minority of the media MAGAsphere, where Fox News’ biggest stars remain cheerleaders. But their words illustrate conservative media’s influence and how valuable it is to The President when all runs as a well-oiled machine — and, by contrast, how much of a problem it can be if it fractures. Much of the criticism has centered on Israel’s influence on The President’s decision to go to war. Carlson, the former Fox News star who has built his own independent operation, told ABC News over the weekend that the attack was “absolutely disgusting and evil.” “It’s hard to say this, but the United States didn’t make the decision here. Benjamin Netanyahu did,” Carlson said on his podcast, referring to the Israeli prime minister. ‘No one should have to die for a foreign country’ Kelly, another former Fox anchor gone indie, said about American casualties on her show that “no one should have to die for a foreign country.” “I don’t think those service members died for the United States,” Kelly said. “I think they died for Iran or Israel.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s remarks prior to a Capitol Hill briefing were a flashpoint. Rubio said that The President had given the go-ahead for the operation knowing that Israel was prepared to strike and he feared retaliation from Iran against U.S. bases in the region. “We knew that if we didn’t preemptively go after them, before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties,” Rubio said. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said that if the The President administration had not acted, lawmakers would have wondered why. Walsh, a Daily Wire host, wrote on X that Rubio was “flat out telling us that we’re in a war with Iran because Israel forced our hand. This is basically the worst possible thing he could have said.” The Republican president told journalist Rachael Bade in an interview that he did not believe that the opinions of Carlson and Kelly are shared by his base of supporters. “I think that MAGA is The President,” he said. “MAGA’s not the other two.” Republican former U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, who has fashioned herself as an influencer and media figure since bitterly breaking with The President, said on Kelly’s podcast that she was furious over the U.S. military action. “Make America Great Again,” Greene says, “was supposed to be America first, not Israel first.” Will The President supporters return to the fold? The President is probably right to think that most of his supporters will return to the fold if they’re unhappy with the Iran attack, said Jason Zengerle, author of “Hated By All the Right People: Tucker Carlson and the Unraveling of the Conservative Mind.” Given the consistency of his views on the topic, Carlson is probably the most important of The President’s conservative critics, Zengerle said. “If the war does go badly, I think it strengthens the hand of someone like Tucker,” he said. “All of this is a debate about what happens after The President is gone anyway.” Carlson was at the center of a controversy last fall over antisemitism in conservative media for giving attention to polarizing influencer Nick Fuentes with an interview on Carlson’s podcast. Fuentes has called Adolf Hitler “cool,” suggested there is a genocide against white people and said his young followers are “tired of hearing about slavery and the Holocaust.” There have been cracks in The President’s conservative media support prior to Iran, notably with the vast and sprawling narratives around the Jeffrey Epstein report. But this week’s criticism unleashed some startling internal vitriol. Ben Shapiro, of “The Daily Wire,” called Kelly “wildly inconsistent” and a coward. Elisabeth Hasselbeck denounced Kelly for her suggestion that American servicemen died for Israel. “How dare you?” Hasselbeck said Tuesday on “The View.” Fox News’ Sean Hannity said that Carlson was “not the person I knew when he was at Fox.” Kelly denounced Hannity as a supplicant who “would never say anything other than to puff Donald The President up.” It’s worth remembering that most of what readers and viewers are seeing in conservative media supports The President. Howard Polskin, publisher of The Righting newsletter, estimated Tuesday that about 95% of what he’s monitored on websites is behind the president. “The President Stands Tall on Iran,” headlined The American Spectator. The most popular personalities on Fox News — still the top dog among conservatives — continue to be supportive. Hannity, Brian Kilmeade and Mark Levin were among the most vociferous leading up to the attack and after. “The president has shown more courage, and this Pentagon, Pete Hegseth’s Pentagon, has executed brilliantly once again,” said Kilmeade, the “Fox & Friends” co-host. “I think that MAGA gives him the benefit of the doubt, no question about it,” Sean Spicer, the White House press secretary during the early part of The President’s first term, said on his podcast Tuesday. “I think he’s built up a ton of credibility with the base. … Look, you’ve got PTSD from a lot of our former leaders between Iraq and Afghanistan in particular, who only know forever wars, and so I get it. But this president has proven now twice that he knows what he’s doing.” Criticism of war rollout draws specific White House rebuke The podcast influencers who helped to drive many young men into The President’s camp during the 2024 campaign have been largely quiet. Some of Walsh’s criticism this week appeared to sting so much that it drew a specific rebuke from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. “So far we’ve heard that although we killed the whole Iranian regime, this was not a regime change war,” Walsh wrote on Monday. “And although we obliterated their nuclear program, we had to do this because of their nuclear program. And although Iran was not planning any attacks on the U.S., they also might have been, depending on who you ask. And although we are not fighting this war to free the Iranian people, they are now free, or might be, depending on who seizes power, and we have no idea who that will be. The messaging on this thing is, to put it mildly, confused.” Leavitt posted a lengthy response on X explaining The President’s rationale. “Simply put,” she wrote, “the terrorist Iranian regime would not say yes to peace.” —David Bauder, Meg Kinnard, and Ali Swenson, Associated Press writers View the full article

The U.S. stock market is rebounding Wednesday from two days of punishing swings after oil prices stopped spiking and reports gave encouraging updates on the economy. The S&P 500 rose 0.6% in midday trading and is on track to claw back most of its loss since the war with Iran began. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 237 points, or 0.5%, as of 11:15 a.m. Eastern time, and the Nasdaq composite was 1.1% higher. The strength followed a scary start to Wednesday, when South Korea’s Kospi stock index plunged 12.1% for its worst day in history. Uncertainty about the war has sent prices in financial markets careening up and down hour by hour this week, with most taking their cues from what the price of oil is doing. Oil prices moderated as trading moved westward from Seoul and the rest of Asia to Europe. After briefly topping $84 per barrel, the price for a barrel of Brent crude, the international standard, eased back to $81.49, a 0.1% rise. A barrel of benchmark U.S. crude fell 0.6% to $74.11. Stocks also got a boost from increased hopes for the U.S. economy. One report said growth for U.S. businesses in the real estate, financial and other services industries accelerated last month at the fastest pace since the summer of 2022. Encouragingly for inflation, it also said prices for such businesses are increasing at a slower rate, at least before the war with Iran began. A second report suggested U.S. employers outside of the government picked up their hiring last month. That could be a hopeful signal for the more comprehensive report coming Friday from the U.S. government about the strength of the job market. In financial markets, worries are centered on how long the war with Iran could last, how high inflation will go because of more expensive oil and how much corporate profits will sink because of it. The U.S. stock market has a history of shaking off military conflicts in the Middle East relatively quickly, though that comes with a caveat that oil prices don’t jump too high. That has some professional investors suggesting patience through the volatility, at least when it comes to financial markets. Not everyone is so optimistic, though. “I think the Iran situation is getting out of hand, and I think that U.S. President Donald The President miscalculated enormously,” said Francis Lun, CEO of Venturesmart Asia. “The situation is very grim.” On Wall Street, a mix of companies helped drive Wednesday’s rebound. Stocks enmeshed in the crypto industry climbed as bitcoin’s price rebounded back toward $73,000. Coinbase Global jumped 14.5%, and Robinhood Markets rallied 8.8%. Retailers and travel companies also strengthened with hopes that a solid economy and an easing for jumps in gasoline prices will mean their customers may have more to spend. Ross Stores climbed 7.2% after it also reported better profit and revenue for the latest quarter than analysts expected and said it’s entering 2026 with “solid momentum.” Expedia Group rose 3.9%. Big Tech stocks, meanwhile, were the strongest forces lifting the market. Nvidia added 1.2%, and Amazon rose 3.5%. Because they’re among the biggest stocks in the U.S. market in terms of total value, their movements carry more weight on the S&P 500. In stock markets abroad, indexes rebounded in Europe following sharp drops in Asia. France’s CAC 40 rose 1.2%, and Germany’s DAX climbed 1.8%. That followed losses of 2% for Hong Kong’s Hang Seng and 3.6% for Japan’s Nikkei 225, along with Seoul’s historic plunge. In the bond market, Treasury yields ticked higher after jumping early in the week with worries about worsening inflation. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.07% from 4.06% late Tuesday. Wednesday’s strong reports on the economy were welcome news for the Federal Reserve, whose job it is to keep the U.S. job market healthy and inflation low. The Fed’s job has become more difficult because of the jump in oil prices, which is pushing upward on already high inflation. The Fed could keep interest rates high to keep a lid on inflation. But high interest rates would also keep borrowing costs more expensive for U.S. households and companies, grinding down on the economy. The central bank had earlier been on track to resume its cuts to interest rates later this year, in hopes of giving a boost to the job market and economy. Because of the war, traders are pushing back their forecasts for when the Fed could begin cutting rates again. —Stan Choe, AP business writer AP Writers Matt Ott, Kim Tong-hyung and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed View the full article

E-commerce personalization involves tailoring the online shopping experience to match individual customer preferences and behaviors. By analyzing past purchases and browsing habits, businesses can provide customized recommendations that improve user engagement. This practice is critical, as a significant portion of consumers now expect personalized interactions. Comprehending how to effectively implement these strategies can lead to increased sales and customer loyalty. So, what specific approaches can you take to optimize your personalization efforts? Key Takeaways E-commerce personalization tailors online shopping experiences using customer data, enhancing engagement and satisfaction. It significantly boosts conversion rates, with 80% of consumers more likely to purchase from personalized experiences. Personalized product recommendations can increase purchase likelihood by up to 80%, driving sales and customer loyalty. Businesses that implement effective personalization strategies often see revenue growth, with 93% of B2B professionals reporting positive results. Lack of personalization can deter 66% of consumers from making purchases, highlighting its critical importance in e-commerce. Understanding E-Commerce Personalization Comprehending e-commerce personalization is essential for any business looking to thrive in today’s digital marketplace. E-commerce personalization customizes online shopping experiences to individual customers by utilizing data from past purchases and browsing behavior. This means you can display relevant content and product recommendations that resonate with your audience. For instance, ecommerce personalization examples include personalized product suggestions and dynamic content that adapts based on demographics and preferences. Approximately 71% of consumers expect these customized experiences, illustrating the demand for ecommerce customization and personalization. Implementing personalization software for ecommerce can improve customer satisfaction and engagement, resulting in higher conversion rates and reduced cart abandonment. Significantly, 66% of consumers are deterred from purchasing when content lacks personalization. Importance of Personalization in E-Commerce Personalization in e-commerce is more than just a trend; it’s a strategic necessity for businesses aiming to thrive in a competitive environment. By utilizing e-commerce personalization, you can improve customer experiences through customized product recommendations based on individual preferences and browsing behavior. Research shows that 80% of consumers are more likely to purchase when brands offer personalized experiences, highlighting the vital role of customization in e-commerce. Furthermore, 66% of consumers are deterred by non-personalized content, making customized strategies fundamental for conversion rates. Approximately 65% of customers remain loyal to businesses that provide personalized experiences, which underscores the importance of nurturing long-term relationships. Even in B2B markets, 93% of professionals report revenue growth from effective personalization efforts, demonstrating that both B2C and B2B markets increasingly expect personalized interactions. In short, embracing e-commerce product personalization can greatly impact your business success. Examples of E-Commerce Personalization When you explore e-commerce personalization, you’ll find various effective strategies that can considerably improve the shopping experience. One popular method is customized product recommendations based on your browsing history, which can boost conversion rates by up to 80%. Personalized homepages also augment user engagement by displaying content relevant to your past interactions, leading to higher retention rates. Another effective strategy is cart abandonment emails, reminding you of items left in your cart and recovering nearly 10% of lost sales. Dynamic content, such as website banners that change according to your demographics and behavior, can increase click-through rates by 25%. In addition, targeted discounts based on your purchase history can raise average order values by up to 15%. These examples of customization in e-commerce illustrate how personalization can create a more engaging and profitable shopping experience on your favorite ecommerce sites. How to Implement Personalization Strategies To successfully implement personalization strategies in e-commerce, businesses must start by analyzing customer data, which includes browsing history and past purchases. This analysis allows you to create customized product recommendations that improve user engagement. Segmenting your audience into smaller groups based on demographics and behavior can lead to more targeted marketing experiences, greatly boosting customer loyalty. Consider these key strategies: Utilize dynamic content for personalized landing pages and product displays. Employ targeted email campaigns featuring bespoke offers and reminders. Monitor metrics like conversion rates and average order value. Regularly adjust strategies based on performance data. Cultivate stronger connections by comprehending individual customer preferences. Benefits of E-Commerce Personalization E-commerce personalization offers significant advantages that can transform the way businesses interact with customers. By customizing experiences and recommendations, you can increase conversion rates by up to 80%. This personalization cultivates deeper connections, leading to a 65% boost in customer loyalty, which is crucial in today’s competitive market. Moreover, B2B professionals report a remarkable 93% revenue growth from personalized marketing efforts, highlighting the financial benefits of these customized experiences. When you provide personalized product recommendations, you can raise the average order value (AOV) by 10-30%, as customers are more likely to purchase related items. In addition, about 66% of consumers are deterred from buying when faced with non-personalized content, emphasizing the critical need for customized experiences that meet modern buyer expectations. Adopting e-commerce personalization not only improves customer satisfaction but also drives significant business growth. The Role of Technology in Personalization Even though many businesses recognize the importance of personalization in e-commerce, the role of technology in this process is often underestimated. Advanced algorithms and data analytics are crucial, as they help deliver customized product recommendations based on your behavior and preferences. Product Information Management (PIM) systems act as the backbone of these strategies, efficiently managing product data across various channels. An integrated Content Management System (CMS) personalizes your experience in real-time, adapting content based on your interactions. Omnichannel personalization guarantees a seamless experience between online and offline interactions, reinforcing brand identity. In addition, artificial intelligence (AI) analyzes vast amounts of customer data, optimizing recommendations and improving operational efficiency. It transforms shopping into a uniquely personal experience. It bridges the gap between online and offline interactions. It anticipates your needs before you even realize them. It creates a consistent brand identity across platforms. It improves the efficiency of your shopping experience. Tips for Optimizing Your Personalization Efforts To optimize your personalization efforts, it’s crucial to understand your audience more deeply by segmenting them into targeted groups. Utilizing data effectively can inform your strategies, such as tailoring product recommendations based on customer behavior and preferences. Regular testing and iteration of your approach will help you refine your tactics and guarantee they resonate with your audience. Understand Your Audience Comprehension of your audience is the cornerstone of effective personalization in e-commerce, as it directly influences how well you can tailor shopping experiences. By segmenting your audience based on demographics, interests, and behaviors, you can create targeted content that resonates more profoundly. Utilizing browsing history and past purchases can inform personalized recommendations, considerably boosting conversion rates. Gathering explicit feedback through surveys or quizzes offers insights into preferences, ensuring your strategies align with modern buyer expectations. Analyzing customer data reveals patterns that help you craft dynamic content and targeted promotions, which nurtures loyalty and increases average order values. Understand their needs Acknowledge their preferences Anticipate their desires Engage emotionally Build lasting relationships Utilize Data Effectively Effective utilization of data is critical for optimizing your e-commerce personalization efforts, as it allows you to create customized experiences that meet customer expectations. To achieve this, start by gathering thorough customer data, including browsing history and past purchases. Segment your audience into smaller groups based on shared characteristics, which enables you to deliver more relevant marketing messages. Leverage advanced analytics and AI tools to process real-time data for dynamic personalization that adjusts as customers interact with your site. Implement personalized product recommendations, as studies show they can boost purchase likelihood by up to 80%. Finally, regularly monitor metrics like conversion rates and average order value to refine your strategies and guarantee ongoing improvement in your personalization efforts. Test and Iterate Once you’ve gathered and analyzed customer data to improve your e-commerce personalization, the next step involves testing and iterating your strategies to guarantee they effectively resonate with your audience. Regularly analyze feedback to spot trends and refine your personalization efforts. Implement A/B testing for various tactics, like product recommendations and email campaigns, to determine what drives engagement. Use analytics tools to track key performance indicators, adjusting based on conversion rates and average order value. Continuously segment your audience by behavioral patterns, ensuring your marketing remains relevant. Experiment with dynamic content variations and measure their impact on user satisfaction. Discover what truly matters to your customers Uncover hidden preferences and desires Create compelling experiences that resonate Build trust through customized communications Nurture lasting relationships with personalized touchpoints Frequently Asked Questions Why Is Personalization Important in E-Commerce? Personalization in e-commerce is vital as it greatly enhances conversion rates and encourages customer loyalty. When you provide customized experiences, about 65% of consumers are more likely to stick with your brand. Conversely, non-personalized content can deter 66% of potential buyers, leading to lost sales. Consumers now expect personalized recommendations, and when they don’t receive them, 76% express dissatisfaction, indicating that effective personalization strategies are fundamental for revenue growth and brand success. What Does It Mean When Etsy Asks for Personalization? When Etsy asks for personalization, it means tailoring your shopping experience based on your preferences. By analyzing your favorite items and past purchases, Etsy recommends products that fit your unique tastes. This approach improves engagement, as you discover items that resonate with your interests. Personalization includes customized search results and targeted marketing messages, which can greatly increase your likelihood of making a purchase as you create a more enjoyable shopping experience for you. What Is E-Commerce and Why Is It Important? E-commerce is the buying and selling of goods and services online, allowing you to shop conveniently from anywhere at any time. Its significance lies in the global reach it provides businesses, with sales projected to exceed $6 trillion by 2024. E-commerce improves customer experiences through features like online payments and personalized recommendations, driving customer loyalty. As a result, businesses can achieve significant revenue growth, making e-commerce vital in today’s economy. What Are the 4 D’s of Personalization? The 4 D’s of personalization are crucial for creating customized customer experiences. Data involves collecting and analyzing customer information to inform strategies. Dynamic personalization adjusts content in real-time based on user interactions, keeping the experience relevant. Delight surprises customers with unexpected offers, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. Finally, Design guarantees personalized elements are seamlessly integrated into the overall user interface, creating a cohesive and engaging shopping experience that meets individual needs effectively. Conclusion In conclusion, e-commerce personalization is vital for enhancing customer experiences and driving sales. By tailoring interactions based on individual preferences and behaviors, businesses can greatly improve engagement and conversion rates. Implementing effective personalization strategies not merely encourages customer loyalty but furthermore provides a competitive edge in the crowded online marketplace. As technology continues to evolve, staying updated on personalization techniques will be fundamental for businesses aiming to thrive in the dynamic world of e-commerce. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "What Is E-Commerce Personalization and Why It Matters?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

E-commerce personalization involves tailoring the online shopping experience to match individual customer preferences and behaviors. By analyzing past purchases and browsing habits, businesses can provide customized recommendations that improve user engagement. This practice is critical, as a significant portion of consumers now expect personalized interactions. Comprehending how to effectively implement these strategies can lead to increased sales and customer loyalty. So, what specific approaches can you take to optimize your personalization efforts? Key Takeaways E-commerce personalization tailors online shopping experiences using customer data, enhancing engagement and satisfaction. It significantly boosts conversion rates, with 80% of consumers more likely to purchase from personalized experiences. Personalized product recommendations can increase purchase likelihood by up to 80%, driving sales and customer loyalty. Businesses that implement effective personalization strategies often see revenue growth, with 93% of B2B professionals reporting positive results. Lack of personalization can deter 66% of consumers from making purchases, highlighting its critical importance in e-commerce. Understanding E-Commerce Personalization Comprehending e-commerce personalization is essential for any business looking to thrive in today’s digital marketplace. E-commerce personalization customizes online shopping experiences to individual customers by utilizing data from past purchases and browsing behavior. This means you can display relevant content and product recommendations that resonate with your audience. For instance, ecommerce personalization examples include personalized product suggestions and dynamic content that adapts based on demographics and preferences. Approximately 71% of consumers expect these customized experiences, illustrating the demand for ecommerce customization and personalization. Implementing personalization software for ecommerce can improve customer satisfaction and engagement, resulting in higher conversion rates and reduced cart abandonment. Significantly, 66% of consumers are deterred from purchasing when content lacks personalization. Importance of Personalization in E-Commerce Personalization in e-commerce is more than just a trend; it’s a strategic necessity for businesses aiming to thrive in a competitive environment. By utilizing e-commerce personalization, you can improve customer experiences through customized product recommendations based on individual preferences and browsing behavior. Research shows that 80% of consumers are more likely to purchase when brands offer personalized experiences, highlighting the vital role of customization in e-commerce. Furthermore, 66% of consumers are deterred by non-personalized content, making customized strategies fundamental for conversion rates. Approximately 65% of customers remain loyal to businesses that provide personalized experiences, which underscores the importance of nurturing long-term relationships. Even in B2B markets, 93% of professionals report revenue growth from effective personalization efforts, demonstrating that both B2C and B2B markets increasingly expect personalized interactions. In short, embracing e-commerce product personalization can greatly impact your business success. Examples of E-Commerce Personalization When you explore e-commerce personalization, you’ll find various effective strategies that can considerably improve the shopping experience. One popular method is customized product recommendations based on your browsing history, which can boost conversion rates by up to 80%. Personalized homepages also augment user engagement by displaying content relevant to your past interactions, leading to higher retention rates. Another effective strategy is cart abandonment emails, reminding you of items left in your cart and recovering nearly 10% of lost sales. Dynamic content, such as website banners that change according to your demographics and behavior, can increase click-through rates by 25%. In addition, targeted discounts based on your purchase history can raise average order values by up to 15%. These examples of customization in e-commerce illustrate how personalization can create a more engaging and profitable shopping experience on your favorite ecommerce sites. How to Implement Personalization Strategies To successfully implement personalization strategies in e-commerce, businesses must start by analyzing customer data, which includes browsing history and past purchases. This analysis allows you to create customized product recommendations that improve user engagement. Segmenting your audience into smaller groups based on demographics and behavior can lead to more targeted marketing experiences, greatly boosting customer loyalty. Consider these key strategies: Utilize dynamic content for personalized landing pages and product displays. Employ targeted email campaigns featuring bespoke offers and reminders. Monitor metrics like conversion rates and average order value. Regularly adjust strategies based on performance data. Cultivate stronger connections by comprehending individual customer preferences. Benefits of E-Commerce Personalization E-commerce personalization offers significant advantages that can transform the way businesses interact with customers. By customizing experiences and recommendations, you can increase conversion rates by up to 80%. This personalization cultivates deeper connections, leading to a 65% boost in customer loyalty, which is crucial in today’s competitive market. Moreover, B2B professionals report a remarkable 93% revenue growth from personalized marketing efforts, highlighting the financial benefits of these customized experiences. When you provide personalized product recommendations, you can raise the average order value (AOV) by 10-30%, as customers are more likely to purchase related items. In addition, about 66% of consumers are deterred from buying when faced with non-personalized content, emphasizing the critical need for customized experiences that meet modern buyer expectations. Adopting e-commerce personalization not only improves customer satisfaction but also drives significant business growth. The Role of Technology in Personalization Even though many businesses recognize the importance of personalization in e-commerce, the role of technology in this process is often underestimated. Advanced algorithms and data analytics are crucial, as they help deliver customized product recommendations based on your behavior and preferences. Product Information Management (PIM) systems act as the backbone of these strategies, efficiently managing product data across various channels. An integrated Content Management System (CMS) personalizes your experience in real-time, adapting content based on your interactions. Omnichannel personalization guarantees a seamless experience between online and offline interactions, reinforcing brand identity. In addition, artificial intelligence (AI) analyzes vast amounts of customer data, optimizing recommendations and improving operational efficiency. It transforms shopping into a uniquely personal experience. It bridges the gap between online and offline interactions. It anticipates your needs before you even realize them. It creates a consistent brand identity across platforms. It improves the efficiency of your shopping experience. Tips for Optimizing Your Personalization Efforts To optimize your personalization efforts, it’s crucial to understand your audience more deeply by segmenting them into targeted groups. Utilizing data effectively can inform your strategies, such as tailoring product recommendations based on customer behavior and preferences. Regular testing and iteration of your approach will help you refine your tactics and guarantee they resonate with your audience. Understand Your Audience Comprehension of your audience is the cornerstone of effective personalization in e-commerce, as it directly influences how well you can tailor shopping experiences. By segmenting your audience based on demographics, interests, and behaviors, you can create targeted content that resonates more profoundly. Utilizing browsing history and past purchases can inform personalized recommendations, considerably boosting conversion rates. Gathering explicit feedback through surveys or quizzes offers insights into preferences, ensuring your strategies align with modern buyer expectations. Analyzing customer data reveals patterns that help you craft dynamic content and targeted promotions, which nurtures loyalty and increases average order values. Understand their needs Acknowledge their preferences Anticipate their desires Engage emotionally Build lasting relationships Utilize Data Effectively Effective utilization of data is critical for optimizing your e-commerce personalization efforts, as it allows you to create customized experiences that meet customer expectations. To achieve this, start by gathering thorough customer data, including browsing history and past purchases. Segment your audience into smaller groups based on shared characteristics, which enables you to deliver more relevant marketing messages. Leverage advanced analytics and AI tools to process real-time data for dynamic personalization that adjusts as customers interact with your site. Implement personalized product recommendations, as studies show they can boost purchase likelihood by up to 80%. Finally, regularly monitor metrics like conversion rates and average order value to refine your strategies and guarantee ongoing improvement in your personalization efforts. Test and Iterate Once you’ve gathered and analyzed customer data to improve your e-commerce personalization, the next step involves testing and iterating your strategies to guarantee they effectively resonate with your audience. Regularly analyze feedback to spot trends and refine your personalization efforts. Implement A/B testing for various tactics, like product recommendations and email campaigns, to determine what drives engagement. Use analytics tools to track key performance indicators, adjusting based on conversion rates and average order value. Continuously segment your audience by behavioral patterns, ensuring your marketing remains relevant. Experiment with dynamic content variations and measure their impact on user satisfaction. Discover what truly matters to your customers Uncover hidden preferences and desires Create compelling experiences that resonate Build trust through customized communications Nurture lasting relationships with personalized touchpoints Frequently Asked Questions Why Is Personalization Important in E-Commerce? Personalization in e-commerce is vital as it greatly enhances conversion rates and encourages customer loyalty. When you provide customized experiences, about 65% of consumers are more likely to stick with your brand. Conversely, non-personalized content can deter 66% of potential buyers, leading to lost sales. Consumers now expect personalized recommendations, and when they don’t receive them, 76% express dissatisfaction, indicating that effective personalization strategies are fundamental for revenue growth and brand success. What Does It Mean When Etsy Asks for Personalization? When Etsy asks for personalization, it means tailoring your shopping experience based on your preferences. By analyzing your favorite items and past purchases, Etsy recommends products that fit your unique tastes. This approach improves engagement, as you discover items that resonate with your interests. Personalization includes customized search results and targeted marketing messages, which can greatly increase your likelihood of making a purchase as you create a more enjoyable shopping experience for you. What Is E-Commerce and Why Is It Important? E-commerce is the buying and selling of goods and services online, allowing you to shop conveniently from anywhere at any time. Its significance lies in the global reach it provides businesses, with sales projected to exceed $6 trillion by 2024. E-commerce improves customer experiences through features like online payments and personalized recommendations, driving customer loyalty. As a result, businesses can achieve significant revenue growth, making e-commerce vital in today’s economy. What Are the 4 D’s of Personalization? The 4 D’s of personalization are crucial for creating customized customer experiences. Data involves collecting and analyzing customer information to inform strategies. Dynamic personalization adjusts content in real-time based on user interactions, keeping the experience relevant. Delight surprises customers with unexpected offers, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. Finally, Design guarantees personalized elements are seamlessly integrated into the overall user interface, creating a cohesive and engaging shopping experience that meets individual needs effectively. Conclusion In conclusion, e-commerce personalization is vital for enhancing customer experiences and driving sales. By tailoring interactions based on individual preferences and behaviors, businesses can greatly improve engagement and conversion rates. Implementing effective personalization strategies not merely encourages customer loyalty but furthermore provides a competitive edge in the crowded online marketplace. As technology continues to evolve, staying updated on personalization techniques will be fundamental for businesses aiming to thrive in the dynamic world of e-commerce. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "What Is E-Commerce Personalization and Why It Matters?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. The greatest regret of my life is choosing to take French in high school. Don't get me wrong, I find French beautiful, and I was a dedicated A+ student. But as an adult, I’m constantly embarrassed by how little Spanish I know. But even in adulthood, I knew it wasn't too late for me to learn Spanish, so I did what literally everyone does: I downloaded Duolingo. It's free, popular, and has a mascot with deeply threatening energy. What's not to love? Eventually, I reached a 300-day streak—nearly a full year of daily practice!—but when I tried to have an actual conversation in Spanish, I could not hold my own, to put it gently. I realized that Duolingo had gamified me into feeling like I was making progress, rewarding streaks and unlocking owl animations while carefully avoiding the part where I learned, you know, to speak and understand Spanish. Duolingo is a game, but Babbel is a learning toolWith a trip to Mexico City approaching, I signed up for Babbel. I didn't expect to be fluent, but I wanted to avoid being the most helpless monolingual American on the trip. And now that I'm on the other side of that vacation, I can say with confidence that every basic phrase I successfully attempted to speak was thanks to two things: 1) Babbel's grammar lessons, and 2) the generous patience of every local willing to communicate with me. A few months of daily Babbel lessons genuinely helped me navigate asking how much something costs, whether I could pay by card, and ordering at a restaurant. Crucially, I felt I was doing all of this not from a place of pure regurgitation, but from a place of actual language understanding. That's a different feeling entirely. Duolingo's genius is its dopamine loop, but that's its limitation too—a sustained streak, and not language acquisition, is the real product. Where Duolingo's scenarios include sentences like "My fathers are young and pretty," (a real example!), Babbel teaches you "Could I please have the check?" Babbel is more structured. The grammar explanations are woven directly into lessons rather than siloed in a separate section you'll never visit. The scenarios are grounded in reality. The whole thing feels less like Candy Crush and more like...a class. Which, it turns out, might be why classrooms were never designed to feel like Candy Crush. Babbel versus Duolingo: Point by pointHere’s my breakdown of how the most important ways these apps compare. Duolingo: Free (with ads for unhinged mobile games) Great for building daily habits Solid vocabulary exposure Gamified streaks and rewards Grammar depth is limited Designed to feel like progress, no matter what Babbel: Paid subscription (around $15 per month, give or take) Structured, grammar-forward lessons Real-world conversational scenarios Cultural context built in Purposeful over playful Designed to build actual skills Questions to consider before you try any language learning appBefore you start using Babbel (or flirting with the Duolingo Owl), it's important to consider your actual goals. Whether you're prepping for a trip, want to keep your brain sharp, or actually become fluent, no app comparison means anything without first understanding what you're trying to achieve. If your goal is casual learning or building a daily habit, Duolingo is genuinely a fine place to start. It's perfectly good for vocabulary exposure and using the psychology of habit formation to keep you coming back. There's real value in that! Just don't confuse a 300-day streak with 300 days of progress. If your goal is to actually speak another language—to survive a vacation, hold a conversation, order food with confidence—Babbel is the more honest tool. And hey, both apps use streak mechanics to use habit formation psychology, but Babbel also integrates grammar explanations into lessons, offers far more practical and applicable conversation scenarios, and wraps everything in cultural context that makes the language feel alive rather than abstract. Any language app will have limits, but Babbel is worth the costA major caveat here is that no app will make you fluent. Native speakers don't speak with the crisp, patient enunciation of a language app. Real people speak quickly, use slang, have regional accents, and might not be willing to wait patiently while you search for the right vocabulary. You'll eventually hit a wall with any app. Duolingo's perpetual free tier is likely the decision-maker for most people. You'll never be locked out of educational content for lack of a credit card. The cost of "free," though, is a parade of deeply unhinged ads for other addictive phone games. A fair trade, perhaps, depending on your tolerance for chaos. But if you're self-motivated and serious (or even just serious enough to want to survive a vacation!), then Babbel is the structured, purposeful, real-world-ready choice. It might feel less like a game, but I suppose that's the point. When I signed up, I caught a 50% deal: $8.95/month for 12 months. Babbel also offers a one-time lifetime access payment of $299.99, though at that investment level, you might as well hire a tutor? All in all, standard month-to-month pricing hovers around $15/month. View the full article

Seventy-three-year-old Delroy Lindo just received his first Oscar nomination of his career—and he has advice for anyone who’s been in their fields for decades like he has. “The first thing that you have to come to terms with as an actor is being rejected,” the actor told The Wall Street Journal this week. That’s key for anyone trying to make it in Hollywood. But Lindo, who plays blues musician Delta Slim in Best Picture nominee Sinners, has been working in the industry since moving to New York in his 20s, and finally got his first Academy Award nomination this year (for Best Supporting Actor). He told the Journal that he wouldn’t be where he is today without trust: both in his abilities, and in those who told him to keep going. In Sinners, Lindo says he improvised a crucial part of the film that wasn’t in the script. It happens after his character tells the story of a lynching, and he begins stomping his foot and humming. Lindo’s co-stars went with it, and while at first the moment was cut from the film, he pushed for it to make the final cut. In the end, it did, giving greater authenticity to the moment, and ultimately, the role that earned him an Oscar nod. “There was space in our creative relationship for me to raise my hand,” Lindo told the Journal when describing his experience on the Sinners set with director Ryan Coogler and co-star Michael B. Jordan. While he may have creative freedom now, the actor says it wouldn’t have happened if he hadn’t pushed through the droughts and the inevitable self-doubt that follows failures. He’s been acting since the 1980s. First on Broadway, then, in films. He starred in Malcolm X, Get Shorty, and The Cider House Rules. In 2020, there was talk of an Oscar nomination for his role in Spike Lee’s Da 5 Blood, but it never came to fruition. In Sinners, Lindo is unforgettable. From providing well-timed comic relief to impactful dialogue speaking to the injustice of the time, Slim is a central character for which the actor received critical acclaim. Lindo said that he wouldn’t still be making films if he hadn’t believed in his craft, even when it was difficult to do so. He said when he played opposite Denzel Washington in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X, he had to lean on belief in himself. “I was joining the Spike Lee universe, so to speak,” he said of landing the role. Ultimately, he chose to improvise during a scene with Washington. “That was me trusting in the trust that Spike had placed in me,” Lindo said of what became a defining moment in his career. Heading into the Oscars ceremony on March 15, Lindo is a portrait of resilience, trust in his own abilities, and relying on instincts and relationships forged from decades of work. “I’m at a point where I can look back on the fruits of my labor, but all of that has happened as a result of hanging in there.” View the full article

Iran’s retaliatory attacks tarnish the region’s touted image of stabilityView the full article

Elon Musk is expected to take the stand in a shareholder trial on Wednesday in San Francisco, where he’s accused of making false and misleading statements that drove down Twitter’s stock price before he bought the social media platform for $44 billion in 2022. The lawsuit was filed in October 2022 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California on behalf of Twitter shareholders who sold the stock between May 13 and Oct. 4, 2022, a few weeks before Musk’s purchase of Twitter was finalized. It claims Musk violated federal securities laws by making false, public statements that “were carefully calculated to drive down the price of Twitter stock.” The billionaire Tesla CEO reached a deal to buy Twitter and take it private in April 2022. On May 13, however, he declared his plan “temporarily on hold” and said he needs to pinpoint the number of spam and fake accounts on the platform. Twitter’s stock tumbled as a result. A few days later, he tweeted that the deal “cannot go forward” and claimed that almost 20% of Twitter accounts were “fake,” according to the lawsuit. Musk’s May 13 tweet—“Twitter deal temporarily on hold pending details supporting calculation that spam/fake accounts do indeed represent less than 5% of users”—was “false because the buyout was not, in fact, ‘temporarily on hold,’” the lawsuit says. That’s because Twitter did not agree to put the deal on hold, and there was nothing in the merger agreement the two parties signed that allowed Musk to put it on hold, according to the lawsuit. In the following weeks, Musk continued to try to delay or get out of the deal, which the lawsuit claims he did in the form of false, disparaging statements about Twitter’s business that drove the San Francisco company’s stock down sharply. In July 2022, Musk doubled down on the bots issue and said he would abandon his offer to buy Twitter after the company failed to provide enough information about the number of fake accounts. That’s even though the lawsuit notes that Musk waived due diligence for his “take it or leave it” offer to buy Twitter. That means he waived his right to look at the company’s nonpublic finances. The stock closed at $36.81 on July 8, when Musk tweeted he was abandoning the deal over the fake accounts issue. That’s 32% below Musk’s offer price of $54.20 per share. “To try to renegotiate the price or delay the merger, Musk made materially false and misleading statements and omissions, and engaged in a scheme to deceive the market, all in violation of the law,” the lawsuit says. The problem of bots and fake accounts on Twitter wasn’t new. The company had paid $809.5 million in 2021 to settle claims it was overstating its growth rate and monthly user figures. Twitter also disclosed its bot estimates to the Securities and Exchange Commission for years, while also cautioning that its estimate might be too low. Twitter sued Musk to force him to complete the deal, and Musk countersued. On Oct. 4, Musk offered to go through with his original proposal to buy Twitter for $44 billion, which Twitter accepted. The deal closed later that month. In the ensuing months, Musk slashed the company’s workforce, gutted its trust and safety team and rolled back content moderation policies. In July 2023, he renamed Twitter as X. This isn’t the first time that Musk has been dragged into court to defend himself against allegations of duping investors with his social media posts. Three years ago, Musk spent about eight hours testifying in a San Francisco federal trial about his plans to buy Tesla—the electric automaker that he still runs as publicly traded company—for $420 per share in a proposed 2018 deal that never materialized. A nine-member jury absolved Musk of wrongdoing in that case. —Barbara Ortutay and Michael Liedtke, AP technology writers View the full article

Apple’s new 13-inch laptop, the MacBook Neo, is a cheap MacBook in the era of expensive PCs, when AI’s endless appetite for memory has caused the price of computers to skyrocket. Its $599 starting price isn’t much more than what a couple of sticks of DDR5 will cost these days. The secret to the low price? The Neo isn’t driven by your typical laptop chipset, but the same architecture inside your iPhone. It’s an iPhone with a 12.9-inch screen and keyboard. But the Neo design is largely based on nostalgia. Its colorful anodized aluminum computer body—a callback to the classic iPod minis and nanos so coveted by gen Z and Alpha—is more a retro-release than something new. Much like the Nike Dunk is a cheaper, colorful take on a Jordan, the MacBook Neo is less a design innovation than a play for cash-strapped young consumers who can’t swing the cost of a traditional MacBook let alone a Pro. To understand the Neo, let’s look at the brutal reality of the 2026 computer market: Global PC shipments are projected to drop by 10.4% this year, the “sharpest decline in over a decade,” says Tom’s Hardware, with consumer sales tanking as pandemic-era tech hoarding fades. Furthermore, Apple’s laptop grip on the youth may be slipping. UC Davis demographic data reveals Mac ownership among college students plummeted from a peak of nearly 50% in 2022 down to just 37.3% in 2025 (the cheap PCs and Chromebooks may have something to do with this). Yet, laptop ownership itself remains near universal among that exact same demographic at 96.3%. The kids are absolutely still buying clamshells for schoolwork. And Gen Z in particular is driven by aesthetics, prioritizing design sleekness and color options when upgrading their hardware. The Neo is Apple’s $599 calculated strike to win back those exact buyers. Logistic innovation, computer stagnation Delivering a highly capable machine for $599 (and within Apple’s generous profit margins) is an absolute miracle of corporate logistics. We live in an age where artificial intelligence is drastically inflating the cost of building electronics. Chipmakers have redirected their factories to build high-bandwidth memory for AI servers, leaving mobile random access memory—the temporary digital workspace a computer needs to hold the information it is actively thinking about—in incredibly short supply. The crisis is so severe that Apple was recently forced into emergency negotiations with Samsung, reportedly accepting a massive 100% price hike on memory modules on the spot just to secure inventory. Getting a 2.7-pound fanless computer with an A18 Pro processor—the exact same microscopic silicon brain that powers their latest mobile devices—and up to 16 hours of battery life for six hundred bucks is unprecedented value in this hostile economic climate. To bait the trap for the new gens, the Apple design team seems to have dug deep into its own history. The Neo comes encased in brightly colored anodized aluminum, offering shades like blush, indigo, silver, and citrus, a direct aesthetic descendant of the classic iPod minis and nanos. People are so tired of endless streaming that those vintage music players have recently become fashion accessories for the youth, serving as physical symbols of a simpler, more tactile technological past. By wrapping a barebones laptop in those exact same semiotics, Apple is deliberately positioning this cheap machine as classic, authentic tech to lure in a budget-constrained generation. At its presentation in NY today, the Cupertino brass made a big point about how the Neo integrates seamlessly with the iPhone, highlighting features like Handoff—which lets you start a task on your phone and finish it on the laptop—and universal copy-pasting. They even touted a feature that mirrors the phone’s screen directly onto the Neo’s 2408-by-1506 pixel liquid crystal display, a screen technology that uses precise electric currents to manipulate light through millions of tiny color filters. But this supposed synergy is a marketing mirage. It works just like any other Mac does. There is nothing uniquely synergistic about the Neo. Like everything else in it, the Neo is a marketing gambit. A name that implies a matrix-shattering rebirth actually delivers the exact same desktop environment we have used for a quarter of a century, macOS. It does not run a new UX that truly ties to the mobile operating system that billions of people intuitively understand. Which is fine. However, if you are targeting a generation that grew up tapping glass and swiping through apps, handing them a traditional desktop interface with floating windows, a hierarchical file system, and a trackpad pointer feels completely backwards. But hey, maybe that’s what they want. I just keep thinking that Apple could have delivered something new, a unified, touch-first user experience that matches how the iPhone generation actually interacts with digital information (but not iPad OS, please). Instead, they played it safe, and they’ll retain a split software ecosystem that will keep people juggling iOS and MacOS. Yes, Nike sold a lot of Dunks before it came back and bit ‘em, and this product could help Apple reach consumers who have been priced out of its laptops. But I’m still not sure this should be called a Neo. It doesn’t feel like the future of computing, but it’s the future we got. View the full article

While social media platforms have a habit of copying each other, there’s one area where TikTok is forging its own path. TikTok doesn’t use end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for direct messages, the BBC reports. In contrast, the security measure is used by Meta Platforms for services like Facebook and WhatsApp. It’s also integrated into Signal, Apple, and Google’s in-device messages, and Snapchat. End-to-end encryption means only those involved in a conversation can read those messages. These other platforms argue this is critical for users’ privacy as it means the companies and law enforcement are unable to see any of the content that users send. However, in its conversation with the BBC, TikTok stated that end-to-end encryption allows for harm to users and sharing illegal content without the possibility to investigate it. TikTok instead uses standard encryption, which means certain authorized employees can access messages. This step might occur in cases such as a prompt from law enforcement officials. Notably, TikTok’s security has long been called into question thanks to its Chinese owner ByteDance. In January, TikTok’s U.S. ownership transferred to an American subsidiary consisting of backers like Oracle founder Larry Ellison. Fast Company has reached out to TikTok for confirmation about its security. We will update this post if we hear back. TikTok’s stance aligns with anti-CSAM policies The platform’s line of argument follows that of many governments and child protection charities. “We believe personal security is extremely important and support efforts to improve online privacy,” the U.S. National Center for Missing and Exploited Children states. “But, if this solution is implemented with no exceptions for detecting child sexual exploitation, millions of incidents of abuse will remain hidden, leaving these young victims without any help or protection from these horrific crimes.” The U.K. government takes a similar stance: “Intentionally implementing E2EE without necessary safety features will blind social media companies to the child sexual abuse material that is being repeatedly shared on their platforms. “We are not asking companies to stop the implementation of E2EE across their messaging services,” the U.K. government’s statement continues. “We are instead urging all social media companies to implement sufficient child safety measures on their messaging platforms that will maintain and/or enhance the identification and prevention of child sexual abuse.” View the full article

Bombs are falling across the Middle East as the United States and Israel try to bring Iran to heel. But while physical infrastructure is toppling in Iran, the country’s digital armies are still fighting with force. Groups linked to the Iranian regime have hit Jordanian gas firms, as well as businesses in the UAE and Qatar, as part of its Great Epic cyber offensive. Countries including the UK, whose military base in Cyprus has been hit by Iran-linked missiles, have begun warning businesses to prepare for possible Iranian cyberattacks. That raises a bigger question: How did Iran become such a formidable force in cyberwarfare, and to what end? A cyber shock to the system Iran’s cyber prowess today stems in part from an earlier attempt to cripple its capabilities. In 2010, the United States and Israel reportedly launched the Stuxnet virus against Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility, destroying centrifuges and setting back the country’s nuclear program. (Both countries have denied involvement in the attack.) The attack was widely seen as the first true cyberweapon used against real-world infrastructure—and a wake-up call to Iran about the destructive potential of digital warfare. The intervention, unprecedented at the time, was designed to delay or halt Iran’s nuclear ambitions. It may well have succeeded in that. But it also pushed Iran to focus on another form of combat: cyberspace, inspired by the way it had been attacked. “Being on the receiving end of what was the world’s first true cyber weapon showed Iran exactly what was possible then and in the future,” says Jake Moore, global cybersecurity advisor at ESET, a cybersecurity firm. In response, Iran moved aggressively to build its cyber capabilities. The country established governance and coordination structures—including the Supreme Council of Cyberspace in 2012—to advance its goals, while also sponsoring advanced persistent threat (APT) groups through the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Ministry of Intelligence. Iran’s cybersecurity budget increased by 1,200% between 2012 and 2015, according to contemporaneous reports. A glut of technical talent Iran has also benefited from a strong base of technical talent, some of which has been directed toward offensive cyber operations. “Iran is one of the top countries for producing software and computer engineers,” says Mo Hoseini, head of resilience at ARTICLE 19, a human rights organization focused on digital rights. Those APT groups saw significant successes throughout the 2010s. Some of the most notable—the APT33 and OilRig groups—conducted long-running campaigns targeting the aerospace and energy sectors. The U.S. ended up sanctioning a number of individuals believed to be linked to those groups in 2024. But it’s not only formally organized groups that pose risks. Analysts have tracked more than 120 hacktivist groups allied with Iran that operate independently, any of which only need to get lucky once to sow chaos. A battlefield without borders The ability to attack digitally has become a more strategic asset for Iran, allowing it to project power despite military constraints and economic pressure from sanctions. That dynamic helps explain why Tehran has invested so heavily in cyber capabilities and why Iranian-linked groups continue to appear at the center of major incidents. Support from other adversarial states has also played a role, says Hoseini. “We’ve seen over the years a lot of influence from China and Russia,” he explains, noting that Iranian cyber operations often mirror Russian tactics and appear to involve exchanges of technical knowledge. That knowledge sharing also extends to Iran’s supporters abroad, which could make efforts to curb the country’s cyber capabilities more difficult than countering its conventional weapons. That’s in part because Iran has invested time and money into supporting young Iranians to go abroad, then effectively blackmailing them into becoming spies for the regime. “They’ve been sending loads of pro-regime supporters on the scholarship program abroad, and now they have jobs in tech companies,” says Hoseini, pointing to the February arrest of three people alleged to have secured jobs in Silicon Valley firms and transferred confidential information to hostile countries, including Iran. “They have resources, at least for now,” he adds. “But how they can hold this ground, coordinate, and execute will become more of a question mark in the coming weeks.” View the full article

Grasping the current SBA loan rates is vital for making informed financing decisions. The rates differ based on the loan type, such as the SBA 7(a), 504, or microloans, with varying interest percentages and fees. For instance, SBA 7(a) loans can range from 12% to 15%, whereas 504 loans typically fall between 5% and 7%. Knowing how these rates and associated fees affect your total borrowing costs is significant. Let’s explore the specifics of each loan type and what you need to take into account. Key Takeaways SBA 7(a) loan rates range from 12% to 15%, depending on loan size and type, with variable rates from 10% to 13.5%. SBA 504 loan rates typically range from 5% to 7%, linked to the 10-year U.S. Treasury note. SBA microloan rates range from 8% to 13%, with average loan sizes around $13,000, capped at $50,000. SBA Express loans have fixed or variable rates capped at Prime + 4.5% for loans over $50,000. Loan fees, including upfront guaranty fees, can significantly affect total borrowing costs, so understanding them is essential. Current SBA Loan Interest Rates When you’re considering an SBA loan, it’s important to comprehend the current interest rates, as they can greatly impact your borrowing costs. SBA 7(a) loan rates now range from a maximum fixed rate of 12% to 15%, depending on the loan size. For loans under $25,000, the fixed rate is capped at 15%, whereas those over $250,001 can secure a maximum fixed rate of 12%. Variable rates vary from 10% to 13.5%. If you’re looking into microloans, which are limited to $50,000, expect interest rates between 8% and 13%. For SBA Express loans exceeding $50,000, variable rates may reach up to 4.5% over the Prime rate. To help you navigate these options, using an SBA 7a loan calculator can provide clarity. If you’re exploring MD MD Bank SBA loans, comprehending these rates will guide your financial decisions effectively. SBA 7(a) Loan Rates SBA 7(a) loan rates play an essential role in determining your overall borrowing costs, so comprehending these rates is fundamental. These loans can have fixed or variable rates, with maximum fixed rates ranging from 12% to 15%, depending on the loan size. For amounts of $25,000 or less, the fixed rate caps at 15%, whereas those between $25,001 and $50,000 are limited to 14%. If you’re considering variable rates, they can reach up to 13.5% for loans of $50,000 or less, but drop to a maximum of 10% for loans exceeding $350,001. The SBA 7(a) program allows loans up to $5 million, with the SBA guaranteeing 85% for loans under $150,000 and 75% for larger amounts. Currently, variable rates are typically set above the Prime rate of 7.00%, resulting in effective rates that fall between 10% and 15%. SBA 504 Loan Rates When considering SBA 504 loans, you’ll notice interest rates typically range from 5% to 7%, closely linked to the 10-year U.S. Treasury note. These loans require a minimum down payment of 10% and often involve collateral, usually the assets being financed, along with personal guarantees from borrowers. With repayment terms spanning 10, 20, or even 25 years, comprehending these factors is essential for making informed financial decisions. Interest Rate Trends As interest rates fluctuate in the broader economy, comprehending the trends for SBA 504 loan rates becomes crucial for potential borrowers. Typically, these rates range from 5% to 7%, aligning closely with the 10-year U.S. Treasury note. As of November 2025, you can expect effective interest rates of approximately 5.77% for a 10-year term, 5.98% for a 20-year term, and 5.92% for a 25-year term. It’s essential to recognize that SBA 504 loans require collateral, usually the assets being financed, alongside personal guarantees from principal borrowers. Moreover, a minimum down payment of at least 10% of the project cost is required. Repayment Terms Explained Understanding the repayment terms of SBA 504 loans is vital for managing your business’s finances effectively. These loans offer repayment periods of 10, 20, or 25 years, giving you flexibility in handling payments. With interest rates typically between 5% and 7%, tied to the 10-year U.S. Treasury note, it’s important to budget accordingly. A minimum down payment of 10% is required, ensuring you have some equity in the financed asset. Monthly payments are structured without balloon payments, promoting consistent repayment schedules. Here’s a summary of key aspects: Repayment Term Interest Rate Down Payment 10 Years 5%-7% 10% 20 Years 5%-7% 10% 25 Years 5%-7% 10% Eligibility Requirements Overview Comprehending the eligibility requirements for SBA 504 loans is essential if you’re considering this financing option for your business. First, you’ll need a minimum down payment of 10% of the project cost, which may increase based on your creditworthiness and business type. Usually, collateral is required, typically in the form of the assets you’re financing. Furthermore, personal guarantees from principal borrowers are necessary to guarantee accountability. The maximum loan amount stands at $5 million, with select projects eligible for up to $5.5 million. Finally, interest rates commonly range from 5% to 7%, linked to the 10-year U.S. Treasury note, making SBA 504 loans a competitive choice for your long-term investment needs. SBA Microloan Rates When exploring SBA Microloan rates, you’ll find that interest rates typically range from 8% to 13%, depending on the lender’s cost of funds. Loans over $10,000 incur a rate of 7.75% above that cost, whereas smaller loans come with an 8.5% rate. Comprehending this structure is crucial as you consider eligibility and navigate the application process for these accessible loans, which can support various small business needs. Microloan Interest Rate Structure Comprehending the interest rate structure of SBA Microloans is crucial for small business owners seeking financial support. These loans are capped at $50,000, with an average loan size around $13,000, typically used for equipment, supplies, and working capital. Interest rates vary based on the loan amount: for loans over $10,000, the rate is 7.75%, whereas loans of $10,000 or less carry an 8.5% rate. Repayment terms extend up to six years, requiring monthly payments without balloon payments. This structure allows for manageable budgeting for your business. The SBA Microloan program aims to stimulate entrepreneurship by providing accessible funding through nonprofit organizations that additionally offer business training and support, making it a valuable resource for small businesses and non-profits. Eligibility and Application Process Comprehending the eligibility and application process for SBA Microloans is crucial for small business owners looking to secure funding. To qualify, you need to demonstrate your ability to repay the loan and provide a solid business plan. These loans target startups and small businesses, offering amounts up to $50,000, with an average of around $13,000. Interest rates range from 7.75% to 8.5%, depending on the loan size, and repayment terms typically don’t exceed six years, requiring monthly payments. Applications are processed through nonprofit community-based organizations, which may as well offer technical assistance and training. Grasping these elements can help streamline your application and improve your chances of getting the funding you need. SBA Express Loan Rates SBA Express loan rates offer small business owners a competitive financing option that’s both accessible and efficient. With a maximum loan amount of $500,000, these loans provide quicker access to capital compared to traditional SBA loans. The interest rates can be either fixed or variable; loans over $50,000 are capped at Prime + 4.5%, while those of $50,000 or less are capped at Prime + 6.5%. The application process for SBA Express loans is expedited, permitting you to receive funding three to four weeks faster than through non-Preferred Lender Program loans. You can use these funds for various business needs, such as working capital, inventory, or equipment purchases. Furthermore, since SBA Express loans are backed by the government, they typically require less equity, enhancing the accessibility of funding for small businesses. This makes them an appealing choice for entrepreneurs looking to grow their operations. How SBA Loan Rates Are Set How are SBA loan rates established? SBA loan rates primarily hinge on the daily prime rate set by the Federal Reserve, which acts as a base for variable rate calculations. The maximum interest rates for SBA 7(a) loans differ based on loan size. Here are some key points to take into account: Fixed rates are capped between 12% and 15%, depending on the loan amount. Variable rates can range from 10% to 13.5%, additionally influenced by the loan size and tied to the prime rate. The SBA publishes maximum fixed interest rates monthly, guiding lenders to maintain competitive borrowing costs. Rates are negotiated between you and lenders, ensuring flexibility. The SBA’s guarantee on a portion of the loan lowers risk for lenders, making it easier for you to secure funding. Understanding these factors can help you navigate the loan process more effectively. Typical SBA Loan Fees When considering an SBA loan, it’s important to comprehend that you may face various fees in addition to the interest charges. One of the primary fees is the upfront SBA Guaranty Fee, which varies based on the loan’s maturity and amount. For SBA 7(a) loans with a maturity of 12 months or less, this fee is set at 0.25% of the guaranteed portion of the loan. If your loan has a maturity exceeding 12 months, the fee structure changes. For loans up to $1 million, you’ll incur a fee of 3.5% on the guaranteed portion. For loans exceeding $1 million, additional percentages apply, further increasing your total fees. These fees contribute considerably to the overall cost of borrowing, so it’s essential to factor them in alongside interest rates when evaluating your options for an SBA loan. Grasping these fees will help you make a more informed decision. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Current SBA 7A Loan Rates? Current SBA 7(a) loan rates vary based on the loan amount. For loans up to $25,000, fixed rates can reach 15%, whereas those over $250,000 drop to 12%. Variable rates range from 10% to 13.5%, linked to the prime rate. Loans between $25,001 and $50,000 have a maximum fixed rate of 14%, and for amounts between $50,001 and $250,000, it’s capped at 13%. Negotiation within these limits is possible. What Is the 20% Rule for SBA? The 20% Rule for SBA loans requires that at least 20% of your business’s ownership be held by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. This rule guarantees that SBA financing primarily supports domestic ownership. If you hold less than 20% ownership, you mightn’t qualify for the full benefits of SBA loans. When applying, it’s essential to document your ownership structure accurately to comply with this requirement and secure potential financing. What Is a Good Interest Rate for an SBA Loan? A good interest rate for an SBA loan varies based on the type and size of the loan. For SBA 7(a) loans, rates range from 10% to 15%. Loans under $25,000 are capped at 15%, whereas those between $25,001 and $50,000 have a maximum of 14%. If you’re considering an SBA 504 loan, expect fixed rates between 5% and 7%. Microloans typically fall within 8% to 13%, depending on the lender. How Hard Is It to Get an SBA 7A Loan? Getting an SBA 7(a) loan can be challenging. You’ll need to prepare detailed financial documents, a solid business plan, and personal financial statements. Lenders prefer a credit score of at least 650, and collateral is often required for loans over $150,000. The process can take several weeks to months, depending on the lender and the completeness of your application. Although smaller loans may have fewer requirements, thorough preparation is crucial for success. Conclusion In conclusion, grasping current SBA loan rates and associated fees is crucial for making informed borrowing decisions. The rates vary considerably depending on the loan type, with 7(a) loans often having higher interest rates compared to 504 loans and microloans. Furthermore, be aware of fees, especially for loans under $1 million, as they can impact your overall costs. By researching and comparing options, you can better navigate the SBA loan environment and choose the best financing solution for your needs. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Top 7 SBA Loan Rates Now: What to Know" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Grasping the current SBA loan rates is vital for making informed financing decisions. The rates differ based on the loan type, such as the SBA 7(a), 504, or microloans, with varying interest percentages and fees. For instance, SBA 7(a) loans can range from 12% to 15%, whereas 504 loans typically fall between 5% and 7%. Knowing how these rates and associated fees affect your total borrowing costs is significant. Let’s explore the specifics of each loan type and what you need to take into account. Key Takeaways SBA 7(a) loan rates range from 12% to 15%, depending on loan size and type, with variable rates from 10% to 13.5%. SBA 504 loan rates typically range from 5% to 7%, linked to the 10-year U.S. Treasury note. SBA microloan rates range from 8% to 13%, with average loan sizes around $13,000, capped at $50,000. SBA Express loans have fixed or variable rates capped at Prime + 4.5% for loans over $50,000. Loan fees, including upfront guaranty fees, can significantly affect total borrowing costs, so understanding them is essential. Current SBA Loan Interest Rates When you’re considering an SBA loan, it’s important to comprehend the current interest rates, as they can greatly impact your borrowing costs. SBA 7(a) loan rates now range from a maximum fixed rate of 12% to 15%, depending on the loan size. For loans under $25,000, the fixed rate is capped at 15%, whereas those over $250,001 can secure a maximum fixed rate of 12%. Variable rates vary from 10% to 13.5%. If you’re looking into microloans, which are limited to $50,000, expect interest rates between 8% and 13%. For SBA Express loans exceeding $50,000, variable rates may reach up to 4.5% over the Prime rate. To help you navigate these options, using an SBA 7a loan calculator can provide clarity. If you’re exploring MD MD Bank SBA loans, comprehending these rates will guide your financial decisions effectively. SBA 7(a) Loan Rates SBA 7(a) loan rates play an essential role in determining your overall borrowing costs, so comprehending these rates is fundamental. These loans can have fixed or variable rates, with maximum fixed rates ranging from 12% to 15%, depending on the loan size. For amounts of $25,000 or less, the fixed rate caps at 15%, whereas those between $25,001 and $50,000 are limited to 14%. If you’re considering variable rates, they can reach up to 13.5% for loans of $50,000 or less, but drop to a maximum of 10% for loans exceeding $350,001. The SBA 7(a) program allows loans up to $5 million, with the SBA guaranteeing 85% for loans under $150,000 and 75% for larger amounts. Currently, variable rates are typically set above the Prime rate of 7.00%, resulting in effective rates that fall between 10% and 15%. SBA 504 Loan Rates When considering SBA 504 loans, you’ll notice interest rates typically range from 5% to 7%, closely linked to the 10-year U.S. Treasury note. These loans require a minimum down payment of 10% and often involve collateral, usually the assets being financed, along with personal guarantees from borrowers. With repayment terms spanning 10, 20, or even 25 years, comprehending these factors is essential for making informed financial decisions. Interest Rate Trends As interest rates fluctuate in the broader economy, comprehending the trends for SBA 504 loan rates becomes crucial for potential borrowers. Typically, these rates range from 5% to 7%, aligning closely with the 10-year U.S. Treasury note. As of November 2025, you can expect effective interest rates of approximately 5.77% for a 10-year term, 5.98% for a 20-year term, and 5.92% for a 25-year term. It’s essential to recognize that SBA 504 loans require collateral, usually the assets being financed, alongside personal guarantees from principal borrowers. Moreover, a minimum down payment of at least 10% of the project cost is required. Repayment Terms Explained Understanding the repayment terms of SBA 504 loans is vital for managing your business’s finances effectively. These loans offer repayment periods of 10, 20, or 25 years, giving you flexibility in handling payments. With interest rates typically between 5% and 7%, tied to the 10-year U.S. Treasury note, it’s important to budget accordingly. A minimum down payment of 10% is required, ensuring you have some equity in the financed asset. Monthly payments are structured without balloon payments, promoting consistent repayment schedules. Here’s a summary of key aspects: Repayment Term Interest Rate Down Payment 10 Years 5%-7% 10% 20 Years 5%-7% 10% 25 Years 5%-7% 10% Eligibility Requirements Overview Comprehending the eligibility requirements for SBA 504 loans is essential if you’re considering this financing option for your business. First, you’ll need a minimum down payment of 10% of the project cost, which may increase based on your creditworthiness and business type. Usually, collateral is required, typically in the form of the assets you’re financing. Furthermore, personal guarantees from principal borrowers are necessary to guarantee accountability. The maximum loan amount stands at $5 million, with select projects eligible for up to $5.5 million. Finally, interest rates commonly range from 5% to 7%, linked to the 10-year U.S. Treasury note, making SBA 504 loans a competitive choice for your long-term investment needs. SBA Microloan Rates When exploring SBA Microloan rates, you’ll find that interest rates typically range from 8% to 13%, depending on the lender’s cost of funds. Loans over $10,000 incur a rate of 7.75% above that cost, whereas smaller loans come with an 8.5% rate. Comprehending this structure is crucial as you consider eligibility and navigate the application process for these accessible loans, which can support various small business needs. Microloan Interest Rate Structure Comprehending the interest rate structure of SBA Microloans is crucial for small business owners seeking financial support. These loans are capped at $50,000, with an average loan size around $13,000, typically used for equipment, supplies, and working capital. Interest rates vary based on the loan amount: for loans over $10,000, the rate is 7.75%, whereas loans of $10,000 or less carry an 8.5% rate. Repayment terms extend up to six years, requiring monthly payments without balloon payments. This structure allows for manageable budgeting for your business. The SBA Microloan program aims to stimulate entrepreneurship by providing accessible funding through nonprofit organizations that additionally offer business training and support, making it a valuable resource for small businesses and non-profits. Eligibility and Application Process Comprehending the eligibility and application process for SBA Microloans is crucial for small business owners looking to secure funding. To qualify, you need to demonstrate your ability to repay the loan and provide a solid business plan. These loans target startups and small businesses, offering amounts up to $50,000, with an average of around $13,000. Interest rates range from 7.75% to 8.5%, depending on the loan size, and repayment terms typically don’t exceed six years, requiring monthly payments. Applications are processed through nonprofit community-based organizations, which may as well offer technical assistance and training. Grasping these elements can help streamline your application and improve your chances of getting the funding you need. SBA Express Loan Rates SBA Express loan rates offer small business owners a competitive financing option that’s both accessible and efficient. With a maximum loan amount of $500,000, these loans provide quicker access to capital compared to traditional SBA loans. The interest rates can be either fixed or variable; loans over $50,000 are capped at Prime + 4.5%, while those of $50,000 or less are capped at Prime + 6.5%. The application process for SBA Express loans is expedited, permitting you to receive funding three to four weeks faster than through non-Preferred Lender Program loans. You can use these funds for various business needs, such as working capital, inventory, or equipment purchases. Furthermore, since SBA Express loans are backed by the government, they typically require less equity, enhancing the accessibility of funding for small businesses. This makes them an appealing choice for entrepreneurs looking to grow their operations. How SBA Loan Rates Are Set How are SBA loan rates established? SBA loan rates primarily hinge on the daily prime rate set by the Federal Reserve, which acts as a base for variable rate calculations. The maximum interest rates for SBA 7(a) loans differ based on loan size. Here are some key points to take into account: Fixed rates are capped between 12% and 15%, depending on the loan amount. Variable rates can range from 10% to 13.5%, additionally influenced by the loan size and tied to the prime rate. The SBA publishes maximum fixed interest rates monthly, guiding lenders to maintain competitive borrowing costs. Rates are negotiated between you and lenders, ensuring flexibility. The SBA’s guarantee on a portion of the loan lowers risk for lenders, making it easier for you to secure funding. Understanding these factors can help you navigate the loan process more effectively. Typical SBA Loan Fees When considering an SBA loan, it’s important to comprehend that you may face various fees in addition to the interest charges. One of the primary fees is the upfront SBA Guaranty Fee, which varies based on the loan’s maturity and amount. For SBA 7(a) loans with a maturity of 12 months or less, this fee is set at 0.25% of the guaranteed portion of the loan. If your loan has a maturity exceeding 12 months, the fee structure changes. For loans up to $1 million, you’ll incur a fee of 3.5% on the guaranteed portion. For loans exceeding $1 million, additional percentages apply, further increasing your total fees. These fees contribute considerably to the overall cost of borrowing, so it’s essential to factor them in alongside interest rates when evaluating your options for an SBA loan. Grasping these fees will help you make a more informed decision. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Current SBA 7A Loan Rates? Current SBA 7(a) loan rates vary based on the loan amount. For loans up to $25,000, fixed rates can reach 15%, whereas those over $250,000 drop to 12%. Variable rates range from 10% to 13.5%, linked to the prime rate. Loans between $25,001 and $50,000 have a maximum fixed rate of 14%, and for amounts between $50,001 and $250,000, it’s capped at 13%. Negotiation within these limits is possible. What Is the 20% Rule for SBA? The 20% Rule for SBA loans requires that at least 20% of your business’s ownership be held by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. This rule guarantees that SBA financing primarily supports domestic ownership. If you hold less than 20% ownership, you mightn’t qualify for the full benefits of SBA loans. When applying, it’s essential to document your ownership structure accurately to comply with this requirement and secure potential financing. What Is a Good Interest Rate for an SBA Loan? A good interest rate for an SBA loan varies based on the type and size of the loan. For SBA 7(a) loans, rates range from 10% to 15%. Loans under $25,000 are capped at 15%, whereas those between $25,001 and $50,000 have a maximum of 14%. If you’re considering an SBA 504 loan, expect fixed rates between 5% and 7%. Microloans typically fall within 8% to 13%, depending on the lender. How Hard Is It to Get an SBA 7A Loan? Getting an SBA 7(a) loan can be challenging. You’ll need to prepare detailed financial documents, a solid business plan, and personal financial statements. Lenders prefer a credit score of at least 650, and collateral is often required for loans over $150,000. The process can take several weeks to months, depending on the lender and the completeness of your application. Although smaller loans may have fewer requirements, thorough preparation is crucial for success. Conclusion In conclusion, grasping current SBA loan rates and associated fees is crucial for making informed borrowing decisions. The rates vary considerably depending on the loan type, with 7(a) loans often having higher interest rates compared to 504 loans and microloans. Furthermore, be aware of fees, especially for loans under $1 million, as they can impact your overall costs. By researching and comparing options, you can better navigate the SBA loan environment and choose the best financing solution for your needs. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Top 7 SBA Loan Rates Now: What to Know" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Apple's "affordable" MacBook is official. The company revealed the "MacBook Neo" in a non-livestreamed event on Wednesday, following a series of product announcements throughout the week. Despite the hoopla, there aren't a ton of surprises here: The rumors pointed to a low-cost MacBook running an iPhone chip that came in a variety of fun colors to choose from. That's basically exactly what we got: The Neo runs the A18 Pro—the same chip as the iPhone 16 Pro—and comes in Blush (pink), Indigo, Citrus (yellow/green), and Silver. Really, the biggest surprise of the day is the price: $599, or $499 if you buy through the education store (which anyone can buy from). It's a bit unbelievable that you can buy a new MacBook for as low as $500 in 2026, especially considering that computer components are only skyrocketing in price. Back in 2008, a MacBook cost $1,099, which is just shy of $1,700 in today's money. Now, you can buy three MacBook Neos for that cost, and still have money left over for accessories. The MacBook Neo isn't perfect If you're in the market for a new MacBook, the Neo might be particularly tempting. But it really isn't the only Mac you should consider. Despite Apple's pricey reputation, you can pick up powerful Macs for very reasonable prices these days—though not necessarily through Apple itself. The company will happily sell you a MacBook Air starting at $1,099 ($999 through the education store) which is quite a bit more than the Neo. Instead, you should consider older Macs through other stores that carry them. It might sound odd, but you really might be better off with something that didn't come out this year, or even something pre-owned. Back when the Neo was just a rumor, I recommended not waiting for it. Sure, the colors sounded fun, and the price is great, but there are some serious drawbacks to consider here—first, and foremost, the underlying hardware. The A18 Pro is a capable chip for the iPhone 16 Pro, but it's unproven as a vehicle to run macOS. It's an Apple-designed chip, so there is an advantage there, but it still wasn't designed for Apple's OS in the same way the Mac's M-series chips were. We won't know exact performance specs until testers get their hands on the Neo, but my guess is the A18 Pro is not going to be a macOS workhouse—hence that ultra-low price. The Neo's RAM is also holding it back. Apple is only shipping Neos with 8GB of memory, which will be fine for most simple tasks, but not more complex ones, or for multitasking. Power users who try to push the Neo will likely run into issues with trying to run too many programs (or too many browser tabs) at once. That said, Apple knows it has a lot of users relying on 8GB of RAM, since it was the entry-level standard up until M4. Plus, that lower RAM is a huge part of what's keeping the price down. Finally, there are the nitpicky things. The keyboard, while color-matched, doesn't have a backlight, and if you're opting for the base model, you won't get Touch ID. For that, you'll need to spend another $100, though that will also double your storage (512GB instead of 256GB). There's no MagSafe, which has become a standard again on modern MacBooks, and the trackpad is mechanical rather than haptic—though that might not necessarily be better or worse. None of these things are necessarily a deal breaker, and other MacBooks have similar issues. But that doesn't mean the Neo is right for everyone in this price range. Before you hit "preorder" on Apple's website, here are a couple other options to consider. The M1 MacBook Air is still worth consideringThe M1 MacBook Air may go down in history as the best laptop Apple ever made. Not because it's the most powerful, or the sleekest design, but because this five-year-old MacBook is still going strong. If you bought one back in 2020, you might still have one, and have no real reason to upgrade. Apple doesn't make this Air any longer—in fact, it only makes the M5 option it announced this week. But you can still pick up the M1 from stores like Amazon and Walmart, often at wildly good prices. I'll point you to two options here, as possible Neo alternatives. One is the base model M1 Air, with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. That's half the storage of the Neo, which could be a problem, but that sacrifice saves you even more money. Right now, Walmart has a pre-owned model for just over $350. That's tough to beat. Here's an option that does beat it: On Amazon, you can buy an M1 MacBook Air with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage for $515. If you can find a machine like this at that price, jump on it. Even if the A18 Pro outperforms the M1 chip in testing, that 16GB of RAM will keep this machine feeling fast for longer. I strongly suggest buying a MacBook with 16GB of RAM in 2026, so if you can pick one up at this price, go for it. The M2 MacBook Air is cheap, and a beast In the $600 to $650 range, the M2 MacBook Air is a beast. You have Apple's second-gen M-series chip, of course, but also Apple's modern MacBook design. The company hasn't really changed the look of its MacBook Airs since the M2, which means this machine looks brand-new. It comes with a brighter and larger display over the M1 Air and MagSafe charging, too. Again, Apple doesn't make this model anymore, so you need to look to the pre-owned and third-party markets here. You can find models with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage for $600, like this one on Amazon. 16GB of RAM would be ideal, but it's tough to find M2s with that configuration in this pricing right now, as it tends to push things into the $800 range. But that's the compromise at this price point: You get the modern form factor and the newer chip, while sacrificing the RAM. M2 with 8GB of RAM is probably going to outlast A18 Pro with 8GB of RAM when it comes to macOS. We'll need to wait for testing to be sure, but I'd bet on the chip made for macOS. The MacBook Neo is probably a great buyThis isn't to say that you shouldn't consider the Neo. In fact, it might be the right Mac for you. For one, you're getting a brand new Mac—not pre-owned or refurbished—for $499, in color options the M-series Macs have never offered. There are also some perks you don't get with M1 or M2 MacBook Airs: The M1 has a 720p FaceTime camera while M2 and Neo have a 1080p lens. The MacBook Neo has support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 6, standards both M1 and M2 don't support. If the Neo is your jam, I'm not trying to dissuade you. Instead, I'd encourage you to wait until we know more about it. Apple opened up preorders today, but don't rush: Keep an eye out for benchmarks and real-world testing, and see how the A18 Pro compares to M1 and M2 when running macOS. View the full article

Washington’s allies in region burn through defensive munitions as they fend off Iranian barragesView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. The first thing you need to understand about Amazon Fire anything is that a Fire TV and a Fire TV Stick are not the same thing. Some hacks only work on Fire TVs, others only with Fire TV Sticks, and others with both. You can have a Google TV (or any kind of TV) and hook up a Fire TV Stick to it: So if you don't have a Fire TV, know that there is a simple $30 solution that can fix that. I've been using the Fire OS for many years, and although it's not my favorite, it has some pretty cool hacks that no other OS has. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus AI-Powered Streaming Stick $29.99 at Amazon $49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Get Deal $29.99 at Amazon $49.99 Save $20.00 55" Amazon Fire TV 4-Series 4K HDR10+ Smart TV (2025 Model) $379.97 at Amazon $459.99 Save $80.02 Get Deal Get Deal $379.97 at Amazon $459.99 Save $80.02 SEE -1 MORE Make menu navigation more detailedIf you press Fast Forward and Rewind at the same time and hold them for two seconds, you will activate the Text Banner in the navigation menu. This will make a white box appear at the bottom of the screen with more information about anything you're highlighting in the navigational menu. You can get IMDB ratings, length of movies or shows, year it was released, rating, summaries, etc. You can use the Fast Forward arrow to get more information from the banner. You also get a better menu by pressing the Menu button, which gives you a different menu option, where you can add shows or movies to your watchlist or platforms where you can stream them. Restart the Fire TV Stick quicklyFire TV Sticks and Fire TVs are mini computers, and as such, they might malfunction and need a restart from time to time. Hold the Circle and the Play/Pause button together for five seconds, and your Fire Stick will restart immediately. This is much easier than having to find the restart option on the menu or physically disconnecting it from the wall. Mirror your iPhone to the Fire TVWhile Fire TVs and Fire TV Sticks can mirror/cast Android phones natively, iPhones need to jump through hoops to do the same. Just because it's not easy doesn't mean it's not possible. You'll need to download a paid app like Screen Mirroring for Fire TV to do this for you. (There are other free alternatives (AirScreen, DoCast, LetsView), but they will restrict you in some way or another by putting ads or setting a time restriction until you pay for the app.) To get started, after you select your app, hold the Home button for five seconds and select the Mirroring option that comes up. Then open the mirroring app and make sure you're on the same network as your Fire TV. Then follow the on-screen instructions on the app. You don't need a Fire TV remote to work your Fire TVLosing your remote (or buying a used TV without a remote) doesn't mean you're screwed. There's an easy and free solution. Download the Amazon Fire TV app, which essentially turns your phone into a Fire TV remote, often with more options. You need to make sure you're on the same network as your TV to set this up. One of my favorite reasons to use this app over the physical remote is that you can type anything you're searching for on your phone rather than selecting each letter individually with the remote. Watch anything virtually for free with KodiKodi is a free, open-source media system that lets you reliably stream your entire media collection to any local device, like your Fire TV Stick. The catch is that it takes a bit to set it up, but worry not. I've gone through the steps in this tutorial to make it easy for you to install. Plex and Jellyfin are also good alternatives, as they're easy to download from the official Amazon app store (but check out our coverage for their advantages and disadvantages). Use your computer as a Fire TVIf you want to watch your Fire TV on the go or don't have a TV, playing it on your computer (Mac or PC) is helpful—especially if you've got Kodi already running on your Fire TV Stick. To set it up, you'll need to install an open-source software like OBS Studio to make this work. But you'll essentially have another method of watching your shows and movies. Use your Fire TV Stick as a computerYou can access the web through your Fire TV or Fire TV Stick, and it's surprisingly easy. Download the Amazon Silk app on your Fire TV or Stick and you'll be able to check your email, social media, or do anything you do on a browser on your TV. And if the idea of using your remote to type stresses you out, remember the Amazon Fire TV app I mentioned earlier, or you can get one of these cheap remotes to type easily. If you get really good at it, you can get to the point where you make homepage shortcuts for your favorite websites as if they were apps. Use your Alexa speaker as a hands-free remoteSometimes we have our hands full or can't find the remote or our phones in time before the preview to the next episode spoils the show for us. If you have an Alexa speaker nearby, simply use voice commands to tell Alexa to, for instance, "Pause the TV." Listen to TV with your Bluetooth headphonesMany people notice the Bluetooth feature on TV sticks and don't think much of it—but it's a powerful feature. You can connect your wireless keyboard to type out searches, hook up game pads to play games, connect your surround sound or portable speakers to it, and, most personally useful of all, connect your Bluetooth headphones to listen to shows without disturbing anyone else you live with. Go to Settings > Controllers & Bluetooth Devices > Other Bluetooth Devices > Add, and it will find any device that is in sync mode. See who's at your door right on your TVIf you have a camera that's compatible with Alexa, there's a way to get it to show up on your Fire TV. Some of these brands include: Nest, Arlo, Blink, Wyze, Logitech, Ecobee, TP-Link, Aqara, Honeywell, Kami, Reolink, Zmodo, Amcrest, Canary, Vivint, and SwitchBot. They will not all have the same level of features and on-screen options, so it's best to see what your brand is capable of doing in the Fire TV and how to set each one up correctly. View the full article

If you’re considering a career in bookkeeping, choosing the right classes can set a strong foundation. Programs like the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate and ACCA’s Introduction to Bookkeeping offer crucial skills for beginners. Certification options, such as those from NACPB and AIPB, can further improve your credentials. Each course provides a mix of theory and practical experience, preparing you for the demands of the industry. Let’s explore these options in detail and find the best fit for you. Key Takeaways Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate offers a structured two-month program focusing on QuickBooks at an affordable price of $160. ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping is a self-paced course covering fundamental concepts, with an optional certificate available for $99. University of Virginia’s Financial Accounting Fundamentals provides a solid grounding in accounting for around $80, enhancing credibility with a recognized certificate. Penn Foster Career School offers flexible learning with access to experienced instructors and a comprehensive curriculum, preparing students for various bookkeeping roles. NACPB Bookkeeper Certification can be completed in about 13 weeks for $369 (members), providing a valuable credential and the potential for new clients. NACPB Bookkeeper Certification The NACPB Bookkeeper Certification is a valuable credential for anyone looking to establish a solid foundation in bookkeeping. This respected certification program covers crucial topics and can be completed in about 13 weeks. With a cost of $369 for members and $449 for nonmembers, it’s an accessible option for those seeking accredited bookkeeping courses. Furthermore, by choosing a certification bundle, you could save 26%. Maintaining your certification requires ongoing education, ensuring you stay current with bookkeeping practices. Significantly, approximately 37% of certified bookkeepers found new clients following certification, showcasing its potential benefits for career growth. This program serves as an excellent starting point for beginners enthusiastic to improve their skills and advance in the bookkeeping field. Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate The Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate offers a structured, two-month program designed for beginners, focusing on computerized accounting and QuickBooks. At a budget-friendly price of $160 through Coursera, this certification not only builds your foundational skills in managing financial data but additionally improves your employability because of Intuit’s strong brand recognition. Although it may not cover as much ground as other certifications, completing this course equips you with valuable skills that are highly sought after in the small business sector. Course Overview and Structure For those new to the bookkeeping field, the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate offers a structured and practical introduction to computerized accounting, focusing primarily on QuickBooks. This course is designed for beginners and runs for approximately two months, requiring a time commitment that fits well into most schedules. Priced at $160, it’s an affordable option for aspiring bookkeepers. You’ll gain hands-on experience with QuickBooks software, allowing you to understand its practical applications in real-world bookkeeping scenarios. The curriculum builds foundational knowledge, ensuring you grasp vital skills, though it may not be as thorough as more advanced programs. Completing this certification improves your reputation, benefiting from Intuit’s recognized brand in the accounting industry. Benefits of Certification Earning the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate offers significant advantages for those entering the bookkeeping profession. This course, designed for beginners, focuses on computerized accounting and QuickBooks, and can be completed in about two months. At a cost of $160 through Coursera, it’s an affordable way to improve your bookkeeping skills. By obtaining this certificate, you enhance your reputation in the industry thanks to Intuit’s brand recognition, which can help you attract clients. Furthermore, completing the program provides foundational knowledge crucial for managing financial records, boosting your confidence and competence. Nonetheless, keep in mind that although beginner-friendly, the program lacks depth and continuing education options, which may impact your long-term professional development. ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping The ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping course on edX covers fundamental accounting concepts, making it an excellent starting point for beginners. With self-paced learning, you can fit the course into your schedule, typically completing it in about six weeks. Plus, earning a globally recognized certification can boost your credibility and improve your job prospects in the bookkeeping field. Fundamental Accounting Concepts Grasping fundamental accounting concepts is crucial for anyone looking to start a career in bookkeeping. The ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping course on edX offers a solid foundation, focusing on key principles like the double-entry system, ledgers, and financial statements. By comprehending these concepts, you’ll be better prepared to handle everyday bookkeeping tasks. The course is free, and although a certificate is available for $99, it provides an affordable way to improve your credentials. Designed for self-paced learning, you can complete it in about six weeks. Completing this course not only builds your accounting knowledge but also boosts your credibility, as the ACCA certification is recognized worldwide in the finance and accounting industry, giving you a competitive edge. Self-Paced Learning Benefits One of the key advantages of the ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping course is its self-paced learning format, which allows you to tailor your educational experience to fit your unique schedule. This course, available on edX, typically takes about six weeks to complete, enabling you to learn at your convenience without the pressure of fixed deadlines. You can access the course material for free, with an optional certificate available for $99, making it an affordable option for beginners. The self-paced structure encourages you to revisit complex topics, reinforcing your comprehension of fundamental accounting concepts. Completing this course not only equips you with foundational knowledge but additionally prepares you for a globally recognized certification that improves your credibility in the bookkeeping field. Global Recognition of Certification Earning a certification from the ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping course not only improves your knowledge but also greatly boosts your professional profile. This course, available on edX, focuses on fundamental accounting concepts crucial for beginners, making it a perfect starting point. It’s free to access, with an optional certificate for $99, providing an affordable way to gain formal recognition in the field. Designed for self-paced learning, you can complete it in about six weeks at your convenience. The ACCA certification is globally recognized, enhancing your credibility among employers and clients. Completing this course gives you a strong foundation in bookkeeping, which is significant for establishing a career in accounting or financial management, setting you apart in a competitive market. University of Virginia – Financial Accounting Fundamentals The University of Virginia offers a Financial Accounting Fundamentals course through Coursera, which is ideal for anyone seeking a solid grounding in vital accounting practices. This course includes five in-depth modules and requires approximately 13 hours to complete, making it a manageable commitment for busy learners. Priced around $80, it’s a cost-effective option for enhancing your accounting knowledge. The curriculum covers critical topics fundamental to grasping financial accounting, catering to both beginners and those looking to refresh their skills. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate from the University of Virginia, which can greatly boost your credibility in the accounting field. Although not as thorough as certification programs, this course lays a solid foundation for a career in bookkeeping or accounting. Penn Foster Career School – Bookkeeping Training Program If you’re looking to further your education in bookkeeping, the Penn Foster Career School offers an extensive Bookkeeping Training Program that caters to various learning styles. This program provides you with a flexible learning pace, letting you study when it suits you best. The thorough curriculum covers crucial topics like: Financial statements Payroll processing Accounting principles QuickBooks software Industry best practices You’ll have access to experienced instructors and dedicated student services that guide you throughout your learning path. Furthermore, the program includes a free one-year subscription to QuickBooks, giving you hands-on experience with industry-standard software. With a total cost of $789, you can complete the program in six months to one year, depending on your pace. AIPB Certification Program For those seeking to improve their bookkeeping credentials, the AIPB Certification Program stands out as a highly respected option in the industry. This program covers a thorough curriculum, including accounting foundations, financial statements, and payroll processing. With a commitment of three to four months, you can complete the certification for $1,495. Many find it worthwhile; approximately 37% of certified bookkeepers gained new clients, as well as 48% raised their rates post-certification. Achieving AIPB certification can greatly elevate your career opportunities and credibility in the bookkeeping field. Benefit Statistic New Clients Gained 37% Increased Rates 48% Duration to Complete 3-4 months Universal Accounting School – Professional Bookkeeper Program When considering a thorough approach to bookkeeping education, the Universal Accounting School‘s Professional Bookkeeper Program offers an extensive curriculum customized for both beginners and those looking to advance their skills. This program provides you with crucial knowledge and hands-on experience, as you’ll work on the books for 11 different small businesses. Key features of the program include: In-depth coverage of vital bookkeeping topics Earning the title of “Certified Bookkeeper” upon graduation A significant 60-hour time commitment for thorough training Practical application of learned skills in real-world scenarios Total program cost of $3,091, reflecting its depth of knowledge This program improves your career opportunities and marketability in the bookkeeping industry. Frequently Asked Questions How to Get Started as a Bookkeeper With No Experience? To get started as a bookkeeper with no experience, enroll in beginner-friendly online courses, like the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate. Consider obtaining the free QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor Certification for industry recognition. You can furthermore explore affordable courses, such as the Bookkeeper Business Coach course, which guides you in setting up a bookkeeping business. In addition, utilize free resources on YouTube and join online communities to network and learn best practices from others in the field. What Is the Best Way to Learn Basic Bookkeeping? To learn basic bookkeeping effectively, start with beginner-friendly online courses like the Udemy for a thorough comprehension. Utilize free resources from Khan Academy or edX to grasp fundamental accounting principles. Consider certification programs, such as the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate, to improve your skills. Moreover, practical courses like Bookkeeper Launch can guide you in setting up a bookkeeping business, providing valuable marketing strategies along the way. What Is the Best Course to Become a Bookkeeper? To become a bookkeeper, consider taking the Bookkeeper Launch course, which covers fundamental accounting principles and QuickBooks, completing in about three months. On the other hand, Intuit Academy offers an affordable Bookkeeping Professional Certificate, focusing on computerized accounting for $160. If you’re looking for a free option, ACCA’s Introduction to Bookkeeping provides foundational knowledge in six weeks. Each course equips you with the necessary skills to start your bookkeeping career effectively. What Program Do Most Bookkeepers Use? Most bookkeepers use QuickBooks as their primary accounting software because of its user-friendly interface and extensive features. QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor Certification is particularly beneficial for beginners, offering free, industry-recognized credentials. Many bookkeeping courses incorporate QuickBooks training, equipping you with practical skills for client management. Continuous education in QuickBooks can boost your credibility, improve job prospects, and potentially increase your earning potential, as many certified bookkeepers report higher rates after completion. Conclusion To conclude, pursuing a bookkeeping career can be greatly improved by enrolling in one of these top seven classes. Each program, from the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate to the AIPB Certification Program, offers crucial skills and knowledge for beginners. By choosing the right course, you’ll gain practical experience and valuable credentials that can set you apart in the job market. Taking the initiative to invest in your education will provide a strong foundation for your future success in bookkeeping. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 7 Bookkeeping Classes for Beginners to Jumpstart Your Career" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you’re considering a career in bookkeeping, choosing the right classes can set a strong foundation. Programs like the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate and ACCA’s Introduction to Bookkeeping offer crucial skills for beginners. Certification options, such as those from NACPB and AIPB, can further improve your credentials. Each course provides a mix of theory and practical experience, preparing you for the demands of the industry. Let’s explore these options in detail and find the best fit for you. Key Takeaways Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate offers a structured two-month program focusing on QuickBooks at an affordable price of $160. ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping is a self-paced course covering fundamental concepts, with an optional certificate available for $99. University of Virginia’s Financial Accounting Fundamentals provides a solid grounding in accounting for around $80, enhancing credibility with a recognized certificate. Penn Foster Career School offers flexible learning with access to experienced instructors and a comprehensive curriculum, preparing students for various bookkeeping roles. NACPB Bookkeeper Certification can be completed in about 13 weeks for $369 (members), providing a valuable credential and the potential for new clients. NACPB Bookkeeper Certification The NACPB Bookkeeper Certification is a valuable credential for anyone looking to establish a solid foundation in bookkeeping. This respected certification program covers crucial topics and can be completed in about 13 weeks. With a cost of $369 for members and $449 for nonmembers, it’s an accessible option for those seeking accredited bookkeeping courses. Furthermore, by choosing a certification bundle, you could save 26%. Maintaining your certification requires ongoing education, ensuring you stay current with bookkeeping practices. Significantly, approximately 37% of certified bookkeepers found new clients following certification, showcasing its potential benefits for career growth. This program serves as an excellent starting point for beginners enthusiastic to improve their skills and advance in the bookkeeping field. Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate The Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate offers a structured, two-month program designed for beginners, focusing on computerized accounting and QuickBooks. At a budget-friendly price of $160 through Coursera, this certification not only builds your foundational skills in managing financial data but additionally improves your employability because of Intuit’s strong brand recognition. Although it may not cover as much ground as other certifications, completing this course equips you with valuable skills that are highly sought after in the small business sector. Course Overview and Structure For those new to the bookkeeping field, the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate offers a structured and practical introduction to computerized accounting, focusing primarily on QuickBooks. This course is designed for beginners and runs for approximately two months, requiring a time commitment that fits well into most schedules. Priced at $160, it’s an affordable option for aspiring bookkeepers. You’ll gain hands-on experience with QuickBooks software, allowing you to understand its practical applications in real-world bookkeeping scenarios. The curriculum builds foundational knowledge, ensuring you grasp vital skills, though it may not be as thorough as more advanced programs. Completing this certification improves your reputation, benefiting from Intuit’s recognized brand in the accounting industry. Benefits of Certification Earning the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate offers significant advantages for those entering the bookkeeping profession. This course, designed for beginners, focuses on computerized accounting and QuickBooks, and can be completed in about two months. At a cost of $160 through Coursera, it’s an affordable way to improve your bookkeeping skills. By obtaining this certificate, you enhance your reputation in the industry thanks to Intuit’s brand recognition, which can help you attract clients. Furthermore, completing the program provides foundational knowledge crucial for managing financial records, boosting your confidence and competence. Nonetheless, keep in mind that although beginner-friendly, the program lacks depth and continuing education options, which may impact your long-term professional development. ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping The ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping course on edX covers fundamental accounting concepts, making it an excellent starting point for beginners. With self-paced learning, you can fit the course into your schedule, typically completing it in about six weeks. Plus, earning a globally recognized certification can boost your credibility and improve your job prospects in the bookkeeping field. Fundamental Accounting Concepts Grasping fundamental accounting concepts is crucial for anyone looking to start a career in bookkeeping. The ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping course on edX offers a solid foundation, focusing on key principles like the double-entry system, ledgers, and financial statements. By comprehending these concepts, you’ll be better prepared to handle everyday bookkeeping tasks. The course is free, and although a certificate is available for $99, it provides an affordable way to improve your credentials. Designed for self-paced learning, you can complete it in about six weeks. Completing this course not only builds your accounting knowledge but also boosts your credibility, as the ACCA certification is recognized worldwide in the finance and accounting industry, giving you a competitive edge. Self-Paced Learning Benefits One of the key advantages of the ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping course is its self-paced learning format, which allows you to tailor your educational experience to fit your unique schedule. This course, available on edX, typically takes about six weeks to complete, enabling you to learn at your convenience without the pressure of fixed deadlines. You can access the course material for free, with an optional certificate available for $99, making it an affordable option for beginners. The self-paced structure encourages you to revisit complex topics, reinforcing your comprehension of fundamental accounting concepts. Completing this course not only equips you with foundational knowledge but additionally prepares you for a globally recognized certification that improves your credibility in the bookkeeping field. Global Recognition of Certification Earning a certification from the ACCA: Introduction to Bookkeeping course not only improves your knowledge but also greatly boosts your professional profile. This course, available on edX, focuses on fundamental accounting concepts crucial for beginners, making it a perfect starting point. It’s free to access, with an optional certificate for $99, providing an affordable way to gain formal recognition in the field. Designed for self-paced learning, you can complete it in about six weeks at your convenience. The ACCA certification is globally recognized, enhancing your credibility among employers and clients. Completing this course gives you a strong foundation in bookkeeping, which is significant for establishing a career in accounting or financial management, setting you apart in a competitive market. University of Virginia – Financial Accounting Fundamentals The University of Virginia offers a Financial Accounting Fundamentals course through Coursera, which is ideal for anyone seeking a solid grounding in vital accounting practices. This course includes five in-depth modules and requires approximately 13 hours to complete, making it a manageable commitment for busy learners. Priced around $80, it’s a cost-effective option for enhancing your accounting knowledge. The curriculum covers critical topics fundamental to grasping financial accounting, catering to both beginners and those looking to refresh their skills. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate from the University of Virginia, which can greatly boost your credibility in the accounting field. Although not as thorough as certification programs, this course lays a solid foundation for a career in bookkeeping or accounting. Penn Foster Career School – Bookkeeping Training Program If you’re looking to further your education in bookkeeping, the Penn Foster Career School offers an extensive Bookkeeping Training Program that caters to various learning styles. This program provides you with a flexible learning pace, letting you study when it suits you best. The thorough curriculum covers crucial topics like: Financial statements Payroll processing Accounting principles QuickBooks software Industry best practices You’ll have access to experienced instructors and dedicated student services that guide you throughout your learning path. Furthermore, the program includes a free one-year subscription to QuickBooks, giving you hands-on experience with industry-standard software. With a total cost of $789, you can complete the program in six months to one year, depending on your pace. AIPB Certification Program For those seeking to improve their bookkeeping credentials, the AIPB Certification Program stands out as a highly respected option in the industry. This program covers a thorough curriculum, including accounting foundations, financial statements, and payroll processing. With a commitment of three to four months, you can complete the certification for $1,495. Many find it worthwhile; approximately 37% of certified bookkeepers gained new clients, as well as 48% raised their rates post-certification. Achieving AIPB certification can greatly elevate your career opportunities and credibility in the bookkeeping field. Benefit Statistic New Clients Gained 37% Increased Rates 48% Duration to Complete 3-4 months Universal Accounting School – Professional Bookkeeper Program When considering a thorough approach to bookkeeping education, the Universal Accounting School‘s Professional Bookkeeper Program offers an extensive curriculum customized for both beginners and those looking to advance their skills. This program provides you with crucial knowledge and hands-on experience, as you’ll work on the books for 11 different small businesses. Key features of the program include: In-depth coverage of vital bookkeeping topics Earning the title of “Certified Bookkeeper” upon graduation A significant 60-hour time commitment for thorough training Practical application of learned skills in real-world scenarios Total program cost of $3,091, reflecting its depth of knowledge This program improves your career opportunities and marketability in the bookkeeping industry. Frequently Asked Questions How to Get Started as a Bookkeeper With No Experience? To get started as a bookkeeper with no experience, enroll in beginner-friendly online courses, like the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate. Consider obtaining the free QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor Certification for industry recognition. You can furthermore explore affordable courses, such as the Bookkeeper Business Coach course, which guides you in setting up a bookkeeping business. In addition, utilize free resources on YouTube and join online communities to network and learn best practices from others in the field. What Is the Best Way to Learn Basic Bookkeeping? To learn basic bookkeeping effectively, start with beginner-friendly online courses like the Udemy for a thorough comprehension. Utilize free resources from Khan Academy or edX to grasp fundamental accounting principles. Consider certification programs, such as the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate, to improve your skills. Moreover, practical courses like Bookkeeper Launch can guide you in setting up a bookkeeping business, providing valuable marketing strategies along the way. What Is the Best Course to Become a Bookkeeper? To become a bookkeeper, consider taking the Bookkeeper Launch course, which covers fundamental accounting principles and QuickBooks, completing in about three months. On the other hand, Intuit Academy offers an affordable Bookkeeping Professional Certificate, focusing on computerized accounting for $160. If you’re looking for a free option, ACCA’s Introduction to Bookkeeping provides foundational knowledge in six weeks. Each course equips you with the necessary skills to start your bookkeeping career effectively. What Program Do Most Bookkeepers Use? Most bookkeepers use QuickBooks as their primary accounting software because of its user-friendly interface and extensive features. QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor Certification is particularly beneficial for beginners, offering free, industry-recognized credentials. Many bookkeeping courses incorporate QuickBooks training, equipping you with practical skills for client management. Continuous education in QuickBooks can boost your credibility, improve job prospects, and potentially increase your earning potential, as many certified bookkeepers report higher rates after completion. Conclusion To conclude, pursuing a bookkeeping career can be greatly improved by enrolling in one of these top seven classes. Each program, from the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate to the AIPB Certification Program, offers crucial skills and knowledge for beginners. By choosing the right course, you’ll gain practical experience and valuable credentials that can set you apart in the job market. Taking the initiative to invest in your education will provide a strong foundation for your future success in bookkeeping. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 7 Bookkeeping Classes for Beginners to Jumpstart Your Career" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The only thing Pixel users love more than the lock screen's Now Playing widget is talking about the Now Playing widget. Whenever I'm out and about with my Pixel and there's music playing, I'll always take a sneaky look at the lock screen, and yes, it'll have identified the song. It's magical. But until now, that's where the magic stopped. What if you want a list of all the songs the widget recognized while you were at your local cafe? What if you want to save a song or play it in YouTube Music? Or even trigger the music search manually? Until now, that wasn't really possible. Now, Google has chosen to bring this functionality to a dedicated app, as part of its March Pixel Drop. How to find your Now Playing listening history on Google PixelFirst, start by downloading the Now Playing app from the Google Play Store. At launch, it might ask you to download the latest software update and come back in a couple of hours. Once I installed the update, I was in. To use the app, you'll need to enable the background feature that scans for music. If it's disabled, you'll be prompted to enable it before you can use the app (you'll be taken to where you can toggle it on). Credit: Khamosh Pathak The app opens to a history view, and you'll be glad to know that all the songs your Pixel's Now Playing widget previously recognized will all be here. The list can be pretty detailed. For me, it was over 100 songs long. You can do more than look at your history, too. Tap the three-dot Menu button next to any song to listen to it on YouTube Music, add it to your Liked Songs, add it to a playlist, or add it to a Favorites section (which you can visit using the heart icon in the bottom toolbar). Credit: Khamosh Pathak Head over to the Settings section up top, and you'll find an option for Connected music service. You can change your default music service here. Sadly, the only options available right now are YouTube and YouTube Music, but hopefully this means Google will add options for Spotify and Apple Music in future updates. Other than that, the Settings screen is quite bare. You can tap the Clear History button if you want to get rid of all your previously recognized songs, but that's about it. How to manually scan for songs using the Now Playing app Credit: Khamosh Pathak Beyond seeing a history of songs, the advantage of having a dedicated Now Playing app is that you can search for a song even if the widget doesn't automatically detect it. Open the Now Playing app and switch to the Live tab at the end. Then, tap the big Music button to start recognizing the song (if you've ever used Shazam, this should be familiar). In a second, the app will recognize the song, and you'll see a full-screen preview for it. The Now Playing app also supports Quick Settings controls, one of my favorite ways to trigger shortcuts and utilities on Android. To add the Now Playing control to your Quick Settings, open the notification drawer, switch to the Quick Settings panel, and tap the Edit button. Find and add the Now Playing control. Now, the next time you want to find out what you're listening to, just open the Quick Settings panel, tap the Now Playing control, and wait as the app does its thing. View the full article

Things are moving quickly in the Middle East following the February 28 attack by Israel and the United States on Iran. Repeated waves of US-Israeli strikes have hit military and government sites across Iran, killing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and prompting a temporary leadership council to take charge in Tehran. Iran has responded with threats to close the Strait of Hormuz and launched retaliatory attacks around the Gulf, raising fears that the conflict could spill over into a broader regional war and disrupt global energy supplies. One way the average Joe is trying to keep track is by “monitoring the situation” using dashboards—many of which, their creators admit, were spun up using vibe-coding tools like Claude Code. The tools look like something out of a White House situation room—or at least a Hollywood depiction of one—and vary in what they track. They tend to pull together RSS news feeds, social media sentiment trackers, live news channel streams, and maps to try to identify areas of concern, along with stock market data and the latest trades on crypto and prediction markets. Some make a virtue of their wide-ranging oversight—World Monitor promises to monitor the world. Monitor the Situation also does exactly what it says it will, while also having an associated meme coin. Digital Embassy claims to be a “political and economic intelligence dashboard.” The various dashboards have become a social media sensation, with some calling them the best way to keep on top of a fast-moving situation. Others are… less sure, dinging them AI vibe-coded slop that looks informative without actually being useful. “The dashboards are terrible and they do generally match what I have seen from industry,” says George Mason University professor Missy Cummings. “Steve Jobs would roll over in his grave to see these kludge-monsters.” The problem, as she sees it, is that just because a dashboard may look like something lifted from the movies doesn’t mean it is actually practical for keeping up with fast-moving situations like what’s unfolding in the Middle East. “Somehow people think more information is better and this simply does not promote efficient decision making,” Cummings says. Others see the merits of the dashboards, even if they are unlikely to be a like-for-like alternative to the official databases and tools used by those actually making decisions. There is the question of whether they are good enough, which, for Twitter, seems like, sure, I guess,” says Noah Sylvia, a research analyst in emerging tech at the Royal United Services Institute, a U.K.-based military think tank. But for actual decisionmaking and monitoring of the situation, there is one massive gulf that Sylvia says separates professional products from hobbyist creations. And it is the same principle that applies to the AI products used to create many of the dashboards: Garbage in, garbage out. More than the interface itself, the real difference lies in the data feeding these dashboards. Professionals simply have access to far deeper and more sophisticated datasets than hobbyist analysts on social media, while militaries and government agencies operate with even larger pools of information. “Militaries and government organizations can access far greater quantities of data, both open source intelligence and not,” Sylvia says. However, for the average user simply trying to keep track of what is happening in Iran and the consequences spilling out from the initial attack, the inputs—and outputs—may well be good enough. And as many social media users have pointed out, whoever sets up a sports-bar equivalent of monitoring the situation looks set to make bank. View the full article