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Want more housing market stories from Lance Lambert’s ResiClub in your inbox? Subscribe to the ResiClub newsletter. Speaking at ResiDay 2025 on Friday, FHFA Director Bill Pulte broke news, stating that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will remain in conservatorship—easing industry fears that an exit could put upward pressure on mortgage rates. Instead, he said the government plans to sell up to 5% of their shares back to the public. Pulte added, “I anticipate that the president will make a decision either this quarter or early next year as it relates to the IPO.” Pulte wasn’t done breaking news. Amid strained housing affordability, President Donald The President and Pulte announced on X.com on Saturday that they’re working on a 50-year mortgage option to help lower some homebuyers’ initial monthly payments. For today’s piece, I’m going to run through 11-data backed thoughts on 50-year mortgages. Before we get into the article, we should note that we don’t know the finer details of the option nor if they’ll actually go through with it. 1. A 50-year mortgage would come with a higher interest rate Lenders charge more for longer-term loans because they take on additional risk. The further out the repayment period stretches, the greater the uncertainty around inflation, interest rates, and credit risk. Historically, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has averaged about 57 basis points higher than the 15-year rate. If a 50-year option were introduced at scale, borrowers could expect an even steeper premium—likely adding another fraction of a percentage point to the rate in exchange for lower monthly payments. 2. Logan Mohtashami estimates that a 50-year mortgage would carry a rate roughly 42 to 57 basis points higher than the 30-year Logan Mohtashami, lead analyst at HousingWire, tells ResiClub that he estimates that a 50-year mortgage would carry an interest rate roughly 42 to 57 basis points higher than the standard 30-year fixed mortgage. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate, as tracked by Freddie Mac, came in at 6.22% last week. At that level, the average 50-year fixed mortgage rate would be somewhere between 6.64% to 6.79%, assuming Mohtashami’s additional premium is correct. 3. The monthly principal and interest on a 50-year mortgage would be a little less than on a 30-year The core appeal of a 50-year loan is obvious: lower monthly payments. Stretching the repayment period over half a century spreads the same principal across 20 additional years, trimming the monthly cost. For example, on a $400,000 mortgage with a 6.22% interest rate, the monthly principal and interest payment would be roughly $2,455 on a 30-year mortgage. A 50-year mortgage at a 6.64% interest rate would lower that to around $2,297—a savings of about $158 per month, or roughly 7% less. That could be meaningful for some homebuyers on the edge of affordability. However, it’s far smaller than the monthly payment reduction that comes from moving from a 15-year mortgage to a 30-year mortgage. Here’s what Logan Mohtashami, lead analyst of HousingWire, tells ResiClub: “I truly empathize with the challenges that young homebuyers face as they embark on their journey to purchase their first home. They finance over 90% of their home purchases, and mortgage rates remain high compared to what they saw from 2011-2022. I applaud the administration’s efforts to support young homebuyers this year; their intentions are commendable. Nevertheless, I worry that raising loan amortization will create other challenges. Higher levels of total interest payments and less equity buildup, all for just a few hundred dollars in savings—something a mere 0.50% to 1.00% decrease in mortgage rates could achieve instead from today’s levels It’s important to recognize that the housing market is already heavily subsidized through the 30-year fixed-rate loan and favorable tax policies. As the market naturally shifts toward favoring buyers, we are seeing an increase in supply and a slowdown in [home] price growth. Historically, this is how the [housing] market has found its balance in other periods after big increases in prices such as we saw from 1943-1947 and 1974-1979—the aftermath of those periods didn’t have a housing bubble crash in prices, but in time affordability did get better.” Housing analyst Aziz Sunderji, the founder of Home Economics, tells ResiClub: “My sense is that this is mostly policy theater. The fact is that prices and rates are high and there’s not much policy can do about that. Shifting from an already very long 30-year term to 50-year would be pretty marginal for monthlies and would of course do nothing to help lower down payments.” 4. A borrower would pay substantially more in total interest using a 50-year mortgage The total interest paid over 50 years balloons. On that same $400,000 loan example, a 30-year borrower would pay roughly $483,000 in interest by the time it’s paid off. A 50-year borrower? Closer to $980,000—roughly half a million dollars more in financing cost. That gap is the trade-off between short-term affordability and long-term efficiency. The 50-year mortgage dramatically slows the pace of principal repayment, meaning homeowners stay “leveraged” for longer and build wealth through amortization much more slowly. 5. The vast majority of 50-year borrowers wouldn’t actually stick around for 50 years A common online criticism of the 50-year mortgage is that it would leave borrowers paying well into retirement—or possibly never living to see the loan fully paid off. I’m not going to say that’s an invalid concern. But it’s important to keep in mind that most mortgages already don’t reach full term. Even with a standard 30-year fixed mortgage, few homeowners stay put long enough to make the final payment. The typical U.S. homeowner stays in their house for 11.8 years, according to Redfin. 6. A 50-year mortgage borrower builds equity much slower In the early years of any mortgage, most of the payment goes toward interest. Stretch that loan to 50 years, and it takes much longer before principal repayment meaningfully accelerates. In the hypothetical above, after 10 years, a 30-year borrower will have paid off roughly 20% of their balance. The 50-year borrower? Only about 9%. That means homeowners could feel stuck for longer—particularly if home prices flatten or dip. It could also make refinancing or selling in the early years trickier, since equity cushions take more time to form. 7. If the 50-year borrower invests their monthly payment savings, it makes up for some of the slower principal payoff There is a counterargument: If 50-year borrowers invest their monthly payment savings (the difference between what they’d pay for a 15-year or 30-year mortgage), those returns could help offset the slower equity build. In a ResiClub analysis, assuming a $400,000 mortgage, 2% annual home price appreciation, and 7% annual investment returns, the 50-year borrower who invests their monthly savings does start to narrow the gap over time. The 15-year borrower builds wealth fastest through home equity, but over decades, the invested difference can partly close the wealth delta. Of course, that requires actually investing the savings. 8. In a weak home price appreciation market, a 50-year mortgage is less appealing If home price growth remains modest for the rest of the decade while national affordability slowly improves, the 50-year mortgage becomes less appealing, according to ResiClub’s analysis. In a higher home price growth environment—like the 2012 to 2022 period—a 50-year loan becomes more compelling for borrowers whose choice is either buying with a 50-year mortgage (because they can’t afford a 15- or 30-year option) or continuing to rent and build no equity at all. 9. Rolling out a 50-year mortgage could create some additional housing demand—but it’s unlikely to be anything dramatic A 50-year mortgage could pull a modest number of buyers off the sidelines. But don’t expect a huge housing demand surge. Given the math and housing backdrop (soft national levels of appreciation), the product would likely remain niche. 10. The public isn’t crazy about the idea Early polling suggests the 50-year mortgage isn’t winning hearts. In a ResiClub poll conducted November 8, 2025, over 2,300 respondents on X.com weighed in on the The President-Pulte announcement. A majority said their reaction was either “unfavorable” or “very unfavorable.” 11. The lackluster public response to the 50-year mortgage rollout decreases the likelihood of it happening Without strong political or market enthusiasm, the odds of a true nationwide 50-year mortgage rolling out in the next few months remain low. For it to gain traction, it would require both regulatory approval and political will. The administration tested the waters—and given the response, it may stop short of fully implementing it. View the full article

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We may earn a commission from links on this page. Sterlin Harjo, of Reservation Dogs fame, is back with another unique and critically acclaimed series, this one starring Ethan Hawke as a folksy citizen journalist (or "truthstorian," as he prefers), based loosely on the real-life activist best known for uncovering new details about the 1921 Black Wall Street massacre in Tulsa. Joined by Keith David's Marty (and a genuinely impressive supporting cast), Hawke's Lee Raybon has a relentless need to explore the dark corners of his community and its history, and unfailing ability to find trouble in the process. There are crime drama and neo-noir elements, but blended with a loose, sometimes quirky tone and an interest in the histories of Tulsa's various and interconnected communities. It's one other streaming's buzziest, best-reviewed shows which is, of course, not necessarily enough to warrant a renewal these days. We're still waiting on word of a second season. You can stream The Lowdown on Hulu or buy episodes from Prime Video and Apple TV. Sharp Objects (2018) Based on the Gillian Flynn novel, Amy Adams stars here as Camille Preaker, a troubled reporter with substance abuse issues who's only recently been released from a psychiatric hospital. I'm not sure what step of recovery this is, but Camille returns to her hometown of Wind Gap, Missouri in order to investigate the murder of one girl and the apparently related disappearance of another—all under the watchful, extremely critical eye of her socialite mother, Adora (Patricia Clarkson). The tone here is quite a bit darker than that of The Lowdown, but there's still the sense of buried secrets and lies in a small, southern (-esque) town. Stream Sharp Objects on HBO Max or buy episodes from Prime Video and Apple TV. Sharp Objects (2018) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Bodkin (2024) A slightly better tonal match for Lowdown—at least in that it allows for a bit of humor to penetrate its world—Bodkin takes us to the title's rather quirky Irish coastal town. Will Forte plays Gilbert Power, an American podcaster who arrives to investigate the cold case of three people who went missing during a Samhain celebration three decades prior. He's soon joined by Dove Maloney (Siobhán Cullen), a Dublin-born journalist who'd been living in London, and aspiring journalist Emmy Sizergh (Robyn Cara). It's very nearly a satire of the genre, with an engaging mystery at its heart nonetheless. Stream Bodkin on Netflix. Bodkin (2024) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix When They See Us (2019) Where The Lowdown includes peaks at real history, Ava DuVerney's docudrama puts a laser-focus on the 1989 Central Park jogger case—Trisha Meili was assaulted and raped in the park, leading to the convictions of five Black teenagers based largely on circumstantial evidence and coerced confessions. The show follows Kevin Richardson (Asante Blackk), Antron McCray (Caleel Harris), Yusef Salaam (Ethan Herisse), Korey Wise (Jharrel Jerome), and Raymond Santana (Marquis Rodriguez) from conviction into adulthood, and to the five ultimately being exonerated by DNA evidence and the real attacker's confession. It's a more serious story of the importance of uncovering buried truths, all the more relevant given that the President has continued to call for the death penalty for the five exonerated men, raising the issue as recently as 2024. Stream When They See Us on Netflix. When They See Us (2019) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Fargo (2014 – 2024) This season-by-season anthology crime drama finds us in the Midwest, mostly, blending crime drama, small town secrets, and healthy heaps of dark humor. The quirky characters in the shifting cast are sometimes lovable, sometimes reprehensible, but they're consistently compelling in the style of the (fictional, at least) residents of Tulsa. Stream Fargo on Hulu or buy episodes from Prime Video. Fargo (2014 – 2024) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Sons of Anarchy (2008 – 2014) Charlie Hunnam leads an impressive ensemble cast here (including Katey Sagal and Ron Perlman) in the story of an outlaw motorcycle club in the fictional Charming, California. Hunnam's Jax Teller leads the club, coming to question himself and his beliefs even as he tries to hold the club together and protect his Central Valley community. Though the drama is frequently Shakespearean, and the Cali setting is far removed from Tulsa, there's still the sense of a tight-knit community that's alternately strengthened and threatened by internal conflict. Stream Sons of Anarchy on Hulu or buy episodes from Prime Video and Apple TV. Sons of Anarchy (2008 – 2014) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Reservation Dogs (2021 – 2023) I couldn't go another moment without recommending Lowdown creator Sterlin Harjo's previous masterpiece, the unjustly short-lived Reservation Dogs (co-created with Taika Waititi). This one gets a ton of credit for its North American Indigenous representation (characters and cast, as well as behind the scenes), and it’s a great show for it—a true dramedy that manages to bring both solid laughs and moments of heartbreak. It deals with issues and emotions common to rural teenagers who dream of going elsewhere, yet specific to these Oklahoma Rez teenagers. Each of the show's three seasons is better than the one prior. Stream Reservation Dogs on Hulu. Reservation Dogs (2021 – 2023) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Mare of Easttown (2021) Kate Winslet picked up an Emmy for her performance as thoroughly troubled Mare Sheehan, a local hero in her days as a high school basketball champ, but with a reputation that's rapidly losing its luster. As a police detective, she's been unable to solve the case of a missing girl even as she's confronted with a recently murdered teenage mother. Stream Mare of Easttown on HBO Max or buy episodes from Prime Video and Apple TV. Mare of Easttown (2021) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Watchmen (2019) This criminally underrated adaptation/continuation of the graphic novel is perhaps a bit of a stretch here, but bear with me: There are key connections. Set in an alternate Tulsa, Oklahoma, in a world where super-powered vigilantes exist and have been outlawed, the series starts, dramatically, with the massacre of Tulsa's Black Wall Street by white residents in 1921. Regina King plays Angela Abar, a modern cop whose grandparents were killed during the 1921 attacks, an event that echoes through both our own history and that of the characters in the series. Not only is the setting appropriate to that of The Lowdown, as is the theme of history impacting the present, there's also a link to the events of 1921: The Lowdown's Lee Raybon is based, loosely, on the life of folk historian Lee Roy Chapman, most famous for uncovering the direct organizing role of Tulsa's founder in the massacre. Stream Watchmen on HBO Max or buy episodes from Prime Video and Apple TV. Watchmen (2019) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Echo (2024) While the Tulsa of The Lowdown has a nearly small-town vibe, Echo takes us to Tamaha—a couple of hours south, but home to only a couple of hundred people and built on Choctaw land (the show was actually filmed in Georgia, so do with that what you will). Alaqua Cox plays Maya Lopez in this Marvel miniseries, a deaf former criminal and Chahta returning to her hometown and trying, with mixed results, to escape her past as an enforcer for Wilson Fisk (Vincent D'Onofrio). A drama of crime and redemption, Echo finds Maya reconnecting with her current family as well as her ancestral past, each episode beginning with a flashback that takes us from the pre-historic origins of the Nation through centuries of growth and conflict, ultimately linking that history to Maya's own childhood. Stream Echo on Disney+. Echo (2024) at Disney+ Learn More Learn More at Disney+ Rutherford Falls (2020 – 2022) Writer and producer Sierra Teller Ornelas joins Ed Helms and Michael Schur here, with Helms playing Nathan Rutherford, a descendent of a guy whose statue has a prominent spot in the title town. His best friend is Reagan Wells (Jana Schmieding), who runs the local cultural center for the (fictional) Minishonka tribe. The two are on completely different sides of the big issues that arise when the mayor wants to take down the old statue (mostly because it’s in a bad spot and cars keep running into it), but work to maintain their friendship anyway. it's a sitcom, but, like The Lowdown, isn't afraid to have complicated conversations about American Indigenous history, buoyed here by the record number of Indigenous writers on staff, including Ornelas herself. Stream Rutherford Falls on Peacock or buy episodes from Prime Video and Apple TV. Rutherford Falls (2020 – 2022) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock Only Murders in the Building (2021 – ) At first blush, Only Murders looks like a tonal mismatch, but it and Lowdown have enough in common to warrant a mention here. In Murders, three (initially) amateur podcasters come together in order to solve a murder in their Upper West Side apartment building. Each subsequent seasons sees a new murder (or murders), but in each instance our citizen journalists (Selena Gomez, Martin Short, and Steve Martin) are forced to dig deep into the histories of the individuals whom they're investigating, either as victims or suspects, uncovering hidden stories and secrets that span decades. It's often quite a bit sillier than our subject, but, as with Lowdown, the show's quirky characters are aways a solid hang. Stream Only Murders in the Building on Hulu. Only Murders in the Building (2021 – ) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Dark Winds (2022 – ) Heading a bit west of Lowdown's Oklahoma setting, Dark Winds, adapted from a series of books by Tony Hillerman, takes up back to the 1970s and the Four Corners region of the American Southwest (where Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona meet). Zahn McClarnon, Kiowa Gordon, and Jessica Matten lead the largely Native American cast as three Navajo Tribal Police officers brought together when a bank robbery on the border of the Navajo nation becomes entangled with the deaths of two Native residents. The show blends hardboiled crime and police procedural elements, but stands out for its exploration of the fraught history and relationships between these neighboring, interwoven communities. Stream Dark Winds on Netflix or buy episodes from Prime Video and Apple TV. Dark Winds (2022 – ) at Netflix Get Deal Get Deal at Netflix View the full article

There are dozens of timesheet apps on the market, and each one promises accurate data, meaningful insights, and improved productivity. But most of these tools are reactive, not proactive. They give you a record of everyone’s time at work, but they don’t actually help employees work better. ​ These days, time tracking alone isn’t enough. The post The best timesheet app is the one that actually improves team focus appeared first on RescueTime Blog. View the full article

While all six companies were profitable in the third quarter, most had earnings which were down from the prior periods, with MGIC setting a milestone. View the full article

In an age where remote work and cyber threats are increasingly prevalent, small business owners face a daunting task: how to manage and secure their IT infrastructure efficiently. Intel’s latest innovation—Intel vPro® Fleet Services—aims to revolutionize this landscape by providing a cloud-based management solution through Microsoft Intune, making it easier for businesses to tackle IT challenges head-on. Intel vPro Fleet Services marks a significant development in device management, integrating silicon-based fleet management directly within the Intune platform. This advancement simplifies remote management, allowing IT teams to monitor, secure, and address challenges with their computers—regardless of whether those devices are powered on, in the office, or on the other side of the world. The shift to cloud connectivity means that small businesses now have access to a more agile and robust management toolset, without the need for complex setups or specialized software. As Novin Kaihani, Intel’s senior director of Commercial Client Platforms, explains, “We needed to go much faster and directly to our customers.” This urgency led to a complete overhaul of the software package, resulting in a more user-friendly interface compatible with the modern software-as-a-service (SaaS) model. The integration with Microsoft Intune allows small businesses the flexibility to manage their device fleets easily. Key benefits of this cloud-native service include: Remote Problem Resolution: Small business IT teams can troubleshoot and rectify issues without needing to physically access devices. This is crucial for minimizing downtime, which is valuable for any business operating on tight schedules and limited resources. Scalability: Whether a company has a handful of computers or thousands, vPro Fleet Services can expand alongside its needs. This scalability ensures that as a small business grows, its IT management solution can adapt without disruptive changes. Enhanced Security: With built-in security features, Intel vPro promises better protection against cyber threats. This becomes increasingly important as businesses depend on remote work, which can expose them to a host of vulnerabilities. Ease of Integration: The seamless transition to this modern platform allows small businesses to harness the full capabilities of their existing Intel devices without the headache of implementing complex server-side solutions. Data Privacy: Customers retain control over their data, as Intel only holds a portion of the cryptographic keys needed for establishing a secure connection. IT administrators are the only ones who can authorize access, ensuring that sensitive company data remains protected. The practical implications are significant. “Disaster recovery for PCs” is how Jennifer Larson, general manager of Intel Commercial Client segments, describes this innovation. By streamlining the process of diagnosing and solving computer issues remotely, businesses can avoid the cumbersome, time-consuming task of manually working through each device. Despite these advantages, small business owners should consider a few potential challenges. The reliance on cloud connectivity means that any outage or poor internet connection can hinder access to management tools. While vPro Fleet Services streamlines many processes, it also requires IT teams to adapt to its new functionalities. Thus, some initial training or familiarization may be necessary to fully leverage its capabilities. Since its availability in the Microsoft Intune partner portal in September 2025, the feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive. Many businesses, from small to large enterprises, report increased ease of management. One IT management company noted, “I was able to configure vPro in my lab within minutes, something I’ve tried to do for years. This is fantastic!” As small business owners look for ways to enhance their IT capabilities amidst growing concerns about cybersecurity and remote management, Intel vPro Fleet Services presents a viable, modern solution. By bridging the gap between physical hardware and cloud-based management tools, it not only addresses pressing IT issues but also empowers companies to operate more efficiently. For those interested in further details, more information is available in the original press release from Intel here. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Intel Launches Cloud Native vPro Fleet Services for Seamless IT Management" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In an age where remote work and cyber threats are increasingly prevalent, small business owners face a daunting task: how to manage and secure their IT infrastructure efficiently. Intel’s latest innovation—Intel vPro® Fleet Services—aims to revolutionize this landscape by providing a cloud-based management solution through Microsoft Intune, making it easier for businesses to tackle IT challenges head-on. Intel vPro Fleet Services marks a significant development in device management, integrating silicon-based fleet management directly within the Intune platform. This advancement simplifies remote management, allowing IT teams to monitor, secure, and address challenges with their computers—regardless of whether those devices are powered on, in the office, or on the other side of the world. The shift to cloud connectivity means that small businesses now have access to a more agile and robust management toolset, without the need for complex setups or specialized software. As Novin Kaihani, Intel’s senior director of Commercial Client Platforms, explains, “We needed to go much faster and directly to our customers.” This urgency led to a complete overhaul of the software package, resulting in a more user-friendly interface compatible with the modern software-as-a-service (SaaS) model. The integration with Microsoft Intune allows small businesses the flexibility to manage their device fleets easily. Key benefits of this cloud-native service include: Remote Problem Resolution: Small business IT teams can troubleshoot and rectify issues without needing to physically access devices. This is crucial for minimizing downtime, which is valuable for any business operating on tight schedules and limited resources. Scalability: Whether a company has a handful of computers or thousands, vPro Fleet Services can expand alongside its needs. This scalability ensures that as a small business grows, its IT management solution can adapt without disruptive changes. Enhanced Security: With built-in security features, Intel vPro promises better protection against cyber threats. This becomes increasingly important as businesses depend on remote work, which can expose them to a host of vulnerabilities. Ease of Integration: The seamless transition to this modern platform allows small businesses to harness the full capabilities of their existing Intel devices without the headache of implementing complex server-side solutions. Data Privacy: Customers retain control over their data, as Intel only holds a portion of the cryptographic keys needed for establishing a secure connection. IT administrators are the only ones who can authorize access, ensuring that sensitive company data remains protected. The practical implications are significant. “Disaster recovery for PCs” is how Jennifer Larson, general manager of Intel Commercial Client segments, describes this innovation. By streamlining the process of diagnosing and solving computer issues remotely, businesses can avoid the cumbersome, time-consuming task of manually working through each device. Despite these advantages, small business owners should consider a few potential challenges. The reliance on cloud connectivity means that any outage or poor internet connection can hinder access to management tools. While vPro Fleet Services streamlines many processes, it also requires IT teams to adapt to its new functionalities. Thus, some initial training or familiarization may be necessary to fully leverage its capabilities. Since its availability in the Microsoft Intune partner portal in September 2025, the feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive. Many businesses, from small to large enterprises, report increased ease of management. One IT management company noted, “I was able to configure vPro in my lab within minutes, something I’ve tried to do for years. This is fantastic!” As small business owners look for ways to enhance their IT capabilities amidst growing concerns about cybersecurity and remote management, Intel vPro Fleet Services presents a viable, modern solution. By bridging the gap between physical hardware and cloud-based management tools, it not only addresses pressing IT issues but also empowers companies to operate more efficiently. For those interested in further details, more information is available in the original press release from Intel here. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Intel Launches Cloud Native vPro Fleet Services for Seamless IT Management" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Retirement saving requires key decisions: when to start, how much to save, and where to invest. The investing decision has drawn more attention as government regulators work to open 401(k) plans to alternative assets such as private market investments. Below, we compare the paths of two hypothetical retirement savers and their outcomes. A tale of two retirement savers Laura and JR are two 25-year-olds newly employed at the same company, in the same role. Step 1: Deciding to Save On her first day at work, Laura committed 10% of her $75,000 salary to her 401(k). That earned her company’s 3% annual match (it matches 50% up to 6%), and 13% in total savings. She still had room in her budget for weekends filled with activities. JR was more worried about now. Rather than putting money into a 401(k) he wouldn’t touch for decades, he enjoyed his $75,000 salary. Five years later, JR began to build his nest egg. He opted for the minimum contribution rate to qualify for the company match, contributing 6% with a 3% match. Step 2: How to Invest Laura and JR’s employer offered many investment vehicles, including target-date funds. One invested only in public stocks and bonds; the other kept a 15% allocation to private equity and private credit across the glide path. Laura preferred the public-only target-date fund for its simplicity and transparency. JR was also drawn to the target-date options and their ease of use. However, he went with the private market option since it promised higher returns, and to make up for his late start. He figured he could quickly recover five years of missed contributions, given that he had 35 years until retirement. From earnings years to retirement Laura and JR both rose steadily to senior management positions. Their career progression and their salaries stayed in tandem. By the time they were turning 65 and approaching retirement, each was earning $178,620 a year. There had been no changes to their 401(k) contribution rates or their company’s matching formula. As Laura and JR prepared to retire, they reviewed their 401(k)s. For JR, the target-date fund with private markets had paid off. Over 35 years of investing, the fund delivered an annualized return of 8.9%, compared with 8.4% for the public-only option. This left him with a balance of about $2 million. Combined with Social Security, JR felt that he could enjoy retirement without the risk of outliving his savings. The public-only TDF underperformed compared with the private markets TDF, but Laura didn’t mind. Over 40 years of investing, her 401(k) account balance grew to more than $3 million. By starting earlier and contributing more, she harnessed the power of compounding returns to a much greater extent than JR had. JR’s private markets sleeve gave him a small edge, but Laura’s decision to start saving earlier and save more made the real difference. Compounding did the rest, turning her steady contributions into a balance far larger than JR’s. The bottom line: It is far better to focus on how much to save and when to start saving, instead of the whims of the public and private markets. Behind the curtain In illustrating the importance of saving early and saving more, we had to make several assumptions. We assumed that Laura and JR earn the same salary and stay at the same employer for their entire careers, with no breaks in employment. We assumed stocks, bonds, and private markets all delivered the long-term return expectations set by Morningstar Investment Management. It’s not a given that a target-date fund with a 15% allocation to private markets would outperform a similar strategy focused solely on public stocks and bonds, especially after fees. There is debate about whether private equity funds outperform their public counterparts. A Morningstar analysis concluded that private equity funds are best thought of as another form of active management, where a handful of funds may significantly outperform their peers, but median returns are similar (or worse) to public market funds. Moreover, private markets present additional challenges for forecasting due to the heterogeneity in the underlying investments. The results should be viewed as more of a best-case scenario for target-date funds with private market exposure. This article was provided to The Associated Press by Morningstar. For more personal finance content, go to https://www.morningstar.com/personal-finance Jason Kephart, CFA, is a senior principal, multi-asset strategy ratings, for Morningstar. Spencer Look is an associate director, retirement studies for Morningstar Investment Management LLC. Samantha Lamas is a senior behavioral insights researcher for Morningstar. —Jason Kephart, Spencer Look, and Samantha Lamas of Morningstar View the full article

Tim Davie’s comments come after US president says he will sue for $1bn if he does not get an apology and compensation View the full article

Most of our apps these days continue to receive AI upgrades—whether or not we actually want them. That's no surprise from a company like Google, who is among those leading the AI charge right now. If you use Chrome, Android, or Google Workspace, you've likely dealt with Gemini in some capacity. The charge, as you might expect, continues to this day. On Tuesday, Google announced a set of new AI-powered features coming to Google Photos, for both iOS and Android users. Google doesn't yet have a definitive release date for these new features, but it seems they're rolling out soon. These are largely optional—you can keep using Photos as an image library, and avoid using the AI features if you wish. But if you have an interest, especially in AI image editing, here's what you can expect to see: Nano BananaNano Banana is Google's current "big thing" in AI imaging. The model allows you to generate or edit images with greater flexibility than previous models—specifically, you can use it to change a single photo in multiple ways, while keeping the subjects consistent across edits. You can ask Nano Banana to change hairdos, outfits, sceneries, image styles, add or remove elements, stack edits, and even combine different attributes of multiple photos. If you take Google's word for it, it's a big deal. Now, Google is making Nano Banana available in Google Photos' editor. You'll find the tool under the new "Help me edit" button when opening a photo in the app. Here, you'll be able to ask the app to make whatever changes you'd like. Google suggests prompts like turning you into the monarch on a deck of cards; transforming a picture into a tiled mosaic; or adding a winter theme to an image to make your family's holiday card. Credit: Google We will need to investigate whether Google Photos' Nano Banana editor stack up to the tool you've been able to use in Gemini. But the option is now there, should you choose to use it. Personalized editsWhat is a photo? You might think that's a simple one to answer: You point your camera at some, snap away, and boom: A picture is born. But companies like Google are changing the ways we take and edit photos, to the point where that question isn't so easy to answer. If you adjust the image itself to such a degree that much of the original data is no longer there, is that really a photo? Did that really capture reality? I'm not so sure. That's how I'm feeling about Google's new "personalized edits" for Google Photos. The company says you can fix "minor flaws," such as blinks or sad faces, with the new "Help me edit" tool. If your kid had their eyes closed during the picture, for example, you can ask "Help me edit" to open their eyes. Google Photos then pulls data from other photos with your kid to generate a version of the photo with their eyes open. Again, I ask you: What is a photo? Google has used this tech before: Best Take, for example, can snap a series of photos at once, then use the best version of each subject's face to composite the "best take." It's clever, but it's also strange, especially when the data is not pulled from a different version of the same scene, but from different images of that person from the past. Google Photos for iPhone catches up to AndroidGoogle is also rolling out new previously Android-only features for iPhone users with the Google Photos app. First, the iOS app now support "ask to edit," a feature that lets you use text or your voice to request edits from Google's AI. Now, of course, both apps use Nano Banana, but previously, only Android's app supported this natural language editing system. In addition, iPhone users will notice a redesigned photo editor. This is the same one Google announced back in May for Android users. The new editor includes edit suggestions (powered by AI, of course) that apply multiple effects at once to your photos. You can also tap on an area of your photo to receive suggested tools for making edits. Ask about your photosI feel like I'm saying "ask" a lot in this article, but that's the crux of Google's new features here. To wit, the last new feature Google announced for Photos is simply the ability to ask about the images themselves. You can ask about the content of the picture, request similar images in your library, or, if you want, ask for edits. It seems Nano Banana follows you around in multiple places in this update. Again, none of these new AI features are mandatory if you want to keep using Google Photos AI-free. You can still edit your images yourself; you'll just need to avoid the "Help me edit" button. You can look at your photo's metadata manually, instead of using the Ask button. But it does seem, for the foreseeable future, like Google is all-in on these AI features. View the full article

After enough Democrats caved this week and agreed to fund the federal government without guarantees for extending healthcare subsidies for tens of millions of Americans, a big question on the minds of many is “Will my health insurance premiums go up?” Unfortunately, the answer is likely to be a resounding yes, according to data compiled by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), the nonprofit health research institute. Here’s how much more individuals and families of four can expect to pay for their healthcare premiums in 2026, unless Republicans decide to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits—something the majority of GOP congresspeople have repeatedly said they have no plans to do. Why are healthcare premiums likely to rise in 2026? Yesterday, eight Democratic and independent senators who are not up for reelection in the midterms next year voted to support a Republican Senate resolution that would fund the federal government and thus end the longest U.S. government shutdown in history. However, the agreement did not include the primary thing that Democrats had been holding out for: an extension of the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) expiring enhanced premium tax credits. This is a credit that millions of Americans received from the federal government to help pay for the cost of America’s expensive healthcare premiums. As part of the deal to reopen the government, the Senate Democrats got the Republicans to agree to a vote on extending healthcare credits before the end of the year. But that is hardly a concession, as with the government now looking set to reopen (the House still has to vote), Democrats have no leverage over their Republican counterparts to compel them to vote in favor of the tax credit extension. Without the extension of the tax credits, tens of millions of Americans will pay more for their health insurance in 2026—and in many cases a lot more. The increased financial burden will significantly affect already cash-strapped Americans. How much more the average American will have to pay for their already costly healthcare will depend on their income level. How much health insurance premiums will rise for individuals According to KFF data, individuals can expect to pay up to $1,836 more per year for their healthcare premiums. Here’s how that breaks down by income level: $18,000 (115% of the Federal Poverty Level): $378 more $22,000 (141% FPL): $794 more $28,000 (179% FPL): $1,238 $35,000 (224% FPL): $1,582 $45,000 (288% FPL): $1,836 $55,000 (351% FPL): $1,469 $65,000 (415% FPL): Varies How much health insurance premiums will rise for a family of four The dollar amount increases for families of four are even worse, according to KFF. Families of four can expect to pay up to $3,735 more per year: $40,000 (124% FPL): $840 more $45,000 (140% FPL): $1,607 $55,000 (171% FPL): $2,404 $75,000 (233% FPL): $3,368 $90,000 (280% FPL): $3,735 $110,000 (342% FPL): $3,201 $130,000 (404% FPL): Varies As KFF notes in its report, “In other words, expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits is estimated to more than double what subsidized enrollees currently pay annually for premiums—a 114% increase from an average of $888 in 2025 to $1,904 in 2026.” Non-ACA health insurance premiums will likely rise It’s not just the ACA. Americans with employer-based health insurance will likely also see their premiums increase in 2026. According to an NPR report, many employees could see their paycheck deductions for employer-sponsored health care plans surge by 6% to 7% in 2026. Unfortunately, this should come as little surprise, as employer-based healthcare premiums have been surging for more than 25 years—far outpacing the rate of inflation. As NPR noted, in 1999, the average employer-sponsored health insurance plan for a family of four had a premium cost of $5,791. By 2024, that premium had skyrocketed to $25,572—a 342% increase. Public opinion overwhelmingly supports ACA tax credit extension A KFF poll published on November 6 found that Americans on both sides of the political spectrum support extending the enhanced premium tax credits, including 94% of Democrats, 76% of independents, and 50% of Republicans. Even 44% of MAGA supporters support the tax credit extension. That number jumps higher among Republicans who don’t identify as MAGA, with 72% of non-MAGA supporters among Republicans and Republican-leaning independents supporting the extension of credits. Politicians in Congress will have to answer to those same voters come the midterms next year, when many Americans will be feeling the impact of higher premiums. View the full article

Two government-sponsored enterprises are looking into expanding mortgage transfers between borrowers, according to the head of their oversight agency. View the full article

When you’re looking to purchase craft supplies online, several retailers stand out for their extensive offerings and unique features. Amazon is known for its vast selection and prompt shipping, whereas Michaels frequently provides seasonal items and discounts. Joann specializes in fabric, and Hobby Lobby features a wide array of materials with regular sales. Etsy connects you with handmade supplies from small businesses. Other notable options include Blick Art Materials and Walmart. Each store has its strengths, making your choice important for your crafting needs. Key Takeaways Amazon offers a vast selection of craft supplies with fast shipping options for Prime members and competitive pricing. Michaels features an extensive inventory for all crafters, frequent sales, and a loyalty program for exclusive rewards. Joann specializes in fabrics and sewing supplies, providing coupons, project ideas, and crafting events for skill enhancement. Hobby Lobby provides a wide variety of materials and seasonal items, along with weekly sales and a clearance section for bargains. Etsy is a marketplace for unique, handmade supplies, supporting small businesses and offering customizable and vintage items. Amazon When you’re searching for craft supplies online, Amazon stands out as a top choice due to its extensive selection and user-friendly features. You can find everything from basic materials to specialized items, making it easy to create your arts and crafts supplies list. Prime members benefit from fast shipping options, ensuring you get your supplies quickly when inspiration strikes. The competitive pricing helps you stay within budget, and customer reviews offer valuable insights, guiding you on where to buy craft supplies effectively. If something doesn’t meet your expectations, Amazon’s easy return policy allows for hassle-free returns. This combination of factors makes Amazon one of the best craft stores that deliver right to your door. Michaels Michaels is a leading destination for craft supplies, offering an extensive inventory that caters to all types of crafters. You’ll find everything from seasonal items to fabrics, making it a convenient one-stop shop for art and craft items. The store frequently runs sales and discounts, allowing you to save considerably on popular products. Plus, their loyalty program rewards you with exclusive offers, enhancing your shopping experience. If you’re searching for craft stuffing near me, Michaels provides an online shopping feature with convenient store pickup options, saving you time and effort. Furthermore, Michaels hosts various classes and workshops, helping crafters of all skill levels develop their talents and learn new techniques. Joann Joann stands out as a premier destination for crafters and sewing enthusiasts, offering an extensive selection of fabrics and sewing supplies that cater to a wide range of projects. You’ll find everything from cottons to specialty fabrics, ensuring you have the right materials for your creations. Joann frequently provides coupons and promotions, allowing you to save considerably on your purchases. Their user-friendly website also features project ideas and inspiration, making it easy to discover new endeavors. In addition, Joann hosts crafting events and workshops, helping you develop your skills as you connect with fellow crafters. Consider joining their membership program for exclusive offers and discounts, enhancing your shopping experience and making your crafting expedition even more enjoyable. Hobby Lobby Hobby Lobby serves as a thorough resource for crafting enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of materials and home décor items that cater to diverse creative needs. You’ll find everything from fabric and yarn to paints and wood crafts. Take advantage of their weekly sales on different categories, which can lead to significant savings on your purchases. Furthermore, Hobby Lobby features a broad selection of seasonal items, making it an ideal destination for holiday crafting supplies. If you prefer in-store shopping, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see and feel products before buying. For those shopping online, their clearance section is perfect for bargain hunters looking to score great deals on craft supplies without breaking the bank. Etsy Etsy stands out as a premier online marketplace that specializes in unique and handmade craft supplies, making it a go-to platform for those seeking distinct items modified to their creative projects. By supporting small businesses and independent sellers, Etsy nurtures a lively community of artisans and crafters. You can often find customizable products customized to your specific needs, enhancing your creative experience. Feature Description Benefits Unique Items Handmade and one-of-a-kind craft supplies Distinctive projects Customization Options to personalize products Customized to your specifications Vintage Selection Vintage and specialty items Unique finds not in stores With user reviews and ratings, you can make informed purchasing decisions based on previous customer experiences. Dick Blick Art Materials In regards to finding high-quality art supplies, many crafters and artists turn to Dick Blick Art Materials for its extensive selection and reliable service. You’ll appreciate their competitive pricing and frequent sales on popular items, making it a cost-effective choice. Their user-friendly website simplifies the shopping experience, allowing you to easily navigate and search for products. Here are some highlights of what you can find: A broad range of supplies for various mediums, from painting to drawing. Bulk purchasing options, perfect for schools or organizations. Educational resources and project ideas to inspire your creativity. Reliable customer service, ensuring a smooth shopping experience. Dick Blick is a go-to destination for all your art supply needs. Walmart When you’re looking for affordable craft supplies, Walmart stands out as a budget-friendly option that offers everyday low prices. You can easily find a wide range of products online, from basic materials like glue and paper to seasonal items for holiday crafts. The retailer’s online shopping experience is convenient, with options for in-store pickup, ensuring quick access to your supplies. Customer reviews on Walmart’s website help you make informed purchasing decisions by providing insights from other shoppers. Furthermore, Walmart frequently updates its inventory with new craft items, allowing you to stay on top of the latest trends and materials. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, Walmart has something to meet your crafting needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Most Popular Craft Store? The most popular craft store often relies on your specific needs and preferences. Michaels is well-known for its vast selection and frequent sales, making it a go-to for many crafters. Joann shines in fabrics and sewing supplies, appealing to those focused on textile projects. Hobby Lobby offers diverse crafting materials with regular promotions, whereas Etsy provides unique handmade items from small businesses. Each store has its strengths, so consider what you’re looking for. What Are the Best Crafting Supplies for Beginners? As a beginner, you should start with crucial crafting supplies. Basic scissors, glue, and various paper types are foundational tools. You’ll furthermore want markers, colored pencils, and paints for diverse projects. Consider investing in beginner craft kits, which include all required materials and instructions. If you’re interested in sewing, fabrics like cotton and felt are great choices. Moreover, online resources like Creativebug can help you learn techniques and gain inspiration for your projects. Is Hobby Lobby a Craft Store? Yes, Hobby Lobby is a craft store that specializes in a wide array of crafting materials. You’ll find everything from fabrics and floral arrangements to DIY project kits. The store frequently offers weekly sales, allowing you to save on various products. Moreover, you can shop online, visiting in-store lets you experience the materials firsthand. Furthermore, Hobby Lobby’s clearance section online provides opportunities for significant savings on craft supplies. Does Dollar General Have Craft Supplies? Yes, Dollar General does have craft supplies. You can find a range of basic items like glue, scissors, and craft paper, which are perfect for various projects. They additionally offer seasonal decorations and supplies for holidays, making it easy to find themed items. In addition, you’ll discover colored pencils, markers, and paint suitable for both kids and adults. Their inventory frequently changes, so you might find new craft items during your visits. Conclusion In summary, when you’re looking to buy craft supplies online, you have a variety of excellent options. Retailers like Amazon, Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby cater to diverse crafting needs, from seasonal items to fabric and materials on sale. Etsy offers unique handmade supplies, whereas Dick Blick Art Materials specializes in art supplies. Walmart provides a convenient one-stop shop for various craft items. Each of these retailers guarantees you’ll find the supplies necessary for your projects efficiently and reliably. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 7 Places to Buy Craft Supplies Online" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re looking to purchase craft supplies online, several retailers stand out for their extensive offerings and unique features. Amazon is known for its vast selection and prompt shipping, whereas Michaels frequently provides seasonal items and discounts. Joann specializes in fabric, and Hobby Lobby features a wide array of materials with regular sales. Etsy connects you with handmade supplies from small businesses. Other notable options include Blick Art Materials and Walmart. Each store has its strengths, making your choice important for your crafting needs. Key Takeaways Amazon offers a vast selection of craft supplies with fast shipping options for Prime members and competitive pricing. Michaels features an extensive inventory for all crafters, frequent sales, and a loyalty program for exclusive rewards. Joann specializes in fabrics and sewing supplies, providing coupons, project ideas, and crafting events for skill enhancement. Hobby Lobby provides a wide variety of materials and seasonal items, along with weekly sales and a clearance section for bargains. Etsy is a marketplace for unique, handmade supplies, supporting small businesses and offering customizable and vintage items. Amazon When you’re searching for craft supplies online, Amazon stands out as a top choice due to its extensive selection and user-friendly features. You can find everything from basic materials to specialized items, making it easy to create your arts and crafts supplies list. Prime members benefit from fast shipping options, ensuring you get your supplies quickly when inspiration strikes. The competitive pricing helps you stay within budget, and customer reviews offer valuable insights, guiding you on where to buy craft supplies effectively. If something doesn’t meet your expectations, Amazon’s easy return policy allows for hassle-free returns. This combination of factors makes Amazon one of the best craft stores that deliver right to your door. Michaels Michaels is a leading destination for craft supplies, offering an extensive inventory that caters to all types of crafters. You’ll find everything from seasonal items to fabrics, making it a convenient one-stop shop for art and craft items. The store frequently runs sales and discounts, allowing you to save considerably on popular products. Plus, their loyalty program rewards you with exclusive offers, enhancing your shopping experience. If you’re searching for craft stuffing near me, Michaels provides an online shopping feature with convenient store pickup options, saving you time and effort. Furthermore, Michaels hosts various classes and workshops, helping crafters of all skill levels develop their talents and learn new techniques. Joann Joann stands out as a premier destination for crafters and sewing enthusiasts, offering an extensive selection of fabrics and sewing supplies that cater to a wide range of projects. You’ll find everything from cottons to specialty fabrics, ensuring you have the right materials for your creations. Joann frequently provides coupons and promotions, allowing you to save considerably on your purchases. Their user-friendly website also features project ideas and inspiration, making it easy to discover new endeavors. In addition, Joann hosts crafting events and workshops, helping you develop your skills as you connect with fellow crafters. Consider joining their membership program for exclusive offers and discounts, enhancing your shopping experience and making your crafting expedition even more enjoyable. Hobby Lobby Hobby Lobby serves as a thorough resource for crafting enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of materials and home décor items that cater to diverse creative needs. You’ll find everything from fabric and yarn to paints and wood crafts. Take advantage of their weekly sales on different categories, which can lead to significant savings on your purchases. Furthermore, Hobby Lobby features a broad selection of seasonal items, making it an ideal destination for holiday crafting supplies. If you prefer in-store shopping, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see and feel products before buying. For those shopping online, their clearance section is perfect for bargain hunters looking to score great deals on craft supplies without breaking the bank. Etsy Etsy stands out as a premier online marketplace that specializes in unique and handmade craft supplies, making it a go-to platform for those seeking distinct items modified to their creative projects. By supporting small businesses and independent sellers, Etsy nurtures a lively community of artisans and crafters. You can often find customizable products customized to your specific needs, enhancing your creative experience. Feature Description Benefits Unique Items Handmade and one-of-a-kind craft supplies Distinctive projects Customization Options to personalize products Customized to your specifications Vintage Selection Vintage and specialty items Unique finds not in stores With user reviews and ratings, you can make informed purchasing decisions based on previous customer experiences. Dick Blick Art Materials In regards to finding high-quality art supplies, many crafters and artists turn to Dick Blick Art Materials for its extensive selection and reliable service. You’ll appreciate their competitive pricing and frequent sales on popular items, making it a cost-effective choice. Their user-friendly website simplifies the shopping experience, allowing you to easily navigate and search for products. Here are some highlights of what you can find: A broad range of supplies for various mediums, from painting to drawing. Bulk purchasing options, perfect for schools or organizations. Educational resources and project ideas to inspire your creativity. Reliable customer service, ensuring a smooth shopping experience. Dick Blick is a go-to destination for all your art supply needs. Walmart When you’re looking for affordable craft supplies, Walmart stands out as a budget-friendly option that offers everyday low prices. You can easily find a wide range of products online, from basic materials like glue and paper to seasonal items for holiday crafts. The retailer’s online shopping experience is convenient, with options for in-store pickup, ensuring quick access to your supplies. Customer reviews on Walmart’s website help you make informed purchasing decisions by providing insights from other shoppers. Furthermore, Walmart frequently updates its inventory with new craft items, allowing you to stay on top of the latest trends and materials. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, Walmart has something to meet your crafting needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Most Popular Craft Store? The most popular craft store often relies on your specific needs and preferences. Michaels is well-known for its vast selection and frequent sales, making it a go-to for many crafters. Joann shines in fabrics and sewing supplies, appealing to those focused on textile projects. Hobby Lobby offers diverse crafting materials with regular promotions, whereas Etsy provides unique handmade items from small businesses. Each store has its strengths, so consider what you’re looking for. What Are the Best Crafting Supplies for Beginners? As a beginner, you should start with crucial crafting supplies. Basic scissors, glue, and various paper types are foundational tools. You’ll furthermore want markers, colored pencils, and paints for diverse projects. Consider investing in beginner craft kits, which include all required materials and instructions. If you’re interested in sewing, fabrics like cotton and felt are great choices. Moreover, online resources like Creativebug can help you learn techniques and gain inspiration for your projects. Is Hobby Lobby a Craft Store? Yes, Hobby Lobby is a craft store that specializes in a wide array of crafting materials. You’ll find everything from fabrics and floral arrangements to DIY project kits. The store frequently offers weekly sales, allowing you to save on various products. Moreover, you can shop online, visiting in-store lets you experience the materials firsthand. Furthermore, Hobby Lobby’s clearance section online provides opportunities for significant savings on craft supplies. Does Dollar General Have Craft Supplies? Yes, Dollar General does have craft supplies. You can find a range of basic items like glue, scissors, and craft paper, which are perfect for various projects. They additionally offer seasonal decorations and supplies for holidays, making it easy to find themed items. In addition, you’ll discover colored pencils, markers, and paint suitable for both kids and adults. Their inventory frequently changes, so you might find new craft items during your visits. Conclusion In summary, when you’re looking to buy craft supplies online, you have a variety of excellent options. Retailers like Amazon, Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby cater to diverse crafting needs, from seasonal items to fabric and materials on sale. Etsy offers unique handmade supplies, whereas Dick Blick Art Materials specializes in art supplies. Walmart provides a convenient one-stop shop for various craft items. Each of these retailers guarantees you’ll find the supplies necessary for your projects efficiently and reliably. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 7 Places to Buy Craft Supplies Online" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

To the uninitiated, the term Scope 3 might sound like an obscure technical label. However, for those managing corporate carbon emissions, the term can inspire a range of emotions, from dread to dismay. Scope 3 emissions are generated by indirect upstream and downstream operations, and typically account for the largest share of a company’s carbon footprint. They also lie outside the organization’s direct control. Although one of the sustainability agenda’s most daunting items, technology can provide solutions to the Scope 3 challenge. There’s mounting pressure to tackle these emissions, as institutional investors such as pension funds pay close attention to the climate footprint of their portfolio’s companies. Better-informed consumers seek out more sustainable choices and reward those choices with shifted brand loyalty. And around the world, governments are tightening regulations on emissions levels and climate disclosure requirements. The elusive, indirect nature of Scope 3 emissions Because they are indirect, Scope 3 emissions are extremely difficult to capture, analyze, and report on. These emissions are generated by everything from the extraction of raw materials to manufacturing, logistics, and distribution. They’re emitted during customers’ use of products and the processes needed to reuse, recycle, or dispose of items. Without the right software and systems, measuring and managing these emissions means engaging with hundreds of supply chain partners, each with different data formats and methods of carbon footprint accounting. It’s time-consuming and can lead to inaccuracies. Many supply chain operators struggle to integrate emissions and waste data into their own systems, much less those of suppliers and customers. While supplier surveys are one way to collect supply chain data, survey fatigue is a significant concern. Supplier data is often unreliable or backward-looking and cannot be used to inform real-time sustainability decisions, minimize future emissions, or design strategies that accelerate progress toward sustainability goals. The turn to tech Fortunately, there are solutions—and technology plays a critical role. A network-based software platform can track and monitor all activities and events across the supply chain, including those from multiple suppliers and customers, in real-time. Here are three ways in which technology can help. 1. AI-driven data management for performance data Using artificial intelligence, procurement and transportation activity data from disparate sources can be consolidated and translated into emissions performance data. This provides the reliable, timely, and accurate information needed to manage and reduce Scope 3 emissions, fulfill sustainability reporting requirements, and optimize supply chain efficiency. Visualizing emissions levels across the supply chain, companies can evaluate trade-offs between sustainability and traditional supply chain performance indicators. In short, carbon efficiency becomes a key factor in decision-making. Supply chain partners also gain a better understanding of their carbon footprint, enabling them to meet their own emissions goals. 2. Network-powered platforms for end-to-end visibility When managing something as complex as Scope 3 emissions, end-to-end supply chain visibility is critical. A network-based software platform achieves this by bringing together data from multiple organizations, enabling carbon emissions modeling and supply chain optimization. This approach enables smarter decisions on everything from raw material sourcing to supplier and distribution partner selection, reducing value-chain energy and waste. Companies work with distribution partners to reduce partially filled or empty trucks and to design more fuel-efficient routes for lower Scope 3 emissions. Companies can select supply-chain partners with the most carbon-efficient operations, equipped to measure and share their emissions data. Identifying carbon hotspots—whether by product type, raw material, or geographic location—enables supply chain element design or reconfiguration to account for emissions levels. 3. Forecasting and returns management technology to reduce waste Scope 3 emissions are embedded in the things companies sell and don’t sell. Overproduction and the creation of excess inventory lead to products unsold or in landfills, increasing waste and generating unnecessary energy consumption for manufacturing and transport. Demand forecasting technology enables companies to produce more informed forecasts, allowing them to more accurately predict demand, anticipate fluctuations, and optimize production and inventory management. They’re therefore more likely to meet waste and sustainability goals regulations. Meanwhile, data-driven reverse logistics simplifies the process of retrieving and remerchandising returned goods. These solutions accelerate returning products to the shelf to be sold at full price rather than being discounted or worse, discarded as landfill. Returns processing can also reroute damaged or obsolete returned products into recommerce channels. Seize the decarbonization advantage Operational efficiency in supply chains is all about working with partners, and carbon efficiency is no different. Technology is the connective tissue that, by consolidating data from a wide range of organizations—suppliers, shippers, warehouse operators, retailers, and others—enables smart planning, global coordination at scale, and enhanced supply chain optimization. The task may look daunting, but technology makes it eminently possible to manage Scope 3 emissions. And with supply chain emissions responsible for over 50% of the global total, companies using streamlined data and digital tools to tackle emissions can gain a decarbonization advantage. Not only will the companies meet their sustainability goals, but they’re strategically positioned as a leader in a low-carbon economy. Saskia van Gendt is the chief sustainability officer at Blue Yonder. View the full article

Major League Baseball said its authorized gaming operators will cap bets on individual pitches at $200 and exclude them from parlays, a day after two Cleveland Guardians were indicted and accused of rigging pitches at the behest of gamblers. MLB said Monday the limits were agreed to by sportsbook operators representing more than 98% of the U.S. betting market. The league said in a statement that pitch-level bets on outcomes of pitch velocity and of balls and strikes “present heightened integrity risks because they focus on one-off events that can be determined by a single player and can be inconsequential to the outcome of the game.” “The risk on these pitch-level markets will be significantly mitigated by this new action targeted at the incentive to engage in misconduct,” the league said. “The creation of a strict bet limit on this type of bet, and the ban on parlaying them, reduces the payout for these markets and the ability to circumvent the new limit.” MLB said the agreement included Bally’s, Bet365, BetMGM, Bet99, Betr, Caesars, Circa, DraftKings, 888, FanDuel, Gamewise, Hard Rock, Intralot, Jack Entertainment, Mojo, Northstar Gaming, Oaklawn, Penn, Pointsbet, Potawatomi, Rush Steet and Underdog. Cleveland pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz were indicted Sunday in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn on charges they took bribes from sports bettors to throw certain types of pitches. They were charged with wire fraud conspiracy, honest services wire fraud conspiracy, conspiracy to influence sporting contests by bribery and money laundering conspiracy. The indictment says they helped two unnamed gamblers in the Dominican Republic win at least $460,000 on bets placed on the speed and outcome of certain pitches, including some that landed in the dirt. Ortiz’s lawyer, Chris Georgalis, said in a statement that his client was innocent and “has never, and would never, improperly influence a game — not for anyone and not for anything.” A lawyer for Clase, Michael J. Ferrara, said his client “has devoted his life to baseball and doing everything in his power to help his team win. Emmanuel is innocent of all charges and looks forward to clearing his name in court.” The U.S. Supreme Court in 2018 ruled the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 was unconstitutional, allowing states to legalize sports betting. Ortiz appeared Monday in federal court in Boston. U.S. Magistrate Judge Donald L. Cabell granted Ortiz his release on the condition he surrender his passport, restrict his travel to the Northeast U.S. and post a $500,000 bond, $50,000 of it secured. Ortiz was ordered to avoid contact with anyone who could be viewed as a victim, witness or co-defendant. Last month, more than 30 people, including Portland Trail Blazers head coach and Basketball Hall of Famer Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, were arrested in a takedown of two sprawling gambling operations that authorities said rigged poker games backed by Mafia families and leaked inside information about NBA athletes. Billups’ attorney, Chris Heywood, issued a statement denying the allegations. Rozier’s lawyer, Jim Trusty, said in a statement his client is “not a gambler” and “looks forward to winning this fight.” AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB —Ronald Blum, AP Baseball Writer View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Amazon announced its Black Friday and Cyber Monday plans this week—although it won't start until Nov. 20, you can already find early Black Friday deals on Amazon devices. Their "like-new" Kindle readers, in particular, have good discounts right now. The Kindle Paperwhite is $106.99 (originally $143.99), the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is $126.99 (originally $179.99), the 16GB Kindle Scribe is $212.99 (originally $309.99), and the 64GB Kindle Scribe is $278.99 (originally $404.99). Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 16GB 7" eReader (Like-New, Black) $106.99 at Amazon $143.99 Save $37.00 Get Deal Get Deal $106.99 at Amazon $143.99 Save $37.00 Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Ed. 32GB 7" eReader (Like New) $126.99 at Amazon $179.99 Save $53.00 Get Deal Get Deal $126.99 at Amazon $179.99 Save $53.00 Certified Refurbished Amazon Kindle Scribe (16 GB) the first Kindle and digital notebook, all in one, with a 10.2” 300 ppi Paperwhite display, includes Premium Pen 16 GB Without Kindle Unlimited $212.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $309.99 Save $97.00 Get Deal Get Deal $212.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $309.99 Save $97.00 Like-New Amazon Kindle Scribe (64 GB) - Your notes, documents and books, all in one place. With built-in AI notebook summarization. Includes Premium Pen - Tungsten $278.99 at Amazon $404.99 Save $126.00 Get Deal Get Deal $278.99 at Amazon $404.99 Save $126.00 SEE 1 MORE The Kindle Paperwhite is the most popular reading tablet from Amazon, and it's the best for most people, according to PCMag's "outstanding" review. It offers many improvements over the 11th-generation version from 2021—mainly a larger seven-inch display and a much faster boost in performance. It still retains all of the great attributes that made the previous version great, like a fully waterproof design with an IPX8 rating, enough storage to hold more than 10,000 books, and unlimited cloud storage. If you want an ad-free experience with some better features, get the Signature Edition. We also have a breakdown of every kind of Kindle to help you decide. If you already own the 11th generation, there might not be enough here to warrant an upgrade, unless you just want the latest Amazon has to offer. However, any devices older than that may be worth an upgrade for features like Bluetooth compatibility, which is great for audiobooks. The latest version of the Kindle Scribe, an upgraded version of the classic e-reader designed for note-taking, came out in December 2024, offering some nice upgrades that make the device more pleasant to use. It comes with a Premium Pen and a more paper-like feel screen that gives you resistance when writing notes. View the full article

Japanese technology giant SoftBank said Tuesday it has sold its stake in Nvidia, raising $5.8 billion to pour into other investments. It also reported its profit nearly tripled in the first half of this fiscal year from a year earlier. Tokyo-based SoftBank Group Corp. said it sold the stake in Silicon Vally-based Nvidia in October, a move that reflects its shift in focus to OpenAI, owner of the artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT. SoftBank reported its profit in April-September soared to about 2.5 trillion yen (about $13 billion). Its sales for the six month period rose 7.7% year-on-year to 3.7 trillion yen ($24 billion), it said. The company’s fortunes tend to fluctuate because it invests in a range of ventures, including through its tech-focused Vision Funds. Those recently have paid off. In February, SoftBank’s chairman Masayoshi Son joined The President, Sam Altman of OpenAI and Larry Ellison of Oracle in announcing a major investment of up to $500 billion in a project to develop artificial intelligence called Stargate. SoftBank has invested tens of billions of dollars in OpenAI. The two companies also plan to provide AI services in Japan. Selling SoftBank’s stake in Nvidia reflects Son’s shift in strategy and also nets his company a healthy profit thanks to the recent runup in Nvidia’s market value. Nvidia recently become the first $5 trillion company, just three months after it broke through the $4 trillion barrier. It plans a $100 billion investment in OpenAI as part of a partnership that will add at least 10 gigawatts of Nvidia AI data centers to ramp up OpenAI’s computing power. The chip maker and other winners in the frenzy around artificial-intelligence technology have been driving much of this year’s rally in share prices. Critics say stock prices of the tech giants have soared too high and too fast in the mania around AI, drawing comparisons to the 2000 dot-com bubble that ultimately burst. SoftBank and Nvidia still have strong relations since various ventures that SoftBank invests in use Nvidia technology. SoftBank also has investments in Arm Holdings and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., computer chip makers that like Nvidia are benefitting greatly from the growth of AI. SoftBank stocks have nearly doubled in value in the past year. They gained nearly 2% Tuesday. Nvidia’s shares fell 1.3% in premarket trading early Tuesday. They jumped 5.8% on Monday. Yuri Kageyama is on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@yurikageyama —Yuri Kageyama, AP Business Writer View the full article

As the digital landscape evolves, Cisco is stepping up to empower its partners, particularly small businesses, with the new Cisco 360 Partner Program set to launch on January 25, 2026. This program is designed to enhance customer value and profitability, making it an exciting opportunity for small business owners eager to leverage new technologies, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). At the recent Cisco Partner Summit in San Diego, executives revealed how the Cisco 360 Partner Program seeks to transform the way partners can engage with customers and gain financial rewards. Over 20 years in the making, it is not just about recognition; it’s about equipping partners to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment focused on AI-driven solutions. “We appreciate that Cisco invited partners to co-design the new program and listened to ideas along the way. This program is a true reflection of partnership and we’re confident it will help set us up for success,” said Nicko Roussos, Senior Vice President of Cisco Strategy & Transformation at TD Synnex. The Cisco 360 Partner Program introduces several key benefits. One of the standout features is the newly enhanced partner incentives framework, which rewards portfolio depth and specialized knowledge. Partners will have access to tools like the Cisco Partner Incentive Estimator, making it easier to model profitability as they focus on key innovation areas such as AI, security, and collaboration. The program also introduces bonuses tied to specific objectives like broadening a portfolio or achieving deep expertise in emerging technologies. Elisabeth De Dobbeleer, Senior Vice President at Cisco Partner Program, stated, “By investing in our partners’ capabilities and giving them the tools and resources they need, we’re enabling our ecosystem to deliver greater customer outcomes.” Small business owners can expect a range of new specializations come February 2026, including those focused on Secure AI Infrastructure and Secure Networking. These certifications not only represent an opportunity for knowledge and skill evolution but also come with financial benefits. By attaining these specializations, partners may be eligible for additional incentives, promoting deeper engagement with Cisco’s integrated solutions. The program aims to ensure that customers receive tailored, comprehensive solutions from design to ongoing engagement. Ryan Morris, President of Blackwood, noted the significance of aligning incentives directly with customer outcomes. “This program is a clear sign that Cisco is committed to driving industry standards in the channel,” he added. However, small business owners should also consider the potential challenges that come with adaptation to this new program. While the incentives are attractive, there may be a learning curve associated with the new tools and structures Cisco is putting in place. The program requires commitment and participation from partners to fully maximize the resources and benefits available, such as access to Cisco’s advanced training tools, demo environments, and marketing support. The Cisco 360 Partner Program promises a revamped Partner Experience Platform, providing detailed insights into performance that help small businesses gauge their progress and predict revenue more accurately. This platform aligns with Cisco’s goal of enhancing collaboration across its global partner ecosystem. Tim Coogan, Senior Vice President of Global Partner Sales at Cisco, emphasized, “The Cisco 360 Partner Program serves the agile partner ecosystem that reacts and adapts quickly, innovates continuously, and scales efficiently.” For small business owners navigating the challenges of data complexity and skills gaps, Cisco’s focus on comprehensive partner enablement, through practical training and resources, is invaluable. As the digital landscape continually shifts, those who leverage these emerging opportunities may find themselves well-positioned to not only compete but to lead in the AI era. As an owner of a small business, connecting with the new program could mean accessing cutting-edge tools and support tailored to your needs. Engaging with the Cisco 360 Partner Program may allow small firms to not only enhance their operational capabilities but also drive customer satisfaction and loyalty through innovative solutions. More details about the Cisco 360 Partner Program can be found in the original press release at Cisco’s Newsroom: Cisco Newsroom. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Cisco Unveils 360 Partner Program to Boost Profitability and AI Readiness" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

As the digital landscape evolves, Cisco is stepping up to empower its partners, particularly small businesses, with the new Cisco 360 Partner Program set to launch on January 25, 2026. This program is designed to enhance customer value and profitability, making it an exciting opportunity for small business owners eager to leverage new technologies, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). At the recent Cisco Partner Summit in San Diego, executives revealed how the Cisco 360 Partner Program seeks to transform the way partners can engage with customers and gain financial rewards. Over 20 years in the making, it is not just about recognition; it’s about equipping partners to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment focused on AI-driven solutions. “We appreciate that Cisco invited partners to co-design the new program and listened to ideas along the way. This program is a true reflection of partnership and we’re confident it will help set us up for success,” said Nicko Roussos, Senior Vice President of Cisco Strategy & Transformation at TD Synnex. The Cisco 360 Partner Program introduces several key benefits. One of the standout features is the newly enhanced partner incentives framework, which rewards portfolio depth and specialized knowledge. Partners will have access to tools like the Cisco Partner Incentive Estimator, making it easier to model profitability as they focus on key innovation areas such as AI, security, and collaboration. The program also introduces bonuses tied to specific objectives like broadening a portfolio or achieving deep expertise in emerging technologies. Elisabeth De Dobbeleer, Senior Vice President at Cisco Partner Program, stated, “By investing in our partners’ capabilities and giving them the tools and resources they need, we’re enabling our ecosystem to deliver greater customer outcomes.” Small business owners can expect a range of new specializations come February 2026, including those focused on Secure AI Infrastructure and Secure Networking. These certifications not only represent an opportunity for knowledge and skill evolution but also come with financial benefits. By attaining these specializations, partners may be eligible for additional incentives, promoting deeper engagement with Cisco’s integrated solutions. The program aims to ensure that customers receive tailored, comprehensive solutions from design to ongoing engagement. Ryan Morris, President of Blackwood, noted the significance of aligning incentives directly with customer outcomes. “This program is a clear sign that Cisco is committed to driving industry standards in the channel,” he added. However, small business owners should also consider the potential challenges that come with adaptation to this new program. While the incentives are attractive, there may be a learning curve associated with the new tools and structures Cisco is putting in place. The program requires commitment and participation from partners to fully maximize the resources and benefits available, such as access to Cisco’s advanced training tools, demo environments, and marketing support. The Cisco 360 Partner Program promises a revamped Partner Experience Platform, providing detailed insights into performance that help small businesses gauge their progress and predict revenue more accurately. This platform aligns with Cisco’s goal of enhancing collaboration across its global partner ecosystem. Tim Coogan, Senior Vice President of Global Partner Sales at Cisco, emphasized, “The Cisco 360 Partner Program serves the agile partner ecosystem that reacts and adapts quickly, innovates continuously, and scales efficiently.” For small business owners navigating the challenges of data complexity and skills gaps, Cisco’s focus on comprehensive partner enablement, through practical training and resources, is invaluable. As the digital landscape continually shifts, those who leverage these emerging opportunities may find themselves well-positioned to not only compete but to lead in the AI era. As an owner of a small business, connecting with the new program could mean accessing cutting-edge tools and support tailored to your needs. Engaging with the Cisco 360 Partner Program may allow small firms to not only enhance their operational capabilities but also drive customer satisfaction and loyalty through innovative solutions. More details about the Cisco 360 Partner Program can be found in the original press release at Cisco’s Newsroom: Cisco Newsroom. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Cisco Unveils 360 Partner Program to Boost Profitability and AI Readiness" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Amazon ushered in a new era for television advertising when it converted Prime Video into an ad-supported experience by default in 2024. By the middle of this year, some 130 million U.S. viewers were on Prime Video’s ad tier, watching between four and six minutes of ads per hour, according to an Adweek report. The move is part of the company’s long-term plan to dominate television advertising as viewership shifts from traditional broadcast and cable TV to streaming platforms. “The digital advertising landscape is rapidly evolving with streaming TV becoming mainstream,” says Kelly MacLean, VP of Amazon DSP, the company’s ad-buying platform. Under MacLean, Amazon’s been rolling out a slew of adtech tools to help businesses of all sizes reach viewers on Prime Video and even streaming rivals, including Netflix, NBCUniversal, and Disney. Amazon’s also helping with the creative side: It introduced an AI-powered video generator earlier this year that allows advertisers to easily create their own spots. Amazon’s investments are paying off. For the past decade, the company’s cloud-computing arm, AWS, has been the engine powering Amazon’s dominance. AWS brought in $91 billion in revenue in the first nine months of 2025, up 18% year over year. Amazon Ads is shaping up to be the next juggernaut: It’s taken in $47 billion so far this year, and grew 24% last quarter. Jay Richman, Amazon’s vice president of creative experiences, says Amazon operates one of “the most vast and sprawling ad networks on the planet.” Amazon is now preparing to turn this sprawling network into a well-oiled machine with the help of generative AI. At its annual unBoxed conference, which is being held this week in Nashville, Amazon is unveiling a suite of agentic AI tools that will do everything from brainstorm creative concepts and produce video ads to advise advertisers of all sizes on where to place the finished campaigns for the most impact. The result, says Richman, is “taking an advertising process that traditionally requires weeks of work and significant financial investment and transforming it into something that can be accomplished within a few hours at no additional cost to advertisers.” Here’s a look at what’s coming. Unifying the streaming ad market Though other major tech companies, including Google and Meta, have been integrating AI in their advertising products to make certain tasks easier for ad buyers, Amazon is unique in positioning its DSP platform as the go-to place for buying television ads. Over the past two years, Amazon Ads has secured partnerships with major publishers including Netflix, Paramount, Fox Corp, NBCUniversal, Disney, and Roku, allowing advertisers to gain access to the partners’ inventory. The Disney and Roku partnerships were announced just in time for Cannes this past summer. In September, Amazon and Netflix announced a plan to offer programmatic buying on Netflix’s Ads Plan. MacLean says that Amazon has been able to notch deals with every major streamer—even its rivals—because it’s adding value for them through capabilities like Amazon Cloud Publisher, a service that helps streamers and others use Amazon’s data to make their ad inventory more valuable. Even as Amazon creates new tech and services to help publishers, it’s making it easier for a wide range of advertisers—from big brands to small businesses—to start running ads. And that begins by offering them a unified platform. Behind the scenes, MacLean’s team has rebuilt the backend of Amazon’s ad platform to allow advertisers to buy targeted spots not on Amazon’s own properties and across the wider internet. MacLean says that Amazon is using AI to harness the “trillions of signals” it has about consumers’ shopping and viewing habits to help target the right people at the right time and on the right platform. “A lot of advertisers are just dealing with mass fragmentation,” MacLean says. “They’re duplicating who they’re reaching. They’re wasting media dollars. So our focus has been on how to innovate and help marketers through these challenges, making it easier to distribute their ad spend in a way that can reach the right users.” Introducing AI agents Amazon is showcasing its next slate of tools and services for digital and video advertisers at unBoxed this week. One of the new features is Campaign Manager, which unifies the ads console and Amazon DSP into an individual media buying tool, allowing advertisers of all sizes to manage their campaigns through one entry point. But the most groundbreaking new features take the form of agentic AI. The company has a new Creative Agent tool that will be integrated into the unified Amazon Ads console. Advertisers will be able to summon the tool via chat to make streaming and sponsored ads for television and elsewhere. Using natural language prompts, advertisers can ask the Creative Agent to conduct audience research, brainstorm concepts and create storyboards, and even produce display and video ads using generative AI. “This is truly game-changing for the industry, allowing mid-market and small brands to design creative ad campaigns and professional-quality advertisements that were previously only accessible to large brands with substantial resources,” Richman says. Once those ads are complete, Amazon’s new Ads Agent tool, which can be accessed via a chat window throughout the Amazon Ads platform, offers recommendations on how advertisers can improve the efficacy of their campaigns. An advertiser, for example, could upload a custom media plan and let the tool configure all the campaign structures and the ad groups—or let it optimize all of the advertiser’s campaigns at scale using only natural language. “The goal for every brand is reaching the right people wherever they are and having compelling ads that drive those business results,” MacLean says. “But with our vast offerings, we’ve heard from customers that they also need a more streamlined process.” The Ads Agent tool is designed to be the specialist that can help simplify everything. Other products Amazon announced include Full-Funnel Campaigns, an agentic AI tool that will make advertising easier to launch and manage across multiple channels and formats, and sponsored product videos, which let advertisers showcase products within the Amazon store. Unlike traditional short video ads, these product videos will offer deeper demonstrations and highlight key features. Customers can browse between videos, skip to specific sections, and click through to the product detail page on Amazon for more information—creating a more interactive and personalized shopping experience. “The goal is to provide shoppers more information at a glance than is possible today with just static product shots,” Richman says. MacLean says that the ultimate goal with all these tools is to make Amazon Ads “the best place” to buy advertising. “We’re going to continue to simplify, automate, and drive performance,” she says. Amazon, it seems, is becoming the everything store for advertisers. View the full article

It’s up to the U.S. Supreme Court and Congress to decide when full payments will resume under the SNAP food aid program that helps 1 in 8 Americans buy groceries, as some wonder how they will feed their families without government assistance. The Supreme Court is expected to rule Tuesday on a request from President Donald The President’s administration to keep blocking states from providing full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, arguing the money might be needed elsewhere. The seesawing rulings mean that beneficiaries in some states, including Hawaii and New Jersey, have received their full monthly allocations while in others, such as Nebraska and West Virginia, they have received nothing. The legal wrangling could be moot if the U.S. House adopts and The President signs legislation to quickly end the federal government shutdown. An urgent need for beneficiaries The cascading legal rulings — plus the varying responses of each state to the shutoff — means people who rely on SNAP are in vastly different situations. Some have all their benefits, some have none. In states including North Carolina and Texas, beneficiaries have received partial amounts. In Pennsylvania, full November benefits went out to some people on Friday. But Jim Malliard, 41, of Franklin, said he had not received anything by Monday. Malliard is a full-time caretaker for his wife, who is blind and has had several strokes this year, and his teenage daughter, who suffered severe medical complications from surgery last year. That stress has only been compounded by the pause in the $350 monthly SNAP payment he previously received for himself, his wife and daughter. He said he is down to $10 in his account and is relying on what’s left in the pantry — mostly rice and ramen. “It’s kind of been a lot of late nights, making sure I had everything down to the penny to make sure I was right,” Malliard said. “To say anxiety has been my issue for the past two weeks is putting it mildly.” The political wrangling in Washington has shocked many Americans, and some have been moved to help. “I figure that I’ve spent money on dumber stuff than trying to feed other people during a manufactured famine,” said Ashley Oxenford, a teacher who set out a “little food pantry” in her front yard this week for vulnerable neighbors in Carthage, New York. SNAP has been the center of an intense fight in court The The President administration chose to cut off SNAP funding after October due to the shutdown. That decision sparked lawsuits and a string of swift and contradictory judicial rulings that deal with government power — and impact food access for some 42 million Americans. The administration went along with two rulings on Oct. 31 by judges who said the government must provide at least partial funding for SNAP. It eventually said recipients would get up to 65% of their regular benefits. But it balked last week when one of the judges said it must fund the program fully for November, even if that means digging into funds the government said need to be maintained in case of emergencies elsewhere. The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to pause that order. An appeals court said Monday that full funding should resume, and that requirement is set to kick in Tuesday night unless the top court takes action again. Congressional talks about reopening government The U.S. Senate on Monday passed legislation to reopen the federal government with a plan that would include replenishing SNAP funds. Speaker Mike Johnson told members of the House to return to Washington to consider the deal a small group of Senate Democrats made with Republicans. The President has not said whether he would sign it if it reaches his desk, but told reporters at the White House on Sunday that it “looks like we’re getting close to the shutdown ending.” If the deal is finalized, it’s not clear how quickly SNAP benefits might start flowing. Still, the The President administration said in a Supreme Court filing Monday that it shouldn’t be up to the courts. “The answer to this crisis is not for federal courts to reallocate resources without lawful authority,” Solicitor General D. John Sauer said in the papers. “The only way to end this crisis — which the Executive is adamant to end — is for Congress to reopen the government.” Associated Press reporter Cara Anna in Carthage, New York, contributed. —Geoff Mulvihill and Margery Beck, Associated Press View the full article

What once made its sovereign states powerful and rich could now be a barrier to their remaining soView the full article

To excel in sales skills training, you need to master five fundamental techniques that can markedly improve your effectiveness. Comprehending product benefits and customer needs is vital, as is developing active listening and empathy to build trust. Furthermore, you must emphasize adaptability in a dynamic market and focus on cultivating strong relationships for long-term engagement. Finally, incorporating effective communication and negotiation strategies will further raise your performance. Discover how each technique can transform your approach. Key Takeaways Focus on understanding product features and customer benefits to tailor sales pitches effectively. Develop active listening and empathy skills to build trust and enhance customer relationships. Emphasize adaptability and continuous learning to thrive in a dynamic sales environment. Foster strong relationships through personalized engagement and high-quality service for long-term customer retention. Incorporate effective communication and negotiation strategies to improve closure rates and handle objections confidently. Understanding Product Benefits and Customer Needs To effectively sell, you must understand not just your product’s features but likewise how those features translate into benefits for your customers. This comprehension is essential during professional selling skills training. By identifying specific customer pain points, you can tailor your sales pitch to address their needs directly. Statistics reveal that 68% of buyers value sellers who demonstrate problem-solving abilities. A strong grasp of product benefits allows you to articulate clear value propositions, which can boost retention rates by 25%-60%. Training should emphasize the difference between features and benefits, ensuring you connect product attributes to customer desires. Regularly updating your product knowledge based on customer feedback and market trends keeps you relevant and effective in meeting evolving expectations. Developing Active Listening and Empathy Skills Active listening and empathy are crucial skills in sales that can greatly improve your ability to connect with customers. Research shows that active listening boosts sales effectiveness by 70%, as it requires you to fully concentrate on the speaker. In addition, empathy helps you comprehend customer needs, nurturing trust that can lead to a 50% increase in customer retention. During sales skills training, practice reflective listening techniques, like paraphrasing customer statements, to clarify comprehension and avoid miscommunications. Use open-ended questions to encourage deeper conversations, revealing valuable insights about customer preferences. By enhancing these skills, you can expect a 25% improvement in team performance metrics, making active listening and empathy critical components of successful sales strategies. Emphasizing Adaptability in a Dynamic Market In today’s fast-paced sales environment, being adaptable isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential for success. As a sales professional, you must adjust your strategies to align with dynamic market conditions. With 68% of buyers valuing problem-solving abilities, demonstrating adaptability can set you apart. The ever-changing terrain, driven by increased customer knowledge and technology, demands continuous refinement of your approach. You’ll find that 59% of top performers benefit from ongoing coaching, reinforcing the importance of adaptability in the sales training process. Embracing new methodologies and tools is critical since companies that prioritize adaptability often outpace competitors. Building Strong Relationships for Long-term Engagement Strong relationships serve as the foundation for long-term customer engagement and business success. By honing your professional selling skills, you can build trust and improve interactions. Remember, 68% of buyers value sellers who demonstrate problem-solving abilities; this boosts their trust in you. Establish rapport through active listening and empathy, which leads to higher satisfaction and loyalty. Providing high-quality service and prompt follow-up can differentiate you from competitors, nurturing lasting relationships. Regular communication and networking keep these connections strong, opening doors for referrals and repeat business. Focus on comprehending your customers’ needs and preferences through personalized engagement. This approach not just boosts retention rates but additionally drives revenue growth for your business, ensuring sustainable success. Incorporating Effective Communication and Negotiation Strategies Building strong relationships with customers is just the beginning; effective communication and negotiation strategies are crucial for enhancing those connections. In your sales strategy training, focus on active listening to fully understand customer needs, which can increase sales performance by 20-25%. Incorporate open-ended questions during conversations, encouraging deeper engagement and gathering insights for customized solutions. When negotiating, aim for mutually beneficial outcomes, improving closure rates by up to 30% by promoting collaboration and trust. Enhancing emotional intelligence through training helps you empathize with customers, a quality appreciated by 68% of buyers. Role-playing negotiation scenarios can markedly boost your confidence and effectiveness, with practitioners reporting a 70% improvement in handling objections and closing deals compared to traditional methods. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 7 Essential Selling Skills Every Sales Person Should Know? Every salesperson should master seven important skills: product knowledge, which allows you to explain features and benefits clearly; active listening, to understand customer needs; and persuasiveness, which helps influence decisions ethically. Furthermore, time management is critical for prioritizing tasks, whereas negotiation skills enable you to find common ground. Finally, adaptability is essential for adjusting your approach based on customer feedback, ensuring you meet various challenges effectively in a dynamic sales environment. What Are the Five Methods of Sales Training? You can improve your sales skills through five effective training methods. First, instructor-led training encourages group discussions and immediate feedback. Second, role-playing lets you practice in realistic scenarios. Third, online training modules provide flexibility and improve retention rates considerably. Fourth, workshops and seminars focus on specific skills, offering hands-on experience. Finally, on-the-job training allows you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings as you receive guidance from experienced colleagues. Which Skill Is Essential for a Successful Salesperson? A vital skill for a successful salesperson is effective communication. You need to articulate your value propositions clearly and cultivate trust with customers. Active listening is likewise important; it helps you understand customer needs, setting you apart from competitors. Furthermore, being persuasive can greatly improve your closing rates, whereas emotional intelligence allows for better relationships. Finally, adaptability enables you to respond effectively to market changes, ensuring long-term success in sales. Which Method Is Effective for Improving Sales Training? An effective method for improving sales training is a blended learning approach, combining in-person and virtual sessions. This method boosts retention rates considerably. Furthermore, role-playing and simulation-based training help you practice real-life scenarios, enhancing your confidence. Continuous feedback and coaching are essential, as nearly 60% of top performers benefit from regular guidance. Setting SMART goals provides clear direction, whereas reviewing training programs based on team feedback keeps the content relevant and effective. Conclusion Incorporating these five crucial techniques into your sales skills training can lead to significant improvements in your performance. By grasping product benefits, developing active listening, emphasizing adaptability, building strong relationships, and perfecting communication and negotiation strategies, you can better meet customer needs and respond to market changes. This all-encompassing approach not just improves sales effectiveness but additionally nurtures lasting customer engagement, driving overall success in your sales efforts. Focus on these areas to boost your skills and results. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Essential Techniques for Sales Skills Training Success" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article