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A reader writes: There have a been a few questions recently that are along the lines of “How do I explain that (insert reason here) is why I want to leave my job?” I am curious what interviewers are getting out of asking this question. People leave for a multitude of reasons or no reason at all, and are going to put the best spin possible on the answer if they are asked. How does what someone states as their reason for leaving translate to helpful information for hiring? Because sometimes the answer gives really helpful information. Not always, but enough of the time to make it worth inquiring. For example, if a candidate says they’re leaving their job because it involves too much X when they want to focus on Y and the job they’re interviewing for has a huge X component or very little Y, that’s relevant info. If a candidate says they’ve disliked an aspect of the culture at their current job that happens to be something they’re going to encounter a lot at the new job too, that’s relevant too. It can also be a way of simply understanding where the person is in their professional journey and what’s important to them. The answer can provide helpful context for how the person sees their career progressing — like if they say they’re interviewing for this role because they want more responsibility, or because they’re excited about how much X this job entails because they’ve always been energized by that in past roles. Or as an interviewer, it might not be clear why someone would be looking to move on very soon after starting their job, and an answer can put that in context (like that their team is having rolling layoffs, or they thought they were coming on board to do X but it tuned out the team really needs Y). Also, not everyone does put the best spin on why they’re leaving! Some people are extremely candid, far more than it’s in their interests to be, and so as an interviewer you’ll sometimes hear all about how much they hate their boss or their clients or that they got fired for letting their friends steal, or all sorts of other useful info to consider. In those cases, not only do you learn whatever is said, but you also learn something interesting about the person’s judgment in choosing to say it. And enough people do answer this way that it makes sense to create an opening for it, because who knows what you might learn. That’s not to say the question is intended as a “gotcha”; it’s not. There are just lots of ways it can elicit useful information. The post what do interviewers hope to learn from asking why you’re leaving your job? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Keeping teams effective in 2026 means more than adjusting tactics — it means unlearning the habits and defaults that once made you successful. From loosening rigid structures to stepping into the role of counselor, discover what great leaders are actually changing about how they show up. The post What Leaders Are Changing About Their Role to Keep Teams Effective in 2026 appeared first on The Digital Project Manager. View the full article

The gravy train is picking up steam again at Hardee’s. The Southern-inspired fast food chain has been quietly reopening locations across the Southeast after an explosive legal battle with a franchisee had led to dozens of store closures late last year. Newly reopened Hardee’s restaurants in at least three states—Georgia, South Carolina, and Missouri—are being described in job listings as “now corporate owned,” according to recent ads posted on Indeed.com and SimplyHired. They share addresses with Hardee’s restaurants formerly operated by franchisee ARC Burger, whose 77 locations shuttered in December 2025. Some of the listings are marked as “urgent.” Reached for comment by Fast Company, a spokesperson for Hardee’s Restaurants confirmed the reopenings and said more are on the horizon. “We are pleased to have recently reopened 15 locations in the Georgia, Missouri and South Carolina markets as Hardee’s corporate restaurants,” the spokesperson said. “This is part of a broader reopening strategy by which Hardee’s expects to assume ownership and resume operations for more than 40 recently closed locations that were previously independently owned and operated by ARC Burger. The brand also says it is exploring options to reopen additional shuttered stores that weren’t part of the ARC portfolio, either as franchised or company-owned locations. “We understand the important role these restaurants play in the neighborhoods they serve and are pleased to be bringing Hardee’s back to these local communities,” the company said. Hardee’s is owned by Tennessee-based CKE Restaurants Holdings, which also owns the Carl’s Jr. fast food chain. The privately held company does not routinely disclose financial results or data about what percentage of its restaurants are franchised. What happened to ARC Burger? ARC Burger was formed in 2023 by High Bluff Capital Partners, a private equity firm that also owns restaurant chains such as Quiznos and Taco Del Mar. Last year, Hardee’s sued ARC Burger for allegedly failing to pay the restaurant chain $6.5 million in past-due franchise royalties, rent, and other fees, according to court documents. The chain also claimed to be owed more than $10.5 million in damages due to early termination of ACR Burger’s franchise agreement. In response to the lawsuit, which is still ongoing, the franchisee blasted Hardee’s for what it described as “a series of sharp practices and underhanded tactics,” including allegedly neglecting to disclose that certain restaurants had suffered from dilapidated conditions, such as faulty fryers, sagging ceilings, and nonfunctional HVAC units. It also accused Hardee’s of failing to provide the technical and marketing support it needed to operate the franchise. Rather than owing Hardee’s millions of dollars, ARC contended that it overpaid for the rights to use the Hardee’s name—and that it was forced to spend north of $10 million to keep the business solvent. “Now, rather than take responsibility for hamstringing the Restaurants’ ability to succeed, Hardee’s seeks to continue exploiting ARC through this lawsuit,” lawyers for the franchisee wrote. Fast Company reached out to ARC Burger for comment. What happened to ARC Burger’s locations? ARC Burger’s franchise agreement was terminated in September 2025 and its 77 restaurants were closed three months later, resulting in some 1,600 job losses right before the Christmas holiday, according to court documents. At the time the lawsuit was filed, the franchisee owned restaurants in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, South Carolina, and Wyoming. Now at least some of those restaurants have been reopened under corporate ownership. Which Hardee’s locations have reopened? Made-from-scratch biscuits are back in the oven at former ARC Burger locations in three states so far. A Hardee’s Restaurant spokesperson said 15 such restaurants have recently reopened. Although a full list was not immediately available, Fast Company identified the following former ARC locations that are now under corporate ownership and seeking to fill positions: Georgia 624 North Church Street, Thomaston, GA 30286 1204 Turner McCall Blvd SE, Rome, GA 30161 350 General Daniel Avenue North, Danielsville, GA 30633 2154 Franklin Parkway, Franklin, GA 30217 1208 Industrial Boulevard, East Ellijay, GA 30540 Missouri 702 N Franklin St, Cuba, MO 65453 South Carolina 422 N Hwy 52, Moncks Corner, SC 29461 503 N Jefferies Blvd, Walterboro, SC 29488 1402 N Main St., Summerville, SC 29483 201 N Goose Creek Blvd., Goose Creek, SC 29445 Troubled times for franchisees With operating costs ballooning and foot traffic spotty, the franchise model appears to be increasingly under strain this year for some well-known restaurant chains. Franchisees for Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Subway, Applebee’s, and Firehouse Subs have all sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in just the last few months. CKE Restaurants is not immune to this trend. Earlier this month, a franchisee that owns 65 Carl’s Jr. locations in California filed for bankruptcy, although it has not announced any resulting closures as of yet. This story is developing and could be updated… View the full article

Artificial intelligence is rapidly learning to autonomously design and run biological experiments, but the systems intended to govern those capabilities are struggling to keep pace. AI company OpenAI and biotech company Ginkgo Bioworks announced in February 2026 that OpenAI’s flagship model GPT-5 had autonomously designed and run 36,000 biological experiments. It did this through a robotic cloud laboratory, a facility where automated equipment controlled remotely by computers carries out experiments. The AI model proposed study designs, and robots carried them out and fed the data back to the model for the next round. Humans set the goal, and the machines did much of the work in the lab, cutting the cost of producing a desired protein by 40%. This is programmable biology: designing biological components on a computer and building them in the physical world, with AI closing the loop. For decades, biology mostly moved from observation toward understanding. Scientists sequenced the genomes of organisms to catalog all of their DNA, learning how genes encode the proteins that carry out life’s functions. The invention of tools like CRISPR then allowed scientists to edit that DNA for specific purposes, such as disabling a gene linked to disease. AI is now accelerating a third phase, where computers can both design biological systems and rapidly test them. The process looks less like traditional benchwork in a lab and more like engineering: design, build, test, learn, and repeat. Where a traditional experiment might test a single hypothesis, AI-driven programmable biology explores thousands of design variations in parallel, iterating the way an engineer refines a prototype. As a data scientist who studies genomics and biosecurity, I research how AI is reshaping biological research and what safeguards that demands. Current safety measures and regulations have not kept pace with these capabilities, and the gap between what AI can do in biology and what governance systems are prepared to handle is growing. What AI makes possible The clearest example of how researchers are using AI to automate research is AI-accelerated protein design. Proteins are the molecular machines that carry out most functions in living cells. Designing new ones has traditionally required years of trial and error because even small changes to a protein’s sequence can alter its shape and function in unpredictable ways. Protein language models, which are AI systems trained on millions of natural protein sequences, can quickly predict how mutations will change a protein’s behavior or design new proteins. These AI models are designing potential new drugs and speeding vaccine development. Paired with automated labs, these models create tight loops of experimentation and revision, testing thousands of variations in days rather than the months or years a human team would need. Faster protein engineering could mean faster responses to emerging infections and cheaper drugs. The dual-use problem Researchers have raised concerns that these same AI tools could be misused, a challenge known as the dual-use problem: Technologies developed for beneficial purposes can also be repurposed to cause harm. For example, researchers have found that AI models integrated with automated labs can optimize how well a virus spreads, even without specialized training. Scientists have developed a risk-scoring tool to evaluate how AI could modify a virus’s capabilities, such as altering which species it infects or helping it evade the immune system. Current AI models are able to walk users through the technical steps of recovering live viruses from synthetic DNA. Researchers have determined that AI could lower barriers at multiple stages in the process of developing a bioweapon, and that current oversight does not adequately address this risk. Risk from bio AI Experienced scientists are already using AI to plan and design biological experiments. The question of whether AI can help people with limited biology training carry out dangerous lab work is the subject of active research. Two recent studies have reached different conclusions. A study by AI company Scale AI and biosecurity nonprofit SecureBio found that when people with limited biology experience were given access to large language models, which is the type of AI behind tools like ChatGPT, they were able to complete biosecurity-related tasks, such as troubleshooting complex virology lab protocols with four times greater accuracy. In some areas, these novices outperformed trained experts. Around 90% of these novices reported little difficulty getting the models to provide risky biological information, such as detailed instructions on working with dangerous pathogens, despite built-in safety filters meant to block such outputs. In contrast, a study led by Active Site, a research nonprofit that studies the use of AI in synthetic biology, found that AI help did not lead to significant differences in the ability of novices to complete the complex workflow to produce a virus in a biosafety laboratory. However, the AI-assisted group succeeded more often on most tasks and finished some steps faster, most notably on growing cells in the lab. Hands-on work in the lab has traditionally been a bottleneck to translating designs into results. Even a brilliant study plan still depends on skilled human hands to carry out. That may not last, as cloud laboratories and robotic automation become cheaper and more accessible, allowing researchers to send AI-generated experimental designs to remote facilities for execution. Responding to AI-driven biological risks AI systems are now able to run experiments autonomously and at scale, but existing regulations were not designed for this. Rules governing biological research do not account for AI-driven automation, and rules governing AI do not specifically address its use in biology. In the U.S., the Biden administration had issued a 2023 executive order on AI security that included biosecurity provisions, but the The President administration revoked it. Screening the synthetic DNA that commercial providers make to ensure it cannot be misused to make pathogens or toxins remains mostly voluntary. A bipartisan bill introduced in 2026 to mandate DNA screening does not yet address AI-designed sequences that evade current detection methods. The 1975 Biological Weapons Convention, an international treaty prohibiting the production and use of bioweapons, contains no provisions for AI. The U.K. AI Security Institute and the U.S. National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology have both called for coordinated government action. The safety evaluations that AI labs run before releasing new models are often opaque and unsuited to capture real-world risk. Researchers have estimated that even modest improvements in an AI model’s ability to help plan pathogen-related experiments could translate to thousands of additional deaths from bioterrorism per year. Timelines for when these capabilities cross critical thresholds remain unclear. The Nuclear Threat Initiative has proposed a managed access framework for biological AI tools, matching who can use a given tool to the risk level of the model rather than blanket restrictions. The RAND Center on AI, Security and Technology outlined a set of actions researchers could take to improve biosecurity, including improved DNA synthesis screening and model evaluations before release. Researchers have also argued that biological data itself needs governance, especially genomic data that could train models with dangerous capabilities. Some AI companies have started voluntarily imposing their own safety measures. Anthropic activated its highest safety tier when it released its most advanced model in mid-2025. At the same moment, OpenAI updated its Preparedness Framework, revising the thresholds for how much biological risk a model can pose before additional safeguards are required. But these are voluntary, company-specific steps. Anthropic’s CEO, Dario Amodei, wrote that the pace of AI development may soon outrun any single company’s ability to assess the risk of a given model. When used in a well-controlled setting, AI can help scientists quickly reach their research goals. What happens when the same capabilities operate outside those controls is a question that policy has not yet answered. Overreact, and talent and investment may move elsewhere while the technology continues advancing anyway. Underreact, and the risks of that technology could be exploited to cause real harm. Stephen D. Turner is an associate professor of data science at the University of Virginia. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

Paris court finds cement maker guilty of paying jihadis to keep operations running in Syria after civil war broke out View the full article

Populist nationalism can be beaten at the ballot box, even if it can endure a long timeView the full article

A few years ago, I started noticing a pattern. Every time a major publication or LinkedIn thread took on AI in hiring, the framing was almost always the same: hype on one side, existential alarm on the other. The talent leaders I actually talk to have more nuanced opinions than that, but those narratives still shape the conversation in ways that hold organizations back from building the hiring processes their people and candidates actually deserve. After spending the last decade building AI-powered hiring tools and working alongside the talent teams implementing them, I’ve had a front-row seat to the gap between what people assume about AI in hiring and what actually happens when it’s deployed well. LET THESE 4 MYTHS GO Here are four of the most persistent myths, and why it’s time to let them go. Myth #1: AI hiring tools are inherently more biased than human recruiters. This is the myth I encounter most often, and I understand why it exists. Lawsuits like Mobley v. Workday get headlines. But here’s the uncomfortable truth nobody wants to say out loud: The biggest source of bias in hiring is still humans. The same research that fuels concerns about algorithmic bias also shows that AI is up to 39% fairer for female candidates compared to human evaluators, and 45% fairer for racial minorities. The research also shows that over 99.9% of employment discrimination claims in recent years weren’t about AI bias at all, but about human bias. None of this means AI is always bias-free. It isn’t, but neither are humans. In my view, the most productive question isn’t “is AI biased?” but rather “how can AI and humans work together to make decisions based on skills rather than criteria that are inherently fraught with bias?” If you’re still routing candidates through a process where busy recruiters spend six seconds skimming a resume to decide who deserves a conversation, you don’t have a bias problem you’re solving. You have a bias problem you’re choosing to keep. Myth #2: AI interviews are a cold, dehumanizing candidate experience. This assumption comes up in many conversations, but then I see the actual feedback from candidates who’ve gone through AI interviews. “In the beginning, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but about three minutes in, it felt comfortable and natural.” We’ve seen them consistently rate their experiences more than 4 out of 5 stars. Here’s why that disconnect exists: People assume that removing a human from the room means removing fairness, warmth, and opportunity. In reality, the opposite is often true. A well-designed AI interview gives every candidate something human processes almost never do: a consistent, patient, unhurried opportunity to demonstrate what they can actually do. In a traditional process, who gets a phone screen often comes down to whether the resume happens to match the right keywords at the right moment on a busy afternoon. An AI interview extends the opportunity to actually show up. It’s not the end of the human element in hiring, but the beginning of a more equitable front door. Myth #3: AI interview tools evaluate how you look and sound. I hear this one particularly from candidates who worry they’ll be penalized for their accent, their appearance, or their camera setup. In our system, scoring is based on what you actually say, meaning the substance of your answers, the quality of your reasoning, the skills you demonstrate. In fact, one reason we designed it this way is specifically to reduce the kind of bias that creeps into human interviews through appearance and presentation style. The AI grading that analyzes a conversation has no awareness of gender or any other characteristic that could be inferred from voice or video, which is intentional. The goal should always be the same: Find the skills and competencies that predict success in this specific role, define what it looks like to demonstrate them, and score consistently against that rubric. Myth #4: Adopting AI in hiring is primarily a technology decision. This might be the most dangerous myth on the list, because it leads talent leaders to step back and let IT or engineering drive the AI conversation. And I understand the instinct. These feel like complex tools, and it’s easy to assume the most technical team in the building should own the decision. But hiring is not an IT problem. It’s a talent problem. And the people closest to that problem need to be the ones shaping how AI gets deployed. Talent leaders don’t need to become engineers, but they do need to understand what AI can and can’t do in a hiring context, how it enhances decision-making, where its limitations are, and how it supports the people doing the hiring and the people going through the process. That means educating yourself, having direct conversations with vendors, asking hard questions, and evaluating solutions based on what actually matters: Can this help us hire top talent while delivering a great candidate experience? If you hand that decision to a team that optimizes for infrastructure instead of outcomes, you’ll end up with a technically sound system that nobody in talent acquisition trusts or uses. Own the decision. It’s yours to make. THE REAL RISK Is getting started with AI the real risk? Not so much. The real risk for leaders today is falling behind while maintaining processes that have always been flawed, just familiarly so. We can continue accepting the inherent limitations of human-led hiring, or we can use new technology and approaches to raise the bar for fairness, scale, and predictive accuracy. The tools exist. The data is clear. The only thing left is the will to actually use them. Tigran Sloyan is CEO and cofounder of CodeSignal. View the full article

A California company has recalled more than 3.1 million bottles of lubricating eye drops because it had not properly tested—and thus could not prove—whether the products were sterile. These products are sold under several names at major retailers across the country. The company, K.C. Pharmaceuticals, initiated the recall on March 3, 2026. I am a clinical pharmacologist and pharmacist who has assessed risks of poor-quality manufacturing practices and lax oversight for prescription drugs, eye drops, dietary supplements, and nutritional products in the United States for many years. This recall is very large, potentially affecting over a million people. Using nonsterile eye drops that harbor bacteria and fungus can cause eye infections, which can become severe because the immune system has a hard time accessing the eyeball and fighting the microbes. This is not the first time that a major recall has occurred in the eye drop market—and it is the second time since 2023 that the Food and Drug Administration has become aware of sterility issues at K.C. Pharmaceuticals. Multiple products affected Eight products are being recalled: Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops, Artificial Tears Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops, Sterile Eye Drops Original Formula, Sterile Eye Drops Redness Lubricant, Eye Drops Advanced Relief, Ultra Lubricating Eye Drops, Sterile Eye Drops AC, and Sterile Eye Drops Soothing Tears. These products are sold under different company names, including Top Care, Best Choice, Good Sense, Rugby, Leader, Good Neighbor Pharmacy, Quality Choice, Valu Merchandisers, Geri Care, Walgreens, CVS, and Kroger. Their expiration dates range from April 30, 2026, to Oct. 31, 2026. They were sold at stores including Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, Kroger, Harris Teeter, Dollar General, Circle K, and Publix. If you purchased an eye drop product since April 2025, check to see whether the name matches any of these. If it does, go to the FDA site, where you can see the exact lot numbers and expiration dates for those products. As of early April, no infections from the recalled eye drops have been reported. How to tell whether your eye drops were recalled You can determine whether your eye drop product is part of the recall by looking at two columns in the table. Column 2 of the table lists the names of the products, with one name per row. Column 5 provides the specific lot numbers of the affected products and their expiration dates. For example, recalled Sterile Eye Drops AC products—row 1, column 2—have the lot number AC24E01 with an expiration date of May 31, 2026, listed in row 1, column 5. If the product you purchased has the same name but a different lot number or expiration date than the ones listed on the FDA website, it is not subject to this recall and you can safely keep using it. If you find your product has been recalled, stop using it and bring it back to the store for a refund. The FDA has not received reports of any infections as of early April. However, if after using one of these recalled products you experience redness in your eyes, eyelids stuck together, unusual eye discharge such as goo or pus, vision changes, eyelid swelling or eye pain itchiness or irritation, these symptoms could be due to an eye infection. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention—and also, if possible, report your symptoms to the FDA. A history of eye drop sterility issues The FDA has many important public health roles: approving new drugs and medical devices; overseeing the manufacturing quality of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and food products; and protecting the public from counterfeit medications. With its limited personnel, the agency focuses its time on areas where the risks are greater. This means manufacturers of more dangerous products, or product types that were previously found to have issues, are inspected more frequently. The FDA had inspected over-the-counter eye drop manufacturers only a few times before 2023, when cases of rare eye infections due to a drug-resistant Pseudomonas bacteria strain started occurring. In total, 81 people from 18 states developed severe eye infections during the 2023 outbreak. Fourteen people experienced vision loss because of the product, an additional four people had their eyeballs removed, and four people died. The agency identified two products as the culprits: Global Pharma’s EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsem Pharma’s Artificial Tears and Eye Ointment. Later in 2023, the FDA issued recalls for Dr. Berne’s, LightEyez Limited, Pharmedica LLC, and Kilitch Healthcare eye drop products for sterility issues. Kilitch Healthcare had serious quality lapses, in which the facility was filthy, employees were barefoot on the manufacturing floor, and the company fraudulently passed products that failed sterility tests. Repeated manufacturing problem At the time, the FDA also inspected K.C. Pharmaceuticals and issued the company a warning letter. The FDA was concerned that the manufacturer failed to establish and follow appropriate written procedures designed to prevent microbiological contamination. Although the agency did not request a recall, it did ask that the company immediately change its protocols and consult outside experts to prevent these issues from recurring. The current massive recall of K.C. Pharmaceuticals’ eye drop products suggests lingering quality control issues in the manufacturer’s Pomona, California, plant that need to be urgently addressed. If the company had heeded the FDA’s recommendations, it would have detected the nonsterility issue before so many batches of the products were manufactured. C. Michael White is a distinguished professor of pharmacy practice at the University of Connecticut. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often using advanced technology to make fraudulent communications seem eerily authentic. In light of these evolving threats, JPMorgan Chase is stepping up its efforts to equip consumers—especially small business owners—with the knowledge they need to dodge scams. As the bank gears up for Financial Literacy Month, the upcoming series of educational workshops aims to combat these risks head-on, providing vital insights and skills to protect financial assets. During the week of April 13-17, Chase will partner with local community organizations, law enforcement, and AI experts to host workshops across seven cities, including Bakersfield, Boston, and Detroit. These sessions, which form part of Chase’s commitment to financial education, will tackle a range of prevalent scams, including impersonation schemes, romance scams, and social media cons that are increasingly using AI to manipulate victims emotionally. Darius Kingsley, Head of Consumer Fraud and Scam Prevention at Chase, emphasizes the urgency of this initiative. “Scammers are constantly refining how they target consumers, leveraging AI to make their calls and messages sound real, urgent, and personal,” he noted. Kingsley highlights that while tactics may vary, they often hinge on pressure tactics, impersonation, and emotional manipulation, making education an essential line of defense. For small business owners, the implications of these scams can be dire. A single fraudulent transaction not only leads to financial loss but can also damage a company’s reputation and consumer trust. Therefore, understanding how to identify and respond to these threats is crucial for safeguarding a business’s financial future. The workshops aim to offer attendees practical tools to discern red flags, verify suspicious communications, and safeguard sensitive information. Chase hosts over 1,000 fraud and scam workshops annually, and the timing of these events couldn’t be better. With a rising tide of scams targeting both consumers and businesses, participants will learn how to navigate this treacherous landscape. Key topics will include recognizing the psychological principles attackers employ and actionable steps to secure personal and business information. The workshops also present a valuable opportunity for small business owners to network with peers and experts in their communities. Participants can share experiences and strategies for combating scams, creating a collective defense that strengthens local business ecosystems. By equipping themselves with knowledge, small business owners can foster a more resilient community. However, it’s important to consider potential challenges. While workshops provide a wealth of information, the fast-paced and ever-changing nature of scams can make it difficult for attendees to keep up. Scammers are quick to adapt, often staying several steps ahead of legal and organizational efforts to curb their activities. The key takeaway for small business owners is to not solely rely on these workshops but to implement ongoing training and education within their teams. The events will be held in various formats to accommodate different preferences, including in-person and hybrid sessions. Locations include Bakersfield, CA; Boston, MA; Detroit, MI; Louisville, KY; Miami, FL; Philadelphia, PA; and Phoenix, AZ. Interested participants can find additional details and RSVP options on Chase’s event pages. As scammers continue to exploit technology, it becomes increasingly imperative for small business owners to arm themselves with knowledge. Workshops like those offered by Chase are steps toward a more informed and safer financial environment. By participating, businesses can not only protect themselves from fraud but also contribute to the broader fight against scams in their communities. For further details and to explore additional scam prevention resources, visit Chase’s dedicated webpage at Chase.com/Security. With proper education and vigilance, small business owners can help shield their enterprises from the ever-evolving threat of financial scams. For the original press release, visit Chase. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Chase Launches Workshops to Combat Rising AI-Driven Scams" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Remodeling sentiment dipped slightly in Q1 but stayed well above the neutral mark, as the lock-in effect of elevated mortgage rates kept homeowners investing in their current homes. View the full article

Elon Musk's "X Corp" is back at it. The company's latest X-themed product is XChat, a messaging app built for X users to securely chat with one another. The app is currently available to preorder on the iOS App Store with an April 17 release date, and advertises itself as an end-to-end encrypted chat app free from ads or tracking. That sounds like a great pitch, especially if you're someone who frequently messages other X users. The problem is, the pitch doesn't seem entirely accurate. As Mashable's Jack Dawes highlights, XChat's app privacy policies are a bit out of alignment with its promises. If you scroll to the "App Privacy" section of XChat's App Store page, you'll see that the app has declared it may collect the following data points, and link them to your identity: Location Contacts Search History Usage Data Contact Info User Content Identifiers Diagnostics X Corp also says it may collect additional "User Content," but that this data is not linked to you. Regardless, this is a laundry list of information the so-called "private" chat app is taking from you, and linking to your identity. Even if XChat is entirely end-to-end encrypted, it seems rather disingenuous to claim the app has zero tracking, when its privacy policy says it can take any and all of these data point from you. I wouldn't feel particularly private if I knew XChat was scraping my contacts, location, and usage data, even if it didn't have access to the messages themselves. By comparison, Signal, one of the more popular secure chat apps, only collects contact info from its users—and doesn't link that data to the user themself. XChat does claim it comes with some key features that other mainstream chat apps do. That includes editing or deleting messages for everyone in the chat, blocking screenshots, sending disappearing messages, cross-platform calling, and large group chats. (The App Store listing shows a group chat with 481 members.) As the app is meant for X users to communicate with one another, you do need an X account to use XChat. That means the app likely won't pop off the same way other messaging apps have, but it may attract existing X users who have a number of contacts they already chat with in DMs. We'll see whether that's the case when the app launches later this week, but I imagine any privacy-minded users may prefer to seek alternative arrangements. View the full article

Issa Rae is a Hollywood success story. Her web series The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl launched her career in the early 2010s, leading to her HBO series Insecure and now her production company Hoorae Media. Through all her projects, Rae has been praised for her authentic portrayal of Black women’s lives—but at a recent panel, Rae said that the entertainment industry is no longer interested in celebrating diversity. Shifting tides in the film industry While speaking at TheWrap’s Creators x Hollywood Summit last Wednesday, April 8, Rae pointed out a troubling trend she’s seeing on the production side of Hollywood. “I’m seeing it. Just blatantly. People aren’t investing like they were before,” she said. “[DEI] has changed meanings and has become a bad word.” Rae added that creators and executives are “tiptoeing” around the topic, with some executives of color even telling her they “can’t cosign you” for fear of losing their own positions. “Even after so much progress, we’re kind of back to limited representation and having to stake claim of our stories,” she explained. “We’re back where we started, in a way, but wiser.” How, then, can POC-centered projects—the kind that put Rae on the map—continue to get made? Rae said it’s all about framing. “You have to be smarter about how you package and market [projects]. You tell them, ‘It’s not a show about a Black woman, it’s a show about class,’” she said. “As icky as that might feel, it gets the show sold.” From Awkward Black Girl to Screen Time From the beginning of her career, Rae has been dedicated to thoughtful representation, particularly for Black women. “I started Awkward Black Girl because there was a dearth of representation in the industry, and it felt like this was my opportunity to put an archetype into the space that didn’t exist at the time,” Rae said at the panel. Sometimes, that meant turning down career opportunities, like being approached to adapt Awkward Black Girl into a TV series. “They talked about recasting everyone, including me, with celebrities, so that was an easy no thank you,” Rae joked. In making the transition from YouTube to HBO, Rae said she learned to approach executives with a clear vision, rather than let them dictate what they want from her. “That—‘What can I do for you?’—was the wrong mindset to adopt,” she said. “I should have been like, ‘I have these things for you that I specifically want to do, and I know what I want to say.’ It took me a while to get there.” Since Insecure concluded in 2021, Rae has appeared as an actor in films including Barbie and American Fiction and TV shows like Black Mirror. Her latest venture under Hoorae Media is a micro-drama called Screen Time, premiering for free on TikTok and its new Pine Drama app. It’s the first of several micro-series Rae is developing for TikTok as part of a new partnership, as she revealed last week in a statement. At TheWrap’s panel, Rae emphasized that despite shifting industry standards, Hoorae Media hasn’t strayed from its mission of telling inclusive stories, “and it never will,” she said. Rising pressure on Black-led projects Rae’s comments went viral on social media, prompting the internet to take a closer look at the state of POC-centered productions in Hollywood. Many users drew connections to the currently screening rom-com You, Me & Tuscany, starring Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page. Filmmaker Nina Lee went viral last month for encouraging audiences to support the Black-led film, saying multiple studio executives had told her they wouldn’t commit to her projects until seeing how You, Me & Tuscany performed at the box office. Some posters argued that Rae simply said the quiet part out loud, and that America’s cultural shift to conservatism has already been bleeding into Hollywood for quite some time. “This administration gave everybody the green light to do what they’ve been wanting to do,” one user posted in reply to Rae’s comments. “That’s the real reason we’re campaigning for folks to go support a romcom with two black leads.” Rae also described another trend in the media industry: that executives are far more focused on social media following than on talent. “I feel like Hollywood is in an identity crisis right now, and so they’ve turned to creators and social media in an attempt to try to bring them into the system,” she said. “I don’t think that that’s the right model.” That said, Rae advised that any young creatives trying to break into the industry should focus on cultivating their own audiences, the way that she did with Awkward Black Girl more than a decade ago. “Hollywood has gotten a bit lazier in their discovery, whereas they’re not reading as much,” Rae said. “It’s been disheartening to see Hollywood not make the extra effort to discover other voices outside of what’s already been risen to the top as popular.” View the full article

Many tech observers initially believed the software engineers would become scarce in the face of AI. But that hasn’t turned out to be the case—in part due to the power of human ingenuity. “Software engineers are spending less time coding,” says Aneesh Raman, the chief economic opportunity officer at LinkedIn, who just published the book Open to Work: How to Get Ahead in the Age of AI. “But now they’re getting to build things in a way they couldn’t before. They’re going into conversations with clients and customers. Or they’re thinking about the ethical implications of what they build.” In their book, Raman and his co-author—LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky—argue that there’s no point trying to beat AI at its own game and “out-machine” a machine. Instead, workers who are concerned about being unseated by AI should focus on what they bring to the table that cannot be automated. “One of the biggest arguments we make in the book is: Jobs are not titles,” he says. “They’re a set of tasks.” Raman sorts those tasks into three buckets. One of those buckets includes the tasks you can automate or simplify with AI; the second bucket might be new things you can do by harnessing AI. But the most crucial bucket is the last one, which involves what is “unique to you as a human.” “No one beats you at being you,” Raman says. “Not even AI.” It is these skills that have currency in the era of AI, according to Raman. Soft skills, which are often undervalued, have new relevance as AI erodes the value of technical prowess. “For generations now, we have valued technical and analytic abilities above all else,” he says. “And we have described these people skills—these human skills—as soft in a very dismissive way. The script is about to flip.” In their book, Raman and Roslansky sought to better articulate what constitutes soft skills, enlisting neuroscientists, psychologists, and behavioral economists to do so. They came up with the five Cs (curiosity, compassion, creativity, communication, and courage) to capture the qualities that AI “can help us with but can’t beat us at.” Raman also wants to reframe these attributes as skills that you can actually improve over time, rather than fixed or innate traits. “Part of the issue with how we thought about these skills isn’t just that we’ve said they’re soft,” he says. “We also said a lot of these are talents, not skills—creativity being a good example. You can get better at any of these five Cs. You just have to do it every day. And be uncomfortable.” The doomsday narrative of AI has focused heavily on the toll for white-collar workers and especially recently college graduates. While all kinds of workers are at risk of automation, including those who lack four-year degrees, Raman believes college graduates are in a better position than media coverage might lead them to believe. “If you’re coming out of college, every headline is telling you this is horrible for you right now,” he says. “Start with strengths. You’re coming out of college probably the most fluent with AI of any generation. You’ve had it for your entire four years in college. You’re also coming out of college with a more entrepreneurial mindset. You know about the gig economy, the side hustle, the creator economy. You don’t believe you’re going to get one job at one company, and then that’s going to be it. Those are the two most important skills for anyone right now: AI fluency and entrepreneurialism.” In fact, it’s not college graduates who he thinks are most vulnerable at this moment. He points to people in his peer group—the generation of workers that relied on traditional paths to success, be it a college degree or rising through the ranks at one company. “The people I’m most worried about are people that have never failed, have never had to adapt, have never had to manage ambiguity,” he says. As plenty of economists have asserted, nobody knows exactly what the future holds. With his book, Raman hopes that he might help puncture the sense of fatalism and inevitability that has consumed discussions of how AI will reshape the workforce. “Nothing about this is predetermined,” he says. “Let go of what’s happening around you. Don’t look for CEOs to have the answers, for AI to have the answers, for headlines to have the answers. Focus on what you can control.” View the full article

AI-inspired stock routs, the war in Iran and private credit were no hindrance to the Wall Street bankView the full article

When projects stall or risks start compounding, an escalation matrix gives teams a structured way to act fast and involve the right people without overreacting or losing control. What Is an Escalation Matrix? An escalation matrix is a decision-making framework that defines how issues move through an organization when they cannot be resolved at the current level. It should define issue ownership, issue priority levels, response paths and contacts. It is used when delays, risks, conflicts or service failures threaten outcomes and timely issue management responses are needed to restore control. Related: Top 7 Decision-Making Templates: Free Excel & Word Downloads Whenever you’re ready to start managing projects, give ProjectManager a try. ProjectManager is an award-winning project management software designed to plan, schedule and track projects from start to finish. Build detailed project schedules, allocate resources, monitor costs and compare estimates against actual performance using a complete set of powerful project management tools. Get started for free today. /wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Light-mode-portfolio-dashboard-CTA-1600x851.pngLearn more What Is the Purpose of an Escalation Matrix? The purpose of an escalation matrix is to give teams a clear path for raising issues before they damage project schedules, budgets, service levels or relationships. By defining who gets involved, when action is required and how decisions move upward, it helps organizations respond faster, reduce confusion, maintain accountability and resolve problems at the right level before they escalate further. Establish a consistent route for handling unresolved issues so teams do not rely on assumptions, urgency or informal workarounds. Clarify who owns each stage of escalation, which speeds up decisions and reduces delays caused by unclear responsibility. Set practical thresholds for when problems involving cost, schedule, safety or performance require broader management attention. Improve communication during high-pressure situations by making sure the right people are notified with the right context. Protect project delivery and operational stability by preventing small issues from growing into larger business disruptions. /wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Escalation-Matrix-Template-for-Excel.png Get your free Escalation Matrix Template Use this free Escalation Matrix Template for Excel to manage your projects better. Download Excel File What Should Be Included In an Escalation Matrix? A practical escalation matrix should show more than just names on a contact list. It needs the controls, rules and decision points that tell teams what issues qualifiy for escalation, how urgency is measured, who takes over at each level and what steps must happen from identification through resolution and closure. Document Control Every escalation matrix needs a clear way to stay accurate as it changes over time. Document control defines who owns the file, who approves updates and how revisions are tracked. It ensures the latest version is always used and provides a reliable record of changes for accountability and audit purposes. Purpose & Scope Before using an escalation matrix, teams need to understand exactly when it applies and why it exists. The purpose and scope of an escalation matrix define the types of issues that require escalation, including operational, technical, safety, financial and contractual concerns, while making clear what falls outside its use to prevent confusion or misuse. Roles & Responsibilities When issues escalate, confusion over ownership can delay decisions and slow resolution. Roles and responsibilities clarify who is accountable, who takes action and who provides support at each stage. This ensures every issue has a clear owner, decisions are made quickly and escalation moves forward without duplication or gaps. Escalation Principles Without clear guidelines, escalation quickly becomes inconsistent and driven by urgency or hierarchy rather than actual need. Escalation principles set the rules for how issues should be handled, prioritizing resolution at the lowest level, focusing on impact instead of titles and ensuring timely action without blame or unnecessary escalation. Priority Levels Not all issues require the same level of attention or resource allocation, so teams need a consistent way to prioritize them. A severity classification system defines how issues are ranked based on impact and urgency, helping determine response times and escalation levels. This ensures critical problems are addressed immediately while lower-priority issues are handled appropriately. Escalation Triggers Teams need clear criteria to know when an issue can no longer stay at its current level. Escalation triggers define specific conditions, such as time delays, cost overruns or safety incidents, that require action. This removes guesswork, ensures consistency and prevents issues from lingering until they become more serious or disruptive. Escalation Levels & Hierarchy When escalation is required, everyone needs to know who becomes responsible at each step. Escalation levels define the chain of involvement, from initial response to executive intervention, ensuring issues are handled by the right people. Clear roles prevent confusion, speed up decisions and ensure accountability as problems move through the organization. Escalation Contact Matrix Once escalation occurs, teams need immediate access to the right contacts without delays or confusion. The escalation contact matrix provides a centralized list of key individuals by role and level, including primary and backup contacts. This ensures availability at all times and allows issues to move forward quickly when timely response is critical. Escalation Workflow An escalation matrix only works if there is a clear process behind it. The escalation workflow defines each step from identifying an issue to resolving and closing it. It ensures problems are logged, assessed, escalated when needed and documented properly, creating a consistent approach that teams can follow under pressure. Escalation Matrix Template This free escalation matrix template for Excel is designed to help teams manage issues based on priority, ownership and defined escalation levels. It organizes issue categories, assigns responsible contacts and outlines response times and workflows. By standardizing how problems are escalated and resolved, it enables faster decision-making, improves accountability and keeps projects moving without unnecessary delays. /wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Escalation-Matrix-Template-for-Excel.png Escalation Matrix Example The best way to understand how to use an escalation matrix is to think of a real-life scenario. Imagine a construction company managing a large infrastructure project where delays, safety incidents and cost overruns begin affecting progress. As issues emerge across teams, the escalation matrix guides who steps in, how priorities are assigned and when decisions move to higher management levels. Document Control Field Data Document Title Escalation Matrix Template – Construction Projects Version Number v1.3 Date Created 2026-03-15 Last Updated 2026-04-10 Author / Owner Kayla Lawrence – PMO Lead Approval Authority Director of Operations Distribution List Project Managers, Site Engineers, HSE Team Change Log v1.3 – Updated escalation thresholds and contacts Purpose & Scope The purpose of this escalation matrix is to provide a structured process to escalate issues that impact project performance, safety or delivery timelines. Sc0pe Category Description Operational Issues Delays in construction activities, resource shortages, workflow disruptions Technical Issues Design conflicts, engineering errors, system failures Safety Issues Workplace incidents, hazardous conditions, regulatory violations Financial Issues Budget overruns exceeding 10%, unexpected cost increases Contractual Issues Scope disputes, vendor non-compliance, contract breaches Out of Scope Minor day-to-day issues resolved within team, administrative tasks with no project impact Roles & Responsibilities Role Responsibility RACI Classification Issue Owner Identify, document and track the issue Responsible Team Lead Attempt initial resolution and assess severity Responsible Project Manager Manage escalation process and coordinate stakeholders Accountable Functional Lead Provide technical or domain expertise Consulted Program Manager Approve major changes to scope, cost or schedule Accountable Executive Sponsor Remove strategic blockers and provide direction Accountable Stakeholders Receive updates and provide input when required Informed Escalation Principles Principle Description Resolve at Lowest Level Teams must attempt resolution before escalating Impact Over Hierarchy Escalate based on severity, not job title No-Blame Approach Focus on solving the issue, not assigning fault Timeliness Escalations must follow defined response timelines Clear Communication Provide complete and accurate issue details when escalating Priority Levels Level Name Description 1 Critical Stops operations, safety risk or major financial impact exceeding $50K 2 High Significant delays, major deliverable risk or escalating cost issues 3 Medium Noticeable disruption with manageable impact on schedule or workflow 4 Low Minor issue with little to no impact on project outcomes Escalation Triggers Trigger Type Threshold Time-Based Issue unresolved after 24 hours (Critical) or 72 hours (High) Budget Variance Cost exceeds planned budget by more than 10% Schedule Delay Activity delayed by more than 3 days on critical path Safety Incident Any injury, near miss or regulatory violation Client Escalation Formal complaint or dissatisfaction reported by client Resource Constraint Key resource unavailable for more than 2 days Escalation Levels & Hierarchy Level Role Responsibility 1 Team Lead Identify issue and attempt initial resolution 2 Project Manager Coordinate resources and manage escalation process 3 Program Manager / Director Make decisions affecting scope, cost or timeline 4 Executive Sponsor Provide strategic direction and remove major blockers Escalation Contact Matrix Name Role Department Level Phone Email Availability Backup Contact John Ramirez Team Lead Construction 1 (555) 123-4567 john.r@company.com 7 AM – 5 PM CST Maria Lopez Sarah Granger Project Manager PMO 2 (555) 987-6543 sarah.k@company.com 8 AM – 6 PM CST David Smith David Smith Program Director Operations 3 (555) 222-3344 david.c@company.com 9 AM – 6 PM CST Lisa Turner Lisa Turner Executive Sponsor Executive 4 (555) 444-5566 lisa.t@company.com On-call N/A Escalation Workflow Step Action Owner Output 1 Identify issue Team Member Issue recognized and described 2 Log issue in system Team Lead Ticket created with details 3 Assign severity level Team Lead Priority defined 4 Attempt Level 1 resolution Team Lead Initial actions taken 5 Escalate if SLA exceeded Project Manager Issue moved to next level 6 Notify next level Project Manager Stakeholders informed 7 Track actions and decisions Assigned Owner Progress documented 8 Close and document Project Manager Issue resolved and recorded ProjectManager Is an Award-Winning Project Management Software ProjectManager offers robust project management features such as Gantt charts, task lists, workload management charts, timesheets and real-time dashboards and reports. In addition to that, it’s also equipped with AI project insights, online team collaboration features and unlimited file storage that further help project managers ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Watch the video to learn more! If you need a tool to help you manage projects, then signup for our software now at ProjectManager. Our online software helps teams across industries plan, track and oversee projects as they unfold. Sign up for a free 30-day trial today! The post Escalation Matrix: How-to Guide with Example & Free Template appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

Google added back button hijacking to its malicious practices spam policy. Enforcement starts June 15, 2026. Sites have two months to remove offending code. The post New Google Spam Policy Targets Back Button Hijacking appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

The president of an affiliate mortgage securitization guarantor is taking on the responsibilities associated with the Federal Housing Administration role. View the full article

When you’re looking to invest in rental properties, comprehending commercial loans is vital. These loans often come with larger down payments, typically between 20-30%, and shorter repayment periods ranging from 5 to 20 years. You’ll need a solid credit score and a specific Debt-Service Coverage Ratio to qualify. With various types of loans available, knowing which one suits your needs can make a significant difference in your investment strategy. Let’s explore the fundamental elements further. Key Takeaways Commercial loans require a down payment of 20-30% and are secured by the income-producing property. Common types of commercial loans include conventional, SBA, bridge, and hard money loans, each serving different investor needs. Qualifying for a commercial loan typically involves a minimum credit score of 660-680 and a Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) of at least 1.25. Interest rates for commercial loans are generally 1-2.5% higher than residential mortgages, with various upfront fees to consider. Building a relationship with lenders through a well-organized loan package and clear communication can improve loan terms and approval chances. Understanding Commercial Real Estate Loans When you consider investing in rental properties, grasping commercial real estate loans is crucial, as these financial tools are particularly designed for acquiring, renovating, or refinancing income-generating properties. Unlike residential loans, commercial loans typically require larger down payments of 20-30% and have shorter terms, ranging from 5 to 20 years. These loans are secured by the property itself, so real estate investment lenders focus more on the property’s projected income rather than your personal credit score. You should likewise be prepared for higher interest rates because of the increased risk of business investments. The qualification process often involves a thorough assessment of your financial health and the property’s income-generating potential, often requiring a minimum Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) of 1.25. Grasping these factors can help you make informed decisions when applying for a commercial loan for rental property. Types of Commercial Loans for Rental Properties Maneuvering the terrain of commercial loans for rental properties involves comprehending the various types available to investors. Each option has unique features that cater to different needs. Here’s a concise overview: Conventional Loans: These typically require larger down payments (20-30%) and favorable interest rates but demand a strong credit profile and financial stability for approval. SBA Loans: Programs like the 7(a) and 504 offer government-backed financing with lower down payments and longer repayment terms, particularly for owner-occupied properties. Commercial Bridge Loans: These provide short-term financing for immediate property needs or renovations, allowing quick access to capital as you wait for long-term solutions. Hard Money Loans: Asset-based with less stringent credit requirements, these loans usually have higher interest rates because of the perceived risk involved. Understanding these options can help you make informed decisions when seeking financing for rental properties. Qualifying for a Commercial Loan Qualifying for a commercial loan requires careful preparation and a solid comprehension of the criteria lenders use to assess applicants. To get started, you’ll typically need a down payment of 25-30%, along with proof of the property’s income-generating potential. Lenders will closely examine your Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR), which should be at least 1.25, to guarantee your property can cover mortgage payments. Here’s a quick overview of key requirements: Requirement Details Down Payment 25-30% of the property value Credit Score Typically 660-680 DSCR Minimum of 1.25 Documentation Tax returns, financial statements, business plan Additionally, lenders often prefer borrowers with 1-2 years of business history and experience in managing similar properties. Make certain you’re prepared with all necessary documentation to strengthen your application. Interest Rates and Fees When you’re considering a commercial loan for rental property, it’s vital to understand how interest rates and fees can impact your overall costs. Unlike residential loans, commercial loans often come with higher interest rates that reflect the increased risks lenders face, typically ranging from 1-2.5% above residential rates. Furthermore, you’ll encounter various upfront fees, such as appraisal and origination costs, which can greatly affect your cash flow and financing strategy. Loan Cost Factors Grasping the cost factors associated with commercial loans for rental properties is essential for any potential borrower. These costs can greatly impact your financial commitment. Here are some key factors to evaluate: Interest Rates: Typically, commercial loans carry rates 1-2.5% higher than residential mortgages because of increased risk. Upfront Costs: Expect appraisal, legal, and loan origination fees that can add considerably to your borrowing costs. Down Payment: Be prepared to provide a larger down payment of 20-30%, as lenders view these properties as business assets. Financial Profile: Your credit history, income stability, and property cash flow will influence the overall loan cost, assessed through metrics like the Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR). Rate Variability Considerations Comprehending interest rates and fees is vital for anyone considering a commercial loan for rental property. Typically, commercial loan interest rates are 1-2.5% higher than residential mortgage rates because of increased risk. You should likewise anticipate higher upfront costs, including appraisal, legal, and loan origination fees, which can raise your total expenditure considerably. Interest rates and fees can differ greatly among lenders, influenced by your financial profile and the property’s income potential. Many commercial loans feature variable interest rates, meaning your monthly payments could fluctuate based on market conditions. Therefore, it’s important to carefully analyze both interest rates and associated fees to guarantee the loan remains financially viable for your investment strategy. Steps to Obtain a Commercial Loan When you’re looking to obtain a commercial loan for rental property, the first step is to assess your financial situation. This includes reviewing your credit score, financial history, and current debt load, as these factors play a vital role in your approval chances. After that, developing a solid business plan and choosing a suitable lender will be fundamental to strengthen your application. Assess Financial Situation Evaluating your financial situation is a crucial first step in obtaining a commercial loan for rental property, as it lays the groundwork for a successful application. Start by focusing on these key aspects: Check Your Credit Score: Aim for a score of at least 660-680 to improve approval chances. Assess Your Debt Load: Lenders look at your overall financial health, not just personal credit scores. Calculate Your DSCR: Confirm it’s at least 1.25, indicating the property generates enough income to cover mortgage payments. Prepare Financial Documentation: Gather two years of tax returns and financial statements to support your application and demonstrate your business’s viability. This thorough evaluation will elevate your chances of securing the necessary funding. Develop Business Plan Developing a thorough business plan is essential for securing a commercial loan for rental property, as it outlines your strategy and demonstrates the investment’s viability to potential lenders. Your plan should include a detailed property analysis, market research, and projected cash flow to showcase the investment’s potential. Highlight the rental property’s income-generating capability by incorporating historical operating statements and current rent rolls. Clearly outline how you’ll use the funds, whether for purchasing, renovating, or refinancing the property, to give context to your loan request. Furthermore, present a risk assessment and mitigation strategy to address potential market fluctuations and tenant turnover. Finally, articulate your management experience and qualifications to improve lender confidence in your proposal. Choose Suitable Lender How do you choose the right lender for a commercial loan? Start by researching various options to find the best fit for your financial needs. Here are some steps to guide you: Evaluate lender experience: Look for lenders specializing in commercial real estate financing, as they offer better terms and insights. Compare offers: Review interest rates, loan terms, and fees, noting that commercial rates are usually 1-2.5% higher than residential rates. Understand underwriting criteria: Familiarize yourself with minimum Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR), loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, and required documentation. Build relationships: Present a well-organized loan package with a solid business plan and detailed property financials to improve your chances of approval. Key Considerations When Choosing a Loan When considering a commercial loan for rental property, it’s vital to weigh several key factors that can greatly impact your investment. First, be prepared for a down payment typically ranging from 20% to 30%, as this reflects the lender’s risk assessment. Next, keep in mind that interest rates for commercial loans are usually higher—often 1-2.5% above residential rates—so it’s wise to shop around for the best terms. Understanding the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is fundamental, as commercial loans typically have lower LTV ratios of 65% to 80%, affecting how much you can borrow. Additionally, make certain your property meets the Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) of at least 1.25, as this indicates its ability to generate sufficient income for mortgage payments. Finally, select the right loan type—whether conventional or hard money—to align financing with your investment strategy and cash flow needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Commercial Lending? The 5 C’s of commercial lending are crucial for evaluating a borrower’s loan application. First, there’s Character, which looks at your creditworthiness. Next is Capacity, analyzing your ability to repay the loan, often measured by the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR). Capital refers to your financial investment in the property, typically requiring a down payment of 25-30%. Collateral assesses the property’s value, whereas Conditions examine the economic environment affecting the investment. What Is the 2% Rule in Commercial Real Estate? The 2% Rule in commercial real estate suggests that a property should generate at least 2% of its purchase price in monthly rent. For instance, if you buy a property for $1 million, it should ideally yield $20,000 in monthly income. This guideline helps you quickly assess cash flow viability and compare investment opportunities. Although it’s not a strict requirement, it serves as a useful benchmark for gauging rental property profitability. Do You Have to Put 20% Down on a Commercial Loan? You don’t always have to put 20% down on a commercial loan, but it’s common. Most lenders expect this range because of the higher risk involved. Nevertheless, the down payment can vary based on the lender, loan type, and your financial profile. Some SBA loans may allow for lower down payments, sometimes as low as 10%. Higher down payments can improve your loan terms, including interest rates and monthly payments. What Is the 50% Rule in Rental Property? The 50% Rule in rental property investing suggests you allocate about 50% of a property’s gross income to operating expenses, excluding mortgage payments. For instance, if your property earns $2,000 monthly, set aside $1,000 for costs like maintenance, taxes, and management fees. This rule provides a quick profitability estimate but remember, actual expenses can differ based on property type and location. Conduct a detailed analysis to guarantee accurate financial planning for your investment. Conclusion In conclusion, comprehending commercial loans for rental properties is essential for successful investment. You need to recognize the various types of loans available, the qualifications required, and the associated interest rates and fees. By following the steps to obtain a loan and considering key factors, you can make informed decisions that align with your financial goals. With the right preparation, you can navigate the commercial loan environment effectively, ensuring your investment yields positive returns. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Do You Need to Know About Commercial Loans for Rental Property?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re looking to invest in rental properties, comprehending commercial loans is vital. These loans often come with larger down payments, typically between 20-30%, and shorter repayment periods ranging from 5 to 20 years. You’ll need a solid credit score and a specific Debt-Service Coverage Ratio to qualify. With various types of loans available, knowing which one suits your needs can make a significant difference in your investment strategy. Let’s explore the fundamental elements further. Key Takeaways Commercial loans require a down payment of 20-30% and are secured by the income-producing property. Common types of commercial loans include conventional, SBA, bridge, and hard money loans, each serving different investor needs. Qualifying for a commercial loan typically involves a minimum credit score of 660-680 and a Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) of at least 1.25. Interest rates for commercial loans are generally 1-2.5% higher than residential mortgages, with various upfront fees to consider. Building a relationship with lenders through a well-organized loan package and clear communication can improve loan terms and approval chances. Understanding Commercial Real Estate Loans When you consider investing in rental properties, grasping commercial real estate loans is crucial, as these financial tools are particularly designed for acquiring, renovating, or refinancing income-generating properties. Unlike residential loans, commercial loans typically require larger down payments of 20-30% and have shorter terms, ranging from 5 to 20 years. These loans are secured by the property itself, so real estate investment lenders focus more on the property’s projected income rather than your personal credit score. You should likewise be prepared for higher interest rates because of the increased risk of business investments. The qualification process often involves a thorough assessment of your financial health and the property’s income-generating potential, often requiring a minimum Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) of 1.25. Grasping these factors can help you make informed decisions when applying for a commercial loan for rental property. Types of Commercial Loans for Rental Properties Maneuvering the terrain of commercial loans for rental properties involves comprehending the various types available to investors. Each option has unique features that cater to different needs. Here’s a concise overview: Conventional Loans: These typically require larger down payments (20-30%) and favorable interest rates but demand a strong credit profile and financial stability for approval. SBA Loans: Programs like the 7(a) and 504 offer government-backed financing with lower down payments and longer repayment terms, particularly for owner-occupied properties. Commercial Bridge Loans: These provide short-term financing for immediate property needs or renovations, allowing quick access to capital as you wait for long-term solutions. Hard Money Loans: Asset-based with less stringent credit requirements, these loans usually have higher interest rates because of the perceived risk involved. Understanding these options can help you make informed decisions when seeking financing for rental properties. Qualifying for a Commercial Loan Qualifying for a commercial loan requires careful preparation and a solid comprehension of the criteria lenders use to assess applicants. To get started, you’ll typically need a down payment of 25-30%, along with proof of the property’s income-generating potential. Lenders will closely examine your Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR), which should be at least 1.25, to guarantee your property can cover mortgage payments. Here’s a quick overview of key requirements: Requirement Details Down Payment 25-30% of the property value Credit Score Typically 660-680 DSCR Minimum of 1.25 Documentation Tax returns, financial statements, business plan Additionally, lenders often prefer borrowers with 1-2 years of business history and experience in managing similar properties. Make certain you’re prepared with all necessary documentation to strengthen your application. Interest Rates and Fees When you’re considering a commercial loan for rental property, it’s vital to understand how interest rates and fees can impact your overall costs. Unlike residential loans, commercial loans often come with higher interest rates that reflect the increased risks lenders face, typically ranging from 1-2.5% above residential rates. Furthermore, you’ll encounter various upfront fees, such as appraisal and origination costs, which can greatly affect your cash flow and financing strategy. Loan Cost Factors Grasping the cost factors associated with commercial loans for rental properties is essential for any potential borrower. These costs can greatly impact your financial commitment. Here are some key factors to evaluate: Interest Rates: Typically, commercial loans carry rates 1-2.5% higher than residential mortgages because of increased risk. Upfront Costs: Expect appraisal, legal, and loan origination fees that can add considerably to your borrowing costs. Down Payment: Be prepared to provide a larger down payment of 20-30%, as lenders view these properties as business assets. Financial Profile: Your credit history, income stability, and property cash flow will influence the overall loan cost, assessed through metrics like the Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR). Rate Variability Considerations Comprehending interest rates and fees is vital for anyone considering a commercial loan for rental property. Typically, commercial loan interest rates are 1-2.5% higher than residential mortgage rates because of increased risk. You should likewise anticipate higher upfront costs, including appraisal, legal, and loan origination fees, which can raise your total expenditure considerably. Interest rates and fees can differ greatly among lenders, influenced by your financial profile and the property’s income potential. Many commercial loans feature variable interest rates, meaning your monthly payments could fluctuate based on market conditions. Therefore, it’s important to carefully analyze both interest rates and associated fees to guarantee the loan remains financially viable for your investment strategy. Steps to Obtain a Commercial Loan When you’re looking to obtain a commercial loan for rental property, the first step is to assess your financial situation. This includes reviewing your credit score, financial history, and current debt load, as these factors play a vital role in your approval chances. After that, developing a solid business plan and choosing a suitable lender will be fundamental to strengthen your application. Assess Financial Situation Evaluating your financial situation is a crucial first step in obtaining a commercial loan for rental property, as it lays the groundwork for a successful application. Start by focusing on these key aspects: Check Your Credit Score: Aim for a score of at least 660-680 to improve approval chances. Assess Your Debt Load: Lenders look at your overall financial health, not just personal credit scores. Calculate Your DSCR: Confirm it’s at least 1.25, indicating the property generates enough income to cover mortgage payments. Prepare Financial Documentation: Gather two years of tax returns and financial statements to support your application and demonstrate your business’s viability. This thorough evaluation will elevate your chances of securing the necessary funding. Develop Business Plan Developing a thorough business plan is essential for securing a commercial loan for rental property, as it outlines your strategy and demonstrates the investment’s viability to potential lenders. Your plan should include a detailed property analysis, market research, and projected cash flow to showcase the investment’s potential. Highlight the rental property’s income-generating capability by incorporating historical operating statements and current rent rolls. Clearly outline how you’ll use the funds, whether for purchasing, renovating, or refinancing the property, to give context to your loan request. Furthermore, present a risk assessment and mitigation strategy to address potential market fluctuations and tenant turnover. Finally, articulate your management experience and qualifications to improve lender confidence in your proposal. Choose Suitable Lender How do you choose the right lender for a commercial loan? Start by researching various options to find the best fit for your financial needs. Here are some steps to guide you: Evaluate lender experience: Look for lenders specializing in commercial real estate financing, as they offer better terms and insights. Compare offers: Review interest rates, loan terms, and fees, noting that commercial rates are usually 1-2.5% higher than residential rates. Understand underwriting criteria: Familiarize yourself with minimum Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR), loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, and required documentation. Build relationships: Present a well-organized loan package with a solid business plan and detailed property financials to improve your chances of approval. Key Considerations When Choosing a Loan When considering a commercial loan for rental property, it’s vital to weigh several key factors that can greatly impact your investment. First, be prepared for a down payment typically ranging from 20% to 30%, as this reflects the lender’s risk assessment. Next, keep in mind that interest rates for commercial loans are usually higher—often 1-2.5% above residential rates—so it’s wise to shop around for the best terms. Understanding the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is fundamental, as commercial loans typically have lower LTV ratios of 65% to 80%, affecting how much you can borrow. Additionally, make certain your property meets the Debt-Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) of at least 1.25, as this indicates its ability to generate sufficient income for mortgage payments. Finally, select the right loan type—whether conventional or hard money—to align financing with your investment strategy and cash flow needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Commercial Lending? The 5 C’s of commercial lending are crucial for evaluating a borrower’s loan application. First, there’s Character, which looks at your creditworthiness. Next is Capacity, analyzing your ability to repay the loan, often measured by the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR). Capital refers to your financial investment in the property, typically requiring a down payment of 25-30%. Collateral assesses the property’s value, whereas Conditions examine the economic environment affecting the investment. What Is the 2% Rule in Commercial Real Estate? The 2% Rule in commercial real estate suggests that a property should generate at least 2% of its purchase price in monthly rent. For instance, if you buy a property for $1 million, it should ideally yield $20,000 in monthly income. This guideline helps you quickly assess cash flow viability and compare investment opportunities. Although it’s not a strict requirement, it serves as a useful benchmark for gauging rental property profitability. Do You Have to Put 20% Down on a Commercial Loan? You don’t always have to put 20% down on a commercial loan, but it’s common. Most lenders expect this range because of the higher risk involved. Nevertheless, the down payment can vary based on the lender, loan type, and your financial profile. Some SBA loans may allow for lower down payments, sometimes as low as 10%. Higher down payments can improve your loan terms, including interest rates and monthly payments. What Is the 50% Rule in Rental Property? The 50% Rule in rental property investing suggests you allocate about 50% of a property’s gross income to operating expenses, excluding mortgage payments. For instance, if your property earns $2,000 monthly, set aside $1,000 for costs like maintenance, taxes, and management fees. This rule provides a quick profitability estimate but remember, actual expenses can differ based on property type and location. Conduct a detailed analysis to guarantee accurate financial planning for your investment. Conclusion In conclusion, comprehending commercial loans for rental properties is essential for successful investment. You need to recognize the various types of loans available, the qualifications required, and the associated interest rates and fees. By following the steps to obtain a loan and considering key factors, you can make informed decisions that align with your financial goals. With the right preparation, you can navigate the commercial loan environment effectively, ensuring your investment yields positive returns. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Do You Need to Know About Commercial Loans for Rental Property?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A reader writes: I need help in assessing the pros and cons of going to work for someone with no experience managing employees. I have over 10 years of experience leading teams or managing programs in IT and am looking at senior mid-level roles. I’m currently in the process of interviewing for a role that seems very promising and checks off almost all my boxes. Yet in the process of learning about the hiring manager, I discovered that this person is a recent graduate (less than five years ago) who was rapidly promoted into a role that now sees them managing people. I would be the first person they hire and manage. This is concerning to me, as I’m afraid that someone with little experience may need too much managing up. I also know that people with little to no management experience have the tendency to be micromanagers as they gain confidence in their managerial abilities. I have a meeting with this new manager in a couple of days, so will be learning more about what they see the day-to-day being like. If it weren’t for the major pay increase this new role would have, I would decline going further with the interview process. Is the pay increase worth taking a risk on a new manager or is this a red flag that I should not ignore despite the amount of money being offered? I answer this question over at Inc. today, where I’m revisiting letters that have been buried in the archives here from years ago (and sometimes updating/expanding my answers to them). You can read it here. The post is it a bad idea to work for a first-time manager? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

In an AI-driven economy, companies have more data than ever but still struggle to turn it into useful daily decisions. Google is betting that a revamped Data Studio can become the place where users quickly explore, organize and act on data across its ecosystem. Why the switch back. Google says the new Data Studio will serve as a central hub for a range of assets, from traditional reports and dashboards to data apps built in Colab and BigQuery conversational agents. The idea is to give users one place to work with the tools and information that shape their business each day. Flashback. Three years ago, Google folded Data Studio into its broader analytics push by rebranding it as Looker Studio. Now, it is separating the products again as customer needs evolve. Two versions. Google is launching two versions of the product. Data Studio will remain free for individuals and small teams that need quick analysis and visualization. Data Studio Pro, meanwhile, is aimed at larger organizations that need stronger security, compliance, management controls and AI capabilities, with licenses sold through the Google Cloud and Workspace admin consoles. Why we care. The (kind of) new Data Studio could make it much easier to pull together campaign, audience and performance data from across Google’s ecosystem in one place. That means faster reporting, easier ad hoc analysis and quicker answers without relying as heavily on analysts or engineering teams. For brands already using Google Ads, BigQuery or Sheets, it could streamline how teams track performance and make day-to-day budget and creative decisions. Where Looker fits in. Under the new structure, Looker will remain Google Cloud’s enterprise business intelligence platform, focused on governed data, semantic modeling and large-scale analytics. Data Studio, by contrast, is being positioned as the faster, more flexible option for personal exploration, ad hoc reporting and lightweight dashboards across services like BigQuery, Google Sheets and Ads. What’s next. For existing users, Google says the transition should be seamless. Current reports, data sources and assets will carry over automatically, with no action required. Google plans to share more about the relaunch and its broader analytics strategy at Google Cloud Next ’26 later this month. Dig deeper. Data Studio returns as new home for Data Cloud assets View the full article

US and Israel’s war on Iran dented sales growth at world’s biggest luxury groupView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Last week, Chinese tech firm Bigme teased an intriguing new addition to its lineup of e-readers and digital notebooks: the "world's first" dual-screen smartphone, with both an e-ink and an LCD display on opposite sides of the device. I thought I had a pretty good idea of how that might work—but now, Bigme has revealed what the "Hibreak Dual" will actually look like, and it's definitely not what I was expecting. Seeing it actually made me laugh out loud. The e-ink side of the phone looks exactly like I anticipated, offering a 6.13-inch, 300 PPI black-and-white/150 PPI color e-ink display not unlike the one on the Boox Palma 2 Pro or Bigme's own Hibreak Pro Color. It does support stylus input, which I wasn't expecting, but instead of the full-screen rear LCD screen I was expecting, the back of the device has a tiny, circular touchscreen that looks like nothing so much as a porthole on a submarine. Credit: Bigme You're probably wondering why this thing exists, or why anyone would buy it. I don't know either. The product page on the Bigme website describes the 360x360 circular LCD as a "secondary screen" intended for notifications, music, or checking the time—three things you can do right from the lock screen on most any Android-enabled touchscreen device, but e-ink displays are either on or off, so the additional utility does make a certain sort of sense. But people who opt for an e-ink smartphone are typically looking for fewer distractions, so I can't imagine many of them want a phone that will still be pinging them with alerts, only on a tiny, awkward screen that's too small to read easily. Is anyone nostalgic for the days of the nigh-illegible display on the front of the Motorola Razr? Credit: Velimir Zeland/Shutterstock Even Bigme seems slightly confused about why it designed this thing. In a promotional video, you can watch a model awkwardly interacting with the circular LCD, snapping selfies and watching vertical videos with big black bars on either side. Stretching for utility, the video also touts that you can use this second screen to snap a photo of your pet. Layer a chatbot over it, and you can create your own "AI pet." Sure, Jan. In response to incredulous comments on the r/Bigme Reddit (typical response: "This can't be more disappointing") the company attempted a justification: "This product combines an e-ink main screen with an LCD subscreen [supporting] functions like viewing images, watching videos, [and] receiving call reminders...This design keeps you in an eye-friendly experience while using the LCD functions that e-ink alone handles less effectively." Recognizing the reality didn't quite match up to what people were expecting, the company did add that it has "heard your requests for a full-screen dual e-ink and LCD phone (both displays large)" and it will "include that in our future product planning." I'm really not sure why Bigme needed help arriving at this conclusion, but here we are. Bigme Hibreak Pro Color E-Ink Smartphone $489.00 at Amazon $519.90 Save $30.90 Shop Now Shop Now $489.00 at Amazon $519.90 Save $30.90 If you actually want to buy the Hibreak Dual, you have a lot of optionsLet it not be said that Bigme is going at this half-assed: The company is launching the Hibreak Dual in eight different configurations. You can preorder it with a black-and-white or color e-ink screen, choose between 8GB or 12GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage, and buy it with or without a stylus and a case. Prices range from $519 on the low end to $689 fully tricked out. (For comparison's sake, the Bigme Hibreak Pro Color—without the porthole LCD or stylus support—is on sale for $489 on Amazon. Once you get past the bizarre design choices, the Hibreak Dual has pretty standard specs for an e-ink phone: 5G dual-sim, outdated Android 14 OS, the aforementioned storage and RAM options, a generic "octacore" 2.6GHz processor, a 4,500mAh battery, a 5MP selfie camera, and a 20MP rear camera. I don't know why I bothered to tell you that though. You probably aren't going to buy it. (I'm still laughing. Why is it a circle?) View the full article

Google has issued a new warning to sites using back button hijacking techniques, saying those sites have two months to remove or disable those techniques. If they do not, they will be subject to both subject to manual spam actions or automated demotions within Google Search. Back button hijacking. Google explained that “when a user clicks the “back” button in the browser, they have a clear expectation: they want to return to the previous page. Back button hijacking breaks this fundamental expectation.” Google added: “It occurs when a site interferes with a user’s browser navigation and prevents them from using their back button to immediately get back to the page they came from. Instead, users might be sent to pages they never visited before, be presented with unsolicited recommendations or ads, or are otherwise just prevented from normally browsing the web.” While Google has previously said this has no impact on Google Search, that will change in two months. June 15, 2026. Starting in about two months, June 15, 2026, Google will begin enforcement of this action. “We believe that the user experience comes first. Back button hijacking interferes with the browser’s functionality, breaks the expected user journey, and results in user frustration. People report feeling manipulated and eventually less willing to visit unfamiliar sites,” Google added. Why now? Google said they have “seen a rise of this type of behavior, which is why we’re designating this an explicit violation of our malicious practices policy, which says:” “Malicious practices create a mismatch between user expectations and the actual outcome, leading to a negative and deceptive user experience, or compromised user security or privacy.” Google is now giving sites two months notice to take action. “To give site owners time to make any needed changes, we’re publishing this policy two months in advance of enforcement on June 15, 2026,” Google wrote. Why we care. If you are using this technique, you probably want to remove it from your pages. You have a couple of months to make the change before any penalties or actions are taken against your website. View the full article

Take your firm from good to great. By Domenick J. Esposito 8 Steps to Great Go PRO for members-only access to more Dom Esposito. View the full article