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Last month we talked about times when you said the exact wrong thing at work, and here are 20 (!) of my favorite stories you shared. There are also many not included below but which you’ll be seeing in Mortification Week later this year. 1. The insult I once worked as an editor and I told an author that if they tried a certain method to make a certain change to their paper, it “might be worth a shit.” Shot. I meant shot. And I did not catch it before hitting send. 2. The inexplicable sneer I had a phone screening for a job many years ago. There was a particular way of doing a standard task that I used more as a freelancer than in my current job because my boss at my job thought that method was inferior to another way. So of course they asked about it, and — even though I actually disagreed with my boss! — what came out of my mouth was, “Well, we don’t do that at Current Company” in the most contemptuous tone possible. It was like I’d suddenly channeled my boss. I tried to immediately correct by saying I used the skill in freelance work and I disagreed with Current Job’s position but you will not be surprised to hear I did not get any further in that hiring process. 3. The memory I told a room full of people living with dementia that I had “the world’s worst memory.” Do I? Do I really? 4. The criticism I’m a marketing copywriter. At a job several years ago, the creative director was showing me a print mail flyer that she wanted to work with me on updating. As she was going over the changes she wanted to make to the design, I nodded in agreement and said, “Oh that sounds amazing! And good thing, this current design is awful. Who designed this?” She waited a beat before saying, “I did.” I wanted to crawl into a hole and die. 5. The poster A coworker made a poster describing the work her church’s mission group did overseas, which included some health care/education outreach activities not routinely available for women in remote areas of that country. Under the accomplishments section, the poster read: “WE TOUCHED 75 WOMEN IN THEIR HOMES!” That was over 10 years ago and I still use that phrase as a writing example where meaning has completely changed without key details. 6. The compliment My boss had a meeting with local donors and the CEO happened to be present as well. In an effort to try and give a compliment about the size of the company’s current endowment, my boss instead said to the donor, “Have you met my CEO? He’s very well-endowed.” 7. The right hand I was once being interviewed for a job by a man with one arm. I assured him before I left his office that he could count on me to be his right hand. 8. The brains One Halloween, I dressed like a zombie at work. My boss let me know that he was heading out to lunch so I responded with, “Get some brains while you’re out!” After I said it I was like oh well … I’m a zombie, never mind, but luckily he had a sense of humor. 9. The bad example I used to use the phrase “in case you get hit by a bus” as an example of why documented procedures were important. Not long after I started my current job, one of my colleagues kindly let me know that a very beloved member of another team had actually been hit by a bus, so I might want to use different wording. 10. The children’s librarian Children’s librarian: I have put my foot in my mouth many a time during storytime. Once I implied that we should appreciate how cute the kids were because we weren’t sure if they would be here next year — then tried to overexplain while parents stared at me with jaws agape. Another time I complimented the kids on their blowing skills. My dad was in the audience with my niece that day as a bonus. We were pretending to blow out candles. It might not have raised any eyebrows if I hadn’t turned bright red and started laughing maniacally. I’m usually very good at storytime. 11. The interview I work in HR and when this happened I was applying for an HR manager role and had over 10 years of experience. I was meeting with several people one after the other and when one asked me to come to her side of the desk so she could share information on her computer, I said, “Sure, you’re already harassing me so why not?” Why and how this came out of my mouth was a mystery then and still is 10 years later. 12. The microbiologist Oh man, I work in Microbiology. “I think I have gonorrhea.” Or any other number of things. Usually followed by, “I don’t have gonorrhea, I have gonorrhea.” 13. The client service I was following up with a client who hadn’t responded when I realized I ended my email with, “If you have any questions, don’t call me!” 14. The question I’m in OB-GYN. Many years ago I had a patient who was here for an abortion. I noticed she was holding some stuff in her hands, as we talked, and she seemed to be annoyed to be dealing with it. I encouraged her to set the things down on the desk. “Thanks,” she said. “I don’t know why but my husband wanted me to hold his wallet for him.” “Can’t he keep it in his pants?” I asked the patient. Who was there for a pregnancy she didn’t want. We both recognized what I’d said at the same time. Fortunately she thought it was hilarious. I hope I brought some light to her on a rough day. 15. The poor choice I walked to our print room and saw two of the accountants pulling apart a printer to find a jam. I laughed and said, “What, is the printer guy dead?” Yes. Yes he was. 16. The battle against the aged I used to do charity collecting with friends at university, for a different charity each week. So, one week the patter was, “Could you spare any change to help fight cancer?” and the next was, “Could you spare any change for [UK charity] Help the Aged?” Looked over during the second week’s session to see some passersby in absolute hysterics because my friend had asked them for change “to help fight the aged.” 17. The pic At my previous job, I was in charge of onboarding all new hires. We used the DISC (I know, I know) and hung up each person’s profile with a picture of them near their desk. Usually, I would say, “Can you please send me your DISC pic?” but once, to a male new hire, I said, “Can you please send me your dick pic?” I quickly corrected myself, turned eight shades of red, and then chose to rephrase my statement moving forward. I still cringe when I think about it. 18. The swinging grannies I work in the performing arts, and at one interview for an adult education role I expressed my desire to extend community aerial circus workshops to older people by declaring, “I want to get grannies swinging!’’ Cue irrecoverable giggles from the panel. 19. The fashion There was this person in my office who always had the BEST outfits — super well-fitting, super put-together yet fun, made animal prints (something that’s not always my thing) look super cool … Aaand for whatever reason, anytime I wanted to complement her, my brain decided to tell her how “fun” her outfits looked. Which, like, you can get away with once or twice, but I said this so often she must have thought I was determined to passive-aggressively insult her fashion sense. We also worked on different teams, so this was probably 70% of my interactions with this person. I genuinely thought she was very cool and wanted to be work friends, but I guess my brain was intent on sabotoging me. 20. The father About 20 years ago, I worked in a group of mostly under 25-year-olds in a call center. We were a high-spirited bunch new-ish to the working world and not particularly serious. There was a lunchroom with a big TV where we would eat in shifts, chit chat and watch junk TV programs, including one where the host would announce “You ARE” or You ARE NOT” the father after a mother’s paternity test. One time at a meeting right after lunch, our boss announced she would be taking time off because she was pregnant. Out of my mouth flew these words: “Congratulations! Do you know who the father is?” The post swinging grannies, the misdirected critique, and other times you said the exact wrong thing at work appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

US forces will be ready to descend from helicopters on to oil tankersView the full article

Lending for new single-family homes jumped 11% from a year ago and 26% from February, the Mortgage Bankers Association said. View the full article

If you’re just a few words into this story, but already feeling the urge to click or swipe or begin some other activity altogether, I won’t take it personally. Attention spans among humans have reduced dramatically in the past several years. Several school districts around the country are trying to reclaim that by instituting bans on cell phones in classrooms—and some of those programs are bearing fruit. Two years after phones were banned in an unnamed large urban Florida school district, test scores were up significantly, in part because students were better able to focus on the work in front of them. And a recent survey of Ohio public schools found 68% of principals saying students can now stay on one task for more than 20 minutes without seeking a quick digital break. It’s one thing to ban phones in schools, though. Putting limitations on them in the real world isn’t practical. And that means attention spans in adults continue to lag. Squirrel! Researcher Gloria Mark, who studies human attention at the University of California, Irvine, found in 2004 that the average person focused their attention on a single screen for about two and half minutes. By 2016, that length of time had dropped to 47 seconds, a reduction of roughly 69%. In other words, we’re all chasing shiny objects these days. And it’s a trend that’s not likely to reverse itself. It could, in fact, get even worse. We are, after all, under assault from distractions. The lure of dopamine-feeding social media threads calls to us constantly. Email, Slack and Discord ping right as we get into a groove. TV news and shows, as well as films, feature quickly changing shots, further sapping our ability to focus. AI, meanwhile, is impacting our ability to think critically. It’s even worse at work. Microsoft, in its 2025 Work Trend Index, found that the average office worker was interrupted every two minutes. Employees receive 92 emails per day, on average (and that doesn’t factor in your personal email), along with an average 153 Teams messages per work day. Throw in meetings and your circadian rhythm, which regulates your natural peak focus times, and we’re all in trouble. We’re not doomed, though, says Mark. In her book Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity, she reframes myths around attention, pointing out that just as you couldn’t keep up a physical activity indefinitely, it’s impossible for your brain to focus all the time. And some of that mental wandering isn’t bad. “It turns out that mindless activities like playing simple games doesn’t just make us temporarily happy,” she writes. “When used strategically, those activities can also help us replenish our overspent mental resources, and enable fresh ideas to surface.” But if you’re concerned you’re on a path to being the human equivalent of Dug, the easily distracted golden retriever from Pixar’s Up, there are tools to retrain your brain, despite the daily assaults you face on your focal abilities. The benefits of books First, you’ll also want to put some physical distance between you and your phone. If you can’t grab it, you’ll be less likely to doomscroll and distract your brain. The best method, though, is to read more. Neuroscientist Maryanne Wolf argues that the physical process of reading changes our brain. It matters what and where you read, though. Most reading on screens is “skimming to inform”—looking for key words that give you a loose idea of what’s being said. That’s not likely to help. You’ll need to slow down and actually read what was written—and that’s easier with a physical book. “When we skim, we literally, physiologically, don’t have time to think. Or feel,” she writes. “The difference between skimming and reading with all our intelligence is the difference between fully activated reading brains and their short-circuited, screen-dulled versions.” Reading a printed publication is a slower process that requires more attention. Our brains associate screens with distraction, which triggers our brain to skim. We think we read “faster” on screens, but the truth is, we’re just reading less, even if we don’t realize it. In July 2020, less than half of Americans read one book over a 12-month period, according to a Survey of Public Participation in the Arts. And a 2025 study by the University of Florida found the number of people who partook of pleasure reading was down 40% over two decades. “This is not just a small dip—it’s a sustained, steady decline of about 3% per year,” said Jill Sonke, director of research initiatives at the University of Florida’s Center for Arts in Medicine in a statement. “It’s significant, and it’s deeply concerning.” View the full article

Small manufacturers across the United States are set to receive a significant boost as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) unveils an enhanced International Trade Loan (ITL) Program. Starting May 1, the program will offer a 90% federal loan guarantee, enabling small producers to expand operations, invest in modern equipment, and create jobs. This initiative is part of the The President Administration’s broader effort to restore America’s industrial dominance. SBA Administrator Loeffler emphasized the urgency of bolstering American manufacturing, highlighting that “Industrial dominance is essential to our national security and strength.” She noted that small businesses comprise 98% of all manufacturers in the U.S., underscoring the critical role they play in driving economic growth and job creation. As small business owners often face challenges in securing affordable financing, this enhanced guarantee presents a vital opportunity to address capital needs. Under the newly expanded ITL program, eligible manufacturers can not only unlock long-term financing but also gain additional flexibility thanks to the increased SBA guarantee. This change aims to inspire confidence among lenders, encouraging them to invest in domestic manufacturing. It opens doors for small businesses to access funds for a range of purposes, including upgrading equipment, modernizing facilities to meet both customer and national security demands, and enhancing inventory resilience. The loan specifics are designed to incentivize various improvements within the manufacturing sector. Small businesses can use the funds to replace outdated machinery, diversify supply chains to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, and even expand their operations through strategic acquisitions. This alignment with the Administration’s commitment to reshoring American industry is expected to enhance competitiveness and long-term sustainability for small manufacturers. The SBA’s recent initiatives, including the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative, aim to provide a comprehensive support framework. In addition to the ITL enhancement, the SBA has taken steps such as waiving loan fees for small manufacturers and launching the Make Onshoring Great Again Portal, a tool connecting businesses with over a million domestic suppliers. Real-world implications of these initiatives are already becoming evident. Weekly wages in the manufacturing sector surged by 5.1% in February, marking a tangible response to the policies designed to support small businesses and boost employment in this sector. As these changes unfold, small business owners are poised to benefit from increased financial support in a landscape that continues to change. However, potential challenges remain. While the program provides a much-needed avenue for financing, small manufacturers must also consider the complexities of navigating the application process and aligning their business needs with the program’s requirements. Additionally, while the enhanced lending terms can foster growth, it’s essential for owners to strategically assess how debt financing will impact their overall financial health. For small business owners interested in learning more about the updated International Trade Loan program, the SBA encourages them to reach out to their national team of Finance Managers. These specialists can provide tailored assistance, helping businesses understand how the ITL can be integrated with other available SBA financing options, streamlining access to working capital solutions. As the manufacturing sector anticipates this substantial shift in funding availability, the coming months will be pivotal for small businesses looking to expand and modernize. This initiative not only promises immediate financial relief but also serves as a long-term strategy to rejuvenate domestic industries and safeguard the future of American manufacturing. For further details about the initiative, small business owners can visit the SBA’s official announcement at SBA.gov. Image via Google Gemini This article, "SBA Expands Loan Program to Boost U.S. Small Manufacturers’ Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

While wars always come with an added cost to taxpayers, a public policy expert is saying the The President administration’s military efforts in Iran, which include attacking infrastructure and a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, could drag on and come with tremendous costs to the American people—and long term, the projections are alarming. That’s according to Linda Bilmes, a senior lecturer in Public Policy and public finance expert at Harvard’s Kennedy School. She says that the war is already costing about $2 billion a day, but that’s only “the tip of the iceberg.” In a recent interview, Bilmes said that while the Pentagon said the war cost around $11.3 billion in the first few days of the war alone, that’s an “underestimate,” and the true cost is much higher. “According to my calculations, those first few days cost at least $16 billion,” Bilmes explained. “We are spending down munitions at an extraordinarily fast pace—to put it in perspective, we fired more Patriot missiles in the first four days of the Iran war than we have given to Ukraine over the past four years,” she said. The researcher asserted that short-term costs are adding up quickly, as “we are losing high-cost assets,” but it’s the long-term costs that are most troubling. For starters, Bilmes said it’s important not to overlook the cost of human life, which is already being lost. Thousands of Iranians, including at least 1,700 civilians, have already lost their lives to the war. Hundreds of U.S. soldiers have been injured with at least 13 dead. Financially speaking, the cost of medical and disability care for veterans will be substantial. So will be the increase in the defense budget, which Bilmes explained could become permanent. “The president is proposing roughly a 50% increase in the defense budget,” Bilmes explained. “If enacted in full, that would push defense spending to levels about 20% higher than the peak reached during World War II. This raises the baseline. Even if Congress does not agree to approve the full increase, it is highly likely that at least $100 billion per year will be added to the base defense budget that would not have been approved in the absence of this war.” Bilmes says those costs add up to at least $100 billion per year. “I am certain we will reach $1 trillion for the Iran war,” Bilmes explained. While the projections are no doubt troubling, Americans are already paying for the war. Gas prices recently saw the largest jump in about 60 years, which means that air travel costs are also up. And on Tuesday, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned that if the conflict continues to escalate, we could face a global recession. As the costs of the war are adding up quickly, Bilmes is urging that the financial impacts, which so far have been underestimated, will spread far and wide. “There are many dangers, but they are not all military threats,” Bilmes says. View the full article

A growing number of advertisers say their Google Ads campaigns were suddenly hit with mass disapprovals tied to DNS and 500 server errors — even when their sites appeared to be working normally. The issue is raising fresh concerns about platform reliability and the risk of sudden performance disruptions. Driving the news. PPC advertisers began flagging widespread problems this week across Google Ads accounts, with multiple agency leaders saying clients were affected at the same time. Managing Director at Cornerhouse Media, Ryan Berry, said more than 1,500 ads were disapproved in a single account around 1:30 p.m. UTC. Others said they received overnight emails warning that ads had been disapproved. Why we care. Sudden mass disapprovals can instantly pause traffic, leads, and revenue — even if nothing is actually wrong with their website. If Google’s systems are incorrectly flagging DNS or server errors, brands could lose performance and spend valuable time troubleshooting an issue they didn’t cause. It also highlights the need for closer monitoring and faster escalation when platform glitches happen. What advertisers are seeing: DNS errors, even when internal IT teams found no website issue. HTTP 500 errors, despite landing pages loading normally. Repeated disapprovals across multiple accounts. Google Ads trainer, Charlotte Osborne said she saw two separate cases this week — one tied to a DNS error and another to a 500 error — with no issues found on the client side. Google Advertising specialist Joshua Barr said he received “lots of emails overnight” about disapproved ads and has been dealing with similar problems for weeks. Several Paid Search experts also said they were seeing the same issue across accounts. What’s likely happening. Google’s ad review systems use automated crawlers to test landing pages. If Googlebot encounters temporary server issues, DNS lookup failures, redirects, or timeout errors, ads can be automatically disapproved under the platform’s “destination not working” policy. That means advertisers can be penalized even if: their site is live for users, the issue is temporary, or the problem is on Google’s crawler side. What to do now: Check Google Ads policy manager for exact disapproval reasons. Test landing pages using multiple locations and devices. Review DNS uptime, redirects, and CDN/firewall settings. Submit appeals for clearly incorrect disapprovals. Document account-level impacts in case the issue proves platform-wide. The bottom line. For advertisers, this is a reminder that campaign performance can be derailed by platform glitches as much as by strategy — and when Google’s systems misfire, spend and leads can disappear fast. First spotted. The errors were first spotted by Ryan Berry in the UK and Founder Anthony Higman also spotted issues in the US. View the full article

JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup and Wells Fargo reported more than $25bn of profits for the first quarterView the full article

Money market funds are mutual funds that invest in short-term debt instruments with high credit quality, including US Treasury bills and short-term unsecured corporate-backed notes (aka commercial paper). Money market funds aim to sustain a net asset value of $1.00 per share while offering higher yields than bank savings accounts. What are the advantages and risks of using a money market fund? Money market funds are popular with both individual savers and corporations, who often use them as a tool for managing the cash on their balance sheets. They are available through any major brokerage platform and often offer features such as check writing, making them easy to use for larger expenses such as tax payments and major purchases. Shareholders in money market funds can easily transfer assets to or from a bank account or a longer-term investment vehicle. Taxable money market funds account for the bulk of money market fund assets. They invest in taxable securities such as Treasury bills, other short-term government obligations, and other high-quality, floating-rate debt such as commercial paper. Their holdings typically have pristine credit quality. All three types of holdings have very short maturities (with bonds coming due in weeks or months). As a result, they take on little to no interest rate risk. Because maturities are so short, portfolio yields quickly respond to changes in prevailing interest rates as bills mature and get replaced. Money market funds are also safe because they generally don’t lose value. (There have been exceptions.)This safety comes at a price: they’ve had among the lowest returns compared with other types of assets. Because cash has no potential for capital appreciation, returns on money market funds are driven by yield. Over the past 40 years or so, income returns for money market funds have ranged from a high of 13.4% in 1981 to a low of 0.01% in 2013 and 2014. Past problems with money market funds In contrast to bank accounts, which are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank, money market funds don’t come with a guarantee. And on occasion, money market funds have “broken the buck” by dropping below a $1.00 per share net asset value. In 1978, First Multifund for Daily Income took losses on some of its longer-maturity holdings as interest rates spiked and eventually liquidated at $0.94 per share. A similar problem arose in 1994, when Community Bankers U.S. Government Money Market Fund liquidated at $0.96 per share after suffering losses on interest rate derivatives as the Federal Reserve raised rates. The biggest problems came around the global financial crisis. In 2007, several funds were exposed to defaults on commercial paper linked to subprime mortgages, but their sponsors stepped in to prevent their NAVs from dropping. In 2008, the Reserve Primary fund dropped to $0.97 per share thanks to Lehman Brothers’ default on commercial paper. And in 2020, several prime (institutional) money market funds suffered a liquidity crunch but maintained their $1.00 per share net asset values when the Fed created an emergency lending program to cover losses. Recent reforms In July 2023, the Securities and Exchange Commission adopted reforms meant to reduce the risk of future money market woes. Among other things, the SEC tightened liquidity requirements for money market funds’ portfolio holdings, eliminated automatic redemption “gates” tied to certain liquidity thresholds, imposed a mandatory liquidity fee for certain funds, and set new rules for disclosure and stress-testing. Here are some of the most popular money market funds widely available to individual investors: Fidelity Government Cash Reserves Fidelity Series Government Money Mkt Gabelli US Treasury MMkt I Schwab Treasury Oblig Money Inv Schwab US Treasury Money Investor T. Rowe Price Government Money T. Rowe Price US Treasury Money UBS Government Money Market Invt P Vanguard Federal Money Market Investor Vanguard Treasury Money Market Investor How much of my portfolio should be in a money market fund? If you use a money market fund for cash management, the size of that position largely depends on your life stage. If you’re many years away from retirement, you don’t need to allocate much to cash, assuming you already have an emergency fund. Closer to retirement age, financial advisors typically recommend keeping at least one to two years’ worth of expenses in cash or other low-risk assets so you don’t have to sell stocks or bonds when the market is down. This article was provided to The Associated Press by Morningstar. For more personal finance content, go to https://www.morningstar.com/personal-finance. Amy C. Arnott, CFA, is a portfolio strategist for Morningstar and co-host of The Long View podcast. Related Links Portfolio Basics: How to Build an Investment Portfolio https://www.morningstar.com/portfolios/portfolio-basics-how-build-an-investment-portfolio How to Handle Market Volatility at Every Life Stage https://www.morningstar.com/portfolios/how-handle-market-volatility-every-life-stage How to Use Short-Term Bonds in Your Portfolio https://www.morningstar.com/portfolios/how-use-short-term-bonds-portfolio —Amy C. Arnott of Morningstar View the full article

5 years ago, I stepped into the role of webinar ringmaster. I said yes to moderating, but it was all the background work that gave me butterflies. I’d second and third guess everything. Is the title right? What if it flops? Is the content level right for the attendees? Will the right attendees sign up? Is my hair ok?! But the program grew, and you all were so welcoming. Through the years we’ve tested on you all (it’s fun for us!) And I’ve learned so many tricks that I want to give back to my fellow marketers struggling to recoup […] The post Why Your Webinar Program Isn’t Working (So, Copy Ours) appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

In relation to real estate lending, several key factors come into play. You’ll need to assess the borrower’s creditworthiness, which involves looking at credit scores and income ratios. Property valuation is essential, as it impacts loan terms through the loan-to-value ratio. Furthermore, market conditions can influence property demand and investment potential. Comprehending these elements is crucial for making informed lending decisions, but there’s more to take into account as you navigate this intricate environment. Key Takeaways Creditworthiness, determined by credit scores and payment history, significantly impacts loan approval and interest rates in real estate lending. Property valuation influences loan amounts and terms, with accurate assessments determining the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio and lender risk. Market conditions, including economic trends and rental demand, affect property values and investment potential, guiding lenders’ decisions. Financing options, such as fixed-rate mortgages and bridge loans, vary in terms of interest rates, repayment schedules, and suitability for different projects. Due diligence, including inspections and environmental assessments, is crucial for minimizing risk and ensuring informed lending decisions. Understanding Creditworthiness When you’re looking to secure a mortgage, comprehending your creditworthiness is crucial. Your creditworthiness is mainly assessed through your credit score, which reflects your credit history and payment reliability. Higher credit scores usually lead to better mortgage terms, including lower interest rates, so maintaining good credit health is imperative. To strengthen your creditworthiness, pay your bills on time, keep credit card balances low, and avoid opening new credit accounts before applying for a mortgage. Mortgage lenders likewise closely examine your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. A lower DTI indicates that a smaller portion of your income goes toward debt payments, showing you can handle mortgage repayments. A solid credit history not just boosts your chances of loan approval but also affects the terms and conditions lenders offer during the mortgage process. Grasping these factors will empower you to make informed decisions as you prepare for your mortgage application. The Importance of Property Valuation Property valuation plays a pivotal role in real estate lending, as it establishes the market value of a property, which directly influences the loan amount lenders are willing to approve. Mortgage lenders rely on local appraisers to assess property valuation, considering factors like property condition, location, and recent comparable sales. Accurate property valuation is crucial for determining the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, a key metric that helps lenders gauge the risk associated with a mortgage. A higher property valuation can lead to more favorable loan terms, such as lower interest rates and reduced required down payments. By conducting thorough property valuations, including inspections and assessments, lenders can mitigate risks in real estate transactions, ensuring both their interests and those of the borrower are protected. In the end, comprehending the importance of property valuation is fundamental for anyone involved in the real estate lending process, as it lays the groundwork for successful financing. Evaluating Market Conditions Evaluating market conditions is important for making informed decisions in real estate lending, as it helps identify trends that can greatly impact property values and investment potential. You’ll want to assess general economic conditions in your region, including job growth and population trends that drive demand for real estate. Comprehending key demand drivers for various property types, like office spaces and apartments, is fundamental for gauging the market’s health. Additionally, consider the presence of large employers and industry health, as they markedly affect real estate attractiveness. Micro market conditions, encompassing supply-and-demand factors for specific submarkets and current rent trends, are critical for determining a project’s competitiveness. Pay attention to absorption rates, which reveal how quickly properties are leased, indicating local market strength. This knowledge can inform how to get a mortgage and help you meet mortgage requirements when you apply for a mortgage loan, eventually leading to successful home loan approval. Assessing Cash Flow Potential When you assess cash flow potential, it’s crucial to analyze income projections and manage expenses effectively. Start by calculating the net operating income (NOI) to get a clear picture of profitability. Then consider how occupancy rates and rental trends can impact your income. Income Projections Analysis Income projections analysis is essential for comprehending the cash flow potential of a real estate investment. This process involves evaluating factors like rental income, occupancy rates, and market trends to determine financial viability. A thorough cash flow analysis calculates net operating income (NOI) by subtracting operating expenses from gross rental income, providing valuable insight into profitability. Lenders often look for a debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) of at least 1.25, meaning the property’s income should exceed its debt obligations by 25%. Market research plays an important role, as local job growth, population trends, and rental property demand greatly influence future cash flow potential. Moreover, sensitivity analysis helps assess varying assumptions’ effects on projected income, revealing financial risks. Expense Management Strategies Effective expense management strategies are vital for maximizing cash flow potential in real estate investments. To guarantee profitability, you should conduct detailed cash flow analyses, comparing rental income against operating expenses and mortgage payments. Calculate the capitalization rate by dividing net operating income by property value, which helps you assess potential returns. Keep an eye on variable expenses like maintenance and utilities, anticipating these costs in your budget. Implementing cost-saving measures, such as energy-efficient upgrades, can further improve cash flow and property value. Moreover, maintaining a healthy debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) of at least 1.25 guarantees rental income covers debt obligations, providing a cushion against unexpected expenses. This is significant when working with Quicken Loans or mortgage lending companies for home financing or how to get a mortgage loan. Analyzing Borrower Financial History Comprehending a borrower’s financial history is essential for lenders as they assess the risk of extending a mortgage loan. By analyzing this history, lenders gain insights into your reliability as a borrower. Here are key factors they focus on: Credit score: A numerical representation of your creditworthiness. Payment history: Track record of on-time and late payments. Outstanding debts: Total amount of current debts you owe. Debt-to-income ratio (DTI): Percentage of your income spent on debt payments. Credit account length: Duration of your credit history. These elements contribute considerably to mortgage loan approval decisions. A higher credit score and lower DTI typically lead to better terms. To improve your chances, maintain good credit practices, avoid new credit accounts before applying, and guarantee timely payments. Your financial history is a vital aspect of securing a favorable mortgage. The Role of Credit Score in Lending As you navigate the mortgage lending terrain, grasping the pivotal role of your credit score can greatly affect your borrowing experience. A credit score, ranging from 300 to 850, serves as a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, influencing mortgage lenders‘ decisions during the mortgage loan approval process. Typically, scores above 700 are considered good, whereas scores below 620 might complicate your loan application. A higher credit score can lead to more favorable mortgage terms, such as lower interest rates, which reduces your overall borrowing costs. Furthermore, borrowers with strong credit scores may qualify for benefits like reduced mortgage insurance premiums or improved loan-to-value ratios. To improve your credit score, practice timely bill payments, maintain low credit card balances, and avoid opening new credit accounts right before you apply for a mortgage. Your credit score is a key player in accessing the best lending options available. Debt-to-Income Ratio Considerations Grasping your credit score is just one aspect of the mortgage lending process; another significant factor to contemplate is your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). This ratio reflects the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes toward debt payments. Mortgage lenders typically prefer a DTI of 36% or lower. A lower DTI not only enhances your chances of mortgage approval but may additionally yield better loan terms. To calculate your DTI, consider: All monthly debt payments (mortgage, credit cards, loans) Your gross monthly income Front-end DTI (housing costs only) Back-end DTI (total debt) Strategies to improve DTI (increase income, reduce debt) When you apply for a home loan, grasping your DTI will help you present a stronger home loan application. Knowing how to apply for a home loan effectively means keeping your debt manageable and your income robust. Collateral: The Property Itself When you secure a real estate loan, the property itself acts as collateral, meaning it safeguards the lender’s investment. To determine the property’s value, lenders usually hire an appraiser who evaluates factors like its condition, location, and recent sales in the area. Comprehending the loan-to-value ratio is additionally vital, as a larger down payment can lower this ratio, in the end reducing the lender’s risk and potentially influencing your mortgage terms. Property Appraisal Process The property appraisal process plays a vital role in real estate lending, as it determines the market value of a property, which serves as collateral for a loan. A local appraiser evaluates various factors to establish this value, including: The property’s size and layout Its age and overall condition Amenities such as pools or garages The neighborhood’s economic environment Recent comparable sales in the area A thorough home inspection is often recommended to uncover any potential issues that could affect the property’s value. In the end, the appraisal results in an appraised value that helps lenders assess the loan-to-value ratio, significant for evaluating collateral risk. Comprehending this process can help you navigate your lending expedition effectively. Loan-to-Value Ratio Comprehending the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is vital for anyone traversing the real estate lending environment. This ratio is calculated by dividing the loan amount by the property’s appraised value, expressed as a percentage. Mortgage lenders often prefer an LTV ratio of 80% or less, which means you should aim for at least a 20% down payment. A lower LTV typically indicates less risk, leading to better loan terms. Nevertheless, if your LTV ratio exceeds 90%, you may need private mortgage insurance (PMI) to protect lenders from defaults. LTV Ratio Implications ≤ 80% Better terms, lower interest 81%-90% Standard terms, possible PMI > 90% Higher risk, mandatory PMI Types of Financing Options Available Steering through the terrain of real estate financing requires a grasp of the various options available to developers and investors. Comprehending these financing types can greatly impact your project’s success. Here’s a breakdown of common financing options: Fixed-rate mortgages: Provide consistent monthly payments, ideal for long-term budgeting. Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs): Offer lower initial rates that fluctuate based on market conditions, potentially increasing costs later. Hard money loans: Quick access to cash backed by collateral, typically at higher interest rates, suitable for urgent needs. Mezzanine financing: A hybrid of debt and equity, this option allows for larger investments during the maintenance of ownership control. Bridge loans: Short-term financing solutions designed to cover gaps until more permanent financing is secured. Selecting the right option can influence your financial strategy, so weigh the pros and cons carefully before committing. Common Commercial Real Estate Loans When considering common commercial real estate loans, you’ll encounter various options customized to your investment needs. Fixed-rate mortgages provide stability, furthermore adjustable-rate mortgages offer potential cost savings but come with risks. Moreover, short-term solutions like bridge and construction loans can help you navigate specific financing challenges during property transactions or development projects. Loan Types Overview A variety of loan types are available for those looking to finance commercial real estate, each designed to meet different needs and circumstances. Here’s a brief overview of common options: Fixed-rate mortgages: These offer stable interest rates and predictable payments, ideal for long-term financing. Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs): These feature fluctuating rates, which can lead to lower initial payments but may increase costs later. Bridge loans: Short-term financing that helps you purchase or renovate properties during the wait for long-term options. Construction loans: Particularly for funding development or renovation projects, disbursed periodically based on milestones. Other considerations: Always evaluate interest rates, repayment schedules, covenants, and fees to confirm the right fit for your investment strategy. Key Loan Considerations Comprehending key loan considerations is crucial for making informed decisions in commercial real estate financing. Fixed-rate mortgages provide stability with consistent interest rates and predictable payments, making them ideal for long-term investments. Conversely, adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) can offer lower initial payments, but remember, these rates fluctuate, potentially increasing your costs over time. If you need short-term financing, bridge loans are a viable option, typically lasting between 6 months to 3 years, allowing you to secure properties or fund renovations until permanent financing is arranged. For development projects, construction loans are purpose-built, releasing funds in stages based on progress, which helps manage cash flow effectively. Always evaluate interest rates, fees, and repayment terms to choose the right loan for your strategy. Factors Influencing Loan Terms Comprehending the factors that influence loan terms is essential for anyone looking to secure financing in real estate. Several key elements come into play: Credit score: A higher score often leads to lower interest rates and better repayment conditions. Debt-to-income ratio: Lenders prefer a lower DTI, indicating your ability to repay the loan. Down payment: A larger down payment reduces the loan-to-value ratio, which can result in better loan terms. Market conditions: Job growth and supply-demand dynamics in the property submarket can affect perceived risk and loan terms. Loan product: The type of loan, whether it’s a fixed-rate or adjustable-rate mortgage, can influence your overall borrowing costs and payment stability. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when securing your financing. Evaluate your credit, DTI, and down payment options carefully to improve your loan terms. The Due Diligence Process in Lending Securing financing for real estate involves not just understanding loan terms, but moreover steering through the due diligence process in lending. This process entails a thorough assessment of a property’s physical condition, legal status, and market value, ensuring it meets lending criteria as you minimize risk for yourself as the lender. Key components include conducting property inspections, reviewing title reports, and performing environmental assessments to uncover potential issues. In addition, you’ll need to analyze financial aspects such as cash flow projections, operating expenses, and current market conditions to evaluate the property’s income-generating potential effectively. Engaging professional appraisers and inspectors is essential, as they provide unbiased evaluations and detailed reports regarding the property’s condition and market value. A detailed due diligence process eventually aids in risk mitigation, influencing loan terms and your approval decisions considerably. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Lending? The 5 C’s of lending are essential for comprehending how lenders evaluate borrowers. They include Character, which assesses your credit history; Capacity, measuring your ability to repay based on income and debt; Capital, reflecting your financial investment in the loan; Collateral, the asset securing the loan, and Conditions, the economic environment and loan terms. Together, these factors help lenders gauge the risk of lending to you and your overall creditworthiness. What Are the 5 P’s of Real Estate? The 5 P’s of real estate are crucial for evaluating any property transaction. They include People, who are the buyers, sellers, and agents involved; Property, which refers to the asset’s characteristics and location; Price, the agreed amount influenced by market factors; Purpose, the intended use of the property, whether for investment or personal reasons; and Process, the steps taken in executing the deal. Comprehending these components helps you navigate real estate effectively. What Are the 4 C’s of Lending? The 4 C’s of lending are fundamental for evaluating a borrower’s creditworthiness. First, Credit refers to your credit score and history, which can affect loan terms. Next, Capacity assesses your ability to repay the loan, analyzing income and debt-to-income ratio. Collateral involves the asset securing the loan, requiring an appraisal to determine value. Finally, Conditions encompass the market environment and specific loan terms that influence the lending decision. Comprehending these can improve your chances of approval. What Are the 4 P’s of Lending? The 4 P’s of lending include Credit, Capacity, Collateral, and Capital. Credit assesses your creditworthiness through scores and history, whereas Capacity evaluates your ability to repay based on income and debt ratios. Collateral refers to the property securing the loan, ensuring its value supports the amount borrowed. Finally, Capital reflects your financial strength and down payment, indicating your investment in the property, which can improve your credibility with lenders during the approval process. Conclusion In summary, comprehending the key factors in real estate lending is crucial for both lenders and borrowers. By evaluating creditworthiness, property valuation, and market conditions, you can make informed decisions. Analyzing cash flow potential and reviewing financial history aids in selecting the right financing options. Additionally, recognizing the due diligence process guarantees that all parties are aware of the risks and opportunities involved. This thorough approach ultimately leads to more successful lending outcomes and sustainable investments in real estate. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Key Factors in Real Estate Lending" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Want more housing market stories from Lance Lambert’s ResiClub in your inbox? Subscribe to the ResiClub newsletter. While many growth markets in Texas and Florida have seen some of the biggest power shifts toward homebuyers since the Pandemic Housing Boom fizzled out, Beazer Homes CEO Allan Merrill acknowledged at ResiDay 2025 last November that Beazer Homes—America’s 23rd-largest homebuilder—doesn’t plan to chase the relatively tighter housing markets in the Northeast and Midwest. Instead, he said the builder plans to stay focused on growth markets in Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, and Florida, which—despite experiencing a greater post–Pandemic Housing Boom cyclical cooling—he expects will be long-term new-home demand winners driven by population growth. Merrill pointed out that if homebuilders make investment decisions purely based on which housing markets are performing best in the short-term, then by the time those investments are made and the pipeline is ready to deliver homes in 2 to 4 years, local housing market conditions may have already shifted. Here’s what Beazer Homes CEO Allan Merrill said at ResiDay 2025 on Friday, November 7, 2025 in New York City: “You’ve pointed it out—your data doesn’t lie. Texas and Florida have been really tough [in 2025], and they were tough because inventory built. I think there was a lot of enthusiasm for the spring selling season that led to a lot of starts last fall and into the early part of the calendar year, [but] the demand didn’t materialize. So you start to see a lot of homes finished. And that puts pressure on buyers. It puts pressure on builders. It puts pressure on prices. And we saw all of that, particularly in Texas and Florida.” “I think long-term. Where’s the job growth, where’s the wage growth? I think that there are some supply and demand dynamics right now that are favorable in those places [in the Northeast and Midwest]. But when we’re buying land, we’re 2 to 4 years out from delivering homes. I want to bet on where job growth, population growth and wage growth is.” “I love our footprint. We’ve made decisions about why we are where we are, and we can grow our business substantially right where we are. There are places like Raleigh, like Nashville, that are in the Sun Belt and still have profound growth opportunities. Our home market of Atlanta is going to continue to be a big market. So there are plenty of places for us to grow within our footprint, without casting a longing glance to another city.” “They [many Midwest and Northeast communities] are also very challenging markets from an entitlement perspective. So even if builders wanted to rush in, it’d be a minute before there was any real impact.” The reason ResiClub resurfaced the commentary made by Beazer Homes CEO Allan Merrill at ResiDay 2025 is that it’s a reminder that when it comes to predicting where the most homes will be built over the next 5 to 10 years, it’s critical to examine population growth. Indeed, ResiClub’s analysis finds a strong positive statistical relationship between population growth and single-family permitting across major U.S. metro area housing markets (R² ≈ 0.68), suggesting that high homebuilding activity largely concentrates in growth markets. No region dominates homebuilding like the South, which is home to 39.0% of the nation’s population but generates 59.2% of all single-family permits. It makes sense given that the South is the epicenter of population growth. Back on January 15, I had a call with outgoing KB Home CEO Jeffrey Mezger and incoming KB Home CEO Robert McGibney. During that call, I asked them the same question I asked Beazer Homes CEO Allan Merrill last fall: Given that many housing markets in the Northeast and Midwest remain tighter than core homebuilding markets in the Southeast and Southwest, would they consider expanding their presence into some of those tighter Midwest and Northeast markets? Here’s what Mezger told ResiClub on January 15, 2026—weeks before the builder publicly announced he would transition to executive chairman, effective March 1, 2026: “We position our company strategically, where we have a presence in the strongest growth opportunity cities. When I say growth, it’s population [growth], but also economic growth, job growth, pro business, good climates, where people want to live, desirable cities, and so they come and they go, and we keep the presence. Even if it’s a softer market [today], there’s still opportunity: Literally five miles apart in one city, you can have a totally different market dynamic. And in every one of our communities, even in red divisions right now, we are encouraging them to grow and make investment. In fact, here in the first quarter, we’re going to, as we conveyed on earnings call, we’re going to have the highest community count coming out of the first quarter. Of the first quarter we’ve had in the last six or seven years across the system. So our focus is to continue to grow market share in all of our markets. And while Denver is softer, as Rob [McGibney] mentioned, we have a presence, and we know what its potential is. And you navigate and optimize it, and then you take it on a run when the market conditions support it. So we wouldn’t opportunistically jump somewhere, because it’s good at this point in time when it could be not so good a year from now. We’d rather be consistent and really push the opportunities where we’re at.” Of course, while many large homebuilders have made the decision to anchor down in growth markets and resist the urge to chase currently tighter Midwestern and Northeast pockets like Buffalo and Youngstown, that doesn’t mean they will maintain high spec levels in Sun Belt markets that are passing through home price corrections. Indeed, over the past 12 to 18 months, many large homebuilders have temporarily reduced their volumes in the weakest housing markets. “We’ve seen [housing] starts come down year-over-year in many [weaker] markets . . . especially spec starts,” Mezger told ResiClub in January. “It’s good to see that there’s not a lot more inventory being injected into some of the softer markets, and I think that’s going to help places like Florida stabilize.” KB Home says the pullback is helping limit further inventory pressure in markets like Florida, Phoenix, and Denver where “prices just ran up too much relative to incomes [during the Pandemic Housing Boom].” The big picture Ultimately, the split between softer Sun Belt markets and tighter Midwest and Northeast metros reflects current housing-market dynamics. But for giant homebuilders, market presence hinges more on long-term housing base growth fundamentals—population growth, income gains, and job creation—than just the current level of months of supply. That’s why many giant publics are slowing starts to a degree in softer pockets of Texas and Florida rather than pulling out entirely: the long-run demographic tailwinds in many Southern markets remain strong. As for the Midwest, when giant homebuilder push in, they aren’t simply chasing the tightest markets right now. Instead, when they do expand there, it’s through selective moves—into metros like Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Columbus. They’re looking for places with durable, multi-year growth prospects. Homebuilding is a 2- to 6-year pipeline business. By the time a new community delivers, today’s conditions may have shifted. Long-term outlooks matter. View the full article

The long-running rumor that Mark Zuckerberg is secretly a robot is starting to feel a lot less like a joke. According to a report by the Financial Times, Meta is building out a “photorealistic, AI-powered 3D” version of its CEO that employees can interact with and get direct feedback from. Sources told the publication that the bot will be trained on his image, mannerisms, tone, speaking style and public statements to give employees a fully authentic Zuck experience. Zuckerberg himself is directly involved with training the AI avatar “so that employees might feel more connected to the founder through interactions with it,” according to the Financial Times. He also started spending five to 10 hours per week coding AI projects and joining in on technical reviews. (Meta has not yet responded to Fast Company’s request for comment.) In the ongoing AI race among other tech giants like OpenAI and Google, Meta has embraced the technology to the fullest. It’s not the company’s first rodeo with AI doppelgangers: In October 2023, Meta announced partnerships with celebrities—like Kendall Jenner, Snoop Dogg and Paris Hilton—to create chatbot versions of themselves. (They later discontinued the initiative after it received backlash.) In 2024, Meta introduced “AI Studio” to all creators, allowing them to generate custom AI chatbots. Earlier this year, however, the company banned teens from accessing the personal chatbots over safety concerns. Meta has also pushed its staff to use AI tools in their workflows, even encouraging employees to design their own AI agents to streamline and automate tasks. This has sparked fears of layoffs among staffers, according to Financial Times. Last month, Reuters reported that Meta was planning layoffs that could impact 20% of the company to offset the cost of AI. The internet responded to the news of an AI-generated Zuckerberg in typical internet fashion. “Robozuck would 100% be more personable than Meatzuck,” one Redditor commented. “If a CEO can be replaced by AI then none of them should be worth billions,” another Reddit user said. “The closest we’ve come to a human Mark Zuckerberg,” a third joked. Earlier this year, the Wall Street Journal reported that Zuckerberg was creating an AI agent of himself to help him complete daily tasks—though that was a separate endeavor from Meta’s project to clone him. Sources told the Financial Times that if this experiment goes well, creators might be able to create clones of their own. Maybe we’ll all get to see the day where our photorealistic AI clones do the work we don’t want to. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. When Squid Game hit Netflix in 2021, the world felt the impact. Emerging from a pandemic, people were broke, bored, and ready to break bad, and the show’s sharp satire of capitalism hit just right. The premise—people in various levels of life-destroying debt sign up to play a series of deadly children’s games in exchange for the chance at a life-changing amount of cash (kept on display in a giant piggy bank, in one of the show’s many brilliant visual touches)—straddled the line between sadly plausible and nightmarishly bizarre, but anyone could sympathize with the desperate protagonist, Seong Gi-hoon (Lee Jung-jae). The show has finished its third and final season, and we’ve already offered up the best series you can watch to keep those bleak vibes going. But if you need more bleak in your life, you have other options. Here are the books, movies, video games, and podcasts you can turn to when you’re done watching (and re-watching) Squid Game. The best books like Squid GameUnder the bright primary colors and friendly shapes, Squid Game is a story about money, desperation, and mob mentality. Lucky for you, plenty of books offer those same themes along with similarly gripping tension. The Plotters, by Un-Su Kim $15.19 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $15.19 at Amazon Hit, by Delilah S. Dawson $12.99 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $12.99 at Amazon Docile, by K.M. Szpara $17.49 at Amazon $22.99 Save $5.50 Shop Now Shop Now $17.49 at Amazon $22.99 Save $5.50 The Running Man, by Richard Bachman (Stephen King) $9.99 at Amazon $11.99 Save $2.00 Shop Now Shop Now $9.99 at Amazon $11.99 Save $2.00 The Family Experiment, by John Marrs $18.99 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $18.99 at Amazon SEE 2 MORE The Plotters, by Un-Su KimLike Squid Game, The Plotters is set in contemporary South Korea, and like the show, the novel tells the story of a flawed man who comes to realize he’s been playing a rigged game. Reseng is an assassin who has unquestioningly followed orders his whole life, killing people according to orders handed down by the mysterious “plotters.” When a colleague is killed for disobeying an order, however, Reseng’s faith is shaken, and he begins investigating just who, exactly, is issuing those orders. What he finds won’t surprise Squid Game fans one bit. Hit, by Delilah S. DawsonIf the interrogation of an unfair economic system is what resonated with you while watching Squid Game, then Hit is for you: When Valor National Bank buys the national debt, it also gains the right to kill the people who owe it money—which is just about everyone. People like Patsy are given a choice: Pay their debt (impossible), be killed right there and then (undesirable), or work as a bounty hunter killing other debtors. It’s violent, messy, and filled with trenchant commentary on the broken system we live in. Docile, by K.M. SzparaThe way debt warps and dehumanizes us is a major theme in Squid Game, which makes Szpara’s novel the perfect choice. In the near future, debt has legally become inheritable, trapping whole families in a cycle of financial servitude that is owned by a small handful of the ultra-wealthy. People can choose to become literal slaves for a period of time in order to work of some or all off their debt—but their temporary “owners” can do whatever they want to them during their servitude, so most opt to numb themselves with a drug called Dociline that keeps them calm and insulated from their suffering. Fans of Squid Game will recognize the sweaty desperation on display here. The Running Man, by Richard Bachman (Stephen King)King’s 1982 novel was definitely before its time, and has a setup similar to Squid Game. In the far-future of 2025 (!), Ben Richards is struggling to pay his bills and buy medicine for his sick daughter in an America devastated by economic ruin. Desperate, he signs up to be a contestant with the government-run reality game called The Running Man, where he’ll be hunted by trained assassins. If he can survive for 30 days, he gets $1 billion—with bonuses for killing hunters. The Family Experiment, by John MarrsMarrs’ novel (part of his Dark Future series) hits those Squid Game vibes in a different key. As the world’s population soars and the economy worsens, most people can no longer afford to have children. A company offers a grim, Black Mirror-esque solution: You can ‘grow’ a virtual child and interact with them in the metaverse. To promote the technology, they launch a reality show where ten couples raise a virtual child from birth to the age of 18 in just nine months—and then must compete for a chance to keep their virtual child, or risk it for the chance at a real child. The best movies like Squid GameFor all its bright colors and menacingly silly design, Squid Game offers up a suffocatingly dark, dystopian vision of the world. If you want more of that, here are some feature-length movies that will hit that dark, sweet spot. Cube (1997) In the midst of all the violent strategies and desperate gambits on Squid Game, you get the sense that it’s also a kind of experiment to see just how far (and low) people will go to survive and get paid. In Cube, five people find themselves trapped in a series of square rooms connected by hatches in each wall, floor, and ceiling—many of which are booby-trapped in horrifying ways. As the group works its way through the rooms, there’s a similar vibe as their creativity and willingness to sacrifice each other comes into play. Stream Cube on Plex or rent it from Prime Video. Cube (1997) $3.99 at Prime Video Learn More Learn More $3.99 at Prime Video The Platform (2019) Squid Game is a trenchant social commentary, examining the morality of modern society and the impact of inequality. That makes The Platform the perfect movie pairing. In this film, a man named Goreng agrees to spend six months in the “Vertical Self-Management Center,” where pairs of prisoners live on different levels. Once a day, a platform laden with a rich feast descends from above and stops for two minutes—prisoners can only eat during that time. The people placed on top can eat what they like, while the people on the lower levels are lucky to get anything. Goreng eventually goes on an odyssey to discover the secrets of who’s behind this cruel system. Stream The Platform on Netflix. The Platform (2019) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix The Belko Experiment (2016) One of the great pleasures of Squid Game is watching well-rounded characters fight for their lives using every skill and advantage they have. In The Belko Experiment, a standard group of office drones suddenly find themselves trapped in a fortified building and inform the employees that they must kill two people within 30 minutes, or several of them will be killed at random. The bloody chaos that ensues will be music to the ears of any Squid Game fan. Rent The Belko Experiment on Prime Video. The Belko Experiment (2016) $3.99 at Prime Video Learn More Learn More $3.99 at Prime Video Escape Room (2019) One of the great thrills of each episode of Squid Game was finding out what bizarro version of a children’s game was going to be repurposed into a crowd-thinning slaughter. Escape Room offers a similar vibe: Characters forced to survive deadly escape rooms using their brains and physical skills means a whole new mystery challenge every time they make it to the next room. Rent Escape Room on Prime Video. Escape Room (2019) $3.99 at Prime Video Learn More Learn More $3.99 at Prime Video Cheap Thrills (2007) Want more desperate people willing to do much more than they ever imagined in exchange for getting out of soul-crushing financial difficulty? Of course you do, so you’ll love this black comedy. Two down-on-their-luck friends meet a seemingly friendly man and his wife at a bar. When the man offers them a few bucks to take on innocuous challenges and innocent pranks, they both eagerly lean into the contest—but as the offered sums get larger, the cruelty and danger of the required tasks grow as well. Stream Cheap Thrills on The Roku Channel or rent it from Prime Video. Cheap Thrills (2007) $4.99 at Prime Video Get Deal Get Deal $4.99 at Prime Video The best video games like Squid GameSquid Game is modeled in some ways on video games—platforms, dream logic, gore aplenty, etc. So it makes sense that the best way to extend your Squid experience would be to get into a game that has similar mechanics and vibes. Luckily, you’ve got a lot of choices. Squid Game: Unleashed If you’re yearning for more of the Squid Game universe, it makes sense to go directly to the source and play the official game version. You can play almost all of the classic Squid Game games, like Red Light, Green Light (although some have been tweaked to make them more playable on a console or phone), and it’s all done up in the show’s iconic color scheme and visual style. If you’re looking for a direct extension of the show, this is the bet. Platforms: Android, iOS Squid Game: Unleashed at Apple App Store Learn More Learn More at Apple App Store Fortnite Fortnite remains an incredibly popular battle royale and survival game, and if you’re seeking the chaotic violence of Squid Game’s early rounds, this is the way. Plus, you can literally download Squid Game skins, play Squid Game-themed versions, and build Squid-themed islands in the game, combining these two fictional universes into one demented sandbox. Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS Fortnite at Epic Games Learn More Learn More at Epic Games Fall Guys Looking to replicate the mechanics of some of Squid Game’s more epic challenges? Play Fall Guys, a fast-paced, super fun obstacle/racing game with obstacles, delightfully cartoonish graphics, and the opportunity to knock opponents off the course. It doesn’t have the grim violence of the show, but that means you can have all the fun without worrying that you’re pushing your cosmic karma into the red. Platforms: PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Android, iOS Fall Guys at Epic Games Learn More Learn More at Epic Games Danganronpa If you want more of the bleak whimsy that Squid Game serves up, check out Danganronpa, a series of interactive visual novels. In the first installment, you play as a high school student trapped in their school by a robotic teddy bear. Your only hope to escape is to murder another student—and get away with it—in a battle royale-esque competition. It combines mystery-solving with other first-person gameplay elements to offer up an immersive experience fans of the show will enjoy. Platforms: PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Steam Danganronpa Trilogy $64.99 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $64.99 at Amazon We Happy Few Did you love the atmosphere of paranoia and dread experienced by anyone in the Squid Game universe who tried to cling to their moral and ethical principles in the games? Then We Happy Few is for you. Set in a world where most of the population is tripping on powerful hallucinogens that allow them to commit all kinds of terrible violence while wearing creepy, smiling masks, you play as a “downer” who’s trying to escape the city’s chaos without drawing attention to yourself. Combined with a wonderfully bent visual style, this game is ideal for Squid fans. Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, Steam We Happy Few $59.99 at Steam Shop Now Shop Now $59.99 at Steam The best podcasts like Squid GameWhether you want a deep dive into the show’s lore or production, or a similarly creepy narrative experience, these are the podcasts you should check out. Squid Game: The Official Podcast Credit: Podcast logo Might as well go to the source: The official Squid Game podcast is hosted by Phil Yu, and offers up insider info on the show’s universe, game mechanics, themes, and production. If you’re curious about all the real-life moving parts that come together to make something with this much cultural impact, put this in your ears. Player 456 Credit: Podcast logo If you want discussion about and analysis of Squid Game from a more fan-focused perspective, check out Jack and Colin’s obsessive podcast. They dissect the show’s themes and recap episodes with a sharp eye for detail and a fan’s genuine love of the show. Rabbits Credit: Podcast logo If you want a narrative podcast that hits the same dopamine generator as Squid Game, Rabbits is the creepy story you need. When a young woman’s friend goes missing and the police aren’t motivated to find her, she begins her own investigation, and begins to suspect her friend has been playing a kind of “alternate-reality” game that is much older and much deadlier than she realizes. It’s got the dread, world-building, and game mechanics fans of the show will appreciate. Limetown Credit: Podcast logo This classic narrative podcast is centered on the mysterious disappearance of hundreds of residents of a research facility. Like Squid Game, the story starts off rooted in a realistic universe, then slowly reveals a much weirder, and much more ominous reality hiding behind the superficial world. There’s sci-fi technology, immersive world-building, and a terrific mystery to be solved. Project Nova Credit: Podcast logo In Project Nova, four people wake up to discover they’re trapped in a mysterious experiment in a high-tech facility. An artificial intelligence gives them tasks to perform—and the consequences of not doing as they’re told or performing these tasks incorrectly can range from painful to deadly. It’s got the high-stakes, high-style buzz of the show coupled with an engaging mystery. View the full article

A reader writes: My company has a habit of recruiting and hiring a replacement for fired employees before the person has actually been fired. The replacement doesn’t start work until after the original employee is gone, but the company is recruiting and interviewing before they’ve told the person they will be out of a job (and the person has no idea the company is actively interviewing for their spot). I suppose that this is … practical? But it feels so slimy! They’ve done this secret recruitment, not advertising the position in their normal ways so no one sees that it’s open and figures out what’s happening. It also prevents anyone internally from applying for these positions because they obviously don’t advertise them internally so the person being fired doesn’t find out. It all feels sneaky and gross to me, and makes me think I would have no idea if my job were in jeopardy (since the people who were fired were blindsided, no PIP, performance conversations, etc, which is another bad practice of course). Am I overreacting? I answer this question — and two others — 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. Other questions I’m answering there today include: Should I ask older employees if they know basic functions in Word and Excel? Should remote workers be paid less because they have fewer work-related expenses? The post is it wrong to hire a replacement before an employee is fired? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Earnings for first quarter underline asset manager’s push into investment products that generate higher feesView the full article

Cash-strapped Stormont executive appeals to prime minister for aid package for hard-pressed regionView the full article

Google’s legal troubles over its search and ad tech businesses are entering a new phase — one that could expose the company to billions in payouts from advertisers seeking damages after U.S. courts found it illegally monopolized key digital ad markets. Driving the news. A growing group of advertisers is preparing to file mass arbitration claims against Google, according to attorney Ashley Keller, who said the first filings are expected this week. Keller says he has already signed up a “significant number” of advertisers. He estimates potential claims tied to online search and display advertising could exceed $218 billion, based on economic analysis his firm commissioned. Similar mass arbitration cases typically take 12 to 24 months to resolve. Catch up quick. Courts in 2024 dealt Google major antitrust blows. A federal court in Washington, D.C. found Google illegally monopolized online search. A separate federal court ruled Google also illegally monopolized parts of the ad tech stack that connects advertisers with publishers. Google is appealing both decisions. Why we care. This case could open a path to recover money advertisers believe they overpaid for search and display ads due to Google’s alleged monopoly power. Mass arbitration may give businesses more leverage than individual claims and could pressure Google into settlements. It also signals growing legal scrutiny of the digital ad market, which could eventually lead to more competition and lower costs. Why arbitration matters. Most advertisers can’t simply sue Google in court because their contracts require disputes to go through arbitration. That usually favors large companies when claims are handled one by one. But mass arbitration — which bundles 25 or more similar claims — can shift leverage back toward claimants. It increases pressure to settle. It can lower legal costs for smaller businesses. It allows companies with relatively modest individual claims to pursue damages collectively. What’s new. This case could break new ground because most mass arbitrations to date have involved consumers or workers — not corporate plaintiffs. A large-scale advertiser action against Google would be among the first major efforts to use the strategy for business-to-business claims. What Google says. In a recent filing, Google said it faces private damages claims tied to global antitrust cases but cannot yet estimate potential losses. The company said it believes it has “strong arguments” and plans to defend itself aggressively. The bottom line. Google’s antitrust losses are no longer just a regulatory problem — they are becoming a direct financial threat, with advertisers now testing whether mass arbitration can turn monopoly rulings into real payouts. View the full article

Why psychological safety is so important. By Matt Rampe Go PRO for members-only access to more Matt Rampe. View the full article

Why psychological safety is so important. By Matt Rampe Go PRO for members-only access to more Matt Rampe. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. A juicy prestige mystery series with Nicole Kidman in the lead? Honestly, who ever heard of such a thing? As a crime procedural, it's a bit more Special Ops: Lioness than Nine Perfect Strangers, but the era of Kidman domination demands variety, so now we get this series based on the long-running (29 books and counting) Kay Scarpetta series from Patricia Cornwell that follows the eponymous forensic pathologist. She's joined by Jamie Lee Curtis as her sister, Dorothy, and Bobby Cannavale as a forensic operations specialist, which is a job that I definitely know what it is. Stream Scarpetta on Prime Video before examining these other juicy crime dramas. Ballard (2025 – ) Based on another popular novel series, this one by Michael Connelly (the show itself a spin-off of the spin-off of the Prime Bosch series), Ballard stars Maggie Q as the title's Detective Renée Ballard, head of an LAPD cold-case unit. Ballard takes over an understaffed, volunteer-heavy LAPD cold-case unit, solving (sometimes) decades-old crimes while uncovering, over the course of the first season, a web of corruption within the police department (if you can imagine). Stream Ballard on Prime Video. Ballard (2025 – ) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Åre Murders (2025) Scandinavian cop drama (or Nordic noir, if you prefer) is its own sub-genre, so ubiquitous that the Disney+ show Agatha All Along did an episode parodying the form. Certainly The Åre Murders (adapted from the novels of Viveca Sten) makes the case that Swedes know from murder. Plain-spoken, troubled (as in: under suspension) detective Hanna Ahlander (Carla Sehn) leaves Stockholm to spend some time unwinding at her sister's place in remote Åre. A case involving a missing girl finds her back on the job, and up against local police officer Daniel Lindskog, whom she's reluctant to trust. Looking for a bleakly beautiful landscape and ambiguous morality? Åre might be the place for you. Stream The Åre Murders on Netflix. The Åre Murders (2025) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix When No One Sees Us (2025 – ) A distinctive police thriller imported from Spain, When No One Sees Us stars Mariela Garriga (Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning) as a Cuban-American special agent of the U.S. Army, and Maribel Verdú (Pan’s Labyrinth) as a Spanish Civil Guard sergeant struggling with a complex home life. Both are investigating an apparent death by violent suicide on an air base during Holy Week. It's another complex mystery, but the performances and the emphasis on character over plot make it a standout. Stream When No One Sees Us on HBO Max. When No One Sees Us (2025 – ) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Get Millie Black (2024) Booker-winning novelist Marlon James created and co-wrote this wildly acclaimed miniseries, touching on bias, discrimination, and colonialism in the context of an impressively cracking missing-person drama. Having been encouraged to leave Scotland Yard following the death of a missing child she'd been searching for, Detective Millie-Jean Black (Tamara Lawrance) opts to return home to Jamaica and join the police force there. She reunites with her sibling, Hibiscus (Chyna McQueen, who received a BAFTA nomination for this, her first screen role), before being drawn into the case of a Black teenager who seems to have been groomed by a rich white family before disappearing—a case that forces her to work with a condescending colleague sent over from London. It was constructed as a miniseries, but there's talk of a revival somewhere down the line. Stream Get Millie Black on HBO Max. Get Millie Black (2024) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max The Chestnut Man (2021 – ) Head on over to sunny Copenhagen, where Naia Thulin (Danica Curcic) is assigned to investigate the murder and dismemberment of a young woman in a playground, the best clue being a small figurine made of chestnuts nearby. When a politicians daughter goes missing, that wee chestnut man is enough to tie the case back to the murder of an entire family on a farm nearly four decades ago. It's been a while, but the series is returning soon under the title The Chestnut Man: Hide and Seek. Stream The Chestnut Man on Netflix. The Chestnut Man (2021 – ) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Prime Suspect (1991 – 2006) A lady Detective Chief Inspector? What will they think of next? Prime Suspect isn't entirely about sexism in the workplace, but it was born in an era when a female officer in the London's Metropolitan Police would have been a rarity in the extreme. DCI Jane Tennison's personal and professional struggles are inseparable from her work as a homicide investigator, but she's very, very good at her job, and Helen Mirren's absolutely iconic performance in the role has become a template followed, at least in parts, by many a cop show since. Stream Prime Suspect on Peacock, Prime Video, and Tubi. Prime Suspect (1991 – 2006) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock Deadloch (2023 – ) Not a tonal match, in that it's a comedy, but plays in a similar sandbox even as it takes crime drama tropes and flips them on their heads. It's also an excellent mystery/crime procedural that simultaneously works as a very funny send-up of the genre—in this case we're talking about the dour, dangerous world of shows like Broadchurch and its many imitators. The Australian import stars Kate Box stars as Dulcie Collins, the fastidious senior sergeant of the police force in the title's fictional town, who, when a body turns up dead on the beach, is joined by Madeleine Sami's Eddie Redcliffe—a crude, loud, and over-the-top obnoxious detective brought in to help solve the case. The web of secrets and mysteries in the tiny Tasmanian town makes everything appropriately addictive, with the added bonus of being, frequently, a hoot. Stream Deadloch on Prime Video. Deadloch (2023 – ) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Mare of Easttown (2021) Kate Winslet picked up an Emmy for her performance as thoroughly troubled Mare Sheehan, a local hero in her days as a high school basketball champ whose adult reputation is rapidly losing its luster. As a police detective, she's been unable to solve the case of a missing girl even as she's confronted with a recently murdered teenage mother—you probably won't be surprised to find that the cases are linked. Word on the street is that a second season might be in the works. Stream Mare of Easttown on HBO Max. Mare of Easttown (2021) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Bones (2005 – 2017) A bit lighter in tone than Scarpetta, this network procedural gave us an impressive 12 seasons of forensic crime-solving involving cases both hot and cold. Emily Deschanel is Temperance Brennan, the "Bones" of the title, a forensic anthropologist and crime fiction author who's recruited by earthy FBI Special Agent Booth (David Boreanaz) to help him solve cases that require an expertise in the examination of human remains (which, luckily enough, turns out to be just about every case). Stream Bones on Peacock, Prime Video, and Hulu. Bones (2005 – 2017) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock Crossing Jordan (2001 – 2007) Following her mother's murder, Massachusetts forensic pathologist Dr. Jordan Cavanaugh (Jill Hennessy) becomes obsessed with solving violent crimes in a show that blends intense crime procedural motifs with quirky characters and relationships; the show's got a unique tone that shouldn't work but does, mostly. The stacked supporting cast includes Miguel Ferrer, Mahershala Ali, Kathryn Hahn, Lorraine Toussaint, and Jerry O'Connell. Stream Crossing Jordan on Peacock and Prime Video. Crossing Jordan (2001 – 2007) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock View the full article

Today, April 14, is World Quantum Day. The day marks the beginning of an annual event in which scientists and educators around the globe work to raise awareness of the underlying science behind technologies that could radically transform our world in the years ahead. Here’s what you need to know. What is World Quantum Day 2026? World Quantum Day is an annual awareness day organized by quantum scientists worldwide. According to the day’s official website, the initiative is “decentralized and bottom-up,” meaning there is no single organization promoting World Quantum Day. Instead, individual scientists work in tandem to promote the event. Those scientists, in turn, invite other scientists, artists, technologists, educators, entrepreneurs, and those from myriad other fields to host their own activities for the day, including talks, exhibitions, and interviews. At the heart of World Quantum Day is the goal of promoting public awareness of quantum science and the technologies that rely on it. 2026’s World Quantum Day is the fifth annual one. The first World Quantum Day took place on April 14, 2022, and has been held every April 14th since then. According to WorldQuantumDay.org, the 2025 event saw more than 530 events take place in more than 318 cities in over 83 countries. Why is World Quantum Day on April 14? World Quantum Day is held on April 14 each year, but that day wasn’t chosen at random. The April 14th date is a nod to Planck’s constant, a principle first theorized by the physicist Max Planck in 1900. According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the “constant is a number that defines the amount of energy” held in each quanta, which are packets of energy exchanged between constructs in the quantum world. The constant underpins quantum physics and plays a central role in technologies such as GPS, computer chips, touchscreens, and many others we rely on every day. When put in a decimal format, April 14 equals “4.14,” which is “the rounded first digits of Planck’s constant,” according to WorldQuantumDay.org. That constant equals 4.1356677×10−15. Why should I care about World Quantum Day? Quantum physics underlies most of the technologies you rely on today. And now scientists are harnessing humankind’s understanding of quantum physics to develop the next generation of computer systems that have the potential to radically transform everything from medicine to communications to artificial intelligence. These computers are known as quantum computers, and they operate on the principles of quantum physics rather than classical physics, as today’s computers do. Currently, every computer you have ever used (unless you are a quantum scientist) has operated on the principles of classical physics. These computers operate on binary bits, where each bit can only be 1 or a 0. But a quantum computer runs on qubits. Unlike a regular bit, thanks to the principles of quantum physics, a qubit can be a 1 or a 0—or anything in between, at the same time. This means they can perform calculations exponentially faster than the bits powering classical computers. Theoretically, what would take today’s fastest supercomputer millions of years to process could be solved by tomorrow’s quantum computer in just a few hours. While this has tremendous potential for the fields of medical research, communications, and materials science, quantum computers also pose serious security risks to today’s classical encryption systems, which underpin everything from messaging security to Bitcoin. All this means that it is more important than ever for the general public to understand what quantum physics is, the technological advancements it already offers, and the upcoming technologies it will enable that will further transform our world. View the full article

Put the focus where it belongs. By Jody Padar Radical Pricing – By The Radical CPA Go PRO for members-only access to more Jody Padar. View the full article

Put the focus where it belongs. By Jody Padar Radical Pricing – By The Radical CPA Go PRO for members-only access to more Jody Padar. View the full article

Are you genuinely interested in your prospects? By Martin Bissett Winning Your First Client Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. View the full article