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Rising insurance premiums and total ownership costs are driving borrower hesitation in high-cost regions. See how lenders can adapt strategically. View the full article

Middle East war has unleashed severe disruption for the aviation sectorView the full article

Overlooked controls and fragmented oversight leave mortgage lenders exposed to enforcement, litigation, and reputational damage. Learn how to close the gaps. View the full article

Is all hope lost for the future of the news media in the U.S.? There’s reason to be optimistic, two experts say, though new models for disseminating factual information are sorely needed and it’s worth paying attention to how younger Americans consume news. “We have to do something radically different,” said Chris Licht, founding partner and CEO of CLC Partners and a former executive at CNN and other TV networks, speaking at the Fast Company Grill at SXSW. “Millions of people get their news and information from people that are actually giving opinion.” “[We’ve] got to focus on, in this modern media world, separating those two things again,” he added. While untangling news and opinion could help to regain trust, Licht also envisions something like “Uber for the news business,” such that reporters are paid for newsgathering and the information of facts is available to consumers as something like a utility. “I think technology is going to play a massive role in restoring trust in what’s happening,” he says. THE TRUTH MUST MATTER TO CONSUMERS What’s more, Gen Z is likely to play a big role in guiding what’s next for the industry, as their consumption patterns differ from their older counterparts. That’s according to Steven Rosenbaum, executive director of the nonprofit Sustainable Media Center and author of the forthcoming book The Future of Truth. “They consume a lot of news, they read a lot of things, they listen to a lot of voices, they query them,” he said. “I think what you’re seeing here today is the beginning of a rising tide that says, ‘You know what? This thing truth matters to me,’” Rosenbaum added. “I think we are on our way into a really good chapter, with a lot of pain and suffering along the way.” View the full article

Google just announced some notable upgrades to the Google Play gaming experience on Windows PCs, with improvements that cover game discovery and purchases, and the news that a broader number of paid titles are now becoming available for the desktop. While an official Windows client for Google Play apps and games has been available for several years, these latest updates mean the experience is more polished than ever before. There are four main changes for gamers wanting to play Android games on Windows. First, Google is "actively expanding" the number of paid, premium games that are fully optimized for PCs. Android games don't get this optimization by default, and need to be specifically tweaked to support PC gaming (keyboard controls and all), so more titles that meet this criteria will be very welcome. Second, there's a new PC section in the Play Store Games tab on mobile devices, so you can actually see which titles are going to be cross-platform compatible before you install them. Third, you only need to buy a game once to use it on both mobile and desktop (something that wasn't always the case in the past). The last upgrade is Game Trials. On selected titles, you'll be able to dive in and start playing for free—once you reach a certain limit in terms of time or progress, you'll then be asked if you want to buy the game (and your progress will be carried over, if you do decide to make the purchase). Credit: Lifehacker It's not clear from the announcements how long this will all take to roll out, but Google says games such as Moonlight Peaks, Sledding Game, and Low-Budget Repairs will be available on PC in the "coming months." None of those games are live in the Play Store app on Android yet. There's a lot to like about running Android games on the desktop—not least a much bigger screen, and keyboard and mouse input options—so if you're keen to dive in, here's how you can give it a try. How to Android games on your PCGet started by visiting the Google Play Games web portal on your Windows PC. Follow the download prompts, and you get taken through the process of installing the software and entering your Google account details (for syncing purposes). Assuming you have actually played a game on your Android device at some point, your profile and stats are carried over to the desktop. At the end of the installation process, you'll be shown a list of games you've already played that are available on Windows. You can also find this list later by clicking From your library on the home page of the Google Play Games app. The majority of the titles I've played on Android seem to be present and correct. Credit: Lifehacker The playing experience is, on the whole, intuitive and straightforward. Most of the games I tried I had no problems with, although sometimes the desktop controls can take some working out: Click the keyboard icon to the left of the game window to remap these (you might also find some control settings within the games themselves). You can also click the visual settings button (the sliders icon) to change how the game is displayed on screen, and there's a volume control button on the left too. Games tend to stick to their default orientation from mobile, whether that's landscape or portrait, but you can adjust the size of the gaming window. The games I tried from my own library were rather hit and miss when it came to syncing up—some carried my progress over from my phone and some didn't, so it seems likely that the onus is largely on developers to implement this right now (and it's something Google clearly wants to improve). #DRIVE on the PC. Credit: Lifehacker From the home page, click the magnifying glass icon to explore games from the desktop: You can filter out titles that haven't been optimized for PC, and from what I can see, there's already plenty to choose from. I didn't find any Game Trials available at the time of writing, so it seems those are still in the pipeline. Android games on PC can be a lot of fun—especially those that work properly with keyboards or gamepads—and I can see this being something a lot of gamers should set up, especially given the latest improvements. And when you're not sitting at your Windows PC, you can carry on gaming as normal on your phone or tablet. View the full article

A new Google Merchant Center update changes how e-commerce sites must handle out-of-stock products, with direct implications for product approvals and ad performance. What’s happening. Google now requires that out-of-stock products must still display a buy button, but it can no longer be active or hidden. Instead, the button must be visibly disabled and appear grayed out. In other words, users should be able to see the button, but not click it. This marks a clear shift from common practices where retailers either left the “Add to Cart” button clickable or removed it entirely. Both approaches are now non-compliant. How it works. In practical terms, the requirement is simple. The buy button must remain on the page, but its functionality needs to be turned off. Typically, this is done by applying a disabled state so the button becomes unclickable and visually subdued. The catch. The button change is only part of the update. Google also expects clear availability messaging on the product page, such as “in stock,” “out of stock,” “pre-order,” or “back order.” This information must match exactly with what is submitted in the product feed. Any inconsistency between the page and the feed can lead to disapprovals. The bigger shift. This update removes a long-standing workaround used by many retailers. Previously, it was possible to keep selling out-of-stock products by leaving the purchase button active. That approach is no longer allowed. If a retailer still wants to accept orders for unavailable items, the product must now be labeled as “back order.” This status needs to be reflected consistently across both the landing page and the feed. Bottom line. What looks like a small UI requirement is actually a meaningful policy change. Retailers will need to review how they manage out-of-stock products and ensure their pages and feeds are fully aligned to avoid disruptions. First seen. This update was spotted by Google shopping specialist who shared the his how to video on LinkedIn. Dig deeper. About landing page requirements View the full article

Scenarios that markets and policymakers hoped to avoid are now materialisingView the full article

Google is testing AI-generated review replies in Google Business Profile. Why we care. Responding to reviews can impact conversions and trust. But generic AI replies could be risky and erode trust, especially on negative reviews where authenticity matters most. Response quality matters more than whether a business replies to reviews. What it looks like. Here’s a screenshot: The details. Google appears to be rolling out a limited test of Reply to reviews with AI inside Google Business Profile. The feature generates suggested responses to customer reviews. Users can review, edit, and manually submit replies. Availability is inconsistent across accounts and reviews. The feature has been spotted in the U.S., Brazil, and India, but not widely in Europe. Early behavior. Some users report prompts focused on older, unanswered negative reviews. In at least one test, users could trigger AI responses in bulk. There are conflicting reports on automation — some users say bulk responses still require review; others report fully automated replies can be published without edits. First seen. The feature was first shared on LinkedIn by Chandan Mishra, a freelance local SEO specialist, and amplified by Darren Shaw, founder of Whitespark. View the full article

As The President increases pressure on the island, the grandson of Raúl Castro is fronting its negotiationsView the full article

Customer journey mapping is an essential tool for businesses, helping you visualize the interactions customers have with your brand. It outlines key stages and touchpoints, and highlights potential pain points. By comprehending these elements, you can improve customer experiences and promote collaboration across departments. This approach not merely leads to better retention but additionally enhances overall satisfaction. To effectively create a customer journey map, you need to follow specific steps and strategies that can transform your approach. Key Takeaways Customer journey mapping visualizes customer interactions and experiences with a brand, aiding in identifying key experience stages. It highlights moments of truth and pain points, facilitating proactive improvements in customer experience. Mapping enhances business strategy by providing insights into customer behaviors and preferences, optimizing engagement. It fosters collaboration across departments, ensuring a consistent customer experience throughout all touchpoints. Companies that prioritize customer experience through mapping can achieve improved retention and competitive advantages. Understanding Customer Journey Mapping Comprehending customer experience mapping is essential for any business aiming to improve its interactions with customers. Customer experience mapping involves visualizing the interactions and experiences customers have with your brand across various touchpoints. This process begins with a clear customer experience definition, identifying key customer experience stages that outline their experience from awareness to purchase and beyond. By utilizing customer experience mapping tools, you create a customer experience map that highlights moments of truth and potential pain points. This customer experience mapping enables you to develop a customer experience strategy that aligns with customer expectations, driving loyalty and retention. The benefits of customer experience mapping include optimized experiences and improved collaboration across departments, ensuring a consistent brand interaction. A customer experience example can further illustrate how these strategies improve overall satisfaction, eventually leading to increased business success. Importance of Customer Journey Mapping Comprehending customer experience mapping lays the groundwork for recognizing the importance of customer path mapping in your business strategy. By utilizing buyer expedition mapping, you can improve your customer experience by gaining insights into interactions that lead to increased conversions and improved retention rates. A well-structured customer experience map stages can identify gaps and potential roadblocks, enabling proactive improvements and boosting customer satisfaction. With customer experience analysis, you’ll understand behaviors and preferences, allowing you to tailor offerings and marketing strategies effectively. Implementing a customer experience framework encourages collaboration across departments, breaking down silos and ensuring consistent experiences that boost brand loyalty. Since consumers engage with multiple channels, employing expedition mapping tools and customer experience software is crucial for creating seamless, personalized experiences. Furthermore, using a customer experience mapping template can streamline your efforts, finally leading to better ROI and customer engagement. Benefits of Customer Journey Mapping Customer experience mapping offers numerous advantages that can greatly improve your organization’s overall performance. By utilizing customer travel mapping, you can identify and analyze interactions that improve the customer experience, leading to improved retention and satisfaction. Brands prioritizing this approach gain a competitive edge, as 84% of consumers value experience equally to products. Here’s a quick overview of the benefits: Benefit Description Example Improved ROI Improves operations and interactions Increased sales through better service Proactive Gaps Identification Finds roadblocks for seamless experiences Streamlined processes Improved Collaboration Guarantees unified customer engagement across teams Consistent messaging and service Using a customer experience travel map template can simplify the process. In a customer travel mapping workshop, you’ll learn how to create a customer travel map that effectively visualizes your customer travel steps, enabling travel analysis that truly improves customer experience. Steps to Create a Customer Journey Map Creating an effective customer experience map involves several key steps that guarantee you capture the nuances of your customers’ experiences. Here’s how to create a expedition map: Set clear goals: Align your customer expedition map with business objectives to guarantee it addresses specific areas for improvement in customer experience. Involve cross-functional teams: Gather insights from different departments, helping to create a well-rounded comprehension of the customer experience. Develop customer personas: Base these personas on demographics and behaviors to accurately represent your target audience’s needs. Identify touchpoints: Map out customer actions, emotions, and pain points at each stage to uncover areas requiring attention. Enhancing Customer Experience Through Journey Mapping As many businesses recognize the importance of improving customer experience, few leverage customer experience mapping (CJM) to its full potential. This influential experience mapping tool provides a visual representation of all interactions, allowing you to identify pain points in the customer service experience. Comprehending customer behaviors through a customer experience map can help you improve customer experience by tailoring your messaging and interactions. Research indicates that 88% of customers prioritize experience as much as product quality, emphasizing the need for an optimized customer experience model. Frequently Asked Questions What Is Customer Journey Mapping and Why Is It Important? Customer experience mapping visualizes how customers interact with your business, identifying key touchpoints and potential pain points. It’s important since it helps you understand your customers’ experiences, enabling you to optimize each interaction. By recognizing “moments of truth,” you can improve engagement and satisfaction. Furthermore, effective mapping promotes collaboration among departments, streamlining your approach to meet customer needs and eventually enhancing your overall return on investment through better targeting and personalized experiences. What Are the 5 A’s of Customer Journey Map? The 5 A’s of customer experience mapping are Aware, Appeal, Ask, Act, and Advocate. First, you become aware of a brand through marketing efforts. Next, the brand appeals to you by resonating with your needs. Then, you might ask questions for more information. After gathering insights, you act by making a purchase. Finally, if satisfied, you advocate for the brand, influencing others through your positive experiences and recommendations. What Are the 5 Main Points of a Customer Journey? The five main points of a customer experience include awareness, consideration, purchase, retention, and advocacy. In the awareness stage, customers first learn about your brand. Next, during consideration, they evaluate options. The purchase stage involves the actual transaction. Retention focuses on keeping customers engaged post-purchase, whereas advocacy encourages them to promote your brand. Comprehending these stages allows you to identify touchpoints and improve the overall customer experience, eventually enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. What Are the Benefits of Understanding the Customer Journey? Comprehending the customer pathway offers several key benefits. It helps you pinpoint interaction gaps, enabling proactive improvements in customer experience. By analyzing these pathways, you can tailor your services, boosting customer satisfaction and loyalty. Enhanced insights lead to higher conversion rates, as you align your strategies with customer needs. Moreover, cultivating collaboration across departments creates a unified approach, ensuring consistency in experiences, ultimately driving better retention and increased return on investment for your organization. Conclusion In summary, customer experience mapping is an essential tool for businesses aiming to improve customer experience and satisfaction. By visualizing interactions and identifying pain points, you can optimize your strategies effectively. The process nurtures collaboration across departments, ensuring a consistent approach to customer engagement. By following the outlined steps to create a customer experience map, you can proactively address gaps and improve retention, finally benefiting both your customers and your brand’s long-term success. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is Customer Journey Mapping and Why It Matters?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Traders price in almost 50% chance of higher borrowing costs by October, in potential blow to The President’s calls for cutsView the full article

The future of work is increasingly intertwined with the seamless flow between physical and digital operations, especially for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Recent research from HP highlights a significant challenge many SMBs face: outdated systems that hinder productivity and stifle growth. According to HP’s report, The Workflow Wakeup, more than half of IT leaders in SMBs are bogged down by fixing problems rather than enhancing systems. This translates into a reluctance to innovate. For small business owners, understanding these dynamics can be the key to unlocking growth. “Inefficient workflows continue to hold organizations back, and the urgency to address them is growing,” states the report. Nearly 70 percent of SMB leaders express concern that competitors using smarter tools are outpacing them. This sentiment reflects a critical moment for businesses ready to modernize. At the heart of this issue lies the hidden friction in daily tasks. Almost half of the knowledge workers in SMBs report spending excessive time on manual tasks that could easily be automated. What may appear as minor inefficiencies add up, pulling teams away from more impactful work. SMB leaders recognize this; 82 percent claim that investing in new technology is vital for success. Document workflows—including printing, scanning, and sharing—are essential to business operations but frequently present roadblocks. Notably, over a third of SMB workers state that these processes slow their work. The implications are evident: when devices malfunction, productivity plummets, affecting everything from project timelines to employee morale. To combat this, HP advocates for the adoption of smarter systems. These connected devices and AI-enabled capabilities can streamline workflows significantly. Features like cloud printing, mobile access, and secure document sharing eliminate unnecessary steps, facilitating the smooth transit of information. The report cites a compelling statistic: 80 percent of SMB workers find that smart printing reduces frustration, with 30 percent claiming they save at least an hour each week as a result. The potential for broader adoption of such technologies is staggering, with estimates suggesting it could yield nearly $25 billion annually in enhanced productivity for U.S. SMBs. Small incremental efficiencies can create a pronounced competitive edge. For IT teams, integrating smarter systems translates to less time troubleshooting and more focus on enhancing system performance. The ability to preemptively address maintenance needs also mitigates risk and complexity. For business owners, investing in these technologies goes beyond operational improvement—it’s an investment in their workforce. By automating mundane tasks, organizations can allocate resources toward innovative and strategic initiatives that promote growth. HP positions smart printing within a larger ecosystem designed to simplify operations, enhance security, and foster collaboration. The focus is clear: bridging the gap between physical and digital workflows in secure and intelligent ways is essential. While transformation doesn’t always necessitate sweeping changes, it often begins with a reevaluation of fundamental processes. By modernizing document and printing systems, SMBs can bolster efficiency, fortify security, and enhance the overall employee experience. In an age where agility is paramount, embracing smarter, connected systems can significantly improve focus and productivity, paving the way for sustainable growth. Small business owners looking to dive deeper into these insights can explore more in HP’s full report, The Workflow Wakeup, available on HP.com. Image via Google Gemini This article, "SMBs Can Boost Productivity by Modernizing Document Workflows, HP Report Finds" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The future of work is increasingly intertwined with the seamless flow between physical and digital operations, especially for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Recent research from HP highlights a significant challenge many SMBs face: outdated systems that hinder productivity and stifle growth. According to HP’s report, The Workflow Wakeup, more than half of IT leaders in SMBs are bogged down by fixing problems rather than enhancing systems. This translates into a reluctance to innovate. For small business owners, understanding these dynamics can be the key to unlocking growth. “Inefficient workflows continue to hold organizations back, and the urgency to address them is growing,” states the report. Nearly 70 percent of SMB leaders express concern that competitors using smarter tools are outpacing them. This sentiment reflects a critical moment for businesses ready to modernize. At the heart of this issue lies the hidden friction in daily tasks. Almost half of the knowledge workers in SMBs report spending excessive time on manual tasks that could easily be automated. What may appear as minor inefficiencies add up, pulling teams away from more impactful work. SMB leaders recognize this; 82 percent claim that investing in new technology is vital for success. Document workflows—including printing, scanning, and sharing—are essential to business operations but frequently present roadblocks. Notably, over a third of SMB workers state that these processes slow their work. The implications are evident: when devices malfunction, productivity plummets, affecting everything from project timelines to employee morale. To combat this, HP advocates for the adoption of smarter systems. These connected devices and AI-enabled capabilities can streamline workflows significantly. Features like cloud printing, mobile access, and secure document sharing eliminate unnecessary steps, facilitating the smooth transit of information. The report cites a compelling statistic: 80 percent of SMB workers find that smart printing reduces frustration, with 30 percent claiming they save at least an hour each week as a result. The potential for broader adoption of such technologies is staggering, with estimates suggesting it could yield nearly $25 billion annually in enhanced productivity for U.S. SMBs. Small incremental efficiencies can create a pronounced competitive edge. For IT teams, integrating smarter systems translates to less time troubleshooting and more focus on enhancing system performance. The ability to preemptively address maintenance needs also mitigates risk and complexity. For business owners, investing in these technologies goes beyond operational improvement—it’s an investment in their workforce. By automating mundane tasks, organizations can allocate resources toward innovative and strategic initiatives that promote growth. HP positions smart printing within a larger ecosystem designed to simplify operations, enhance security, and foster collaboration. The focus is clear: bridging the gap between physical and digital workflows in secure and intelligent ways is essential. While transformation doesn’t always necessitate sweeping changes, it often begins with a reevaluation of fundamental processes. By modernizing document and printing systems, SMBs can bolster efficiency, fortify security, and enhance the overall employee experience. In an age where agility is paramount, embracing smarter, connected systems can significantly improve focus and productivity, paving the way for sustainable growth. Small business owners looking to dive deeper into these insights can explore more in HP’s full report, The Workflow Wakeup, available on HP.com. Image via Google Gemini This article, "SMBs Can Boost Productivity by Modernizing Document Workflows, HP Report Finds" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

While Google has plans to severely restrict Android users' ability to download apps from sources other than the Google Play Store, the company is introducing a new process that will allow sideloading after a mandatory 24-hour waiting period. This new "advanced flow" setting is meant to prevent users from installing malware distributed by bad actors through unverified sources, while still allowing them to sideload from legitimate developers. Sideloading restrictions are coming to AndroidLast year, Google announced that sideloading on Android would eventually be limited to verified third-party app stores and developers. This change has a clear goal: cracking down on malicious apps impersonating real ones found on the Google Play Store. These restrictions—which go into effect for Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand later this year, and apply globally in 2027—will eventually require developers to register specific details with Google in order to distribute their apps, as well as pay a fee. (Students and hobbyists will be still able to share apps with up to 20 devices without registering or requiring users to go through the new workaround.) This move was met with significant criticism from both developers and users, with concerns ranging from privacy infringement (developers now need to share details they didn't previously have to) to increased difficulty accessing modified or downgraded versions of apps. As such, Google is rolling out a compromise it feels will protect most users from malware, while allowing power users to sideload when they wish to. Google is introducing a sideloading workaroundThe new advanced flow setting will add multiple points of friction to unverified app installation, cutting into the sense of urgency scammers frequently use to distribute malware. Users will go through a one-time process to disable security protections—meaning you won't need to repeat it every time you want to sideload—but you'll still see a warning when you attempt to install an app from an unverified developer. If you're interested in this workaround, you will first need to enable developer mode in your device's Settings app and confirm you are not being coerced into disabling security protections on your device (a common scam tactic). Next, you'll need to restart your phone, which shuts down calls and remote access tools scammers may use to communicate with you or control your device. From here, you'll have to wait 24 hours before you can return and authenticate the settings change using biometrics or your device PIN. Finally, you'll confirm you understand the risks, which then allows you to install apps from unverified developers for seven days, or indefinitely. This workaround will be available starting in August—before developer registration requirements kick in. View the full article

When actress Maddie Ziegler first read the script for the film Pretty Lethal, which premiered at SXSW over the weekend, she was immediately drawn to it because of its authenticity—even if, sure, the ballerinas are also seen scrappily fighting like a bunch of feral cats. “There’s been so many dance films that have not accurately depicted what it’s like to be a real-life ballerina,” Ziegler said during a panel discussion at the Fast Company Grill at SXSW. After first gaining fame as a young dancer on the reality show, Dance Moms, Ziegler had strayed from dance to instead pursue acting, and this project proved both emotional and cathartic for her. “It just completely made me fall in love with dance all over again,” she said. The team behind Pretty Lethal is hoping audiences, too, fall in love with the story of a ballet troupe that’s thrust into a survival situation and must fight their way out—using techniques that come naturally. The film also introduces audiences to the idea of “Ballet-Fu,” or combat fighting that’s grounded in some authenticity, while still leaning into some of the absurdity and fun of the situation, said Vicky Jewson, the director. “They’re not John Wick, they’re dancers,” Jewson said. “Ballerinas are so tough—they have such high pain thresholds, their bodies are their armor—and that gave us room to play and create some action that you’d never seen before.” Breaking new ground Being a member of the cast of a female-led action movie was so fun that actress Avantika Vandanapu hopes she’ll have many more opportunities to take on more such roles in her future. “It’s such an adrenaline kick to be doing action,” she said, adding that the specificity of fight sequences also makes the movie fun to watch. “There are things women think about when fighting, like you’re probably going to go for a man’s nuts,” she said. While Jewson has her sights on directing more action films, and particularly ones starring women, she said that one of the hurdles is the high degree of technical skill required—which takes time to develop. The cast of Pretty Lethal, for example, spent about five weeks training up to 12 hours a day on both ballet and fight sequences. And then there are the Hollywood types who sometimes need some convincing, as was the case with some studio executives who were initially hesitant about greenlighting Pretty Lethal. “I think the word they used was offensive,” Jewson recalled. View the full article

Investor and Shark Tank personality Kevin O’Leary said CEOs who blindly pursue AI are “dead in the water”. But the winning formula, he said, is pairing AI with storytelling and critical thinking. On Wednesday, in a post on X, O’Leary wrote: “In business, it’s about critical thinking and communication, period.” He shared the comment alongside a clip from a recent Fox News appearance, where he discussed the renewed relevance of liberal arts degrees in the age of artificial intelligence. Technical fields like computer science—once considered the safest bet for a stable, high-paying job—are increasingly on shaky ground. Rather than a specific set of technical skills that could become obsolete tomorrow, employers are now hunting for talent who can think critically, creatively, and contextually—the soft skills liberal arts majors have in spades. “Liberal arts graduates can certainly cut through the noise,” O’Leary agreed on X. “But the real value is in the ability to tell a story, paired with AI talent. That’s where the smart money is going. Everything else is noise.” Storytelling has emerged as a core skill over the past year, with U.S. job postings referencing “storytelling” doubling over the past year, according to LinkedIn data cited in The Wall Street Journal. “The number one inflation is creators, like storytellers, writers that actually have AI talents,” O’Leary said in the clip. Those employees who once earned $48,000 a year, now are commanding $600,000 salaries, he said. This increased value can be measured through customer acquisition, according to O’Leary. “If you can prove that you can change a company’s ability to acquire more customers, you can measure that every week, and you can pay them a portion of the profit you make off a new customer,” he explained in the Fox interview. “That’s the new model.” That model only works, he elaborated, if companies maintain focus on value-execution. “I don’t care if you have a liberal arts degree or an MBA; if you can’t tell a story that actually moves the needle on customer acquisition, you’re worth zero,” he wrote alongside the clip. The same is true on the flip side. “If you’re a CEO and you’re just pushing a button to generate garbage, you’re dead in the water,” wrote O’Leary—or drowning in workslop, resulting in both time and money down the drain. “That’s why I only look at it as a tool,” O’Leary said in the interview. “But the people that actually manage it are very valuable.” As we enter the era of the AI-augmented workforce, companies are experimenting—some with more success than others. Take Buzzfeed’s recent woes as a teachable moment. The media company’s full-throttle pivot to AI in 2023—just a month after shutting down its Pulitzer Prize-winning BuzzFeed News division—hasn’t panned out as planned. The company reported a net loss of $57.3 million in 2025 in an earnings report released this month, and said last week it has “substantial doubt” about its ability to continue as a business. The lesson is clear: The most successful companies won’t be those who resist AI or submit to it blindly. It will be those who can leverage their workers’ strengths, integrating human creativity and critical thinking with AI’s speed and scale. “The challenge isn’t the technology,” as O’Leary wrote. “It’s the execution.” View the full article

Google is testing AI-generated headline rewrites in Search results, describing it as a small, narrow experiment for now. What’s happening. Google confirmed to The Verge (subscription required) that it’s testing AI-generated titles in traditional Search results, not just Discover. The test is “small” and “narrow,” and not approved for broader rollout. It impacts news site but isn’t limited to them. The goal is to better match titles to queries and improve engagement, Google said. One example showed Google replacing original headlines with shorter or reworded versions, sometimes changing tone or intent (e.g., reducing “I used the ‘cheat on everything’ AI tool and it didn’t help me cheat on anything” to “‘Cheat on everything’ AI tool.”). Why we care. Google Search is already sending fewer clicks. Now you also have to contend with Google generating entirely new headlines with AI, risking changes to meaning, brand voice, and click-through rates. Dig deeper. Google changed 76% of title tags in Q1 2025 – Here’s what that means What they’re saying. Sean Hollister, senior editor at The Verge, wrote: “This is like a bookstore ripping the covers off the books it puts on display and changing their titles. We spend a lot of time trying to write headlines that are true, interesting, fun, and worthy of your attention without resorting to clickbait, but Google seems to believe we don’t have an inherent right to market our own work that way.” Title links. According to the Google Search Central section on title links, originally published in 2021: Google’s generation of title links on the Google Search results page is completely automated and takes into account both the content of a page and references to it that appear on the web. The goal of the title link is to best represent and describe each result. Google said it uses these sources to “automatically determine title links” Content in <title> elements Main visual title shown on the page Heading elements, such as <h1> elements Content in og:title meta tags Other content that’s large and prominent through the use of style treatments Other text contained in the page Anchor text on the page Text within links that point to the page WebSite structured data What to watch. Google called this one of many routine experiments, but that’s no guarantee it stays small. The Verge noted a similar “experiment” in Discover later became a full feature. Any future launch may not rely on generative AI, but Google didn’t explain how that would work. View the full article

Pop star Zara Larsson is the internet’s newest it girl. After a wave of viral hits, including her latest album’s title track “Midnight Sun” and her feature on PinkPantheress’ “Stateside” remix, the Swedish singer cemented herself as the next big thing in pop music. But fame doesn’t come without controversy, as Larsson learned when she revealed to her fanbase that she uses generative AI. The discourse began when Larsson posted about watching AI-generated content on TikTok. Larsson first reposted an image from the account Ai Fruit Stories, a page posting AI animations of—you guessed it—drama between anthropomorphic foods. Larsson then posted a selfie with the caption, “Sorry I can’t hang out today, I gotta see what’s happening with choclatina and strawberto,” referring to that page’s main storyline: a chocolate bar named Chocolatina seducing a strawberry named Strawberto. oh she serious about this https://t.co/PdWYhyEiQB pic.twitter.com/7AAfvOZ5Jm — saragee (@cocoxel) March 19, 2026 The situation may sound silly on paper, but it riled up Larsson’s fandom, who called her out for apparently supporting generative AI despite its harmful environmental impact, as well as the damage so-called “AI slop” can do to creative industries. Larsson returned to TikTok to address the controversy in a since-deleted video. “I am just a girl with a phone at the end of the day,” she said. “And I just actually just want to be funny sometimes, and want to connect with people.” She added that she’s not an actual fan of the account she reposted, but that it randomly popped up on her For You Page and she shared it thinking her followers would find it funny. “Do I genuinely consume AI fruits cheating on each other and getting pregnant left and right? I don’t think I do,” she said. Larsson went on to describe her own relationship with generative AI: “I don’t use it for my art. I don’t use it to create. I can see how it can be a tool for people to do that; I don’t do it personally,” she said. “But I do use ChatGPT, I’m sorry,” she continued. “And I Google shit. I Google shit sometimes because I’m curious. I don’t really love the Google AI answers, but I use it.” Larsson said she feels like AI is “everywhere, and it’s taken over.” With generative AI now baked into the fabric of so many aspects of daily life, she says, she’s hopeful that it will eventually stop having a negative environmental impact: “I know it’s just gonna be more environmentally friendly. It just has to be,” she said. “It just has to use less water, less energy, because that’s just the way forward.” “At this point, I don’t ever see us going back to not using it,” Larsson concluded. Larsson’s response only added fuel to her critics’ fire. Many refuted her claim that generative AI use is impossible to avoid, saying they simply choose not to use tools like ChatGPT. “Reminder that you actually don’t have to use gen ai for anything at all despite it being shoved in your face!” one user posted. i’m kinda over ppl saying “AI is everywhere i can’t avoid it so that’s why i use it” like i have never Once used chatgbt………. — kitty (@imightbesinking) March 20, 2026 Reminder that you actually don’t have to use gen ai for anything at all despite it being shoved in your face! Just because the option to do and use something is waved in front of you does not mean you Have to engage with it 👍 — Ally ⭐️ (@AllyAllyOrange) March 20, 2026 Others pointed out that her optimism around AI’s environmental impact seems unfounded, as the continued construction of new data centers only ramps up concerns for the future of the planet. idk what’s worse the fact that she thinks it’s okay as long as she doesn’t use it on her art or saying that ai will use less energy/resources in the future when all of these ai companies are savagely trying to buy lands to build more data centers and ruin the planet over profits https://t.co/3IYiAYr3nH — mar ☆ (@chrrypm) March 20, 2026 "in the future ai is going to use less energy and less water it just has to" as if these huge ai corporations give a single fuck about environmental footprint lmfao https://t.co/vpMuJTqN4a — el ꩜ (@grimlitter) March 19, 2026 Some fans were especially disappointed that Larsson, as an artist herself, would consume and share AI-generated art. “Please support the human writers, artists, animators, singers,” one user wrote. “Art is humanity’s greatest creation. We have to protect it. We have to reject generative AI completely.” This ain't even bout Zara now like… Everyone is too comfortable with this shit. Please support the human writers, artists, animators, singers. Art is humanity's greatest creation. We have to protect it. We have to reject generative AI completely. — Tawny Luxardo (@H0LI3R) March 20, 2026 Not everyone was against Larsson’s perspective. Some reasoned that the situation has been blown out of proportion, with one poster saying they “cannot bring [themself] to care” about her “watching ai videos she did not make.” But others argued that the size of Larsson’s fanbase—including her 8.8 million followers on TikTok—means she ought to be held accountable for what she posts. zara larsson getting hate for reposting a racist ai slop video, casually using chatgpt, and normalizing ai use in general is extremely valid actually https://t.co/e6cpIk0Sf5 — ash 🍓 (@beefy5layerbby) March 20, 2026 Larsson may have deleted all her posts on the topic, but her comments section on TikTok is still dominated by discussions on generative AI. On her most recent video, the top comment riffs on Larsson’s beach-going, summery aesthetic: “It’s gonna be summer forever if you keep using ai.” View the full article

Guaranteed Rate Affinity, joint venture between Guaranteed Rate and Anywhere Integrated Services, announced its national builder divisional manager. View the full article

Language analysis shows a sharp shift in tone from the UK central bank this weekView the full article

When you’re planning your next crafting project, choosing the right online supply store can make a significant difference. Stores like Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby offer extensive selections of materials and tools for various crafts. For specialized needs, Blick Art Materials and Scrapbook.com are excellent options. Furthermore, platforms like Etsy provide unique supplies from independent creators. Comprehending what each store offers will help you find the best supplies customized to your project requirements. Key Takeaways Explore a wide range of craft supplies, including art materials, fabrics, and seasonal items at reputable online stores. Take advantage of exclusive promotions and discounts from trusted brands like Cricut and Tim Holtz for savings on your projects. Look for online stores that offer free shipping on orders over $69, making bulk purchases more economical. Regularly check for new arrivals and fresh options to stay updated with the latest crafting trends. Utilize in-store pick-up options if available, for convenience and to avoid delivery waits on your craft supplies. Shop Popular Departments When you shop popular departments at craft supply stores, you’ll find a wide range of materials customized to various projects. From crafting necessities to specialized wreath making tools, these stores cater to all your creative needs. Regularly check the weekly flier for current sales and promotions, ensuring you can save money as you stock up on supplies. If you prefer convenience, consider utilizing the in-store pick-up option, allowing you to avoid delivery waits. Many craft supply stores online offer free shipping on orders over $69, making it easier to purchase in bulk. With new items added daily, you’ll always have fresh options for crafts and scrapbooking, ensuring your creativity knows no bounds while remaining within your budget. Shop the Brands You Love When you shop at craft supply stores, you’ll find a wide selection of trusted brands that cater to all your crafting needs, ensuring you get high-quality products every time. Many stores likewise offer exclusive promotions on these popular brands, allowing you to save money during stocking up on your favorite supplies. Staying updated on the latest arrivals can help you discover new trends and products that improve your creative projects. Trusted Brand Selection Craft supply stores prioritize offering a wide range of trusted brands, ensuring you have access to quality products that meet various crafting needs. By shopping at craft stores online, you can explore well-known brands like Doodlebug, Tim Holtz, and Cricut, each celebrated for their innovative designs and attention to detail. Regular updates on new brand arrivals keep you informed about the latest offerings, whereas brand-specific promotions often help you save on your favorite supplies. If you’re looking for wholesale deco mesh and ribbon, these trusted brands provide a variety of options that cater to different projects. Feedback from satisfied customers highlights the quality and creativity of these products, making brand selection a vital aspect of your crafting experience. Exclusive Brand Promotions Exclusive brand promotions give you the chance to save on high-quality supplies from your favorite crafting brands. Many online craft stores offer an extensive selection of trusted names, ensuring you get reliable products customized to your specific needs. You’ll find regular updates on new brand arrivals that keep you informed about the latest trends and innovative supplies in the crafting community. Furthermore, exclusive deals and brand-specific promotions allow you to save on popular, high-demand items, making it easier to stock up on necessities without overspending. Look out for discounts on select brands, as these promotions provide excellent opportunities to improve your creative projects with dependable materials as you keep your budget intact. Check Out Our Create Blog Explore the Create Blog, where you’ll find a wealth of crafting guides designed to inspire and improve your creative projects. You’ll discover detailed DIY guides, like how to make beautiful paper flowers or build budget-friendly pallet furniture that enhances your home. If you’re an artist, the blog offers tips on selecting the right easel to uplift your crafting experience. For families, there are fun paper plate crafts particularly designed for kids, promoting both creativity and engagement. Furthermore, you can explore suggestions for personalizing your projects, allowing you to add a unique touch. Finally, the blog highlights affordable custom framing options, enabling you to preserve and showcase your cherished memories in style. Easy Crafting Projects If you’re looking for simple DIY ideas, crafting projects can be a great way to express your creativity without a major time commitment. Consider starting with easy quilling projects that merely require paper strips, or create a seasonal wreath to freshen up your home decor. These projects not just improve your crafting skills but additionally allow you to personalize each piece to reflect your unique style. Simple DIY Ideas Crafting can be an enjoyable and fulfilling way to express your creativity, especially when you start with simple DIY projects that require minimal materials and effort. For beginners, consider exploring five accessible quilling projects, which are perfect for honing your skills. You’ll also want to gather crucial drawing materials to enhance your artistic work, ensuring you have everything you need to produce stunning pieces. Personalizing your craft projects adds a unique touch, allowing you to tailor designs to your style. In addition, DIY spring wreath ideas can inspire you to incorporate seasonal décor into your home, enriching your crafting experience. These projects are great entry points, making crafting enjoyable and approachable for everyone. Seasonal Craft Inspiration As the seasons change, so do the opportunities for creative expression through crafting. For spring, consider making DIY wreaths with fresh floral designs and lively colors, which can brighten up your home. If you’re new to crafting, five simple quilling projects can help you create beautiful pieces with minimal supplies. To improve your skills, explore tips for personalizing your crafts, making them truly unique. For family fun, try budget-friendly paper plate crafts that use common household materials, ensuring enjoyable activities for kids. Moreover, a guide for making paper flowers offers step-by-step instructions, allowing you to create lively floral arrangements that can add a seasonal touch to any space. Immerse yourself in these projects and let your creativity flourish! Craft Supplies and Categories When you explore craft supply stores, you’ll discover a diverse range of categories designed to meet various creative needs. These categories cater to different crafting interests and guarantee you find quality materials. Here are some popular categories you can expect: Art Supplies: From paints to brushes, explore mediums for every artist. Paper Crafts: Find cardstock, scrapbooking materials, and embellishments for creative expression. Quilting and Fabrics: Access a variety of fabrics and quilting supplies for sewing projects. Seasonal Items: Discover floral bushes, ribbons, and deco mesh for enhancing your seasonal decorations. Many stores likewise stock trusted brands and provide resources like DIY guides and personalization tips. This broad selection empowers you to tackle any craft project with confidence. Craft Blanks for Custom Creations Exploring craft blanks opens up a world of possibilities for custom creations that can reflect your unique style or brand. Craft blanks like tumblers, keychains, and apparel are available at wholesale prices, making them perfect for your customization projects. You’ll find a large selection of premium YETI cups and tumblers designed particularly for crafters and small businesses. All necessary supplies are provided in one place, along with linked video guidance for various projects. These materials cater to both beginners and experienced crafters, ensuring a seamless crafting experience. Craft blanks are ideal for seasonal décor and personalized gifts, allowing you to express your creativity through sublimation, vinyl, and painting techniques. Item Type Customization Methods Ideal Uses Tumblers Sublimation, Vinyl Gifts, Events Keychains Painting, Vinyl Personalized Items Apparel Heat Transfer, Vinyl Custom Merchandise Home Décor Painting, Sublimation Seasonal Decorations Resin & Epoxy Crafting Resin and epoxy crafting offers a versatile avenue for creating stunning custom projects, from jewelry to home décor. To achieve professional results, you’ll need premium materials and crucial tools. Here are four key items to take into account: Silicone Molds: These are perfect for shaping your resin into unique designs, whether it’s pendants or coasters. Pigments: Use high-quality pigments to add lively colors to your projects, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. UV Resin: This type cures quickly under UV light, allowing for faster project completion, ideal for time-sensitive crafting. Comprehensive Tutorials: Accessing detailed guides will help you navigate the crafting process, boosting your skills and creativity. With these supplies, you can create stunning resin art that lasts. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Crafting Website? When considering the best crafting website, focus on your specific needs. Websites like Craft Direct offer high-quality supplies at competitive prices, whereas JoAnn and Mood Designer Fabrics provide a wide range of materials for various projects. If you’re interested in cutting machines, Cricut and Silhouette specialize in those tools. For unique items, check Etsy and independent retailers. Furthermore, crafting blogs and tutorials can improve your skills and inspire your creativity. What Is the Most Popular Craft Store? When considering the most popular craft store, you’ll find several strong contenders. Michaels stands out with its vast inventory and frequent promotions, making it a go-to for many crafters. JoAnn is well-regarded for its fabric and sewing supplies, whereas Hobby Lobby offers unique items at reasonable prices. Craft Direct caters to DIY enthusiasts with competitive pricing, and Amazon provides an extensive range of products with fast shipping, appealing to diverse crafting needs. Are Craft Supply Stores Profitable? Yes, craft supply stores can be quite profitable. With the global craft market valued over $40 billion, demand for supplies is strong. Online retailers, in particular, enjoy lower overhead costs, enabling competitive pricing. Seasonal spikes during holidays and events drive sales, contributing to profitability. Successful stores likewise build loyal customer bases through effective marketing and community engagement, which nurtures repeat business and referrals, enhancing their overall revenue potential. Which Company Is Best for Art and Craft? Determining the best company for Blick Art Materials and craft supplies depends on your specific needs. Craft Direct is great for competitive pricing and a wide variety of supplies. If you’re focused on sewing, JoAnn offers extensive fabric and sewing options. For high-quality designer fabrics, consider Mood Designer Fabrics. Knitters and crocheters will appreciate Purl Soho’s premium yarn selections. Finally, Cricut is ideal for innovative tools and materials, especially for paper crafts. Conclusion In summary, exploring the best online craft supply stores can greatly improve your creative projects. Stores like Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby offer diverse materials, whereas Blick Art Materials and Scrapbook.com cater to specialized needs. For unique items, Etsy connects you with independent creators. Furthermore, retailers such as ArtResin and Tandy Leather provide specialty supplies. By choosing the right store, you can access a wide range of tools and materials customized to your crafting requirements, ensuring successful outcomes. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Best Online Craft Supply Stores for Your Next Project" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re planning your next crafting project, choosing the right online supply store can make a significant difference. Stores like Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby offer extensive selections of materials and tools for various crafts. For specialized needs, Blick Art Materials and Scrapbook.com are excellent options. Furthermore, platforms like Etsy provide unique supplies from independent creators. Comprehending what each store offers will help you find the best supplies customized to your project requirements. Key Takeaways Explore a wide range of craft supplies, including art materials, fabrics, and seasonal items at reputable online stores. Take advantage of exclusive promotions and discounts from trusted brands like Cricut and Tim Holtz for savings on your projects. Look for online stores that offer free shipping on orders over $69, making bulk purchases more economical. Regularly check for new arrivals and fresh options to stay updated with the latest crafting trends. Utilize in-store pick-up options if available, for convenience and to avoid delivery waits on your craft supplies. Shop Popular Departments When you shop popular departments at craft supply stores, you’ll find a wide range of materials customized to various projects. From crafting necessities to specialized wreath making tools, these stores cater to all your creative needs. Regularly check the weekly flier for current sales and promotions, ensuring you can save money as you stock up on supplies. If you prefer convenience, consider utilizing the in-store pick-up option, allowing you to avoid delivery waits. Many craft supply stores online offer free shipping on orders over $69, making it easier to purchase in bulk. With new items added daily, you’ll always have fresh options for crafts and scrapbooking, ensuring your creativity knows no bounds while remaining within your budget. Shop the Brands You Love When you shop at craft supply stores, you’ll find a wide selection of trusted brands that cater to all your crafting needs, ensuring you get high-quality products every time. Many stores likewise offer exclusive promotions on these popular brands, allowing you to save money during stocking up on your favorite supplies. Staying updated on the latest arrivals can help you discover new trends and products that improve your creative projects. Trusted Brand Selection Craft supply stores prioritize offering a wide range of trusted brands, ensuring you have access to quality products that meet various crafting needs. By shopping at craft stores online, you can explore well-known brands like Doodlebug, Tim Holtz, and Cricut, each celebrated for their innovative designs and attention to detail. Regular updates on new brand arrivals keep you informed about the latest offerings, whereas brand-specific promotions often help you save on your favorite supplies. If you’re looking for wholesale deco mesh and ribbon, these trusted brands provide a variety of options that cater to different projects. Feedback from satisfied customers highlights the quality and creativity of these products, making brand selection a vital aspect of your crafting experience. Exclusive Brand Promotions Exclusive brand promotions give you the chance to save on high-quality supplies from your favorite crafting brands. Many online craft stores offer an extensive selection of trusted names, ensuring you get reliable products customized to your specific needs. You’ll find regular updates on new brand arrivals that keep you informed about the latest trends and innovative supplies in the crafting community. Furthermore, exclusive deals and brand-specific promotions allow you to save on popular, high-demand items, making it easier to stock up on necessities without overspending. Look out for discounts on select brands, as these promotions provide excellent opportunities to improve your creative projects with dependable materials as you keep your budget intact. Check Out Our Create Blog Explore the Create Blog, where you’ll find a wealth of crafting guides designed to inspire and improve your creative projects. You’ll discover detailed DIY guides, like how to make beautiful paper flowers or build budget-friendly pallet furniture that enhances your home. If you’re an artist, the blog offers tips on selecting the right easel to uplift your crafting experience. For families, there are fun paper plate crafts particularly designed for kids, promoting both creativity and engagement. Furthermore, you can explore suggestions for personalizing your projects, allowing you to add a unique touch. Finally, the blog highlights affordable custom framing options, enabling you to preserve and showcase your cherished memories in style. Easy Crafting Projects If you’re looking for simple DIY ideas, crafting projects can be a great way to express your creativity without a major time commitment. Consider starting with easy quilling projects that merely require paper strips, or create a seasonal wreath to freshen up your home decor. These projects not just improve your crafting skills but additionally allow you to personalize each piece to reflect your unique style. Simple DIY Ideas Crafting can be an enjoyable and fulfilling way to express your creativity, especially when you start with simple DIY projects that require minimal materials and effort. For beginners, consider exploring five accessible quilling projects, which are perfect for honing your skills. You’ll also want to gather crucial drawing materials to enhance your artistic work, ensuring you have everything you need to produce stunning pieces. Personalizing your craft projects adds a unique touch, allowing you to tailor designs to your style. In addition, DIY spring wreath ideas can inspire you to incorporate seasonal décor into your home, enriching your crafting experience. These projects are great entry points, making crafting enjoyable and approachable for everyone. Seasonal Craft Inspiration As the seasons change, so do the opportunities for creative expression through crafting. For spring, consider making DIY wreaths with fresh floral designs and lively colors, which can brighten up your home. If you’re new to crafting, five simple quilling projects can help you create beautiful pieces with minimal supplies. To improve your skills, explore tips for personalizing your crafts, making them truly unique. For family fun, try budget-friendly paper plate crafts that use common household materials, ensuring enjoyable activities for kids. Moreover, a guide for making paper flowers offers step-by-step instructions, allowing you to create lively floral arrangements that can add a seasonal touch to any space. Immerse yourself in these projects and let your creativity flourish! Craft Supplies and Categories When you explore craft supply stores, you’ll discover a diverse range of categories designed to meet various creative needs. These categories cater to different crafting interests and guarantee you find quality materials. Here are some popular categories you can expect: Art Supplies: From paints to brushes, explore mediums for every artist. Paper Crafts: Find cardstock, scrapbooking materials, and embellishments for creative expression. Quilting and Fabrics: Access a variety of fabrics and quilting supplies for sewing projects. Seasonal Items: Discover floral bushes, ribbons, and deco mesh for enhancing your seasonal decorations. Many stores likewise stock trusted brands and provide resources like DIY guides and personalization tips. This broad selection empowers you to tackle any craft project with confidence. Craft Blanks for Custom Creations Exploring craft blanks opens up a world of possibilities for custom creations that can reflect your unique style or brand. Craft blanks like tumblers, keychains, and apparel are available at wholesale prices, making them perfect for your customization projects. You’ll find a large selection of premium YETI cups and tumblers designed particularly for crafters and small businesses. All necessary supplies are provided in one place, along with linked video guidance for various projects. These materials cater to both beginners and experienced crafters, ensuring a seamless crafting experience. Craft blanks are ideal for seasonal décor and personalized gifts, allowing you to express your creativity through sublimation, vinyl, and painting techniques. Item Type Customization Methods Ideal Uses Tumblers Sublimation, Vinyl Gifts, Events Keychains Painting, Vinyl Personalized Items Apparel Heat Transfer, Vinyl Custom Merchandise Home Décor Painting, Sublimation Seasonal Decorations Resin & Epoxy Crafting Resin and epoxy crafting offers a versatile avenue for creating stunning custom projects, from jewelry to home décor. To achieve professional results, you’ll need premium materials and crucial tools. Here are four key items to take into account: Silicone Molds: These are perfect for shaping your resin into unique designs, whether it’s pendants or coasters. Pigments: Use high-quality pigments to add lively colors to your projects, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. UV Resin: This type cures quickly under UV light, allowing for faster project completion, ideal for time-sensitive crafting. Comprehensive Tutorials: Accessing detailed guides will help you navigate the crafting process, boosting your skills and creativity. With these supplies, you can create stunning resin art that lasts. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Crafting Website? When considering the best crafting website, focus on your specific needs. Websites like Craft Direct offer high-quality supplies at competitive prices, whereas JoAnn and Mood Designer Fabrics provide a wide range of materials for various projects. If you’re interested in cutting machines, Cricut and Silhouette specialize in those tools. For unique items, check Etsy and independent retailers. Furthermore, crafting blogs and tutorials can improve your skills and inspire your creativity. What Is the Most Popular Craft Store? When considering the most popular craft store, you’ll find several strong contenders. Michaels stands out with its vast inventory and frequent promotions, making it a go-to for many crafters. JoAnn is well-regarded for its fabric and sewing supplies, whereas Hobby Lobby offers unique items at reasonable prices. Craft Direct caters to DIY enthusiasts with competitive pricing, and Amazon provides an extensive range of products with fast shipping, appealing to diverse crafting needs. Are Craft Supply Stores Profitable? Yes, craft supply stores can be quite profitable. With the global craft market valued over $40 billion, demand for supplies is strong. Online retailers, in particular, enjoy lower overhead costs, enabling competitive pricing. Seasonal spikes during holidays and events drive sales, contributing to profitability. Successful stores likewise build loyal customer bases through effective marketing and community engagement, which nurtures repeat business and referrals, enhancing their overall revenue potential. Which Company Is Best for Art and Craft? Determining the best company for Blick Art Materials and craft supplies depends on your specific needs. Craft Direct is great for competitive pricing and a wide variety of supplies. If you’re focused on sewing, JoAnn offers extensive fabric and sewing options. For high-quality designer fabrics, consider Mood Designer Fabrics. Knitters and crocheters will appreciate Purl Soho’s premium yarn selections. Finally, Cricut is ideal for innovative tools and materials, especially for paper crafts. Conclusion In summary, exploring the best online craft supply stores can greatly improve your creative projects. Stores like Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby offer diverse materials, whereas Blick Art Materials and Scrapbook.com cater to specialized needs. For unique items, Etsy connects you with independent creators. Furthermore, retailers such as ArtResin and Tandy Leather provide specialty supplies. By choosing the right store, you can access a wide range of tools and materials customized to your crafting requirements, ensuring successful outcomes. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Best Online Craft Supply Stores for Your Next Project" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Pakistan gets almost all its oil and gas from the Middle East, where U.S. and Israeli bombing of Iran have caused crude prices to blow past $150 a barrel and tankers can’t get through the Strait of Hormuz. But it has one edge in the crisis: a rapid, recent shift to solar power. The country’s solar boom started in the wake of the Ukraine war, when Pakistan couldn’t afford to buy liquefied natural gas and that led to power outages. “It also led to soaring electricity bills,” says Rabia Babar, an energy market analyst at the Pakistan-based nonprofit Renewables First. Some power bills were as much as 30-40% of people’s income, sometimes more than they were spending on rent. At the same time, the price of solar panels had steeply fallen, with an oversupply from Chinese manufacturers that was easily accessible in Pakistan. And so people started buying and installing solar—often to avoid using grid power. “You could go to your local bodega, buy a solar panel and charge controller and a battery, and install it yourself,” says Jigar Shah, an energy entrepreneur and investor who previously led the Loans Program Office at the U.S. Department of Energy. “It was so cheap that people were able to do it with discretionary funds, $50 that they had.” A grassroots DIY movement quickly grew. Self-taught solar entrepreneurs learned about installation and repair on YouTube and in local WhatsApp groups. As people installed solar on their roofs, their neighbors followed. Businesses added solar and batteries on factory buildings. Farmers started using solar pumps, rather than diesel, for irrigation. Cheap solar panels also helped bring power to rural homes that had always been off the grid. Last year, the country was the second-largest importer of Chinese solar panels in the world. Ten percent of the grid shifted to solar in just a few years, driven largely by these small installations. “When you think about the sheer volume and the population of Pakistan, it certainly is the largest deployment of solar and battery storage to solve energy poverty in the world,” Shah says. Over the last nine years, the country has imported a massive 51 gigawatts of solar power. (For comparison, that’s more than the entire capacity of power plants on the country’s electric grid.) That’s helped Pakistan avoid spending more than $12 billion on fossil fuel imports, according to a report from Renewables First. This year, as crude prices have surged, the country could save another $6.3 billion. (Pakistan still relies almost entirely on fossil fuels for transportation, as EV adoption in the country is at an earlier stage. ) The transition hasn’t gone perfectly. Because solar grew organically without top-down planning, utilities suddenly lost so much business that they’ve faced financial challenges keeping older infrastructure afloat. The lesson for other developing countries, Shah says, is that utilities should help customers install cheap solar so that the whole system can be coordinated. But the current crisis is likely to speed up the solar transition. “Consumers who are running on diesel in Pakistan—but not just Pakistan, but Kenya, Tanzania, etcetera—their price of diesel just doubled,” says Shah. “If you’re the guy in Pakistan who still hasn’t switched to solar, you’re probably switching to solar this year.” View the full article

David Handler, a technology dealmaker, wins reversal from Delaware Supreme CourtView the full article

Dozens of backbenchers have endorsed the former deputy PM’s criticism of the government’s ‘un-British’ plansView the full article