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Shortly after he was confirmed as President Donald Trump’s transportation secretary, Sean Duffy circulated a memo that instructed his department to prioritize families by, among other things, giving preference to communities with marriage and birth rates higher than the national average when awarding grants. Connecticut Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal called the directive last week “deeply frightening,” and Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray called it “disturbingly dystopian.” The memo also calls for prohibiting governments that get Department of Transportation funds from imposing vaccine and mask mandates and requiring their cooperation with the administration’s immigration enforcement efforts. With hundreds of billions of dollars in transportation money still unspent from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, such changes could be a boon for projects in Republican-majority states, which on average have higher fertility rates than those leaning Democratic. States controlled by Democrats were generally more receptive to mask and vaccine rules to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and have been more resistant to Trump’s immigration raids. More births for more roads? All administrations set their own rules for choosing which transportation projects to prioritize. But some of Duffy’s directives were received as highly unusual. “Distributing transportation funding based marriage and birth rates is bizarre and a little creepy,” said Kevin DeGood, senior director of infrastructure and housing policy at the left-leaning Center for American Progress. “States and regions with aging populations tend, on average, to have lower birth rates . . . Are they somehow not deserving of transportation investment?” According to the latest figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2022, the 14 states with the highest fertility rates backed Trump in the November election while the bottom 11 plus the District of Columbia supported Democrat Kamala Harris. Marriage rates tend to skew higher for red states too, but by a smaller margin. Vice President JD Vance has long expressed concern about declining birth rates, citing national economic needs as well as the inherent value of children. Tennessee Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn raised the idea of tying transportation funding to population growth during Duffy’s confirmation hearing. “People are leaving some of these blue states and coming to places like Tennessee,” she said. “And this means that we need to look at where those federal highway dollars are spent and placing them in areas with growing needs rather than areas that are losing population.” Sarah Hayford, sociology professor and director of the Institute for Population Research at Ohio State University, said she had never heard of birth rates being used to set funding priorities. “I was a little surprised,” she said. “Often the policy around birth rates is trying to address challenges or barriers to people not having children. This seems more focused on rewarding people for already having children.” The U.S. birth rate has been declining since 2007, which Hayford attributes in part to economic uncertainty during the Great Recession. She said research has tied higher birth rates to areas with lower education. Longstanding transportation policy already considers where kids live, said Beth Jarosz, senior program director at the nonpartisan and nonprofit Population Reference Bureau. “If what you’re trying to do is support families, birth rates aren’t necessarily the best way to do that,” she said, pointing out that many growing families move to new communities when they find their homes are too small. The Department of Transportation has not responded to questions about the memo. So far, lawmakers and advocates are unaware of birth and marriage rates being linked to non-transportation grants. Blue states push back Blumenthal said the transportation secretary’s focus on birth and marriage rates was “reminiscent of what you might see in the People’s Republic of China.” “On its face, it’s social engineering. But clearly and indisputably, it is a dagger aimed at blue states,” he said. “It is patently discriminatory if you look at the numbers. This criteria was designed to punish blue states and coerce states to change their lawful policy on tolls, vaccines, and immigration.” U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume, a Maryland Democrat, said he feared Duffy’s directives would harm some grants already announced—including $85 million awarded to Baltimore in the final weeks of the Biden administration to transform a blighted stretch of U.S. 40 known as the “highway to nowhere.” “If it’s an effort to reward red states, he ought to just go ahead and say that,” Mfume said. “Otherwise, there will be a lot of challenges by states and advocacy organizations all over the country who have no choice but to fight back, and that fight will become a legal one.” Yet Jarosz said the policy’s political intentions are unclear, noting communities like San Diego and Sacramento in California are above the national average in terms of birth rates, while certain rural areas of the country are below. Is this even legal? Legal experts say it is too early to know whether anything in Duffy’s memo could be struck down by the courts. Although it is difficult to make a legal argument for funding equality based on political affiliation, federal law does protect against discrimination over such things as race, sex, and disabilities. Joel Roberson, who handles transportation and infrastructure cases at the Washington, D.C., law firm Holland & Knight, said administrations have widespread authority to set their own criteria for awarding money. However, communities denied funding could file a lawsuit arguing they endured an illegal “disparate impact.” As for whether Trump could redirect transportation grants awarded under Biden, Roberson said it largely depends on the status of the project and whether Congress has already appropriated the funding. State transportation officials have expressed confidence that changes in priorities won’t impact the federal funds states use to set their own transportation priorities and build roads. But many other grants are awarded at the discretion of the administration in power. Less clear is the status of some already approved discretionary grants, such as an agreement signed just before former President Joe Biden left office committing $1.9 billion toward a nearly $5.7 billion project to add four new L stations in South Side Chicago. Blumenthal, a former state attorney general and federal prosecutor, said Duffy’s edict created “uncertainty and confusion” and pointed out it doesn’t carry any legal weight like statutes and regulations do. He predicted courts would ultimately reject the policy. “Anybody can write a memo,” Blumenthal said. —Jeff McMurray and Susan Haigh, Associated Press View the full article

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With tax season officially underway, you'll need to know the standard deduction amount you can claim for 2024. After all, most taxpayers opt to take the standard deduction rather than itemizing deductions on their federal income tax return. The standard deduction amounts tend to increase slightly each year to adjust for inflation. So let's take a look at how much you can claim in 2025 for the 2024 tax year. What's this year's standard deduction? For tax returns filed in 2025 for the 2024 tax year, here are the standard deduction amounts: Single filers: $14,600 (up from $13,850 in tax year 2023) Married couples filing jointly: $29,200 (up from $27,700 in tax year 2023) Heads of household: $21,900 (up from $20,800 in tax year 2023) Filers who are 65 or older or are blind may be eligible to claim an even higher standard deduction. For 2024, the amounts are: Single or head of household: an additional $1,950 Married filing jointly: an additional $1,550 So for example, a 68-year-old single filer would claim a $16,550 standard deduction for tax year 2024. The standard deduction makes taxes simpler for many—you can claim this base amount without having to detail itemized deductions like mortgage interest, charitable gifts, medical expenses and more. But for some filers who do have significant eligible expenses, itemizing remains the better route if the total exceeds the standard deduction. As the 2025 deadline approaches in the coming months, double-check your standard deduction amount and filing status before preparing your 1040. The IRS website also offers useful resources on deduction rules and eligibility. View the full article

Traders pay up to secure copper, steel and aluminium supplies before US president’s levies come into effectView the full article

Bubble tea, or boba tea, is a popular beverage that originated in Taiwan. It usually includes tea, milk, tapioca balls, and sometimes other toppings. There are several franchises available in the U.S. for entrepreneurs interested in building a business around this beverage. Here are a few bubble tea franchise opportunities to consider. Top Bubble Tea Franchises If you’re ready to start a bubble tea business, there are plenty of brands offering new franchise locations around the U.S. Here are some top bubble tea franchise opportunities to consider. Kung Fu Tea Kung Fu Tea is a popular brand with over 2000 stores across the U.S. The company provides a ten-step process for launching your own bubble tea franchise. Additionally, they offer various store models, including traditional storefronts and locations in airports and shopping centers. Upfront costs vary from $140,000 to $422,000 for a traditional store. Tapioca Express Tapioca Express has around 29 franchise locations in the U.S., primarily situated along the West Coast. The company offers extensive startup support services, including location selection and employee training. The initial investment ranges from approximately $200,000 to $527,000. Gong Cha Gong Cha is a bubble tea franchise that originally launched in Taiwan. Stores offer fresh tea sourced from Taiwan and tapioca pearls made from the finest ingredients. The company is currently seeking new franchisees in a number of quality locations, mainly in the Northeast. Estimated startup costs range from $177,430 to $335,400 for a single unit. Bubbleology Bubbleology is a small franchise business that offers boba, waffles, and various fruit-flavored milk teas. The recognized brand looks for experienced retail operators to develop exclusive territories across the U.S. The company only has a few locations currently, so there are many open territories available, with estimated upfront costs falling between $205,850 and $458,950. Sharetea Sharetea offers a variety of beverages, including traditional tea, milk tea, blended drinks, and fruit juices. The company originally launched in 1992 and has more than 150 stores across North America. So there’s plenty of brand recognition, but still room for growth in popular markets. Startup costs vary, starting around $300,000. Koi Tea Koi Tea provides a bubble tea franchise opportunity for individuals with experience in food service and/or retail. Each boba shop features a diverse selection of tea beverages along with rolled ice cream and various other delights. The starting investment is typically between $200,000 and $500,000. Ding Tea Ding Tea is a global brand offering franchise opportunities in the U.S. The company simply requires franchisees to be at least 20 years old, have some business experience, and be passionate about the tea industry. The initial investment ranges from about $123,000 to $422,000. CUPP Bubble Tea CUPP Bubble Tea is a U.K.-based bubble tea brand. There aren’t currently any locations in the U.S. However, the company offers an international master franchise program for those interested in opening the first bubble tea franchises in a new country. Costs for a new store start at £80,000. However, international franchises are likely to incur extra costs since they are responsible for entire territories. Bambu Bambu is a dessert and tea franchise offering boba tea, coffee, and exotic fruit smoothies. There are several locations spread throughout the country, but still room for growth in many in-demand markets. The initial investment falls between $137,000 and $321,000. HTeaO HTeaO was first introduced in Texas. The stores specialize in flavored iced teas, blended beverages, and coffee. The initial investment varies between $289,200 and $859,000. FranchiseNumber of Locations in the U.S.Cost RangeUnique Aspects Kung Fu TeaOver 2002$140,000 - $422,000Offers multiple store models Tapioca Express29$200,000 - $527,000Provides wide array of startup support services Gong ChaNot Specified$177,430 - $335,400Originated from Taiwan, seeking franchisees mainly in the Northeast BubbleologyFew$205,850 - $458,950Many open territories available ShareteaOver 150From $300,000Variety of beverages available Koi TeaNot Specified$200,000 - $500,000Franchising opportunity for those with food service and/or retail experience Ding TeaNot Specified$123,000 - $422,000Global brand, minimal requirements for franchisees CUPP Bubble TeaNoneFrom £80,000 (UK-based)Offers international master franchise program BambuSeveral$137,000 - $321,000Offers tea, coffee, and exotic fruit smoothies HTeaONot Specified$289,200 - $859,000Focus on flavored iced teas, blended drinks, and coffee Our Methodology: The Top Bubble Tea Franchises To assist entrepreneurs in making informed decisions regarding bubble tea franchise investments, we utilize a comprehensive set of evaluation criteria. Each criterion is assessed on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing the least importance and 5 indicating the highest significance in our evaluation process: Market Demand and Trend Analysis Importance: 5 We evaluate the current and projected market demand for bubble tea. The popularity and trend growth of the product in targeted areas are crucial indicators of potential success. Franchise Cost and Financial Requirements Importance: 4 The initial investment, including franchise fees and setup costs, is a significant consideration. We assess the affordability and value for money of the franchise opportunity. Brand Recognition and Reputation Importance: 5 A franchise with strong brand recognition can attract more customers. We look at the franchise’s market presence, customer reviews, and overall brand reputation. Quality and Variety of Products Importance: 4 The quality of the bubble tea and the variety of flavors and options offered are important for customer satisfaction and repeat business. Training and Franchisee Support Importance: 4 We consider the level of training and ongoing support provided by the franchisor, including marketing, operational guidance, and assistance in establishing the business. Operational Efficiency and Technology Importance: 3 The efficiency of operations and the implementation of technology in business management can greatly influence profitability. This encompasses aspects such as inventory management, sales tracking, and customer service systems. Compliance and Regulatory Considerations Importance: 3 Understanding the health and safety regulations, as well as any specific food industry compliance requirements, is essential for the lawful operation of the franchise. Location and Territory Rights Importance: 4 The success of a bubble tea franchise can heavily depend on location. We assess the franchisor’s policies on territory rights and location assistance. By applying these criteria, we aim to identify bubble tea franchise opportunities that demonstrate strong profit potential, align with current market trends, and offer extensive support and resources for franchisees. The Growth of the Bubble Tea Market Bubble tea, initially a niche product, has grown exponentially in popularity across the globe. This trend has significant implications for entrepreneurs considering a bubble tea franchise. Understanding the dynamics behind this growth can offer insights into the long-term viability of these business ventures. Global Influence and Adaptation: Originally from Taiwan, bubble tea has adapted to various cultures, incorporating local flavors and preferences. This adaptability suggests a continued evolution and relevance in diverse markets. Increasing Consumer Base: The customer base for bubble tea is not just limited to the Asian diaspora. It has become a favorite among a broad demographic, including young adults and health-conscious consumers looking for alternatives to traditional soft drinks. Social Media Impact: Bubble tea’s photogenic qualities have made it popular on social media platforms. This visual appeal helps in organic marketing, as customers often share their bubble tea experiences online, contributing to its widespread popularity. What is a Bubble Tea Franchise? A bubble tea franchise is an independently owned business that sells bubble tea using a franchise model. This business structure involves a larger brand that is owned by a corporation and individual stores that are owned and operated by local franchisees. Franchisees pay an initial fee and ongoing royalties in exchange for the ability to use the brand’s established systems, branding, and resources. What a Bubble Tea Franchise Involves: Brand Recognition: One of the primary benefits of owning a franchise is the ability to operate under a well-known brand. This helps attract customers who are already familiar with the brand’s offerings and reputation. It also reduces the amount of marketing and advertising the franchisee needs to do. Initial Franchise Fee: To acquire a franchise, you generally have to pay an initial fee. This gives you the right to use the franchisor’s brand and business system. The amount varies depending on the franchise, but it typically ranges from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars. Ongoing Royalties: In addition to the initial franchise fee, franchisees usually have to pay ongoing royalties to the franchisor. This is typically a percentage of the franchise’s gross revenue and is used to fund corporate support services like advertising, training, and operational support. Training and Support: Franchisors typically offer extensive training programs to ensure that franchisees are equipped to run the business effectively. This training might include everything from how to make bubble tea to how to manage the store’s finances. Additionally, franchisors often provide ongoing support in areas such as marketing, supply chain management, and product development. Location: Franchisees typically receive help from the franchisor in finding and securing a suitable location for the store. The franchisor may provide guidelines or requirements for the location to ensure it fits with the brand’s image and target market. Operational Guidelines: Franchises operate under specific guidelines provided by the franchisor. These guidelines cover everything from store design and layout to the types of products that can be sold. These standards are designed to ensure consistency across all franchises. Marketing and Advertising: Franchisors often manage large-scale marketing and advertising efforts on behalf of the entire franchise network. They may also provide guidance or resources to franchisees for local marketing efforts. Supply Chain: Franchisors typically have established relationships with suppliers, which franchisees can take advantage of. This can result in cost savings and ensures consistency in the products used and sold across all franchise locations. Owning a bubble tea franchise can be a lucrative opportunity for those interested in this trendy and popular beverage. It offers the chance to own a business with an established brand and a proven business model while still enjoying the autonomy of being a business owner. However, it’s important to carefully consider the costs and commitments involved before deciding to invest in a franchise. Why You Should Consider a Bubble Tea Franchise If you’re looking to start a business this year, here are several reasons to think about opening a bubble tea franchise: Stand out in a crowded beverage industry: Bubble tea is a unique offering in many U.S. cities. Though lots of these businesses also offer other specialty beverages like coffees and teas, a bubble tea shop is likely to get noticed. Build brand recognition: Thanks to having franchises in other markets around the country, some people are likely to already know of major bubble tea brands. So you shouldn’t have to work as hard to build trust and recognition. Get up and running quickly: Franchises offer proven systems and support with tasks like site selection and training. So you don’t have to figure these elements out on your own. Access to proven business systems: Once you’ve launched, they also provide support with marketing materials, inventory, and equipment purchases. Expand your offerings: Bubble tea shops often provide additional food and beverage options as well. So, this may be the ideal way to break into the beverage world with a small shop. How to Choose the Best Franchise to Start Your Bubble Tea Business If you’ve decided that a bubble tea franchise is right for you, there are many businesses to consider. Here are some tips for making the best decision for your goals. Consider Your Budget How much money do you have to dedicate to a franchise fee and other upfront costs? Many companies also require new franchisees to have a certain net worth to meet ongoing costs until the store becomes profitable. Research Your Local Market What bubble tea businesses already have a location in your area? If you can offer something new, your franchise may be more likely to stand out. Additionally, if you’re interested in eventually expanding with a multi-unit development, consider a brand with lots of open territory near you. Look at the Support Systems Each franchise system offers different types of support, from marketing to helping design store layouts. Think about the elements of operating a business that you need the most help with, and consider the opportunities that provide help in those important areas. Dig Into the Finances Aside from your initial investment, research ongoing expenses for each franchise, along with potential earnings. Each model should provide financial data in their franchise disclosure documentation. Sustainability in Bubble Tea Franchising Eco-Friendly Practices: With growing awareness about environmental issues, many bubble tea franchises are adopting sustainable practices. This includes using biodegradable cups and straws, sourcing ingredients locally to reduce carbon footprint, and implementing waste reduction strategies. Health-Conscious Options: Certain franchises are now providing healthier variations of bubble tea by incorporating organic ingredients, reducing sugar content, and offering dairy alternatives. This strategy addresses the growing demand for more nutritious beverage choices and can serve as a distinctive selling point for a bubble tea franchise. Community Engagement: Many bubble tea franchises actively engage in community events and local causes. This not only boosts the brand’s image but also fosters a loyal customer base who value corporate social responsibility. The Future of Bubble Tea Franchising The bubble tea market continues to grow, and its dynamic nature offers exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs. The increasing focus on sustainability and health-conscious options is not merely a trend; it is becoming essential to the food and beverage industry. As you consider a bubble tea franchise, these factors are as crucial as the financial and operational aspects. Embracing these trends can set your bubble tea business apart and position it for long-term success in a competitive market. How much does it cost to start a boba tea franchise? Each boba tea franchise has its own costs, which also vary by location. However, most brands estimate the initial investment to fall between $200,000 and $500,000. You probably won’t find many bubble tea shops when searching for franchises under 10k or even franchises under 20k. A few franchises offering a kiosk or mobile model may fall near the range of franchises under 50k. Is a bubble tea franchise profitable? As is the case with nearly any industry, some bubble tea franchises are profitable, while others are not. However, this business model certainly can bring in significant income. Many franchise owners report profit margins of 20 to 30 percent. Check the list above for some of the most profitable franchises in the bubble tea industry. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Bubble Tea Franchises: A Profitable Business Opportunity" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Bubble tea, or boba tea, is a popular beverage that originated in Taiwan. It usually includes tea, milk, tapioca balls, and sometimes other toppings. There are several franchises available in the U.S. for entrepreneurs interested in building a business around this beverage. Here are a few bubble tea franchise opportunities to consider. Top Bubble Tea Franchises If you’re ready to start a bubble tea business, there are plenty of brands offering new franchise locations around the U.S. Here are some top bubble tea franchise opportunities to consider. Kung Fu Tea Kung Fu Tea is a popular brand with over 2000 stores across the U.S. The company provides a ten-step process for launching your own bubble tea franchise. Additionally, they offer various store models, including traditional storefronts and locations in airports and shopping centers. Upfront costs vary from $140,000 to $422,000 for a traditional store. Tapioca Express Tapioca Express has around 29 franchise locations in the U.S., primarily situated along the West Coast. The company offers extensive startup support services, including location selection and employee training. The initial investment ranges from approximately $200,000 to $527,000. Gong Cha Gong Cha is a bubble tea franchise that originally launched in Taiwan. Stores offer fresh tea sourced from Taiwan and tapioca pearls made from the finest ingredients. The company is currently seeking new franchisees in a number of quality locations, mainly in the Northeast. Estimated startup costs range from $177,430 to $335,400 for a single unit. Bubbleology Bubbleology is a small franchise business that offers boba, waffles, and various fruit-flavored milk teas. The recognized brand looks for experienced retail operators to develop exclusive territories across the U.S. The company only has a few locations currently, so there are many open territories available, with estimated upfront costs falling between $205,850 and $458,950. Sharetea Sharetea offers a variety of beverages, including traditional tea, milk tea, blended drinks, and fruit juices. The company originally launched in 1992 and has more than 150 stores across North America. So there’s plenty of brand recognition, but still room for growth in popular markets. Startup costs vary, starting around $300,000. Koi Tea Koi Tea provides a bubble tea franchise opportunity for individuals with experience in food service and/or retail. Each boba shop features a diverse selection of tea beverages along with rolled ice cream and various other delights. The starting investment is typically between $200,000 and $500,000. Ding Tea Ding Tea is a global brand offering franchise opportunities in the U.S. The company simply requires franchisees to be at least 20 years old, have some business experience, and be passionate about the tea industry. The initial investment ranges from about $123,000 to $422,000. CUPP Bubble Tea CUPP Bubble Tea is a U.K.-based bubble tea brand. There aren’t currently any locations in the U.S. However, the company offers an international master franchise program for those interested in opening the first bubble tea franchises in a new country. Costs for a new store start at £80,000. However, international franchises are likely to incur extra costs since they are responsible for entire territories. Bambu Bambu is a dessert and tea franchise offering boba tea, coffee, and exotic fruit smoothies. There are several locations spread throughout the country, but still room for growth in many in-demand markets. The initial investment falls between $137,000 and $321,000. HTeaO HTeaO was first introduced in Texas. The stores specialize in flavored iced teas, blended beverages, and coffee. The initial investment varies between $289,200 and $859,000. FranchiseNumber of Locations in the U.S.Cost RangeUnique Aspects Kung Fu TeaOver 2002$140,000 - $422,000Offers multiple store models Tapioca Express29$200,000 - $527,000Provides wide array of startup support services Gong ChaNot Specified$177,430 - $335,400Originated from Taiwan, seeking franchisees mainly in the Northeast BubbleologyFew$205,850 - $458,950Many open territories available ShareteaOver 150From $300,000Variety of beverages available Koi TeaNot Specified$200,000 - $500,000Franchising opportunity for those with food service and/or retail experience Ding TeaNot Specified$123,000 - $422,000Global brand, minimal requirements for franchisees CUPP Bubble TeaNoneFrom £80,000 (UK-based)Offers international master franchise program BambuSeveral$137,000 - $321,000Offers tea, coffee, and exotic fruit smoothies HTeaONot Specified$289,200 - $859,000Focus on flavored iced teas, blended drinks, and coffee Our Methodology: The Top Bubble Tea Franchises To assist entrepreneurs in making informed decisions regarding bubble tea franchise investments, we utilize a comprehensive set of evaluation criteria. Each criterion is assessed on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing the least importance and 5 indicating the highest significance in our evaluation process: Market Demand and Trend Analysis Importance: 5 We evaluate the current and projected market demand for bubble tea. The popularity and trend growth of the product in targeted areas are crucial indicators of potential success. Franchise Cost and Financial Requirements Importance: 4 The initial investment, including franchise fees and setup costs, is a significant consideration. We assess the affordability and value for money of the franchise opportunity. Brand Recognition and Reputation Importance: 5 A franchise with strong brand recognition can attract more customers. We look at the franchise’s market presence, customer reviews, and overall brand reputation. Quality and Variety of Products Importance: 4 The quality of the bubble tea and the variety of flavors and options offered are important for customer satisfaction and repeat business. Training and Franchisee Support Importance: 4 We consider the level of training and ongoing support provided by the franchisor, including marketing, operational guidance, and assistance in establishing the business. Operational Efficiency and Technology Importance: 3 The efficiency of operations and the implementation of technology in business management can greatly influence profitability. This encompasses aspects such as inventory management, sales tracking, and customer service systems. Compliance and Regulatory Considerations Importance: 3 Understanding the health and safety regulations, as well as any specific food industry compliance requirements, is essential for the lawful operation of the franchise. Location and Territory Rights Importance: 4 The success of a bubble tea franchise can heavily depend on location. We assess the franchisor’s policies on territory rights and location assistance. By applying these criteria, we aim to identify bubble tea franchise opportunities that demonstrate strong profit potential, align with current market trends, and offer extensive support and resources for franchisees. The Growth of the Bubble Tea Market Bubble tea, initially a niche product, has grown exponentially in popularity across the globe. This trend has significant implications for entrepreneurs considering a bubble tea franchise. Understanding the dynamics behind this growth can offer insights into the long-term viability of these business ventures. Global Influence and Adaptation: Originally from Taiwan, bubble tea has adapted to various cultures, incorporating local flavors and preferences. This adaptability suggests a continued evolution and relevance in diverse markets. Increasing Consumer Base: The customer base for bubble tea is not just limited to the Asian diaspora. It has become a favorite among a broad demographic, including young adults and health-conscious consumers looking for alternatives to traditional soft drinks. Social Media Impact: Bubble tea’s photogenic qualities have made it popular on social media platforms. This visual appeal helps in organic marketing, as customers often share their bubble tea experiences online, contributing to its widespread popularity. What is a Bubble Tea Franchise? A bubble tea franchise is an independently owned business that sells bubble tea using a franchise model. This business structure involves a larger brand that is owned by a corporation and individual stores that are owned and operated by local franchisees. Franchisees pay an initial fee and ongoing royalties in exchange for the ability to use the brand’s established systems, branding, and resources. What a Bubble Tea Franchise Involves: Brand Recognition: One of the primary benefits of owning a franchise is the ability to operate under a well-known brand. This helps attract customers who are already familiar with the brand’s offerings and reputation. It also reduces the amount of marketing and advertising the franchisee needs to do. Initial Franchise Fee: To acquire a franchise, you generally have to pay an initial fee. This gives you the right to use the franchisor’s brand and business system. The amount varies depending on the franchise, but it typically ranges from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars. Ongoing Royalties: In addition to the initial franchise fee, franchisees usually have to pay ongoing royalties to the franchisor. This is typically a percentage of the franchise’s gross revenue and is used to fund corporate support services like advertising, training, and operational support. Training and Support: Franchisors typically offer extensive training programs to ensure that franchisees are equipped to run the business effectively. This training might include everything from how to make bubble tea to how to manage the store’s finances. Additionally, franchisors often provide ongoing support in areas such as marketing, supply chain management, and product development. Location: Franchisees typically receive help from the franchisor in finding and securing a suitable location for the store. The franchisor may provide guidelines or requirements for the location to ensure it fits with the brand’s image and target market. Operational Guidelines: Franchises operate under specific guidelines provided by the franchisor. These guidelines cover everything from store design and layout to the types of products that can be sold. These standards are designed to ensure consistency across all franchises. Marketing and Advertising: Franchisors often manage large-scale marketing and advertising efforts on behalf of the entire franchise network. They may also provide guidance or resources to franchisees for local marketing efforts. Supply Chain: Franchisors typically have established relationships with suppliers, which franchisees can take advantage of. This can result in cost savings and ensures consistency in the products used and sold across all franchise locations. Owning a bubble tea franchise can be a lucrative opportunity for those interested in this trendy and popular beverage. It offers the chance to own a business with an established brand and a proven business model while still enjoying the autonomy of being a business owner. However, it’s important to carefully consider the costs and commitments involved before deciding to invest in a franchise. Why You Should Consider a Bubble Tea Franchise If you’re looking to start a business this year, here are several reasons to think about opening a bubble tea franchise: Stand out in a crowded beverage industry: Bubble tea is a unique offering in many U.S. cities. Though lots of these businesses also offer other specialty beverages like coffees and teas, a bubble tea shop is likely to get noticed. Build brand recognition: Thanks to having franchises in other markets around the country, some people are likely to already know of major bubble tea brands. So you shouldn’t have to work as hard to build trust and recognition. Get up and running quickly: Franchises offer proven systems and support with tasks like site selection and training. So you don’t have to figure these elements out on your own. Access to proven business systems: Once you’ve launched, they also provide support with marketing materials, inventory, and equipment purchases. Expand your offerings: Bubble tea shops often provide additional food and beverage options as well. So, this may be the ideal way to break into the beverage world with a small shop. How to Choose the Best Franchise to Start Your Bubble Tea Business If you’ve decided that a bubble tea franchise is right for you, there are many businesses to consider. Here are some tips for making the best decision for your goals. Consider Your Budget How much money do you have to dedicate to a franchise fee and other upfront costs? Many companies also require new franchisees to have a certain net worth to meet ongoing costs until the store becomes profitable. Research Your Local Market What bubble tea businesses already have a location in your area? If you can offer something new, your franchise may be more likely to stand out. Additionally, if you’re interested in eventually expanding with a multi-unit development, consider a brand with lots of open territory near you. Look at the Support Systems Each franchise system offers different types of support, from marketing to helping design store layouts. Think about the elements of operating a business that you need the most help with, and consider the opportunities that provide help in those important areas. Dig Into the Finances Aside from your initial investment, research ongoing expenses for each franchise, along with potential earnings. Each model should provide financial data in their franchise disclosure documentation. Sustainability in Bubble Tea Franchising Eco-Friendly Practices: With growing awareness about environmental issues, many bubble tea franchises are adopting sustainable practices. This includes using biodegradable cups and straws, sourcing ingredients locally to reduce carbon footprint, and implementing waste reduction strategies. Health-Conscious Options: Certain franchises are now providing healthier variations of bubble tea by incorporating organic ingredients, reducing sugar content, and offering dairy alternatives. This strategy addresses the growing demand for more nutritious beverage choices and can serve as a distinctive selling point for a bubble tea franchise. Community Engagement: Many bubble tea franchises actively engage in community events and local causes. This not only boosts the brand’s image but also fosters a loyal customer base who value corporate social responsibility. The Future of Bubble Tea Franchising The bubble tea market continues to grow, and its dynamic nature offers exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs. The increasing focus on sustainability and health-conscious options is not merely a trend; it is becoming essential to the food and beverage industry. As you consider a bubble tea franchise, these factors are as crucial as the financial and operational aspects. Embracing these trends can set your bubble tea business apart and position it for long-term success in a competitive market. How much does it cost to start a boba tea franchise? Each boba tea franchise has its own costs, which also vary by location. However, most brands estimate the initial investment to fall between $200,000 and $500,000. You probably won’t find many bubble tea shops when searching for franchises under 10k or even franchises under 20k. A few franchises offering a kiosk or mobile model may fall near the range of franchises under 50k. Is a bubble tea franchise profitable? As is the case with nearly any industry, some bubble tea franchises are profitable, while others are not. However, this business model certainly can bring in significant income. Many franchise owners report profit margins of 20 to 30 percent. Check the list above for some of the most profitable franchises in the bubble tea industry. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Bubble Tea Franchises: A Profitable Business Opportunity" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A single wind turbine spinning off the U.S. Northeast coast today can power thousands of homes—without the pollution that comes from fossil fuel power plants. A dozen of those turbines together can produce enough electricity for an entire community. The opportunity to tap into such a powerful source of locally produced clean energy—and the jobs and economic growth that come with it — is why states from Maine to Virginia have invested in building a U.S. offshore wind industry. But much of that progress may now be at a standstill. One of Donald Trump’s first acts as president in January 2025 was to order a freeze on both leasing federal areas for new offshore wind projects and issuing federal permits for projects that are in progress. The order and Trump’s long-held antipathy toward wind power is creating massive uncertainty for a renewable energy industry at its nascent stage of development in the U.S., and ceding leadership and offshore wind technology to Europe and China. The U.S. Northeast and Northern California have the nation’s strongest offshore winds. [Image: NREL] As a professor of energy policy and former undersecretary of energy for Massachusetts, I’ve seen the potential for offshore wind power, and what the Northeast states, as well as the U.S. wind industry, stand to lose if that growth is shut down for the next four years. Expectations fall from 30 gigawatts by 2030 The Northeast’s coastal states are at the end of the fossil fuel energy pipeline. But they have an abundant local resource that, when built to scale, could provide significant clean energy, jobs and supply chain manufacturing. It could also help the states achieve their ambitious goals to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on climate change. The Biden administration set a national offshore wind goal of 30 gigawatts of capacity in 2030 and 110 gigawatts by 2050. It envisioned an industry supporting 77,000 jobs and powering 10 million homes while cutting emissions. As recently as 2021, at least 28 gigawatts of offshore wind power projects were in the development or planning pipeline. With the Trump order, I believe the U.S. will have, optimistically, less than 5 gigawatts in operation by 2030. That level of offshore wind is certainly not enough to create a viable manufacturing supply chain, provide lasting jobs or deliver the clean energy that the grid requires. In comparison, Europe’s offshore wind capacity in 2023 was 34 gigawatts, up from 5 gigawatts in 2012, and China’s is now at 34 gigawatts. What the states stand to lose Offshore wind is already a proven and operating renewable power source, not an untested technology. Denmark has been receiving power from offshore wind farms since the 1990s. The lost opportunity to the coastal U.S. states is significant in multiple areas. Trump’s order adds deep uncertainty in a developing market. Delays are likely to raise project costs for both future and existing projects, which face an environment of volatile interest rates and tariffs that can raise turbine component costs. It is energy consumers who ultimately pay through their utility bills when resource costs rise. The potential losses to states can run deeper. The energy company Ørsted estimated in early 2024 that its proposed Starboard Offshore Wind project would bring Connecticut nearly US$420 million in direct investment and spending, along with employment equivalent to 800 full-time positions and improved energy system reliability. Massachusetts created an Offshore Wind Energy Investment Trust Fund to support redevelopment projects, including corporate tax credits up to $35 million. A company planning to build a high-voltage cable manufacturing facility there pulled out in January 2025 over the shift in support for offshore wind power. On top of that, power grid upgrades to bring offshore wind energy inland—critical to reliability for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from electricity — will be deferred. Atlantic Coast wind-energy leases as of July 2024. Others wind energy lease areas are in the Gulf of Mexico, off the Pacific coast and off Hawaii. [Image: U.S. Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement] Technology innovation in offshore wind will also likely move abroad, as Maine experienced in 2013 after the state’s Republican governor tried to void a contract with Statoil. The Norwegian company, now known as Equinor, shifted its plans for the world’s first commercial-scale floating wind farm from Maine to Scotland and Scandinavia. Sand in the gears of a complex process Development of energy projects, whether fossil or renewable, is extremely complex, involving multiple actors in the public and private spheres. Uncertainty anywhere along the regulatory chain raises costs. In the U.S., jurisdiction over energy projects often involves both state and federal decision-makers that interact in a complex dance of permitting, studies, legal regulations, community engagement and finance. At each stage in this process, a critical set of decisions determines whether projects will move forward. The federal government, through the Department of Interior’s Bureau of Offshore Energy Management, plays an initial role in identifying, auctioning and permitting the offshore wind areas located in federal waters. States then issue requests for proposals from companies wishing to sell wind power to the grid. Developers who win bureau auctions are eligible to respond. But these agreements are only the beginning. Developers need approval for site, design and construction plans, and several state and federal environmental and regulatory permits are required before the project can begin construction. Trump targeted these critical points in the chain with his indefinite but “temporary” withdrawal of any offshore wind tracts for new leases and a review of any permits still required from federal agencies. Jobs and opportunity delayed A thriving offshore wind industry has the potential to bring jobs, as well as energy and economic growth. In addition to short-term construction, estimates for supply chain jobs range from 12,300 to 49,000 workers annually for subassemblies, parts and materials. The industry needs cables and steel, as well as the turbine parts and blades. It requires jobs in shipping and the movement of cargo. To deliver offshore wind power to the onshore grid will also require grid upgrades, which in turn would improve reliability and promote the growth of other technologies, including batteries. Taken all together, an offshore wind energy transition would build over time. Costs would come down as domestic manufacturing took hold, and clean power would grow. While environmental goals drove initial investments in clean energy, the positive benefits of jobs, technology and infrastructure all became important drivers of offshore wind for the states. Tax incentives, including from the Inflation Reduction Act, now in doubt, have supported the initial financing for projects and helped to lower costs. It’s a long-term investment, but once clear of the regulatory processes, with infrastructure built out and manufacturing in place, the U.S. offshore wind industry would be able to grow more price competitive over time, and states would be able to meet their long-term goals. The Trump order creates uncertainty, delays and likely higher costs in the future. Barbara Kates-Garnick is a professor of practice in energy policy at The Fletcher School at Tufts University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

We're in the final days of Microsoft's free software updates for Windows 10, and a lot of people with perfectly good computers still cannot upgrade to Windows 11. When Microsoft released the latest version of Windows, it put some stringent minimum system requirements in place, the toughest of which was TPM 2.0. This small "Trusted Platform Module" chip (whether virtual or physical) aids with encryption and other security related tasks, but plenty of people have PCs with older TPMs or good gaming machines that lack TPM entirely. Officially, Windows 11 is out of their reach. However, if that sounds like you, there's an easy way to bypass TPM checks and install Windows 11 on your PC. The risks of installing Windows 11 on an unsupported PCLet me state the obvious right up front: it's not a good idea to upgrade extremely low-end PCs to Windows 11. Microsoft requires a minimum of 4GB RAM and 64GB of free space to install Windows 11, and if your PC doesn't meet those standards, you should avoid this upgrade. This guide is primarily for those who have perfectly capable PCs, but can't upgrade to Windows 11 due to TPM restrictions. Microsoft's main reason behind pushing for TPM 2.0 is to increase security. PCs with a TPM are more resilient against malware and ransomware attacks, and are able to store sensitive data locally in a safer way. While you can bypass this, it's worth noting that Microsoft warns that installing Windows 11 on an unsupported PC may introduce compatibility issues and weaken performance. You also may not receive support from Microsoft, and any damage to your PC won't be covered under warranty. If your PC is under warranty, it's recommended that you don't mess with it. However, if the warranty has expired, you might want to consider upgrading it to Windows 11 anyway. That's because Microsoft has announced that it'll be discontinuing free security updates for these computers starting on Oct. 14, 2025. What happens after the last Windows 10 security updateOnce the last security update is issued, it's strongly recommended that you don't use your PC on the internet. You'll be vulnerable to new types of malware, viruses, and other threats from the internet, and there'll be no real security patches to protect you. You do have the option to pay for updates as part of Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, but that is an expensive proposition. It is priced at $61 per device for the first year, and the price doubles with each subsequent year. If you're a part of an educational institution, the pricing is $1 per device per year, which goes up to $4 per year by the third year. However, if you have a working Windows 10 license, the upgrade to Windows 11 is free and comes with free security updates for many years to come. How to upgrade your unsupported PC to Windows 11Before you proceed with your upgrade, back up your PC. You don't want to lose all your data during the upgrade, and backing it up ensures that your photos, videos, and documents are all safely stored elsewhere. When that's done, you can start the upgrade process. First, download a Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft's website. On that page, scroll down to Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices, select the edition you want (usually the most recent one) from the drop-down menu, and click Download Now. Follow the directions and click 64-bit Download once it appears. The ISO file is over 6GB and it'll take a short while to download. While that's underway, download the latest version of Rufus, which is a free tool that lets you create bootable USB drives. I'll mention other methods for upgrading later on, but this is my favorite, and arguably the simplest, way to do it. Don't use older versions of Rufus, as Microsoft periodically blocks ways to bypass TPM checks, and the latest version usually has a workaround. You're also going to need a USB drive with at least 8GB of free space. Take a moment to back up any important data on this drive, because it'll be erased as we proceed. Credit: Pranay Parab/Rufus Once your Windows 11 ISO is downloaded, plug in the USB drive and install and launch Rufus. With this app open, go to the Device drop-down menu and select the correct USB drive. Click the big SELECT button next to Disk or ISO image and pick the Windows 11 ISO that you just downloaded. Now, click the START button. You'll see a pop-up asking if you want to customize your Windows installation. Ideally, enable the following options: Remove requirement for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 Remove requirement for an online Microsoft account Create a local account with username Disable data collection (Skip privacy questions) The first option is crucial if you want to install Windows 11 on unsupported PCs. The rest are good to have, but not necessary—they let you skip the online account sign-in process that Microsoft keeps trying to push, and they also skip a few annoying setup questions about data collection. With all this selected, click OK and wait for Rufus to do its thing. Credit: Pranay Parab/Rufus Once that's done, double-check that your data is backed up. It's now time to start your upgrade. There are a couple of ways to proceed here. The most straightforward is to open the newly created bootable USB disk and run the Setup.exe file. This should launch the Windows 11 installer, and you can follow the on-screen steps through the end of the process. Alternatively, you can do what I did—boot Windows off the USB drive to install Windows 11. On your Windows 10 PC, go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and click Restart now under the Advanced startup section. This will reboot your PC and start the Windows 11 setup process from your USB drive. I used this method to successfully upgrade my PC to Windows 11 and ran into just one hiccup. When the PC restarts for the first time during the upgrade, you should remove all USB drives from the computer (including the one with Windows 11). Otherwise, the installation may get stuck. Other than this, the upgrade went smoothly and I'm now happily running Windows 11. I didn't need to do anything to activate it either. I skipped the step asking me to type the product key and noticed that Windows 11 had activated itself after installation. My Windows 10 Pro key automatically activated Windows 11 Pro after the upgrade. Alternative method 1: use a registry key modificationIf Rufus isn't working for you, there's a few alternative methods you can use to upgrade an unsupported PC to Windows 11. Up until recently, Microsoft used to tell users about a registry key modification that can bypass TPM checks and install Windows 11 on an 'unsupported' PC. That method has since been removed from Microsoft's support pages, but you can still use it by following these steps. Open Registry Editor on your Windows 10 PC. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetup. Create a new registry key here with these values: Name: AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU Type: REG_DWORD Value: 1 Visit Microsoft's Windows 11 download page and go to the Create Windows 11 Installation Media section. Click Download Now. This will save the Media Creation Tool file to your computer. Run the Media Creation Tool, follow the on-screen prompts, and it'll create a bootable Windows 11 USB drive for you. Open the USB drive and run Setup.exe. Follow the prompts and your Windows 11 upgrade should proceed while bypassing TPM checks. Microsoft may choose to block this method at some point in the future, but until that happens, you can still use it to get the job done. Alternative method 2: create an automated Windows 11 installerYou can also create an unattended Windows 11 installer to complete the upgrade to the OS, even if your PC has been labelled 'unsupported.' An unattended installer is basically a way to automate the install process. It lets you configure many aspects of Windows 11, allowing you to remove bloatware, change taskbar settings, etc. Follow these steps: Go to the Unattend Generator website. Select Install Windows 11 Using These Language Settings and choose your preferred language, keyboard layouts, and home location (country you live in). Below that, choose the correct processor architecture for your computer. You can choose one of Intel/AMD 32-bit, Intel/AMD 64-bit, or Windows on Arm64. If you're unsure what your architecture is, check it on your Windows 10 PC by navigating to Settings > System > About. The next section is called Setup Settings, and this is the most important one for our purposes. Choose the option that let you bypass TPM checks. Go through the remaining setup options. This includes deciding whether you want to partition the drive automatically or manually, whether you want to remove bloatware from Windows 11, and choosing your key settings. With your choices selected, scroll to the bottom and select Download .xml file. This will download a file called autounattend.xml to your computer. Create a bootable Windows 11 USB drive by visiting Microsoft's Windows 11 download page and navigating to the Create Windows 11 Installation Media section. Click Download Now. Then, run the Media Creation Tool and follow the on-screen prompts. Paste the autounattend.xml file from earlier into this drive and boot from the USB drive to complete setup. This should take care of upgrading your 'unsupported' PC to Windows 11, and also apply all of your preferred settings to the computer. View the full article

This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. A reader writes: This letter involves a very sensitive topic and some backstory, so bear with me. Would you consider it weird if a coworker brought along an unrelated college-aged girl to a work party where you could invite family? I ask because I was​ that college girl. When I was 19, I was a sexually frustrated lesbian with then-undiagnosed autism. Despite being at an LGBT-friendly university, I had no sex life and didn’t know how to approach women without coming across as some sort of creep. Every LGBT-related extracurricular I was in was centered on networking, political activism, or community, so I never felt comfortable broaching any romantic or sexual topics with fellow queer women, and I was also scared of accidentally hitting on straight women. HER and Lex didn’t exist then, and I was too scared to attach my face to an app like Tinder. So I would make anonymous posts on YikYak and Whisper asking if there were any other lesbians in the area. I met a couple in their thirties who wanted a third, and I said yes because it was my only opportunity for gay sex even if a guy was there. (To be clear, the encounter itself was entirely consensual and, to quote Anatoly Dyatlov, “not great, not terrible.”) However, before the actual encounter, the couple had invited me to their office party (they both worked there). The couple said that it was normal since “family and friends” were invited, and they had introduced me as their “cousin” to their coworkers. Of course, I didn’t tell people the real reason I was there, but I was honest about my university, my degree, etc. I was friendly with anyone who talked to me and didn’t think anything of it. I’m now 28. I have established myself into my budding white-collar career. I recently remembered my previous escapade — upon which, it jarringly dawned onto me that all of the couple’s coworkers likely clocked me as their unicorn with me none the wiser. After attending quite a few office parties of my own where family was invited, it clicked in my mind how weird and noticeable it might be if a coworker brought an unrelated college student under the nebulous label of “cousin.” Who brings their cousin to an office party, anyway? Thankfully, materially speaking, it doesn’t matter now. I work in a different industry than the couple. I moved to a different state after graduation. I currently live and work 1,800 miles from where we lived. We weren’t in regular contact after the encounter. I don’t remember their names and, heck, they likely don’t remember me at all! This satisfies my rational mind, but emotionally, I cannot shake off the likelihood that all of the couple’s coworkers knew the real reason I was there. With this in mind, I have no idea why the couple would’ve invited me along, because wouldn’t this have also reflected poorly on them from a professional standpoint? It makes me feel weirdly vulnerable, gross, and exposed almost 10 years after the fact. I simultaneously feel stupid for ever agreeing to it but also frustrated because nobody taught me how to navigate the college social environment without accidentally acting gross or hiding my emotions entirely. Are my fears unfounded? Yes. The real question is: what married couple invites their hook-up to an office party ahead of a single casual sexual encounter? That’s not a thing people do, largely because office parties are not exactly hotbeds of sexual arousal. To the contrary, going to someone else’s office party is normally the opposite of exciting foreplay; they tend to be incredibly dull for anyone who doesn’t work there (and often for those who do). It is very, very odd that they thought they should bring you! But it’s odd on their side, not on yours. You just rolled with it; good for you. You were also not yet of an age where you knew anything about office parties and what would or wouldn’t be appropriate. But they were! In any case, I am absolutely sure that their coworkers at the party didn’t suspect you were their unicorn! Bringing a cousin (who might have been staying with them) makes a ton more sense. It is highly, highly unlikely that any of their coworkers went home thinking, “I bet that wasn’t really a cousin and was actually a hook-up!” Because again, office parties ≠ hot romance. It’s just not where the mind would go. I am sorry you are feeling vulnerable and exposed looking back on this! I hope it helps to hear that almost certainly none of their coworkers thought you were anything other than a bored cousin who had been dragged to someone else’s work function. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Movies can certainly have dialogue that sings, and some great movies don't lean on beautiful images, but for the most part, film is an inherently visual medium. Heck, before audiences heard Al Jolson's voice in 1927's The Jazz Singer, movies were largely silent entertainment. While silent movies are mostly a thing of the past, some filmmakers still recognize the power of spare use of dialogue. The animated film Flow, one of this year's Oscar nominees for Best Animated Picture, stars a cast of animals who are truly animal—they don't speak at all—and that's not the only recent example. Here are 12 modern movies with no (or very little) spoken dialogue. Robot Dreams (2023) It's hard not to compare this animated Spanish-French co-production to the recently released Dog Man: While their animation styles and intended audiences differ, both feature furry protagonists who remain silent throughout. However, Dog Man compensates for its titular character’s silence with a constant barrage of jokes from other characters (and exaggerated screaming from Dog Man). Robot Dreams uses its lack of dialogue to focus on the small, human details. Or humanlike dog details, I suppose. You can watch Robot Dreams on Hulu or rent it on Prime Video. Robot Dreams at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Playtime (1967) Jacques Tati transports his signature character Monsieur Hulot, played by the French director himself, into a 1960s vision of a modern, detached Paris, an environment that simultaneously delights and confuses the good-natured man. Like in the Chaplin films Tati mines for inspiration, Hulot's humorous interactions with the enormous, stylish set do all the talking, depicting a then-futuristic society that now feels familiar. Playtime was misunderstood when it was initially released, and it bankrupted the filmmaker. Time has finally caught up with its innovative point of view about the dehumanizing effects of modernization. It is now regarded as a classic. Watch Playtime on The Criterion Channel and Kanopy, or rent it on Prime Video. Playtime at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Mad God (2021) You may not recognize the name Phil Tippett, but you are almost certainly familiar with his work as the designer of stunning stop-motion and computer-animated creatures for Star Wars and Jurassic Park. It took Tippett three decades to complete his masterpiece about a gas-mask-clad assassin venturing through a hell filled with monsters and beasts. The result is pure, silent nightmare fuel that words can't begin to describe. Watch Mad God on Shudder or rent it on Prime Video. Mad God at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Under the Skin (2013) It's difficult to understand what any of the victims are saying as alien Scarlett Johansson draws them to their deaths in this minimal sci-fi masterpiece: Their thick Scottish accents obscure any words they utter before meeting their untimely ends. This film by Jonathan Glazer isn't about what the characters say, but how it feels to be human, contrasted with a cruel, seemingly unfeeling alien nature. Sure, there is a story here, but the movie is more of a vibe. Rent Under the Skin on Prime Video. Under the Skin at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Quest for Fire (1981) The trio of cavemen at the center of this epic prehistoric fantasy—directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud, the genius behind the largely silent nature film The Bear—talk to each other in grunts, groans, and a language developed by A Clockwork Orange author Anthony Burgess. Yet there is no misunderstanding about what they are searching for: fire. However, it is difficult to know what portions of the film should be humorous, such as when a sabre-toothed tiger chases our protagonists up a tree. Despite the occasional urge to chuckle, you can't help but swept up by this story of early man's desire to advance. You can stream Quest for Fire on Prime Video in a compromised pan and scan transfer, or rent the widescreen version. Quest for Fire at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Minuscule: Valley of the Lost Ants (2013) If you're still deciding between watching Antz and A Bug's Life, here's a third option that far surpasses them in both story and visual style. Minuscule is an Oscar-nominated film about a ladybug who helps an army of black ants in their battle with their red counterparts over a tin box of sugar cubes. Without the distraction of dialogue, you can focus on how well the filmmakers' computer-generated characters mesh with the filmed landscapes. Check it out on Plex and Tubi, or rent it on Prime Video. Minuscule: Valley of the Lost Ants at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Walkabout (1971) There’s some dialogue in this movie, but none of it fully explains why a father drives his two children to the Australian outback before he commits suicide. This harrowing event sets the stage for this story of two children struggling to survive in one of the harshest and most unpredictable regions on Earth. On their journey home, they encounter an Aboriginal teenager on his traditional walkabout. Despite the language barrier between, he helps the more sheltered children endure. Director Nicolas Roeg uses biblical imagery and clever editing to convey how humanity has encroached on the natural world. The result is a mesmerizing triumph. Stream Walkabout on Max and The Criterion Channel, or rent it on Prime Video. Walkabout at Max Learn More Learn More at Max Duel (1971) The world caught a glimpse of Steven Spielberg's capabilities behind the camera in his debut, a TV movie about a traveling salesman pursued by a semi-truck driver. According to a behind-the-scenes documentary, Spielberg was only given 75 minutes to tell the story, so he focused on the sound and visuals rather than dialogue to make the truck as menacing as possible. Over 50 years later, it still works. Rent Duel on Prime Video. Duel at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video A Quiet Place (2018) It’s easy to imagine a studio executive questioning if it was smart to bankroll a horror movie with almost no dialogue, but a few hundred million dollars in box office and two sequels later, the risky bet seems to have paid off. Though director and star John Krasinski has denied that the film's silence is a metaphor for a citizen's involvement in politics (inaction equals complacency), it's difficult to think about the plot in any other way. Watch A Quiet Place on Paramount+ or rent it on Prime Video. A Quiet Place at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Silent Night (2023) Action director John Woo returned to Hollywood after two decades for this action thriller about a father (Joel Kinnaman), unable to speak because he took a bullet in the throat, avenging the death of his son during a gang shooting. It's a bold experiment that kinda works, despite the melodrama that slows down the first act. When the action intensifies, the sound design immerses you in the visceral impact of bullets, punches, and knife wounds, no talking necessary. Watch it on Starz or rent it on Prime Video. Silent Night at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video All Is Lost (2013) Somehow in 2014, the Academy Awards overlooked Robert Redford's near-silent performance as a man lost at sea when announcing acting nominations. It's hard to pinpoint why. Maybe voters felt he coasted on his charisma, or it felt like a retread of previous performances. Perhaps they felt the movie was more of a stunt than a study of a man consumed with overwhelming guilt. No matter what voters thought, this film is still a triumph by a legendary cinematic presence. Watch it on Pluto TV and Plex, or rent it on Prime Video. All Is Lost Learn More Learn More Koyaanisqatsi (1982) Godfrey Reggio assembled this unusual collage of footage of modern landscapes constrated with the natural world, set to a hypnotizing Phillip Glass score. In a documentary about it's making, the director said the lack of narration was necessary because, "our language is in a state of vast humiliation. It no longer describes the world in which we live." Given the film’s exploration of the destructive relationship between technology, civilization, and nature, that explanation seems particularly fitting—and even more accurate four decades later. Watch it on Kanopy or Pluto TV, or rent it on Prime Video. Koyaanisqatsi Learn More Learn More View the full article

If you’re in charge of selecting a leadership development solution for your organization, your budget might feel dwarfed by the goals and needs the program must address. And while the money you have to spend is limited, the options you have to choose from—coaching, learning platforms, content libraries and more—are not.  All of those factors can make it difficult to identify the option that will deliver the best ROI. An “affordable” subscription to a vast digital library of leadership videos and courses is no bargain if it doesn’t deliver the results you need. On the other hand, premium coaching for a few key executives might feel extravagant at first but ultimately create a huge ripple effect across the organization. It’s not that content libraries are “bad,” and coaching is “good.” The right solution for one company could be a waste of time and money in another. So how do you make the best choice based on your goals and your budget? Before you contact a single provider or even start reviewing the options available to you, consider the questions below. As a CEO focused on transforming leadership development through technology, I can tell you that the organizations that are clear on their answers get the best results from leadership development, no matter what their budget is or the specific programs they choose. What are your specific goals? Leadership development is too expensive (U.S. companies spend more than $81 billion on it per year) to be merely a feel-good purchase or a box to check for the year. Your investment in a program will pay off only when you know exactly what you want it to achieve. So think about your company’s priorities right now. A few examples: Does your CEO want to create a coaching culture? Has low performance by new managers surfaced as a problem? Is innovation one of your priorities this year? Is your organization worried about the state of your leadership pipeline? If your goals seem way out of alignment with your budget, you may have to determine which goals need immediate attention and which ones can be acted on later. For instance, if your mid-level managers are jumping ship to your competitors, developing your current leadership bench needs attention right away. On the other hand, a broader initiative to build leadership capabilities across all departments could wait. How many people do you need to target? Is a company-wide program necessary to achieve your goals? Or would it be more effective to focus on a particular department or type of employee, such as first-time managers or a new executive team? Your answer can help you start narrowing down options. For example, if your top priority is developing a new executive team, coaching could be the right choice. It’s highly customized and effective. But your focus is on a larger group—like new managers—coaching might be out of your budget, and a digital learning platform could be a better fit. Similarly, perhaps you can send all first-time managers to a conference or bring in a facilitator for a weeklong program, but you can’t afford these options for every employee who’s interested in leadership development. What’s going on right now with the employees you want to develop? The capacity of the participants is often overlooked as a key factor in whether a leadership development solution succeeds. So, once you’ve identified the employees who’ll be part of your program, think about what might be affecting their current bandwidth to learn, grow and change. Let’s say you’re considering a program that would bring in a facilitator for a week of daylong classes with your managers. That might sound like an amazing development opportunity, and for some organizations, it is. But if your managers are already overextended with their workloads, this “opportunity” could become just another source of stress. Instead of paying attention and learning from the facilitator, the managers might be covertly multitasking through sessions just to stay afloat. And what if program participants don’t work onsite full time? Will a fully remote employee get the same experience as in-person participants? Will hybrid employees resent an extra day in the office? In such cases, a program that empowers your managers to learn on their own schedule might be a better solution. You could provide them with a micro-learning app or access to a learning library. (With those options, just be sure to also give them customized learning paths. Busy, stressed managers don’t have time to sort through piles of content to figure out what they need, either.) Thinking through these questions will help you zero in on what your company really needs from leadership development and the type of program that best fulfills those needs. I know the vast array of options out there can seem dizzying, but this variety also means that you have a better chance of finding a program that truly aligns with what you need and can afford. The more clarity you can bring into the selection process, the more likely you are to avoid costly mistakes and choose a leadership development program that delivers the results you need. View the full article

Pinterest opens up a universe of visual discovery, serving as a digital canvas for millions to pin their dreams, inspirations, and ideas. It’s not just any social media platform; it’s a treasure trove for creatives seeking inspiration, a guide for DIY enthusiasts, and a marketplace for discovering unique finds. However, it is not the only platform doing this. There are apps like Pinterest that you can start exploring and using to reach a different audience. As we explore alternatives that fuel creativity just as much, if not more, Pinterest stands as the beacon that started it all, blending the lines between a social network and a visual wonderland. Join us as we uncover apps that offer similar magic, each with its unique flavor, ensuring your creative spark never dims. The Best Pinterest Alternatives Dive into our curated selection of the top 20 Pinterest alternatives, each offering unique features to spark your creativity and help you discover a world of inspiration beyond the familiar. General Interest and Sharing Web Pages Let’s start by exploring platforms that cater to a broad range of interests, perfect for browsing, sharing, and discovering diverse content. Instagram Instagram is a visual platform where users can share photos and videos, create stories, and go live to engage with their followers in real-time. Its features, like IGTV for longer videos and Instagram Shopping for e-commerce, make it a versatile tool for visual storytelling and brand promotion. There are tons of Instagram post ideas that can help you create effective content. And you can even learn how to make money on Instagram reels. Tumblr Tumblr offers a unique blend of blogging and social networking, allowing users to post a variety of content types, from text and photos to links and videos. Its customizable themes and the ability to reblog content foster a creative and interactive community atmosphere. We Heart It We Heart It is a photo-sharing app and website known for its positive and inspirational content. Users can explore collections of images, GIFs, and videos, “heart” their favorites, and curate their own collections on various themes, promoting a sense of discovery and personal expression. Flipboard Flipboard curates news, articles, and stories from around the web based on your interests, presenting them in a magazine-like format. It allows users to create their own “magazines” by saving articles they find interesting, offering a personalized way to stay informed and discover new content. Mix (formerly StumbleUpon) Mix is a platform designed for discovering and sharing content that aligns with users’ interests. By organizing collections of articles, videos, and web pages, Mix offers a customized browsing experience, enabling users to find unique and valuable content across the internet. Art and Design Focused Now, let’s delve into the realm of art and design, where these platforms shine by offering specialized spaces for creatives to showcase their work, find inspiration, and connect with fellow artists. Dribbble Dribbble is a community where designers share screenshots of their work, processes, and projects. It serves as a central hub for digital designers seeking inspiration, feedback, and job opportunities, making it a vital platform for showcasing creative endeavors and networking with other professionals. Behance Behance is a platform where creative professionals can display their portfolios and explore the latest projects from leading online portfolios in various industries. It’s an excellent resource for inspiration, promoting creative work, and connecting with potential clients and other creatives. Designspiration Designspiration is a platform for finding and sharing outstanding design. Users can curate their favorite images and designs, building personal collections that serve as inspiration for future projects. With its streamlined, Pinterest-like interface, exploring visuals is simple and free from distractions. Home and DIY Projects Next up, for those who love to transform their space or tackle DIY projects, here are platforms brimming with home improvement ideas, DIY guides, and interior design inspiration. Hometalk Hometalk is the largest home and garden how-to community, offering a platform for users to share their DIY projects, find inspiration, and get advice from fellow members. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to improve their home or garden. Houzz Houzz is a platform for home remodeling and design, bringing homeowners and home professionals together in a uniquely visual community. It’s the place to browse and save beautiful home photos, find the right design and construction professionals, and discover products to complete your projects. Fashion and Style Moving on, immerse yourself in the world of fashion and style with these platforms, ideal for discovering the latest trends, styling tips, and unique finds to elevate your wardrobe. Depop Depop is a fashion marketplace app where the next generation comes to discover unique items. With a strong emphasis on community and social interaction, it’s not just about buying and selling; it’s also a space for fashion enthusiasts to explore and get inspired by trends and styles. Poshmark Poshmark is a social marketplace for new and secondhand styles for women, men, kids, homes, and more. It combines the thrill of shopping with the excitement of a bustling community, making it easy for anyone to sell their clothing and find great deals. 21 Buttons 21 Buttons is a fashion-focused social shopping app where users can share and shop for looks. The platform allows influencers and everyday users to post their outfits, with direct links to purchase the clothing or accessories featured, making it a dynamic blend of fashion discovery and e-commerce. Food and Culinary Inspiration For the food enthusiasts out there, here’s endless culinary inspiration to spark your next kitchen adventure. Foodgawker Foodgawker is a photo gallery that allows you to visually search and discover new recipes, techniques, and ingredients to inspire your culinary adventures. It’s curated to display only the most beautiful and appetizing photos, providing endless inspiration for your next meal. Men’s Interests Diving into men’s interests, this selection caters specifically to gentlemen, featuring platforms that focus on lifestyle, fashion, gadgets, and more, tailor-made for the modern man’s diverse tastes. Grailed Grailed is a curated community marketplace for men’s clothing. It’s a go-to destination for finding rare, coveted, and highly sought-after pieces of menswear. Grailed combines the thrill of the hunt for hard-to-find items with the ease of online shopping. Gentlemint Gentlemint is a social website dedicated to sharing and discovering content of a manly nature. From DIY projects to classic cars and fine whiskey, it’s a curated source of content that celebrates aspects of masculine interests and hobbies, offering a unique platform for exploration and discovery. Creative and Craft Communities For those who cherish creativity and craftsmanship, these communities offer a sanctuary. Here, you’ll find spaces dedicated to sharing, learning, and celebrating all forms of creative and craft projects. Craftgawker Craftgawker is a photo gallery that allows you to discover, search, and share the best in handmade and DIY craft projects. It’s a feast for the eyes and a source of inspiration for crafters looking for their next project, with thousands of ideas at your fingertips. Pearltrees Pearltrees is a place to organize all your interests. It lets you collect, organize, and share everything you like on the web, from articles to videos, images to documents. Its unique visual interface makes navigating through your collections intuitive and engaging. E-commerce Integration Step into a world where inspiration meets shopping convenience with a platform that offers e-commerce integration, turning your creative discoveries into easily purchasable treasures. Etsy Etsy is the global marketplace for unique and creative goods. It’s home to a universe of special, extraordinary items, from unique handcrafted pieces to vintage treasures. Etsy is a platform for artists, creators, and sellers to find a global audience for their unique products. Specialized Collections Explore a niche haven for enthusiasts with this platform, offering specialized collections that cater to unique interests and passions, perfect for those seeking something a little different. Connectible Connectible is a platform aimed at simplifying networking and enhancing the quality of professional connections. It emphasizes the creation of opportunities for people to connect around common interests, projects, and goals, thereby nurturing a community that promotes collaboration and professional development. PlatformTypePrimary AudienceKey FeaturesContent Focus InstagramSocial MediaGeneral PublicPhoto/Video Sharing, Stories, IGTV, Live, ShoppingVisual Content, Stories, Lifestyle TumblrBlogging/Social MediaGeneral Public, CreativesCustomizable Themes, RebloggingMixed Media, Blogs, Art, Fandoms We Heart ItImage SharingTeens, Young AdultsImage/Video Collections, "Heart" SystemInspirational, Lifestyle Imagery FlipboardNews AggregatorGeneral PublicPersonalized News, Magazine-like InterfaceNews, Articles, Stories MixContent DiscoveryGeneral PublicPersonalized Content Discovery, CollectionsWeb Pages, Articles, Videos DribbbleProfessional NetworkDesignersPortfolio Showcase, Job BoardDesign Work, Creative Projects BehanceProfessional NetworkCreativesPortfolio Showcase, DiscoverabilityCreative Portfolios, Design, Art DesignspirationDesign ResourceDesigners, CreativesImage Saving, Personal CollectionsDesign Inspiration, Visuals HometalkCommunityDIY Enthusiasts, HomeownersDIY Projects, ForumsHome Improvement, DIY, Gardening HouzzCommunity/MarketplaceHomeowners, Design ProfessionalsIdea Books, Professional DirectoryHome Design, Remodeling, Decoration DepopMarketplaceYoung Adults, Fashion EnthusiastsSocial Shopping, Unique FindsFashion, Vintage, Streetwear PoshmarkSocial MarketplaceShoppers, SellersBuying/Selling Clothes, Social FeaturesFashion, Accessories, Home Goods 21 ButtonsSocial ShoppingFashion EnthusiastsOutfit Sharing, Shopping LinksFashion, Trends, Style Inspiration FoodgawkerContent DiscoveryFood EnthusiastsRecipe Discovery, Photo GalleriesCulinary Arts, Recipes, Food Photography GrailedMarketplaceMen, Fashion EnthusiastsRare Finds, User ListingsMen's Fashion, Streetwear, Luxury Brands GentlemintSocial SiteMenContent Sharing, Manly InterestsLifestyle, Gadgets, Leisure CraftgawkerContent DiscoveryCrafters, DIY EnthusiastsCraft Project Sharing, Inspirational GalleriesHandmade, DIY Crafts, Art PearltreesContent OrganizationGeneral PublicCollecting, Organizing Web ContentMixed Media, Research, Collections EtsyMarketplaceShoppers, ArtisansUnique Handmade/Vintage Items, Seller ShopsHandmade Goods, Art, Vintage Items ConnectibleNetworkingProfessionals, EntrepreneursProfessional Networking, Shared InterestsProfessional Connections, Collaboration Pinterest Vs. Other Apps That Create Personal Galleries When you look at Pinterest and its alternatives, the differences in user experience really stand out. These other apps shine with their easy-to-use interfaces, making it straightforward for users to discover and organize content. They also offer various ways to save web pages and content, which adds to their appeal among the creative community. This variety means users can find an app that suits their specific needs, whether they’re into collecting design inspiration, planning projects, or just browsing for fun. Features to Look for in a Visual Discovery App A standout visual discovery app indeed transcends mere aesthetics, offering a blend of user-friendly design and a diverse array of content that caters to a wide range of interests and hobbies. Here are some key features to look for in such an app: Intuitive User Interface: The app should have a clean, easy-to-navigate interface that makes browsing, searching, and discovering content effortless and enjoyable. Smooth scrolling and quick loading of images and content Easy-to-use search functionality with smart suggestions Diverse Content Library: A rich repository of images, videos, articles, and more, covering a multitude of topics from art and design to travel and technology. Curated collections on varied themes to explore High-quality, visually appealing content Personalization Options: The capability to customize your browsing experience according to your personal interests, which guarantees that the content you encounter is both relevant and engaging. Customizable feeds based on user preferences and behavior Option to save favorite items or collections for easy access Community Engagement: Features that allow users to connect with others, share their discoveries, and discuss their interests. Platforms for users to share their own content and collections Commenting, liking, and sharing functionalities to foster interaction Collaborative Discovery: Tools that enable collaborative collection building or project planning, inviting more than one user to contribute to a shared vision. Shared boards or collections for group projects or planning Ability to tag and mention other users in contributions Cross-Platform Accessibility: Seamless integration across devices, ensuring a consistent and accessible experience whether on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone. Syncing across devices to keep collections and preferences up-to-date Responsive design that adapts to different screen sizes Inspirational and Educational Content: Not just visually appealing, but also content that inspires creativity, offers DIY tips, how-to guides, and tutorials. Step-by-step guides and tutorials in various categories Inspirational stories and case studies from within the community Advanced Search and Discovery Tools: Sophisticated algorithms that help surface new and interesting content based on user interactions and trends. Visual search capabilities to find similar items or styles Recommendation engines that learn from your preferences to show more of what you like Together, these features create an immersive and dynamic environment that not only serves as a source of inspiration but also as a platform for creative expression and community building. By focusing on both the individual’s journey of discovery and the collective experience of sharing and collaboration, a visual discovery app can become a cherished tool for anyone looking to explore their interests and connect with like-minded individuals. Pinterest’s Role in Online Galleries and Visual Discovery Pinterest, as a visual discovery engine, has been a game-changer, setting the stage for how we curate and share personal galleries. It’s not just a platform; it’s a community builder, connecting people through shared interests in everything from home decor to fashion. By allowing users to create boards, Pinterest empowers everyone to become a curator of their own digital museum, sparking creativity and inspiration across the globe. This pioneering approach has influenced countless platforms, shaping the future of how we interact with visual content online. https://youtube.com/watch?v=rTERfOI8Wqo%3Fsi%3DK3MmsdNBDW7Aa5Jj Why Consider Pinterest Alternatives? Exploring Pinterest alternatives opens up a world of fresh possibilities for finding and saving new ideas. A Pinterest alternative often brings unique features to the table, catering to niche interests or providing a different user experience that might suit your style better. Whether you’re looking for more specialized content, a simpler interface, or just a new community to join, venturing into these alternatives can enrich your online discovery journey, offering new perspectives and inspiration beyond what you’re accustomed to. FAQs: Apps Like Pinterest Is There a Better App than Pinterest to Create Collections? While “better” is subjective, apps like Instagram and Tumblr offer unique features for creating collections. Instagram’s saved posts and story highlights and Tumblr’s blog format cater to different preferences, providing alternatives for those looking to organize and showcase their favorite finds in a personalized way. How Do Apps Like Pinterest Enhance Interaction with Other Users? Apps similar to Pinterest enhance user interaction by incorporating features like comments, shares, and likes. They also often include community forums or groups where users can connect over shared interests. This fosters a sense of community, making it easy for users to discover, share, and discuss ideas with others. Are There Any Apps Like Pinterest for Pixel Art? Yes, apps like DeviantArt and Dribbble are fantastic for pixel art enthusiasts. These platforms host a diverse community of artists and designers, including those specializing in pixel art. Users can explore, share, and discuss various creations, making these apps great resources for inspiration and connection. Which App Like Pinterest is Best for Web Designers? Behance stands out as a top choice for web designers looking for an app like Pinterest. It’s specifically tailored for creative professionals, showcasing portfolios that include web design, among various other creative fields. Behance allows designers to discover the latest trends, share their work, and connect with potential clients or collaborators. Which Photo-Sharing Platform has the Most User-Friendly Interface? Instagram is renowned for its user-friendly interface, making it a favorite photo-sharing platform for millions. Its intuitive design simplifies navigation, making it easy to upload, share, and discover photos. The platform’s focus on visual content and straightforward functionality offers a seamless user experience. Read More: Pinterest predictions Image: Envato Elements This article, "Apps Like Pinterest to Fuel Your Creativity" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Pinterest opens up a universe of visual discovery, serving as a digital canvas for millions to pin their dreams, inspirations, and ideas. It’s not just any social media platform; it’s a treasure trove for creatives seeking inspiration, a guide for DIY enthusiasts, and a marketplace for discovering unique finds. However, it is not the only platform doing this. There are apps like Pinterest that you can start exploring and using to reach a different audience. As we explore alternatives that fuel creativity just as much, if not more, Pinterest stands as the beacon that started it all, blending the lines between a social network and a visual wonderland. Join us as we uncover apps that offer similar magic, each with its unique flavor, ensuring your creative spark never dims. The Best Pinterest Alternatives Dive into our curated selection of the top 20 Pinterest alternatives, each offering unique features to spark your creativity and help you discover a world of inspiration beyond the familiar. General Interest and Sharing Web Pages Let’s start by exploring platforms that cater to a broad range of interests, perfect for browsing, sharing, and discovering diverse content. Instagram Instagram is a visual platform where users can share photos and videos, create stories, and go live to engage with their followers in real-time. Its features, like IGTV for longer videos and Instagram Shopping for e-commerce, make it a versatile tool for visual storytelling and brand promotion. There are tons of Instagram post ideas that can help you create effective content. And you can even learn how to make money on Instagram reels. Tumblr Tumblr offers a unique blend of blogging and social networking, allowing users to post a variety of content types, from text and photos to links and videos. Its customizable themes and the ability to reblog content foster a creative and interactive community atmosphere. We Heart It We Heart It is a photo-sharing app and website known for its positive and inspirational content. Users can explore collections of images, GIFs, and videos, “heart” their favorites, and curate their own collections on various themes, promoting a sense of discovery and personal expression. Flipboard Flipboard curates news, articles, and stories from around the web based on your interests, presenting them in a magazine-like format. It allows users to create their own “magazines” by saving articles they find interesting, offering a personalized way to stay informed and discover new content. Mix (formerly StumbleUpon) Mix is a platform designed for discovering and sharing content that aligns with users’ interests. By organizing collections of articles, videos, and web pages, Mix offers a customized browsing experience, enabling users to find unique and valuable content across the internet. Art and Design Focused Now, let’s delve into the realm of art and design, where these platforms shine by offering specialized spaces for creatives to showcase their work, find inspiration, and connect with fellow artists. Dribbble Dribbble is a community where designers share screenshots of their work, processes, and projects. It serves as a central hub for digital designers seeking inspiration, feedback, and job opportunities, making it a vital platform for showcasing creative endeavors and networking with other professionals. Behance Behance is a platform where creative professionals can display their portfolios and explore the latest projects from leading online portfolios in various industries. It’s an excellent resource for inspiration, promoting creative work, and connecting with potential clients and other creatives. Designspiration Designspiration is a platform for finding and sharing outstanding design. Users can curate their favorite images and designs, building personal collections that serve as inspiration for future projects. With its streamlined, Pinterest-like interface, exploring visuals is simple and free from distractions. Home and DIY Projects Next up, for those who love to transform their space or tackle DIY projects, here are platforms brimming with home improvement ideas, DIY guides, and interior design inspiration. Hometalk Hometalk is the largest home and garden how-to community, offering a platform for users to share their DIY projects, find inspiration, and get advice from fellow members. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to improve their home or garden. Houzz Houzz is a platform for home remodeling and design, bringing homeowners and home professionals together in a uniquely visual community. It’s the place to browse and save beautiful home photos, find the right design and construction professionals, and discover products to complete your projects. Fashion and Style Moving on, immerse yourself in the world of fashion and style with these platforms, ideal for discovering the latest trends, styling tips, and unique finds to elevate your wardrobe. Depop Depop is a fashion marketplace app where the next generation comes to discover unique items. With a strong emphasis on community and social interaction, it’s not just about buying and selling; it’s also a space for fashion enthusiasts to explore and get inspired by trends and styles. Poshmark Poshmark is a social marketplace for new and secondhand styles for women, men, kids, homes, and more. It combines the thrill of shopping with the excitement of a bustling community, making it easy for anyone to sell their clothing and find great deals. 21 Buttons 21 Buttons is a fashion-focused social shopping app where users can share and shop for looks. The platform allows influencers and everyday users to post their outfits, with direct links to purchase the clothing or accessories featured, making it a dynamic blend of fashion discovery and e-commerce. Food and Culinary Inspiration For the food enthusiasts out there, here’s endless culinary inspiration to spark your next kitchen adventure. Foodgawker Foodgawker is a photo gallery that allows you to visually search and discover new recipes, techniques, and ingredients to inspire your culinary adventures. It’s curated to display only the most beautiful and appetizing photos, providing endless inspiration for your next meal. Men’s Interests Diving into men’s interests, this selection caters specifically to gentlemen, featuring platforms that focus on lifestyle, fashion, gadgets, and more, tailor-made for the modern man’s diverse tastes. Grailed Grailed is a curated community marketplace for men’s clothing. It’s a go-to destination for finding rare, coveted, and highly sought-after pieces of menswear. Grailed combines the thrill of the hunt for hard-to-find items with the ease of online shopping. Gentlemint Gentlemint is a social website dedicated to sharing and discovering content of a manly nature. From DIY projects to classic cars and fine whiskey, it’s a curated source of content that celebrates aspects of masculine interests and hobbies, offering a unique platform for exploration and discovery. Creative and Craft Communities For those who cherish creativity and craftsmanship, these communities offer a sanctuary. Here, you’ll find spaces dedicated to sharing, learning, and celebrating all forms of creative and craft projects. Craftgawker Craftgawker is a photo gallery that allows you to discover, search, and share the best in handmade and DIY craft projects. It’s a feast for the eyes and a source of inspiration for crafters looking for their next project, with thousands of ideas at your fingertips. Pearltrees Pearltrees is a place to organize all your interests. It lets you collect, organize, and share everything you like on the web, from articles to videos, images to documents. Its unique visual interface makes navigating through your collections intuitive and engaging. E-commerce Integration Step into a world where inspiration meets shopping convenience with a platform that offers e-commerce integration, turning your creative discoveries into easily purchasable treasures. Etsy Etsy is the global marketplace for unique and creative goods. It’s home to a universe of special, extraordinary items, from unique handcrafted pieces to vintage treasures. Etsy is a platform for artists, creators, and sellers to find a global audience for their unique products. Specialized Collections Explore a niche haven for enthusiasts with this platform, offering specialized collections that cater to unique interests and passions, perfect for those seeking something a little different. Connectible Connectible is a platform aimed at simplifying networking and enhancing the quality of professional connections. It emphasizes the creation of opportunities for people to connect around common interests, projects, and goals, thereby nurturing a community that promotes collaboration and professional development. PlatformTypePrimary AudienceKey FeaturesContent Focus InstagramSocial MediaGeneral PublicPhoto/Video Sharing, Stories, IGTV, Live, ShoppingVisual Content, Stories, Lifestyle TumblrBlogging/Social MediaGeneral Public, CreativesCustomizable Themes, RebloggingMixed Media, Blogs, Art, Fandoms We Heart ItImage SharingTeens, Young AdultsImage/Video Collections, "Heart" SystemInspirational, Lifestyle Imagery FlipboardNews AggregatorGeneral PublicPersonalized News, Magazine-like InterfaceNews, Articles, Stories MixContent DiscoveryGeneral PublicPersonalized Content Discovery, CollectionsWeb Pages, Articles, Videos DribbbleProfessional NetworkDesignersPortfolio Showcase, Job BoardDesign Work, Creative Projects BehanceProfessional NetworkCreativesPortfolio Showcase, DiscoverabilityCreative Portfolios, Design, Art DesignspirationDesign ResourceDesigners, CreativesImage Saving, Personal CollectionsDesign Inspiration, Visuals HometalkCommunityDIY Enthusiasts, HomeownersDIY Projects, ForumsHome Improvement, DIY, Gardening HouzzCommunity/MarketplaceHomeowners, Design ProfessionalsIdea Books, Professional DirectoryHome Design, Remodeling, Decoration DepopMarketplaceYoung Adults, Fashion EnthusiastsSocial Shopping, Unique FindsFashion, Vintage, Streetwear PoshmarkSocial MarketplaceShoppers, SellersBuying/Selling Clothes, Social FeaturesFashion, Accessories, Home Goods 21 ButtonsSocial ShoppingFashion EnthusiastsOutfit Sharing, Shopping LinksFashion, Trends, Style Inspiration FoodgawkerContent DiscoveryFood EnthusiastsRecipe Discovery, Photo GalleriesCulinary Arts, Recipes, Food Photography GrailedMarketplaceMen, Fashion EnthusiastsRare Finds, User ListingsMen's Fashion, Streetwear, Luxury Brands GentlemintSocial SiteMenContent Sharing, Manly InterestsLifestyle, Gadgets, Leisure CraftgawkerContent DiscoveryCrafters, DIY EnthusiastsCraft Project Sharing, Inspirational GalleriesHandmade, DIY Crafts, Art PearltreesContent OrganizationGeneral PublicCollecting, Organizing Web ContentMixed Media, Research, Collections EtsyMarketplaceShoppers, ArtisansUnique Handmade/Vintage Items, Seller ShopsHandmade Goods, Art, Vintage Items ConnectibleNetworkingProfessionals, EntrepreneursProfessional Networking, Shared InterestsProfessional Connections, Collaboration Pinterest Vs. Other Apps That Create Personal Galleries When you look at Pinterest and its alternatives, the differences in user experience really stand out. These other apps shine with their easy-to-use interfaces, making it straightforward for users to discover and organize content. They also offer various ways to save web pages and content, which adds to their appeal among the creative community. This variety means users can find an app that suits their specific needs, whether they’re into collecting design inspiration, planning projects, or just browsing for fun. Features to Look for in a Visual Discovery App A standout visual discovery app indeed transcends mere aesthetics, offering a blend of user-friendly design and a diverse array of content that caters to a wide range of interests and hobbies. Here are some key features to look for in such an app: Intuitive User Interface: The app should have a clean, easy-to-navigate interface that makes browsing, searching, and discovering content effortless and enjoyable. Smooth scrolling and quick loading of images and content Easy-to-use search functionality with smart suggestions Diverse Content Library: A rich repository of images, videos, articles, and more, covering a multitude of topics from art and design to travel and technology. Curated collections on varied themes to explore High-quality, visually appealing content Personalization Options: The capability to customize your browsing experience according to your personal interests, which guarantees that the content you encounter is both relevant and engaging. Customizable feeds based on user preferences and behavior Option to save favorite items or collections for easy access Community Engagement: Features that allow users to connect with others, share their discoveries, and discuss their interests. Platforms for users to share their own content and collections Commenting, liking, and sharing functionalities to foster interaction Collaborative Discovery: Tools that enable collaborative collection building or project planning, inviting more than one user to contribute to a shared vision. Shared boards or collections for group projects or planning Ability to tag and mention other users in contributions Cross-Platform Accessibility: Seamless integration across devices, ensuring a consistent and accessible experience whether on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone. Syncing across devices to keep collections and preferences up-to-date Responsive design that adapts to different screen sizes Inspirational and Educational Content: Not just visually appealing, but also content that inspires creativity, offers DIY tips, how-to guides, and tutorials. Step-by-step guides and tutorials in various categories Inspirational stories and case studies from within the community Advanced Search and Discovery Tools: Sophisticated algorithms that help surface new and interesting content based on user interactions and trends. Visual search capabilities to find similar items or styles Recommendation engines that learn from your preferences to show more of what you like Together, these features create an immersive and dynamic environment that not only serves as a source of inspiration but also as a platform for creative expression and community building. By focusing on both the individual’s journey of discovery and the collective experience of sharing and collaboration, a visual discovery app can become a cherished tool for anyone looking to explore their interests and connect with like-minded individuals. Pinterest’s Role in Online Galleries and Visual Discovery Pinterest, as a visual discovery engine, has been a game-changer, setting the stage for how we curate and share personal galleries. It’s not just a platform; it’s a community builder, connecting people through shared interests in everything from home decor to fashion. By allowing users to create boards, Pinterest empowers everyone to become a curator of their own digital museum, sparking creativity and inspiration across the globe. This pioneering approach has influenced countless platforms, shaping the future of how we interact with visual content online. https://youtube.com/watch?v=rTERfOI8Wqo%3Fsi%3DK3MmsdNBDW7Aa5Jj Why Consider Pinterest Alternatives? Exploring Pinterest alternatives opens up a world of fresh possibilities for finding and saving new ideas. A Pinterest alternative often brings unique features to the table, catering to niche interests or providing a different user experience that might suit your style better. Whether you’re looking for more specialized content, a simpler interface, or just a new community to join, venturing into these alternatives can enrich your online discovery journey, offering new perspectives and inspiration beyond what you’re accustomed to. FAQs: Apps Like Pinterest Is There a Better App than Pinterest to Create Collections? While “better” is subjective, apps like Instagram and Tumblr offer unique features for creating collections. Instagram’s saved posts and story highlights and Tumblr’s blog format cater to different preferences, providing alternatives for those looking to organize and showcase their favorite finds in a personalized way. How Do Apps Like Pinterest Enhance Interaction with Other Users? Apps similar to Pinterest enhance user interaction by incorporating features like comments, shares, and likes. They also often include community forums or groups where users can connect over shared interests. This fosters a sense of community, making it easy for users to discover, share, and discuss ideas with others. Are There Any Apps Like Pinterest for Pixel Art? Yes, apps like DeviantArt and Dribbble are fantastic for pixel art enthusiasts. These platforms host a diverse community of artists and designers, including those specializing in pixel art. Users can explore, share, and discuss various creations, making these apps great resources for inspiration and connection. Which App Like Pinterest is Best for Web Designers? Behance stands out as a top choice for web designers looking for an app like Pinterest. It’s specifically tailored for creative professionals, showcasing portfolios that include web design, among various other creative fields. Behance allows designers to discover the latest trends, share their work, and connect with potential clients or collaborators. Which Photo-Sharing Platform has the Most User-Friendly Interface? Instagram is renowned for its user-friendly interface, making it a favorite photo-sharing platform for millions. Its intuitive design simplifies navigation, making it easy to upload, share, and discover photos. The platform’s focus on visual content and straightforward functionality offers a seamless user experience. Read More: Pinterest predictions Image: Envato Elements This article, "Apps Like Pinterest to Fuel Your Creativity" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Major world leaders are meeting for an AI summit in Paris, where challenging diplomatic talks are expected as tech titans fight for dominance in the fast-moving technology industry. Heads of state, top government officials, CEOs and scientists from around 100 countries are participating in the two-day international summit from Monday. High-profile attendees include U.S. Vice President JD Vance, on his first overseas trip since taking office, and Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing. “We’re living a technology and scientific revolution we’ve rarely seen,” French President Emmanuel Macron said Sunday on national television France 2. France and Europe must seize the opportunity because AI “will enable us to live better, learn better, work better, care better, and it’s up to us to put this artificial intelligence at the service of human beings,” he said. Vance’s debut abroad The summit will give some European leaders a chance to meet Vance for the first time. The 40-year-old vice president was just 18 months into his time as Ohio’s junior senator when Donald Trump picked him as his running mate. Vance was joined by his wife Usha and their three children—Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel—for the trip to Europe. They were greeted in France on Monday morning by Manuel Valls, the minister for Overseas France, and the U.S. Embassy’s charge d’affaires, David McCawley. Before the trip, Vance made it clear that he intended to use the opportunity for frank discussions with European allies. “At the AI Summit, the main reason I’m going is actually to have some private conversations with the world leaders who are also going to be there,” Vance told Breitbart News. “I think there’s a lot that some of the leaders who are present at the AI summit could do to, frankly—bring the Russia-Ukraine conflict to a close, help us diplomatically there—and so we’re going to be focused on those meetings in France.” On Tuesday, Vance will have a working lunch with French President Emmanuel Macron, with discussions on Ukraine and the Middle East on the agenda. Vance, like the U.S. president, has questioned U.S. spending on Ukraine and the broader approach to isolating Russian President Vladimir Putin. Within six months of taking office, Trump promised to end the fighting. Vance also addressed what he views as a concerning trend in Europe regarding free speech, a topic he raised last year during his attendance at the Munich Security Conference. “Unfortunately, you’ve seen in Europe a really significant, and I think, frankly, an evil trend towards censorship,” he said. “And you hear a lot about America’s moral leadership. One of the things that America’s moral leadership is going to be about during President Trump’s term is free speech. We want people to be able to speak their minds, and we believe that free and open debate is actually a good thing. Unfortunately, a lot of our European friends have gone the wrong direction there.” Later this week, Vance will attend the Munich Security Conference again, where he may meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He plans to revisit themes he raised last year, including the need for NATO allies to take on a greater share of responsibility. Leaders in Europe have been carefully watching Trump’s recent statements on threats to impose tariffs on the European Union, take control of Greenland and his suggestion that Palestinians clear out of Gaza once the fighting in the Israel-Hamas conflict ends—an idea that’s been flatly rejected by Arab allies. Fostering AI advances The summit, which gathers major players such as Google, Microsoft and OpenAI, aims at fostering AI advances in sectors like health, education, environment, and culture. A global public-private partnership named “Current AI” will be launched to support large-scale initiatives that serve the general interest. The Paris summit “is the first time we’ll have had such a broad international discussion in one place on the future of AI,” said Linda Griffin, vice president of public policy at Mozilla. “I see it as a norm-setting moment.” Nick Reiners, senior geotechnology analyst at Eurasia Group, noted an opportunity to shape AI governance in a new direction by “moving away from this concentration of power amongst a handful of private actors and building this public interest AI instead.” However, it remains unclear if the United States will support such initiatives. “There’s a lot of complicated questions to resolve” around issues like the ability to control AI systems, Nobel Prize winner Demis Hassabis, founder of Google’s DeepMind research lab, said. “But also I think even more complicated are maybe the geopolitical questions about things like regulation.” French organizers are also looking for the summit to ignite major investment announcements in Europe, positioning the region as a viable contender in an industry increasingly shaped by a growing U.S.-China rivalry. France plans to announce AI private investments worth a total of 109 billion euros ($113 billion) over the coming years, Macron said, presenting it as “the equivalent” of Trump’s Stargate AI data centers project. In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun expressed opposition Monday to any moves to restrict access to AI tools. The release of DeepSeek has prompted calls in the U.S. Congress to limit its use for security reasons. “We oppose drawing ideological lines and oppose overstretching national security concepts and politicizing economic and trade issues,” Guo said. He said that China advocates for open-source AI technology and promotes the accessibility of AI services to share the benefits of artificial intelligence with all countries. India’s Modi is cohosting the summit Modi is cohosting the summit with Macron in an effort to involve more global actors in AI development and prevent the sector from becoming a U.S.-China battle. India’s foreign secretary, Vikram Misri, stressed the need for equitable access to AI to avoid “perpetuating a digital divide that is already existing across the world.” Macron will also travel on Wednesday with Modi to the southern French port city of Marseille to inaugurate an Indian Consulate there and visit the ITER nuclear research site. France has become a key defense partner for India, with talks underway on New Delhi purchasing 26 Rafale fighter jets and three Scorpene submarines. Officials in India said that discussions are at the final phase and the deal could be inked in a few weeks. Kelvin Chan in Paris, Ken Moritsugu in Beijing, and Aijaz Hussain in New Delhi, contributed to this report. —Sylvie Corbet and Aamer Madhani, Associated Press View the full article

Brendan Vaughn, editor-in-chief of ‘Fast Company,’ interviews Credo AI’s CEO on AI governance trends at the World Economic Forum 2025. View the full article

Revolutionize how businesses visualize and interpret data. Quick Tech Talk With Steve Yoss CPE Today Go PRO for members-only access to more Stephen Yoss. View the full article

Revolutionize how businesses visualize and interpret data. Quick Tech Talk With Steve Yoss CPE Today Go PRO for members-only access to more Stephen Yoss. View the full article

As a market leader, Rocket Companies rebranding comes in the foreground of several court battles and fluctuating earnings performance. View the full article

Here is a recap of what happened in the search forums today, through the eyes of the Search Engine Roundtable and other search forums on the web. We are seeing some big chatter over the weekend...View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you’ve been thinking about getting a budget-friendly robot vacuum with mopping capabilities, you might want to check out the iRobot Roomba Combo Essential. This PCMag Editor's Choice-winning robot vacuum is currently $149 (down from $274.99), its lowest price ever, according to price trackers. iRobot Roomba Combo Essential $149.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $274.99 Save $125.99 Get Deal Get Deal $149.00 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $274.99 Save $125.99 It offers two cleaning modes: vacuum-only and vacuum-and-mop. Switching to the latter requires manually attaching the mop pad, which is then dragged along by the vacuum as it moves. If you’re hoping for some scrubbing power, this isn’t it—it won’t lift dried-on spills or heavy grime. That said, while it doesn’t have the suction power for a deep clean, it reportedly handles pet hair well, leaving no dust bunnies behind and avoiding major tangles in its brush roll. The Combo Essential comes with wifi support (specifically for 2.4GHz networks), so you can control it not just with the physical buttons on the vacuum but also through the iRobot Home app or with voice commands if you have Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant. Setting it up is simple: Download the iRobot Home app, create an account, and follow the step-by-step instructions. Once connected, the app lets you adjust suction power and water usage, set up a cleaning schedule (though keep in mind it doesn’t create a customizable map), put a time limit on cleaning sessions, check its run history, and enable voice controls. Unlike many budget robot vacuums, the Combo Essential has a battery life of over 120 minutes and rarely gets stuck on common obstacles like chair legs or flooring thresholds (though it does bump into things as it tries to free itself from tight spots), notes this PCMag review. And since it costs a fraction of what high-end robot floor cleaners do, it lacks premium features like AI-powered obstacle avoidance or self-maintenance. Instead, it navigates using a combination of a gyroscope and infrared sensors. This allows it to clean in somewhat orderly rows, but it can occasionally get confused and re-cover the same area from a different angle. That said, it does a solid job of vacuuming and mopping small spaces. View the full article

The head of the U.N. AIDS agency said Monday the number of new HIV infections could jump more than six times by 2029 if American support of the biggest AIDS program is dropped, warning that millions of people could die and more resistant strains of the disease could emerge. In an interview with the Associated Press, UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima said HIV infections have been falling in recent years, with just 1.3 million new cases recorded in 2023, a 60% decline since the virus peaked in 1995. But since President Donald Trump’s announcement the U.S. would freeze all foreign assistance for 90 days, Byanyima said officials estimate that by 2029, there could be 8.7 million people newly infected with HIV, a tenfold jump in AIDS-related deaths—to 6.3 million—and an additional 3.4 million children made orphans. “We will see a surge in this disease,” Byanyima said, speaking from Uganda. “This will cost lives if the American government doesn’t change its mind and maintain its leadership,” she said, adding that it was not her place to criticize any government’s policy. Byanyima pleaded with the Trump administration not to abruptly cut off funding, which she said has resulted in “panic, fear, and confusion” in many of the African countries hardest hit by AIDS. In one Kenyan county, she said 550 HIV workers were immediately laid off, while thousands of others in Ethiopia were terminated, leaving health officials unable to track the epidemic. She noted that the loss of U.S. funding to HIV programs in some countries was catastrophic, with external funding, mostly from the U.S., accounting for about 90% of their programs. Nearly $400 million goes to countries like Uganda, Mozambique, and Tanzania, she said. “We can work with (the Americans) on how to decrease their contribution if they wish to decrease it,” she said. Byanyima described the American withdrawal from global HIV efforts as the second biggest crisis the field has ever faced—after the yearslong delay it took for poor countries to get the lifesaving antiretrovirals long available in rich countries. Byanyima also said the loss of American support in efforts to combat HIV was coming at another critical time, with the arrival of what she called “a magical prevention tool” known as lenacapavir, a twice-yearly shot that was shown to offer complete protection against HIV in women, and which worked nearly as well as for men. Widespread use of that shot, in addition to other interventions to stop HIV, could help end the disease as a public health problem in the next five years, Byanyima said. She also noted that lenacapavir, sold as Sunlenca, was developed by the American company Gilead. International aid, Byanyima said, “helped an American company to innovate, to come up with something that will pay them millions and millions, but at the same time prevent new infections in the rest of the world.” The freeze in American funding, she said, didn’t make economic sense. “We appeal to the U.S. government to review this, to understand that this is mutually beneficial,” she said, noting that foreign assistance makes up less than 1% of the overall U.S. budget. “Why would you need to be so disruptive for that 1%?” Byanyima said that so far, no other countries or donors have stepped up to fill the void that will be left by the loss of American aid, but that she plans to visit numerous European capitals to speak with global leaders. “People are going to die because lifesaving tools have been taken away from them,” she said. “I have not yet heard of any European country committing to step in, but I know they are listening and trying to see where they can come in because they care about rights, about humanity.” The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. —Maria Cheng, AP Medical Writer View the full article

Bond traders anticipate that yields will remain elevated — and range bound — until there's a lot more clarity on where the economy is heading. View the full article

Chess.com has a new subscription option for chess families and tight-knit players: a friends and family plan. The site, where players around the world can face off against live opponents, play bots, and solve chess puzzles, introduced its group tier in January, offering a players a discount on its top-tier offerings with the aim of winning the long-term loyalty game. For $199.99 a year, Chess.com’s “Friends and Family” Diamond Premium plan offers up to four people access to feature’s like an ad-free site experience, chess lessons, game reviews, and insights into how to improve their skills that would run an individual subscriber $120 a year. “It’s good for consumers, because it brings down the average cost of the membership,” says Erik Allebest, founder and CEO of Chess.com. “But then it’s also good for the business and for retention, because people tend to stick together and stay members together. Who wants to cancel a membership and then have all their friends lose their benefits?” Squaring the economics Chess.com’s subscriptions are more easily compared to music streamers that video platforms—with companies like Netflix and Max taking action to curb password sharing. Like an avid music fan who doesn’t want a friend or family member’s taste throwing off their recommendations, Chess.com users guard their rating—and passwords—fiercely. “Nobody wants to share their chess login—[someone could] play a game and mess up their rating,” Allebest says. “It becomes more important to have a friends and family plan, because you don’t just get to share your password and do it that way.” Music streamers also offer an example of how the group subscription economics could play out. In 2016, Spotify delighted customers by dropping their family plan’s price to just $14.99 per month. The move kept them competitive with Apple, but over time, the price has crept up—it now sits at $19.99 per month. That hasn’t had a negative affect on the number of people signing up for it, though. On its most recent quarterly earnings call, Spotify co-president and chief business officer Alex Nordstrom noted that its family plan is “making up a big proportion of [our] subscriber base.” Allebest estimates that with its current “all-time high” of approximately 1.5 million paying subscribers, Chess.com’s premium accounts make up about 80% of the site’s revenue. The new friends and family plan could eat into that bottom line in the short term, but sees long-term loyalty as something worth an early revenue hit. “If it’s $199 for up to four people, maybe six people in the future, you’re getting fewer dollars per person,” Allebest says. “The bet is that you’ll get lower dollars-per-user, but you’ll get a longer lifetime subscription.” Seeing what works Allebest says the site is no stranger to experimenting with different ways to attract and retain players. The company offers gift subscriptions—an effort he calls “moderately successful”—and micro-tests a variety of new features among Chess.com’s “Beta Club” of power users. “We’re not innovating dramatically here,” Allebest says. “But we are testing it. We tried a lower price. We’re going to try adding more seats to it.” Their metric of success will be subscriber turnover, or “churn” rates. Allebest says that he’s “constantly monitoring” the company’s churn, though he declined to share a specific churn rate. It’ll take a year, he estimates, until they know just how successful the program is. But Allebest is confident that the program will work out, as they continue to fine-tune it to be the best value. “I feel like paying a subscription for a service that provides utility in your life is fair,” he says. “[We’re] trying to find the right balance.” View the full article

ONS figures ‘in development’ highlight challenge facing government in improving health service performance View the full article

Saving money at the grocery store is easy on paper, but when I step into the aisles a new brain takes over. “Don’t you need chocolate?” and “Ooh, maybe chicken strips?”—the word “budget” has disappeared from my mind. For me, the best money-saving trick is to make a proper checklist of ingredients that are budget-friendly and that ideally can be used for multiple meals. Below, you'll find my budget-friendly grocery shopping list that keeps me afloat during crappy economic times—maybe it'll help you, too. I’ve broken down the list into main sections to clarify how I build my grocery list. However, everyone has their own way of cooking and eating so even if my list isn’t perfect for you (I'd be surprised if it was), you can still use these guidelines to save a few bucks. If you’re thinking, “just give me the list!” Then here you go. I keep mine as a checklist like this on my phone so I can easily check things off in the store. It keeps my eyes from roaming to the snack aisle. Feel free to make a copy and personalize it. Starches Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann Starches are a big-time belly filler. They’re often one of the cheapest items in our grocery stores because they can be dried and sold in bulk. Cereal grains, etc. Rice, pastas, instant noodles, quinoa, oats—these dried items are affordable and can make multiple meals. For example, a 16-ounce box of pasta has eight servings. A 42-ounce canister of oats can serve 30. That’s a lot of breakfast for $7.50. Beans and legumes. Another bulk purchase, dry beans and legumes are shelf-stable, packed with fiber, and one bag can make many meals. I often buy hydrated beans in a can, but if you can get used to soaking your beans in advance then you’ll save money with dry beans. Potatoes. Potatoes are an old friend, but what I’m still surprised by is how full they make me. Two red potatoes is enough for a four-person serving of this lentil soup and one large russet potato can make enough mashed potatoes for two people. Bread. Bread can turn a humble egg into a whole sandwich or make a handful of tomatoes and onions into a filling panzanella salad. Divide a loaf of bread into bite-sized pieces and use them as a bulking agent in quiches, soups, and salads. Cheap mains Check the unit price on cuts of meat to see which gives you the cheapest option. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann The main event of a meal is often meat and that's jumping in price, too. Here are some ways to keep proteins in your diet without ruining your budget. Cheap meat. Instead of buying premium cuts of beef, opt for sausage (here's my sausage and beans recipe) or different cuts of pork. If you are buying beef, check for cheaper cuts by looking at the unit price on the packaging. You can see the difference in the picture above. Don't sleep on canned meat either, like tuna and SPAM. Seafood. Frozen shrimp is one of my favorite money-saving proteins. Look for medium-sized shrimp and toss them into rice dishes, soups, or pastas. Cheese. You might think of cheese as a topping, but an ounce or two of cheese can be a satisfying main component of a dish. Try pan frying a slab for your next salad or sandwich. Fats and flavoringIf there is any lesson that cauliflower steak has taught me, it’s that if you have enough seasoning and enough fat, anything can taste good. Stretching your budget might mean you buy less bougie food, but it doesn’t have to mean your food lacks flavor. Vegetable oil. Somewhere along the line we became bewitched with olive oil and forgot that there are other cooking oils. Olive oil and butter are at a premium at the moment, so grab a bottle of canola, corn, or vegetable oil for a much cheaper price. They’re actually better for higher cooking temperatures anyway. Save the extra virgin olive oil for finishing touches. Bullion flavoring. I’ve been relying on soups and stews this winter. Not only is it comforting but all that broth is filling. Instead of buying one container of chicken stock for each pot of soup, buy some concentrated bullion, or a jar of Better Than Bullion (they have a whole line with meatless options too), so you can make nine or 10 pots of soup for nearly the same price. Fruits and vegetables Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann There’s no doubt that getting in your fruits and veggies is key to a balanced diet, and fresh produce is often affordable. The problem in my house is waste. If I buy too much, then that’s money wasted. Try not to bulk buy fresh produce unless you have a plan for it, like an actual meal you know you’ll be making in the next few days. Fresh and seasonal. Fruits and vegetables that are in season or local often cost less than produce that’s out of season or was shipped a great distance. Buy asparagus and berries in the summer, and squashes in the winter. Stick to your year-round allies whenever you’re at a loss, like apples, cucumbers, potatoes, carrots, broccoli, and peppers. Canned and frozen. When it’s not berry season or the price of fresh spinach is getting you down, look to the frozen section. Not only will you be able to get a decent variety of fruit or veg but keep them frozen and you won’t have to worry about waste. Check out the canned section too. You can often find some cheaper gems there, like cans of sliced mushrooms for a dollar, canned beets, crushed tomatoes, and even potatoes. (By the way, canned mushrooms and potatoes are perfect for air frying.) Sticking to the store-brand options can help you save a few bucks, too. If you're looking for money-saving recipes to inspire your next grocery shop, try these. View the full article