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The world’s largest tech showcase does not come without theatrics. Innovations and gadgets like a lollipop that sings to you as you consume it, a laundry-folding robot, and a “smart” LEGO brick have stolen the spotlight so far at CES 2026. But underscoring this year’s programming is a strong focus on an industry that relies on a similar theatrical flair: entertainment. More than 25 different panels and events related to the entertainment industry are on the schedule in Las Vegas, focusing on both the traditional studio side of the industry and the digital side driven by content creators. The programming has posed questions about the cinematic capabilities of AI, how advertising has been impacted by AI, and the role the burgeoning creator economy plays in the larger entertainment landscape. Artificial intelligence has long been a sticking point in Hollywood, and many creatives in the entertainment world have been reluctant to embrace the rapidly evolving technology and AI-powered tools. Outrage ensued when Tilly Norwood, an entirely AI-made character, debuted as the first “AI actor” in the fall. Questions about copyrighted characters, images, and materials still loom large in conversations about AI. But many speakers in CES programming were optimistic about how the technology can be beneficial, and how AI could be used to help artists harness their creativity rather than stifle it or replace it. “The tools that we create have unlocked something in us. It’s kind of flattened that bar in terms of what storytelling can be because anyone now can be a storyteller,” said Dwayne Koh, the head of creative at Leonardo.ai, during a Monday session on AI and creativity. “It levels the playing field, but it also makes it easier for people to tell stories that they always want(ed) to tell that they never could have the opportunity to tell.” Others were quick to point out that Hollywood’s panic over emerging technology is not new. “When we launched Photoshop in the ’90s, we were also getting pretty angry phone calls from creatives saying that we were destroying craft,” said Hannah Elsakr, Adobe’s vice president of generative AI new business ventures, at a Monday session focused on advertising. “We’re in early days with AI. I’m not advocating for more cats jumping off diving boards in your feeds. I think it’s about high creativity and so the director, the artist, the actor is going to drive the high quality,” Elsakr continued. “Think of AI as another tool in the toolkit to make you drive that forward.” Many conversations also centered on influencers and the growing legitimacy of internet-native creators and content in the traditional entertainment industry. The efficiency with which these creators work, sometimes because they are using AI-enabled tools, was a prime focus among many speakers. Brad Haugen, the executive vice president of digital strategy and growth at Lionsgate and 3 Arts, said traditional media companies should welcome opportunities to work with creators and embrace their importance. “We have, potentially, the next great filmmaker, the next great TV showrunner, the next great digital entrepreneur,” he said. “Creators are not just there to market products. They’re not just there to do internet stuff. They’re actually the next Spike Jonze and the next Sofia Coppola.” More entertainment-related programming is scheduled for Wednesday, with many sessions coming out of Variety’s Entertainment Summit at the showcase, including panels with leaders from Netflix, Disney, and Warner Bros. Discovery, and actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt. In addition to formal programming, a host of entertainment-related products and services are on display at CES. An array of impressive televisions with advanced features, AI-powered smart headphones, a “stringless smart guitar” and even a “sound chair” that has built-in audio were among the innovations aimed at bringing AI and advanced tech to entertainment consumers. Amazon also announced the rollout of Alexa.com this week, bringing its AI assistant to the web with a host of new features, including personalized movie and TV recommendations. It’s one of many features designed to enhance at-home viewing, including the previously announced feature that enables Alexa to jump to a specific scene you’re searching for with just a simple description. —Kaitlyn Huamani, AP technology writer View the full article

Google's John Mueller says businesses relying on referral traffic should consider the 'full picture' of AI and prioritize based on actual usage data. The post Google’s Mueller Weighs In On SEO vs GEO Debate appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

If your business has poor credit, finding financing options can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Several alternatives exist that can provide you with the capital you need to keep operations running smoothly. Short-term loans, merchant cash advances, invoice factoring, equipment financing, and business lines of credit are all viable choices. Each option caters to different needs and circumstances, allowing you to access funds without relying heavily on your credit score. Comprehending these options can help you make informed decisions for your business’s financial health. Key Takeaways Short-term business loans prioritize cash flow over credit scores, providing quick access to funds from $5,000 to $500,000. Merchant cash advances require no extensive credit checks, offering same-day funding based on future credit card sales. Invoice factoring focuses on customer creditworthiness, allowing immediate cash flow by selling unpaid invoices for upfront advances. Equipment financing can be secured with poor credit by using the equipment as collateral, ensuring access to necessary machinery. Business lines of credit may have a minimum personal credit score requirement around 500, providing flexible funding for various business needs. Short-Term Business Loans If you need quick access to capital, short-term business loans might be a viable option for your business, especially if you have poor credit. These alternative business loans typically range from $5,000 to $500,000, with funding available within one business day after approval. They come with repayment terms of 3 to 24 months, making them ideal for urgent operational needs like payroll or inventory purchases. Unlike traditional loans, approval for short-term loans usually focuses on your cash flow and revenue, rather than just your credit score, allowing you to secure financing in spite of poor credit. Interest rates can vary widely, typically falling between 6.00% and 19.99% APR, depending on the lender and your financial profile. Furthermore, lenders often provide flexible repayment options, which can help align your payments with your business’s cash flow, easing the financial strain during repayment periods. Merchant Cash Advances Merchant Cash Advances (MCAs) offer a unique financing solution for businesses that need quick access to cash, especially those with poor credit histories. Unlike traditional loans, MCAs provide funding based on your future credit card sales, allowing you to bypass extensive credit checks. This means that if you have strong daily transactions, you’re more likely to secure favorable terms. Approval for an MCA can often happen within hours, and you may receive funding the same day, making it ideal for urgent financial needs. Repayment is automatically deducted from your daily credit card sales, providing flexibility for businesses with fluctuating revenue streams. Nonetheless, it’s essential to recognize that although MCAs can be convenient, they typically come with higher costs; factor rates can range from 1.03 to 1.52, which affects your overall repayment amounts. Maintaining low chargeback rates can further improve your chances of approval, ensuring your business remains in good standing. Invoice Factoring Invoice factoring serves as a practical financing option for businesses seeking immediate cash flow without the burden of poor credit scores. By selling your unpaid invoices to a third party, you can access cash quickly, as lenders focus on your customers’ creditworthiness rather than your own. Typically, factoring companies advance 70% to 90% of the invoice value upfront, with the remainder paid once the invoice is settled. Aspect Details Notes Advance Percentage 70% – 90% Varies by factoring company Factor Rate 1.03 – 1.52 Depends on risk and terms Eligibility Factors Organized records & timely payments Can lead to better terms Benefits Immediate cash flow No reliance on credit score Equipment Financing Equipment financing serves as a vital solution for businesses needing to acquire fundamental machinery or technology to boost productivity and growth. This type of financing provides the necessary funds to purchase or lease critical equipment, promoting operational efficiency without the burden of upfront costs. Loan amounts are typically determined by the equipment’s cost and your financial health, making it accessible even though you have poor credit. Repayment terms can vary; some options might require collateral, which can improve your chances of approval. By making timely payments on your equipment loans, you can positively impact your credit score over time, showcasing your financial responsibility. Companies like Greenbox Capital offer personalized equipment financing options designed for businesses with low credit scores, facilitating access to necessary assets without the hassle of traditional credit checks. This makes it easier for you to invest in the tools needed to grow your business effectively. Business Lines of Credit If you’re looking for a flexible financing solution, a business line of credit might be the answer. With this option, you can access funds as needed, only paying interest on the amount you draw, much like a credit card. Here are three key points to evaluate: Eligibility: You often only need a minimum personal credit score of around 500, making it accessible for those with poor credit. Funding Range: Lines of credit typically range from $1,000 to $250,000, depending on your lender and financial health. Uses and Terms: You can use these funds for managing cash flow, purchasing inventory, or covering unexpected expenses, with repayment terms lasting from 6 months to 5 years and interest rates between 7% to 25%. This flexibility is essential for small businesses looking to navigate financial challenges effectively. Frequently Asked Questions Can Personal Credit Affect Business Financing Options? Yes, personal credit can greatly affect your business financing options. Lenders often review your personal credit history when evaluating your business loan application, especially for small businesses or startups. A poor personal credit score might limit your access to loans, increase interest rates, or result in the need for a co-signer. As a result, maintaining a good personal credit score is vital as it can directly influence your business’s funding opportunities and overall financial health. What Are the Typical Interest Rates for Poor Credit Loans? Typical interest rates for poor credit loans usually range from 15% to 35%, but they can vary widely based on the lender and the specific terms of the loan. Higher rates reflect the increased risk lenders perceive when borrowing to individuals with lower credit scores. You should carefully compare offers, as some lenders might charge additional fees, which can further increase the overall cost of borrowing. Always read the fine print before making a decision. How Can I Improve My Credit Score Quickly? To improve your credit score quickly, start by paying down existing debts, especially high credit utilization accounts. Make sure to pay bills on time, as payment history greatly impacts your score. Consider disputing any inaccuracies on your credit report, as these can lower your score. Moreover, limit new credit inquiries, since too many can negatively affect your score. Finally, keep older accounts open to maintain a longer credit history. Are There Grants Available for Businesses With Poor Credit? Yes, there are grants available for businesses with poor credit, though they can be competitive and limited. Many federal, state, and local programs aim to support small businesses, especially those in underserved areas. You should research specific grants that focus on your industry or community needs. Furthermore, organizations like the Small Business Administration (SBA) may offer resources and guidance on available financial assistance, even in the case that your credit score isn’t ideal. What Documents Do Lenders Typically Require for Poor Credit Applications? When applying for loans with poor credit, lenders typically require several key documents. You’ll need to provide personal identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, along with your Social Security number. Financial statements, including bank statements and tax returns, are likewise crucial. Furthermore, lenders might ask for a business plan detailing how you’ll use the funds and how you plan to repay the loan, so be prepared to present that as well. Conclusion In conclusion, businesses with poor credit have several financing options to evaluate. Short-term loans and merchant cash advances provide quick access to funds, whereas invoice factoring offers immediate cash flow by leveraging unpaid invoices. Equipment financing helps acquire necessary machinery regardless of credit challenges, and business lines of credit give you flexible funding for various needs. By exploring these alternatives, you can find the right solution to support your business’s growth and operational demands, even with credit difficulties. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Financing Options for Poor Credit Business Finance" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If your business has poor credit, finding financing options can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Several alternatives exist that can provide you with the capital you need to keep operations running smoothly. Short-term loans, merchant cash advances, invoice factoring, equipment financing, and business lines of credit are all viable choices. Each option caters to different needs and circumstances, allowing you to access funds without relying heavily on your credit score. Comprehending these options can help you make informed decisions for your business’s financial health. Key Takeaways Short-term business loans prioritize cash flow over credit scores, providing quick access to funds from $5,000 to $500,000. Merchant cash advances require no extensive credit checks, offering same-day funding based on future credit card sales. Invoice factoring focuses on customer creditworthiness, allowing immediate cash flow by selling unpaid invoices for upfront advances. Equipment financing can be secured with poor credit by using the equipment as collateral, ensuring access to necessary machinery. Business lines of credit may have a minimum personal credit score requirement around 500, providing flexible funding for various business needs. Short-Term Business Loans If you need quick access to capital, short-term business loans might be a viable option for your business, especially if you have poor credit. These alternative business loans typically range from $5,000 to $500,000, with funding available within one business day after approval. They come with repayment terms of 3 to 24 months, making them ideal for urgent operational needs like payroll or inventory purchases. Unlike traditional loans, approval for short-term loans usually focuses on your cash flow and revenue, rather than just your credit score, allowing you to secure financing in spite of poor credit. Interest rates can vary widely, typically falling between 6.00% and 19.99% APR, depending on the lender and your financial profile. Furthermore, lenders often provide flexible repayment options, which can help align your payments with your business’s cash flow, easing the financial strain during repayment periods. Merchant Cash Advances Merchant Cash Advances (MCAs) offer a unique financing solution for businesses that need quick access to cash, especially those with poor credit histories. Unlike traditional loans, MCAs provide funding based on your future credit card sales, allowing you to bypass extensive credit checks. This means that if you have strong daily transactions, you’re more likely to secure favorable terms. Approval for an MCA can often happen within hours, and you may receive funding the same day, making it ideal for urgent financial needs. Repayment is automatically deducted from your daily credit card sales, providing flexibility for businesses with fluctuating revenue streams. Nonetheless, it’s essential to recognize that although MCAs can be convenient, they typically come with higher costs; factor rates can range from 1.03 to 1.52, which affects your overall repayment amounts. Maintaining low chargeback rates can further improve your chances of approval, ensuring your business remains in good standing. Invoice Factoring Invoice factoring serves as a practical financing option for businesses seeking immediate cash flow without the burden of poor credit scores. By selling your unpaid invoices to a third party, you can access cash quickly, as lenders focus on your customers’ creditworthiness rather than your own. Typically, factoring companies advance 70% to 90% of the invoice value upfront, with the remainder paid once the invoice is settled. Aspect Details Notes Advance Percentage 70% – 90% Varies by factoring company Factor Rate 1.03 – 1.52 Depends on risk and terms Eligibility Factors Organized records & timely payments Can lead to better terms Benefits Immediate cash flow No reliance on credit score Equipment Financing Equipment financing serves as a vital solution for businesses needing to acquire fundamental machinery or technology to boost productivity and growth. This type of financing provides the necessary funds to purchase or lease critical equipment, promoting operational efficiency without the burden of upfront costs. Loan amounts are typically determined by the equipment’s cost and your financial health, making it accessible even though you have poor credit. Repayment terms can vary; some options might require collateral, which can improve your chances of approval. By making timely payments on your equipment loans, you can positively impact your credit score over time, showcasing your financial responsibility. Companies like Greenbox Capital offer personalized equipment financing options designed for businesses with low credit scores, facilitating access to necessary assets without the hassle of traditional credit checks. This makes it easier for you to invest in the tools needed to grow your business effectively. Business Lines of Credit If you’re looking for a flexible financing solution, a business line of credit might be the answer. With this option, you can access funds as needed, only paying interest on the amount you draw, much like a credit card. Here are three key points to evaluate: Eligibility: You often only need a minimum personal credit score of around 500, making it accessible for those with poor credit. Funding Range: Lines of credit typically range from $1,000 to $250,000, depending on your lender and financial health. Uses and Terms: You can use these funds for managing cash flow, purchasing inventory, or covering unexpected expenses, with repayment terms lasting from 6 months to 5 years and interest rates between 7% to 25%. This flexibility is essential for small businesses looking to navigate financial challenges effectively. Frequently Asked Questions Can Personal Credit Affect Business Financing Options? Yes, personal credit can greatly affect your business financing options. Lenders often review your personal credit history when evaluating your business loan application, especially for small businesses or startups. A poor personal credit score might limit your access to loans, increase interest rates, or result in the need for a co-signer. As a result, maintaining a good personal credit score is vital as it can directly influence your business’s funding opportunities and overall financial health. What Are the Typical Interest Rates for Poor Credit Loans? Typical interest rates for poor credit loans usually range from 15% to 35%, but they can vary widely based on the lender and the specific terms of the loan. Higher rates reflect the increased risk lenders perceive when borrowing to individuals with lower credit scores. You should carefully compare offers, as some lenders might charge additional fees, which can further increase the overall cost of borrowing. Always read the fine print before making a decision. How Can I Improve My Credit Score Quickly? To improve your credit score quickly, start by paying down existing debts, especially high credit utilization accounts. Make sure to pay bills on time, as payment history greatly impacts your score. Consider disputing any inaccuracies on your credit report, as these can lower your score. Moreover, limit new credit inquiries, since too many can negatively affect your score. Finally, keep older accounts open to maintain a longer credit history. Are There Grants Available for Businesses With Poor Credit? Yes, there are grants available for businesses with poor credit, though they can be competitive and limited. Many federal, state, and local programs aim to support small businesses, especially those in underserved areas. You should research specific grants that focus on your industry or community needs. Furthermore, organizations like the Small Business Administration (SBA) may offer resources and guidance on available financial assistance, even in the case that your credit score isn’t ideal. What Documents Do Lenders Typically Require for Poor Credit Applications? When applying for loans with poor credit, lenders typically require several key documents. You’ll need to provide personal identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, along with your Social Security number. Financial statements, including bank statements and tax returns, are likewise crucial. Furthermore, lenders might ask for a business plan detailing how you’ll use the funds and how you plan to repay the loan, so be prepared to present that as well. Conclusion In conclusion, businesses with poor credit have several financing options to evaluate. Short-term loans and merchant cash advances provide quick access to funds, whereas invoice factoring offers immediate cash flow by leveraging unpaid invoices. Equipment financing helps acquire necessary machinery regardless of credit challenges, and business lines of credit give you flexible funding for various needs. By exploring these alternatives, you can find the right solution to support your business’s growth and operational demands, even with credit difficulties. Image via Google Gemini This article, "5 Financing Options for Poor Credit Business Finance" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Plenty of people have been asking for a MacBook with a touchscreen display, and now that is possible with the Intricuit Magic Screen, according to an announcement at CES 2026. It's a snap-on accessory that attaches to your MacBook's display, and uses one of the USB-C ports on the laptop for power. Once connected, you can touch the Magic Screen and your input will be registered on the Mac. The good news is that this product ships with a stylus, which will make it a lot easier to interact with different Mac apps. When you tap something on your iPhone or iPad, the UI takes into account the fact that your fingers are a lot thicker than a mouse pointer. On the Mac, the default input is the mouse cursor, so the Magic Screen's stylus is better suited to those interactions than using your fingers. Having said that, you can use your fingers with this touchscreen accessory too. Keep in mind that using a snap-on touchscreen accessory has a few caveats. The first is that you can't quickly close your MacBook's lid when the Magic Screen is attached. The company has added a thick piece of plastic to the base of the accessory. This part rests just above your MacBook's keyboard and it'll stop you from accidentally closing your laptop's lid with the Magic Screen attached. This ensures that you won't accidentally damage your laptop'd display by slamming the lid shut when the accessory is attached. It also means that you'll always have to unplug the Magic Screen when you're not using the Mac, which can be a bit annoying. Intricuit says it also works in pen tablet mode, so you can place the Magic Screen on your desk and use your stylus to draw something or to control the Mac. This accessory's battery will last up to 100 hours on a single charge, the company claims. Intricuit announced this product at CES 2026 and said the Magic Screen will be on Kickstarter soon at a launch price of $139. The company says it expects to start shipping the product in the first quarter of 2026. It currently supports the 16-inch M-series MacBook Pro, 14-inch M-series MacBook Pro, 15-inch M-series MacBook Air, and 13-inch M-series MacBook Air models. You'll just need to choose the correct variant for your laptop while placing the order. View the full article

UK fintech agrees $38mn deal as it eyes international expansion and potential IPOView the full article

Revised impact assessment says ministers had been ‘deliberately cautious’ in their initial reviewView the full article

Google launched a beta integration for Google Tag Gateway that lets advertisers deploy it through Google Cloud Platform (GCP) using a new one-click workflow inside Google Tag Manager and Google tag settings. What’s new. The GCP integration uses Google Cloud’s Global external Application Load Balancer to route tag traffic through an advertiser’s own first-party domain before sending it to Google. The goal is to streamline deployment while improving data signal quality and resilience against ad blockers and technologies like Apple’s Intelligent Tracking Prevention. Why we care. As browsers and platforms continue to limit third-party tracking, advertisers are looking for ways to protect measurement signals. Routing tags through first-party infrastructure can improve data reliability — but setup has often been complex. By routing Google tags through an advertiser’s own infrastructure, it helps preserve measurement signals in the face of ad blockers and browser privacy restrictions. For teams already using Google Cloud, the one-click setup lowers barriers to more resilient, future-proof tracking. What advertisers are saying. Digital marketer and Simmer co-founder Simo Ahava, who shared the update on LinkedIn, noted that the integration enables one-click deployment in GCP. Behind the scenes, it sets up an External Application Load Balancer with routing rules that direct Google Tag Gateway traffic to a backend service handling the gateway requests. Ahava also pointed out that Google Tag Gateway places Google’s tagging technologies behind a same-site, same-origin first-party host, helping tags survive restrictive browser environments. The big picture. Until now, Cloudflare was the only automated deployment option for Google Tag Gateway, with other CDNs requiring manual setups. Adding GCP lowers friction for advertisers already invested in Google’s cloud ecosystem and signals broader support for first-party tagging strategies. Bottom line. Google is making first-party tagging easier to deploy, and while the GCP integration is still in beta, it marks a meaningful step toward more resilient measurement in a privacy-constrained web. View the full article

Google's John Mueller says "Page Indexed without content" errors typically indicate server or CDN blocking of Googlebot, not JavaScript issues. Here's what to check. The post Google’s Mueller Explains ‘Page Indexed Without Content’ Error appeared first on Search Engine Journal. 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. The Google Nest Wifi Pro is currently $99.99 on Amazon, which is half off its usual $199.99 price, and according to price trackers, the lowest it's ever been. At this price, it’s a solid entry point for anyone looking to upgrade to Wi-Fi 6E without diving into full-blown mesh systems or complicated installs. The router itself is designed to be discreet—no antennas, no buttons, just a small LED that quietly tells you if things are working. Setup happens through the Google Home app and takes only a few minutes. Google Nest WiFi Pro $99.99 at Amazon $199.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $99.99 at Amazon $199.99 Save $100.00 Performance holds up well for everyday use. It supports tri-band wifi, including 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and the newer 6GHz band, though you can’t manually select which one your device connects to. There’s no separate network name for the 6GHz band; the router decides automatically using band steering. This isn’t ideal for people who want direct control, especially if you're hoping to get the most out of newer Wi-Fi 6E devices. Still, it uses modern features to keep speeds consistent. MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output) allows it to communicate with several devices at once, instead of cycling through them one at a time. OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access) improves efficiency by letting the router serve multiple users with different bandwidth needs at the same time. And 160MHz channel support means it can transmit more data in a shorter amount of time, which is great for streaming, gaming, or transferring large files. It also supports Matter and Thread, which makes it a good match for newer smart home setups. That said, it’s worth noting that there are no USB ports, and Ethernet is capped at 1Gbps, so no multi-gig options here. You also can’t prioritize devices or set age-based filters as you can on some competing mesh systems, notes this PCMag review. Google does include basic parental controls (SafeSearch filtering and scheduled access), a guest network, and notification options, but it lacks any real security software like malware blocking. Power users will probably feel boxed in by the lack of advanced customization. But for most people, especially those already using Google’s ecosystem, it’s an easy, unobtrusive way to get faster, more reliable internet in their space. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $148.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — (List Price $24.99 With Code "FTV4K25") Dell 15 DC15255 (AMD Ryzen 7 7730U, 1TB SSD, 16GB RAM) — $519.99 (List Price $688.99) Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet (Silver) — $159.99 (List Price $219.99) Google Pixel 10 Pro 128GB Unlocked Phone (Obsidian) — $799.00 (List Price $999.00) Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 — $279.99 (List Price $349.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Regulated industries have long faced heightened scrutiny in organic search. This is where “Your Money or Your Life” (YMYL) first took hold. AI Overviews and LLMs like ChatGPT have intensified that scrutiny, expanding both the audience and the consequences. Accuracy and credibility have always mattered for SEO success in regulated sectors, but in today’s AI-driven search environment, the bar is significantly higher. Experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) are not optional for regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, government, and education, which sit squarely within Google’s YMYL territory. In this new search landscape, regulated brands and their SEO strategies can no longer operate in isolation. Up to 72% of B2B buyers report encountering Google’s AI Overviews in search, meaning a brand may be surfaced even when no click occurs. AI models pull information from across the web, unconstrained by traditional source boundaries. Social presence, digital PR, owned content, and discussions on forums such as Reddit and Quora all contribute to how brands are interpreted and cited. Meeting these challenges starts with reinforcing the principles that define effective AI-era SEO for regulated industries. 3 pillars of AI and SEO for regulated verticals The fundamentals of SEO remain unchanged with the rise of AI. What has changed is their importance. In highly regulated sectors, these principles are absolute and nonoptional. 1. Start with trust-by-design content Trust is not just a ranking factor in regulated categories, it’s a requirement. It’s also not evaluated solely on the information published on your website, but on how your brand appears across the web as a whole. A more useful question is: What does your content, wherever it appears, communicate about your trustworthiness? Every piece of content you publish, whether on your website, social platforms, or third-party sites, must follow a content strategy aligned with industry-specific regulations. In addition, the following SEO and AI guidelines should be treated as baseline requirements: Subject matter experts (SMEs) should demonstrate expertise through content creation. Search engines and AI systems recognize credibility through work authored by SMEs who include citations and maintain a documented history of external publications. Accuracy and ongoing maintenance must be evident. Publishing revision histories, updating statistics, and conducting transparent compliance reviews signal accountability and reliability. Authority is built through education, not promotion. White papers and research-driven content establish trust by prioritizing knowledge over marketing. Prioritize E-E-A-T. Google’s Search Quality Evaluator Guidelines state that YMYL pages need to meet the highest E-E-A-T standards. Use AI appropriately with mandatory human oversight. This involves: Requiring human and compliance review before publishing any AI-generated or AI-assisted content, claims, or explanations. Applying required disclaimers and regulatory statements consistently, and ensure privacy and data-handling policies are easy to find and written in plain language. Maintaining strict WCAG and ADA-aligned accessibility standards to support both regulatory compliance and search visibility. 2. Strengthen your technical and structural clarity Technical clarity isn’t just about helping search engines crawl your site any longer. It’s about ensuring that LLMs and AI-driven search features can understand and cite your content. When AI systems surface your content, they rely on clean architecture and accurate fields to deliver compliant, trustworthy information to users. The age-old saying, “keep it simple,” still holds true. The easier you make it for your content to be understood, the easier it will be to share. Structured data as a trust signal The use of structured data enables search engines to identify authors and entities and their connecting relationships. Schema markup functions as a trust-building element. By explicitly defining authorship, organizational entities, and their relationships, you help search engines validate credibility. This is especially important when compliance requires clear attribution of responsibility or expertise. Foundational schema types include: Organization. WebPage. Article. FAQ. Person (for authors). BreadcrumbList. Maintain a clean and crawlable site architecture Another technical aspect to address is maintaining a clean, crawlable architecture for your website. A well-organized structure enhances organic search performance while helping AI models understand the different components. Navigation is logical. Consistent URLs are being used. Limited broken or redirected links on the website. Proper internal linking hierarchy. Implement datePublished and dateModified fields. Don’t forget about accessibility Accessibility, supportive markup, and structured page elements ensure both AI systems and crawlers interpret entities correctly. Implementing these elements enhances your organization’s reputation online and public trust. Alt text for images ARIA labels Descriptive internal linking Transcripts and captions Semantic HTML markup Scannable headings Fast, mobile-friendly experience 3. Build authority and trust across every channel In highly regulated verticals, authority requires far more than backlinks. Building it through PR, content, and optimization depends on coordinated efforts that generate consistent credibility signals. Create credible, expert-driven engagement: Webinars, moderated Q&As, and public education sessions generate trusted content while enabling direct engagement with audiences. These interactions strengthen credibility and create signals AI systems can surface. Expand authority beyond owned channels: Digital PR and external visibility extend authority beyond channels you directly control, including: Citations in industry publications. Mentions in credible forums. Contributions to trusted third-party sites. Demonstrate compliance transparently: Compliance should be visible and verifiable. Publishing statements of compliance, referencing official standards, and linking to governing bodies reinforce credibility. When PR, content, and SEO teams operate in alignment, authority becomes a shared asset. That coordination creates the signals AI-driven search systems rely on to assess expertise and reliability. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. Industry-specific AI and SEO strategies While the above fundamentals apply across all industries, each vertical faces distinct challenges in AI-driven search. Visibility alone is not enough. Success depends on aligning SEO and AEO strategies with industry-specific regulatory requirements while maintaining consistent trust signals AI models can recognize and cite. AI-driven search further amplifies these differences. Healthcare content appears most frequently in Google’s AI Overviews, followed by financial services, according to Conductor’s 2026 AEO/GEO Benchmarks Report. These variations reinforce the need for tailored execution rather than one-size-fits-all approaches. The sections below outline practical AI and SEO considerations by vertical. Financial services Trust and transparency are critical. Inaccurate or misleading information can impact personal finances, regulatory standing, and legal liability, raising expectations for precision on AI-driven search surfaces. SEO strategies in this space must balance visibility with strict regulatory compliance. Structured data and clear authorship help reduce the risk of misinformation in a sector where credibility directly influences consumer confidence. Content should reference all applicable regulations, including SEC, FINRA, and GDPR requirements, and include any required disclaimers. Pages should also address common conversational queries, such as: How do I know if a fintech app is secure? How can I check my credit score for free without hurting it? How do I calculate monthly payments for a $400,000 mortgage? Relevant pages should implement appropriate schema, including: Organization. Person. FinancialServices or FinancialProduct. LocalBusiness for individual locations. Review. Privacy policies, encryption standards, and fraud-prevention measures should be easy to locate and clearly explained. Healthcare Accuracy has real-world consequences in healthcare. AI systems that pull information from across the web need clear signals that content is medically sound, expert-authored, and kept current. SEO strategies in this space must emphasize E-E-A-T, accessibility standards, and documented compliance to ensure information is reliable for both patients and medical professionals. Content should include required HIPAA and FDA disclaimers, risk-and-benefit statements, and clear distinctions between informational and advisory material. All healthcare content should be authored or reviewed by licensed medical professionals, with credentials displayed prominently. Pages should use natural language to address common questions, including: Which vaccines are recommended for adults over 50? How often should I schedule a routine check-up? Can I use telehealth for follow-up visits? Relevant pages should implement appropriate schema, including: MedicalOrganization. Person. MedicalProcedure. MedicalCondition. LocalBusiness for individual locations. MedicalWebPage. MedicalSpecialty. Privacy policies, patient rights, and security practices should be easy to find and clearly communicated. Government and legal Government agencies and law firms must balance two priorities: broad accessibility and strict legal compliance. AI-driven search surfaces favor content that is transparent, easy to navigate, and inclusive, which places greater emphasis on semantic clarity, structured data, and clear attribution to reinforce authority and public accountability. All content should meet WCAG and ADA requirements. Pages should publish clear service descriptions and step-by-step instructions for processes such as permits or voting, written in plain language. Content should also reflect conversational search behavior, addressing questions such as: How do I check if I’m registered to vote? How long does it usually take to settle a personal injury case? How do I apply for a building permit in [City]? Relevant pages should implement appropriate schema, including: GovernmentOrganization. Person. Service. LegalService. LocalBusiness for individual locations. Review. Disclaimers should clearly state when content is informational and not legal advice, with prominent links to applicable laws and regulations. Contributing to trusted third-party publications or moderated legal Q&A forums, such as the ABA Journal, can further extend authority signals. Education AI systems regularly surface content from universities, schools, and learning platforms to answer questions about admissions, programs, and curriculum. SEO strategies in education should emphasize institutional credibility and use structured data to clearly connect programs, faculty, and resources in ways AI systems can interpret and prospective students can trust. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prohibits disclosing personally identifiable student information and restricts the use of unauthorized student testimonials. Content must reflect those constraints while still answering common questions using natural language, such as: How do I apply for scholarships at [University Name]? What’s the average class size for undergraduate programs? Can I transfer credits from another college? Relevant pages should implement appropriate schema, including: EducationalOrganization. CollegeOrUniversity, School, ElementarySchool, or HighSchool. EducationalOccupationalProgram. Course. Event. Person. Institutions can reinforce credibility by highlighting alumni outcomes, job placement rates, and career counseling services. Video tours should include transcripts or captions to support accessibility. Authority as the differentiator in regulated AI search In regulated sectors, AI and SEO are no longer just about visibility. They determine how accuracy, credibility, and compliance are assessed in environments where generative systems surface information directly to users. Authority is the differentiator. Brands that demonstrate expertise, maintain compliance, and engage responsibly are more likely to be cited and trusted by AI-driven search systems. In an AI-first search landscape, authority functions as currency, and organizations that invest in it consistently will be best positioned to succeed. View the full article

A reader writes: I am in a front-line commercial role at a tech start-up. I am responsible for bringing in new business, and this story pertains to my colleague Zayne, who manages a lot of the back-end, integrations side of things. Zayne is fantastic at what he does. The guy might actually be a genius, and I don’t say that lightly. He has a ton of ideas, seems to really love what he does, and is good at it. He’s also very open about his mental health, which I admire but it can admittedly take me back sometimes. I grew up in a family where we often don’t share things like that, and it’s something I’m trying to unpack as an adult, but even so I find myself at a loss for words when Zayne will share details about his mental state that I’d struggle to open up about to my closest friends. When I met him a week into joining the company, he told me he’d previously been suicidal. I’m aware that mindset may be coloring my judgment here. We just had a major tradeshow, which is important for us as events are our biggest source of leads. While I’m the only person whose job description is to bring in business, these events are really all-hands on deck. Zayne came along too and, while he isn’t commercially minded, he does know everything there is to know about the product so he’s great to have in case conversations get too technical. At one point in the event, there were only two of us on the stand, and I was speaking to a lot of people passing by whereas Zayne was hanging back, which I get as he’s not in his element the way I am at these events, though it was annoying to see potential clients slip away when I was engaged in talking. At one point, I started a conversation with two senior leaders. I was trying to uncover what their pain points were and if we were a fit, as well as build rapport. Zayne joined my conversation, which to be honest I didn’t need as I wanted to guide it a specific way, but I wasn’t about to tell him to back off in front of the two prospects. They were talking about their workplace initiatives and mentioned they supported mental health awareness. I was going to mention what our own software does to support this, but Zayne jumped in and started talking about his own mental health, mentioning that he’d experienced a dissociative episode on route to the conference and how he’d been struggling with this for years. I found this super inappropriate and was basically stunned into silence because of how uncomfortable I was. The two prospects began comforting him, but I sensed from their tone and body language that they were also taken off-guard by this and didn’t really know what to say, and he just kept going. The conversation came back round to work eventually and Zayne had some valuable insight on the technical side of things. After they left and I gathered their details, he turned to me and said brightly, “Wow, that went great!” I wasn’t sure what to say so I just agreed, but I wanted to kick him for being so oblivious. It’s one thing saying that to me as a coworker, but I felt it was inappropriate to say something that personal to strangers, never mind strangers we want to sell to. I’m not sure whether I should mention this to our boss. I don’t know how much of my view on this is colored by my own discomfort, but also because I know how important it is for us as a start-up to get new clients in — and quite frankly that could have cost me commission. Should I mention it? If so, how? Now that we’re growing, we don’t necessarily need all of us on the stand but I know Zayne enjoys these events. I also don’t want to shame him for having mental health issues. Is there a way to tactfully bring it up? Should I? Yes, you should talk to your boss and share what happened and your sense that the prospective clients weren’t entirely comfortable. In an ideal world, your boss would talk forthrightly with Zayne about boundaries when he’s representing the company. She may or may not be a good enough manager to do that skillfully, but I do think you need to let her know what happened since you witnessed it firsthand … and particularly since part of your job is managing prospect relationships and this risks impacting them. The idea isn’t to reinforce a stigma around mental health, but rather to reinforce the idea that there’s a time and place for some topics. Zayne also shouldn’t be talking about politics, religion, or sex with business contacts, or going into heavy detail about a medical condition or his divorce or an estrangement from his family. It’s not that those topics are taboo or wrong or that they’re inappropriate across the board; it’s that they’re inappropriate in a business setting — because they risk alienating people who feel differently, are too heavy for a work context, and take the focus way off the thing you want it on. It’s not just the latter, of course — you might have an in-depth conversation about, I don’t know, sports as a way of building rapport with a client — it’s that they’re not what people are expecting (or usually wanting) in a work context and have a high risk of bringing people down. A lot of people understand this intuitively — especially people in a relationship-heavy job like yours — but others don’t and need explicit coaching on it. The post should I talk to my boss about my coworker’s oversharing about mental health? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Crude revenues to be funnelled to American banks as Washington lifts some sanctions on CaracasView the full article

When you’re considering investing in a franchise, grasping the key factors in your franchise price list is crucial. Initial franchise fees, ongoing royalty fees, and additional costs can greatly influence your budget. You’ll likewise need to account for hidden expenses and working capital requirements. By examining these elements closely, you can better prepare for the financial responsibilities that come with your investment. So, what should you focus on first? Key Takeaways Initial franchise fees typically range from $10,000 to $50,000, covering rights to trademarks and training. Ongoing royalty fees, usually 4% to 12% of gross sales, impact profit margins and should be included in financial forecasts. Additional costs, such as real estate buildout and ongoing marketing fees, must be considered for accurate budgeting. Technology and professional service costs should be factored into the price list to ensure operational efficiency and compliance. Establishing a contingency fund of at least 10% of the overall budget provides financial stability during unexpected challenges. Understanding Initial Franchise Fees When considering a franchise opportunity, comprehending the initial franchise fee is crucial for making informed financial decisions. This fee typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the brand’s strength and market demand. It’s a one-time payment to the franchisor, granting you the right to use their trademarks, business systems, and operational support. To comply with FTC rules, the fee must exceed $500. As the initial franchise fee often covers training, advertising, and location approval costs, it doesn’t include additional startup costs like real estate or inventory. Some franchises, such as The Groutsmith, offer lower initial franchise fees starting at $19,900, making them more accessible for prospective franchisees looking to enter the market. Ongoing Royalty Fees and Their Impact When you enter into a franchise agreement, ongoing royalty fees typically range from 4% to 12% of your gross sales. These fees can greatly influence your profit margins. It’s crucial to incorporate these costs into your budgeting process, as they fund the support services that help you run your franchise more effectively. Comprehending how these fees work will allow you to better manage your financial health and guarantee your business remains profitable. Royalty Fee Percentages Explained Royalty fees are a significant component of the franchise business model, directly impacting a franchisee’s financial health. Comprehending royalty fee percentages explained is imperative for your financial planning. Typically, these ongoing fees range from 4% to 12% of gross sales, depending on the franchise brand and industry standards. Collected monthly, they fund critical services like marketing and administrative support at the franchisor’s headquarters. Some franchises, like Groutsmith, opt for a fixed flat rate to guarantee fairness among franchise owners. These fees are essential for operational support and brand growth, allowing you to benefit from collective advertising efforts and system improvements. Ignoring ongoing royalty fees can severely affect your profitability and cash flow management. Impact on Profit Margins Ongoing royalty fees represent a vital factor that can considerably influence your profit margins as a franchisee. Typically ranging from 4% to 12% of gross sales, these fees can take a significant bite out of your profits. For example, if you generate $500,000 in annual sales and pay a 6% royalty, that’s $30,000 deducted from your earnings each year. Although these fees support valuable services like marketing and operational assistance, they can strain your bottom line if not managed wisely. It’s important to factor these costs into your financial forecasts and break-even calculations. Furthermore, reviewing the franchise royalty fees list can help you understand which franchises offer fixed rates, like The Groutsmith, providing more predictable expenses compared to fluctuating percentages. Budgeting for Ongoing Costs Budgeting for ongoing costs is vital for franchisees aiming to maintain financial stability and profitability. Ongoing royalty fees, ranging from 4% to 12% of gross sales, can greatly impact your profit margins. Furthermore, expect to budget for annual royalty and advertising fees for Chick-fil-A, which can add another 2% to 5% of revenue. Failing to account for these fees can lead to cash flow challenges. Comprehending your payment structure is important for accurate budgeting. Planning for fluctuations in sales performance can safeguard your franchise’s long-term success. Additional Costs to Consider When you’re evaluating the costs of starting a franchise, it’s crucial to look beyond just the initial franchise fee. There are several additional costs to evaluate that can greatly affect your budget. Real estate and buildout expenses usually range from $50 to $150 per square foot, impacting startup costs. You’ll additionally need to account for ongoing royalty fees, typically 4% to 12% of gross sales, and marketing fees that can be 2% to 5% of revenue. Moreover, working capital should cover 3 to 6 months of operational expenses to guarantee stability. Finally, don’t forget about technology fees, which can take up 4% to 8% of your revenue. These factors should all be included in your franchise fees list for accurate financial planning. Hidden Expenses That Can Arise When operating a franchise, you need to be aware of hidden expenses that can pop up unexpectedly. For instance, working capital requirements are essential for managing slow periods, whereas technology and software fees can add significant costs to your budget. Furthermore, unanticipated operational setbacks, such as equipment repairs, can strain your finances if you haven’t planned for them in advance. Working Capital Requirements Working capital is a crucial aspect of managing a franchise, especially when unexpected expenses arise. It’s important to maintain a working capital ratio between 1.2 and 2, ensuring you avoid cash flow issues. Here are some hidden costs to take into account when creating your franchise cost list: Unforeseen repairs that can disrupt operations Fluctuating supply prices impacting your budget Seasonal staffing changes that might require additional funds Plan for 3–6 months of operating expenses to keep your franchise running smoothly. Accurately estimating fixed costs like rent and utilities, along with variable costs such as payroll and supplies, will help you determine your working capital requirements. Consulting a financial advisor can further refine your estimates and budgeting strategies. Technology and Software Fees As you navigate the intricacies of running a franchise, it is essential to take into account the technology and software fees that can greatly affect your budget. These costs can vary considerably based on your specific needs. Expense Type Estimated Cost Range Notes Point-of-Sale Systems $20,000 – $90,000 Depends on franchise needs IT Support Fees 4% – 8% of revenue Ongoing operational expense Franchise Management Software Starting at $30,000 Increases with complexity Cloud-Based Systems Typically more affordable Budget for integration costs Including technology and software fees in your financial planning is vital to avoid unexpected expenses that can impact cash flow. Unexpected Operational Setbacks Running a franchise involves more than just managing technology and software costs; unexpected operational setbacks can likewise considerably impact your financial stability. These hidden expenses can disrupt your carefully planned franchise price list and lead to serious cash flow issues. Unanticipated maintenance or repair costs can drain reserves. Compliance or regulatory fees may arise, impacting profitability. Market fluctuations or supply chain disruptions can affect long-term planning. To safeguard your business, it’s essential to budget for these unexpected operational setbacks. Allocate a reserve for working capital to cover 3–6 months of operating expenses and consider ongoing IT support fees. Working Capital Requirements Establishing adequate working capital requirements is vital for any franchise operation, as it provides the necessary financial cushion to cover everyday expenses. Ideally, your working capital should cover three to six months of operating costs, which include both fixed and variable expenses. A working capital ratio between 1.2 and 2 is advisable, ensuring you have enough liquidity for daily operations. To accurately assess your working capital requirements, estimate your monthly expenses, factoring in rent, utilities, payroll, and supplies. Consulting a NerdWallet financial advisor can help you establish customized estimates and benchmarks based on industry standards. A reserve of working capital is important for managing cash flow, particularly during slow sales periods or when unexpected expenses arise. Technology and Software Costs When considering the costs associated with technology and software for your franchise, it’s vital to recognize that these expenses can considerably impact your overall budget and operational efficiency. For instance, a POS system can set you back between $20,000 and $90,000 based on your needs. Cloud-based systems offer more affordable options with superior integration capabilities. Furthermore, franchise management software starts around $30,000, increasing with complexity. Don’t forget the ongoing IT support fees, typically 4% to 8% of your revenue, which can strain your budget. A thorough technology budget should also include: Licensing and customization costs Maintenance expenses Cybersecurity measures These elements are critical for your fast food franchise cost list and overall franchise success. Professional Services and Pre-Opening Expenses Steering through the professional services and pre-opening expenses for your franchise can be vital to a successful launch. Budgeting for professional services related to site selection and lease negotiations is important, as expert guidance can greatly reduce your overall startup costs. Furthermore, you’ll need to plan for major pre-opening expenses like rent, inventory, and marketing efforts, which are key for building brand awareness and attracting initial customers. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund to cover any unexpected costs that may arise during this phase, ensuring you maintain financial flexibility. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. The Product refers to the services or goods you offer, ensuring they meet customer demand. Price involves setting competitive fees and royalties that benefit both you and the franchisor. Place focuses on selecting ideal locations based on market research, enhancing accessibility. Finally, Promotion entails the marketing strategies that attract and retain customers, including advertising and brand messaging, crucial for franchise success. What Factors Contribute to the High Cost of Maintaining a Franchise? Several factors contribute to the high cost of maintaining a franchise. You’ll face ongoing royalty fees, typically between 4% to 12% of gross sales, along with marketing fees of 2% to 5% of revenue. Moreover, operational costs, like technology and software, can reach 4% to 8%. Equipment and inventory expenses can vary widely, often requiring significant upfront investment. Don’t forget to budget for hidden costs, which can strain your finances during slow periods. How Does Franchise Pricing Work? Franchise pricing involves several components, starting with an initial franchise fee that typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000. You’ll additionally encounter ongoing royalties, which are typically 4% to 12% of your gross sales, plus potential marketing fees of 2% to 5%. It’s essential to take into account additional costs, like real estate, equipment, and working capital. Reviewing the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) will help you understand all fees and costs before making an investment. Why Does It Only Cost $10k to Own a Chick-Fil-A Franchise? It only costs $10,000 to own a Chick-fil-A franchise since the company covers most startup expenses, including real estate and equipment, which can exceed $1 million. This low initial fee attracts franchisees, but you’ll need substantial cash reserves for ongoing operational costs. Chick-fil-A likewise requires direct involvement in daily operations, ensuring high customer service standards. The brand’s strong recognition and customer loyalty further improve sales potential, making it a compelling opportunity. Conclusion In summary, grasping the key factors of your franchise price list is crucial for making informed financial decisions. By carefully evaluating initial fees, ongoing royalties, and additional costs, along with hidden expenses and working capital needs, you can better prepare for your investment. Don’t overlook technology expenses or professional services required before opening, as these can greatly impact your budget. A thorough analysis of these elements will help you achieve financial viability and success in your franchise expedition. Image via Google Gemini This article, "7 Key Factors in Your Franchise Price List" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re considering investing in a franchise, grasping the key factors in your franchise price list is crucial. Initial franchise fees, ongoing royalty fees, and additional costs can greatly influence your budget. You’ll likewise need to account for hidden expenses and working capital requirements. By examining these elements closely, you can better prepare for the financial responsibilities that come with your investment. So, what should you focus on first? Key Takeaways Initial franchise fees typically range from $10,000 to $50,000, covering rights to trademarks and training. Ongoing royalty fees, usually 4% to 12% of gross sales, impact profit margins and should be included in financial forecasts. Additional costs, such as real estate buildout and ongoing marketing fees, must be considered for accurate budgeting. Technology and professional service costs should be factored into the price list to ensure operational efficiency and compliance. Establishing a contingency fund of at least 10% of the overall budget provides financial stability during unexpected challenges. Understanding Initial Franchise Fees When considering a franchise opportunity, comprehending the initial franchise fee is crucial for making informed financial decisions. This fee typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the brand’s strength and market demand. It’s a one-time payment to the franchisor, granting you the right to use their trademarks, business systems, and operational support. To comply with FTC rules, the fee must exceed $500. As the initial franchise fee often covers training, advertising, and location approval costs, it doesn’t include additional startup costs like real estate or inventory. Some franchises, such as The Groutsmith, offer lower initial franchise fees starting at $19,900, making them more accessible for prospective franchisees looking to enter the market. Ongoing Royalty Fees and Their Impact When you enter into a franchise agreement, ongoing royalty fees typically range from 4% to 12% of your gross sales. These fees can greatly influence your profit margins. It’s crucial to incorporate these costs into your budgeting process, as they fund the support services that help you run your franchise more effectively. Comprehending how these fees work will allow you to better manage your financial health and guarantee your business remains profitable. Royalty Fee Percentages Explained Royalty fees are a significant component of the franchise business model, directly impacting a franchisee’s financial health. Comprehending royalty fee percentages explained is imperative for your financial planning. Typically, these ongoing fees range from 4% to 12% of gross sales, depending on the franchise brand and industry standards. Collected monthly, they fund critical services like marketing and administrative support at the franchisor’s headquarters. Some franchises, like Groutsmith, opt for a fixed flat rate to guarantee fairness among franchise owners. These fees are essential for operational support and brand growth, allowing you to benefit from collective advertising efforts and system improvements. Ignoring ongoing royalty fees can severely affect your profitability and cash flow management. Impact on Profit Margins Ongoing royalty fees represent a vital factor that can considerably influence your profit margins as a franchisee. Typically ranging from 4% to 12% of gross sales, these fees can take a significant bite out of your profits. For example, if you generate $500,000 in annual sales and pay a 6% royalty, that’s $30,000 deducted from your earnings each year. Although these fees support valuable services like marketing and operational assistance, they can strain your bottom line if not managed wisely. It’s important to factor these costs into your financial forecasts and break-even calculations. Furthermore, reviewing the franchise royalty fees list can help you understand which franchises offer fixed rates, like The Groutsmith, providing more predictable expenses compared to fluctuating percentages. Budgeting for Ongoing Costs Budgeting for ongoing costs is vital for franchisees aiming to maintain financial stability and profitability. Ongoing royalty fees, ranging from 4% to 12% of gross sales, can greatly impact your profit margins. Furthermore, expect to budget for annual royalty and advertising fees for Chick-fil-A, which can add another 2% to 5% of revenue. Failing to account for these fees can lead to cash flow challenges. Comprehending your payment structure is important for accurate budgeting. Planning for fluctuations in sales performance can safeguard your franchise’s long-term success. Additional Costs to Consider When you’re evaluating the costs of starting a franchise, it’s crucial to look beyond just the initial franchise fee. There are several additional costs to evaluate that can greatly affect your budget. Real estate and buildout expenses usually range from $50 to $150 per square foot, impacting startup costs. You’ll additionally need to account for ongoing royalty fees, typically 4% to 12% of gross sales, and marketing fees that can be 2% to 5% of revenue. Moreover, working capital should cover 3 to 6 months of operational expenses to guarantee stability. Finally, don’t forget about technology fees, which can take up 4% to 8% of your revenue. These factors should all be included in your franchise fees list for accurate financial planning. Hidden Expenses That Can Arise When operating a franchise, you need to be aware of hidden expenses that can pop up unexpectedly. For instance, working capital requirements are essential for managing slow periods, whereas technology and software fees can add significant costs to your budget. Furthermore, unanticipated operational setbacks, such as equipment repairs, can strain your finances if you haven’t planned for them in advance. Working Capital Requirements Working capital is a crucial aspect of managing a franchise, especially when unexpected expenses arise. It’s important to maintain a working capital ratio between 1.2 and 2, ensuring you avoid cash flow issues. Here are some hidden costs to take into account when creating your franchise cost list: Unforeseen repairs that can disrupt operations Fluctuating supply prices impacting your budget Seasonal staffing changes that might require additional funds Plan for 3–6 months of operating expenses to keep your franchise running smoothly. Accurately estimating fixed costs like rent and utilities, along with variable costs such as payroll and supplies, will help you determine your working capital requirements. Consulting a financial advisor can further refine your estimates and budgeting strategies. Technology and Software Fees As you navigate the intricacies of running a franchise, it is essential to take into account the technology and software fees that can greatly affect your budget. These costs can vary considerably based on your specific needs. Expense Type Estimated Cost Range Notes Point-of-Sale Systems $20,000 – $90,000 Depends on franchise needs IT Support Fees 4% – 8% of revenue Ongoing operational expense Franchise Management Software Starting at $30,000 Increases with complexity Cloud-Based Systems Typically more affordable Budget for integration costs Including technology and software fees in your financial planning is vital to avoid unexpected expenses that can impact cash flow. Unexpected Operational Setbacks Running a franchise involves more than just managing technology and software costs; unexpected operational setbacks can likewise considerably impact your financial stability. These hidden expenses can disrupt your carefully planned franchise price list and lead to serious cash flow issues. Unanticipated maintenance or repair costs can drain reserves. Compliance or regulatory fees may arise, impacting profitability. Market fluctuations or supply chain disruptions can affect long-term planning. To safeguard your business, it’s essential to budget for these unexpected operational setbacks. Allocate a reserve for working capital to cover 3–6 months of operating expenses and consider ongoing IT support fees. Working Capital Requirements Establishing adequate working capital requirements is vital for any franchise operation, as it provides the necessary financial cushion to cover everyday expenses. Ideally, your working capital should cover three to six months of operating costs, which include both fixed and variable expenses. A working capital ratio between 1.2 and 2 is advisable, ensuring you have enough liquidity for daily operations. To accurately assess your working capital requirements, estimate your monthly expenses, factoring in rent, utilities, payroll, and supplies. Consulting a NerdWallet financial advisor can help you establish customized estimates and benchmarks based on industry standards. A reserve of working capital is important for managing cash flow, particularly during slow sales periods or when unexpected expenses arise. Technology and Software Costs When considering the costs associated with technology and software for your franchise, it’s vital to recognize that these expenses can considerably impact your overall budget and operational efficiency. For instance, a POS system can set you back between $20,000 and $90,000 based on your needs. Cloud-based systems offer more affordable options with superior integration capabilities. Furthermore, franchise management software starts around $30,000, increasing with complexity. Don’t forget the ongoing IT support fees, typically 4% to 8% of your revenue, which can strain your budget. A thorough technology budget should also include: Licensing and customization costs Maintenance expenses Cybersecurity measures These elements are critical for your fast food franchise cost list and overall franchise success. Professional Services and Pre-Opening Expenses Steering through the professional services and pre-opening expenses for your franchise can be vital to a successful launch. Budgeting for professional services related to site selection and lease negotiations is important, as expert guidance can greatly reduce your overall startup costs. Furthermore, you’ll need to plan for major pre-opening expenses like rent, inventory, and marketing efforts, which are key for building brand awareness and attracting initial customers. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund to cover any unexpected costs that may arise during this phase, ensuring you maintain financial flexibility. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. The Product refers to the services or goods you offer, ensuring they meet customer demand. Price involves setting competitive fees and royalties that benefit both you and the franchisor. Place focuses on selecting ideal locations based on market research, enhancing accessibility. Finally, Promotion entails the marketing strategies that attract and retain customers, including advertising and brand messaging, crucial for franchise success. What Factors Contribute to the High Cost of Maintaining a Franchise? Several factors contribute to the high cost of maintaining a franchise. You’ll face ongoing royalty fees, typically between 4% to 12% of gross sales, along with marketing fees of 2% to 5% of revenue. Moreover, operational costs, like technology and software, can reach 4% to 8%. Equipment and inventory expenses can vary widely, often requiring significant upfront investment. Don’t forget to budget for hidden costs, which can strain your finances during slow periods. How Does Franchise Pricing Work? Franchise pricing involves several components, starting with an initial franchise fee that typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000. You’ll additionally encounter ongoing royalties, which are typically 4% to 12% of your gross sales, plus potential marketing fees of 2% to 5%. It’s essential to take into account additional costs, like real estate, equipment, and working capital. Reviewing the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) will help you understand all fees and costs before making an investment. Why Does It Only Cost $10k to Own a Chick-Fil-A Franchise? It only costs $10,000 to own a Chick-fil-A franchise since the company covers most startup expenses, including real estate and equipment, which can exceed $1 million. This low initial fee attracts franchisees, but you’ll need substantial cash reserves for ongoing operational costs. Chick-fil-A likewise requires direct involvement in daily operations, ensuring high customer service standards. The brand’s strong recognition and customer loyalty further improve sales potential, making it a compelling opportunity. Conclusion In summary, grasping the key factors of your franchise price list is crucial for making informed financial decisions. By carefully evaluating initial fees, ongoing royalties, and additional costs, along with hidden expenses and working capital needs, you can better prepare for your investment. Don’t overlook technology expenses or professional services required before opening, as these can greatly impact your budget. A thorough analysis of these elements will help you achieve financial viability and success in your franchise expedition. Image via Google Gemini This article, "7 Key Factors in Your Franchise Price List" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Garmin fitness watches are such powerful tools that you can use one for months or years without discovering some of their best hidden features. Here are 10 hacks that every Garmin user should know, from the setup steps you may have skipped, to lesser-known features you’ll wish you knew about earlier. These hacks apply to watches like the Garmin Forerunner line (like the 570 and 265, to name two of my favorites). Other Garmin models may vary, but most of the features I describe below will still apply. The Vivoactive 6, for example, doesn’t have as many buttons as the Forerunners, but you can still set up shortcuts for the two buttons it has. Set up shortcuts for touchscreen lock and moreSave yourself time digging through menus (or waiting for features to trigger on their own). By going to the settings menu and selecting System and then Shortcuts (previously “Hot Keys”), you can assign features to long presses or combination button presses. For example, on my watch I hold the DOWN button to bring up music controls, and the BACK button to turn the touchscreen on or off. You can also assign shortcuts to bring up the weather or the stopwatch, to save your current location, to turn on a “night shift” mode, and more. Download a better watch faceGarmins come with a few stock watch faces, but you can find more on the ConnectIQ store. I’m partial to the Big Easy watch face, with its simple text and configurable data. (I have mine set to display sunset time and weekly running mileage, among others.) Other popular faces include Segment 34, Quatro, and this Fenix 8 lookalike that you can install on just about any Garmin watch. Customize your favorite activities, glances, and toolboxWhen you start an activity, you’ll see a few “favorite” activities to choose from—running and cycling, for example. If you’re always scrolling past activities you don’t do and digging for the ones you actually want, just take a minute to configure this list. I always delete outdoor cycling (not a thing I do), but I make sure that strength and trail running are near the top, since I do those often. To remove an activity from the favorites list, long press it (or long press the left middle button). You can also reorder the item in the list this way. To add a new activity, scroll to the end of the list and select “add.” You can also customize the “glances” you see when you scroll down (or swipe up) from the watch face. If you don’t want to see your running performance or your calorie burn, you can remove them from the list. If you want the phase of the moon right up front, that’s within your power as well. Long press a glance to remove or reorder, and scroll to the bottom to add new ones. The controls menu works the same way. This is the circular dial of apps you get by long pressing the top left button on a Forerunner. Long press an app, or long press the left middle button, to edit this list. The wallet, calculator, stopwatch, and modes like Battery Saver are nice to have here. Use Garmin Share to sync routes and workouts with friendsIf you’re running with a buddy, you can both load the same workout or route on your watch. Just go to the end of your activity list and select Garmin Share. While you’re on this screen, you can receive shared files or scroll down to select a file that you’d like to send. I have a handy library of workouts and routes on my watch (more on why below) and I find myself sharing them often. If my husband wants to do a interval workout, I can beam him one of my favorites. You don’t need your phone to do this—it’s a watch-to-watch function you can do in a few seconds before starting your run. Set up LiveTrackI do a lot of solo runs, so I like to set up LiveTrack. When LiveTrack is on, my watch shares GPS data with my phone, and my phone sends that data to a private Garmin web page and shares the link with my trusted contacts. This way, my husband can see whether I’m almost done with my run (without bothering me), and if I were to get injured or need to be picked up, he’d be able to see exactly where I am. LiveTrack does require that you run with your phone (I do anyway), and that your phone has service where you’re running. In the Garmin Connect app, you select More, then Safety & Tracking, and then LiveTrack. I like to turn on AutoStart so I don’t have to remember to start LiveTrack every time. Turn notifications on (or off) during activitiesI hate getting phone notifications on my watch, but for some people, notifications are the main reason for having a watch. And whatever preference you have for daily wear, you may feel differently during workouts. Maybe you want notifications during workouts so you don’t have to check your phone constantly, or maybe your workout time is when you don’t want to be disturbed. Fortunately this is easy to configure. Go to settings, and then Notifications & Alerts for all your notification preferences. The in-activity settings aren’t here, though: you have to go to Focus modes, and then choose Activity, and set up the ways you’d like your watch to behave during activities. The Smart notifications setting lets you change whether notifications come through at all and whether they vibrate or make sound. You can change other activity settings here as well, like screen brightness. Create your own workoutsYou can create workouts within the Garmin Connect app, which is a little confusing at first, but very much worth learning. Once you get the hang of it, it only takes a few minutes to program a Norwegian 4x4 to work on your VO2max, or set up whatever new fartlek workout you just dreamed up this morning. To get started, hit More in the Garmin Connect app and go to Training & Planning, Workouts, Create a Workout, then choose the activity (say, Run). From there, I usually start by tapping Add Repeat, which gives me a loop in which I can put my intervals—say, 4 minutes hard and 3 minutes easy, for a 4x4. You can set a pace or heart rate target for each, or even record an audio clip with instructions. I especially like to create Garmin workouts for timed strength training workouts, like EMOM (“every minute on the minute”) structures. I also love it for rest timing in traditional strength training workouts: if I tell my watch I’m resting three minutes between sets of squats, it will beep and start the set when time is up. Set up a training calendarIf you want to follow a training plan from your Garmin device, you’ll probably set up one of the built-in plans. That’s a natural thing to do, but you have more options. You can set up a third-party app like Runna to give you a training plan and sync its workouts to your Garmin calendar. You can also program workouts in yourself. Let’s use the 4x4 I mentioned above as an example. This is an interval run I might want to do once or twice a week. After creating the workout, I can view it and tap the three-dot menu and then Add to Calendar. If I assign it to tomorrow, then when I start a run tomorrow, the watch will ask if I’d like to do the 4x4, since that’s the workout of the day. Even without a formal training plan, I find this feature handy to plan out my upcoming week. Connect LiftTrack for better strength trainingGarmin’s strength training features can be useful, but it’s not a great app for tracking your progress over time or setting up training programs with details like sets, reps, and weight. LiftTrack is a third-party app that provides a lot of the features Garmin is missing. If you want to track strength training on your phone, do yourself a favor and set this up rather than only using the Garmin app. Download routes (even if your device doesn’t have mapping)Some Garmin watches (the more expensive ones) have full-color maps built in, but even the more barebones models still have the ability to follow a route and navigate you back home. This is a more useful feature than you might think, especially if you enjoy running trails or want to plan out specific distances. To start, you’ll need a GPX file. You can make one in Garmin Connect by going to Training & Planning, then Courses, and Create Course. Tap points on a map, and the app will tell you how many miles are in the route you’ve drawn, and how hilly it is. You can also download GPX files from other apps like Strava or RunGo, or have a training partner send you one—either through Garmin Share, or have them send it via another method, like text, to your phone (just open the file in the Garmin Connect app, and sync to your watch from there). This way, you’ll be able to follow the route from your watch. It will tell you how many miles are left, and you can swipe to the elevation profile to see if you have a big hill coming up. Your watch can remind you when you have a turn coming up, and you’ll be able to see if you’ve gotten off course. With or without maps, this set of features is incredibly useful for navigating trails or new-to-you running routes. View the full article

In relation to posting on social media, timing can greatly influence your engagement levels. Research shows that the best overall time to post is at 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with a strong window from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM during the week. Different platforms have varying peak times, and grasping these can improve your visibility. To make the most of your strategy, you need to evaluate how to effectively determine your own ideal posting times. Key Takeaways The best overall time to post is 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with peak engagement from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on weekdays. Facebook posts perform best between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays, especially on Wednesdays. Instagram engagement peaks from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, particularly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For Twitter, optimal posting times are weekdays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays being most effective. LinkedIn users engage best around 1:00 PM PST on Mondays, while TikTok thrives on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons. Overall Best Times to Post on Social Media When you’re looking to maximize engagement on social media, timing plays a crucial role. The overall best time to post on social media is around 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, as engagement peaks during this hour across various platforms. To capture your audience effectively, consider posting between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM, which are ideal hours throughout the week. Mondays through Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM are consistently recommended for peak engagement. For Fridays, you’ll find that posting between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM effectively captures attention as users gear up for the weekend. Nevertheless, keep in mind that Sundays are typically the worst day to post, with considerably lower engagement levels. Best Times to Post by Platform Grasping the best times to post on various social media platforms is essential for maximizing your reach and engagement. For Facebook, the best time to post is between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. on weekdays, with Wednesdays showing the highest engagement. If you’re focusing on Instagram, aim for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., especially on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For Twitter, the best time to post is on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., with Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays being most effective. If you’re using LinkedIn, post around 1 p.m. PST on Mondays. Finally, for TikTok, target Saturdays at 9 a.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m. for ideal engagement during the week. Importance of Timing in Social Media Strategy Timing plays a critical role in the effectiveness of your social media strategy, as posts shared during peak engagement hours are more likely to capture attention and generate interaction. For instance, knowing the best time to post on Facebook can boost visibility, particularly in the mornings and during lunch breaks. Similarly, the best time to post on Instagram varies, with certain hours yielding higher engagement. You should likewise consider the best time to post on Twitter and the best times to post on FB on Saturday, Monday, and Friday. Engaging with cultural moments during these peak posting hours not only maximizes interaction but likewise aligns with your audience’s routines, in the end improving your brand’s connection and visibility across platforms. How to Find Your Own Best Posting Times How can you pinpoint the best times to post on social media for your unique audience? Start by analyzing audience behavior using platform-specific insights. This will reveal when your followers are most active, whether it’s the best time to post on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Next, conduct A/B testing by posting similar content at different times to measure engagement metrics. Utilize social media management tools like Sprout Social or Hootsuite to gather analytics on past posts and refine your posting strategy. Keep an eye on seasonal trends and shifts in demographics, as these can affect ideal posting times. Regularly reassess your strategy to guarantee you adapt to changing audience preferences and maintain effective engagement. Tips for Maximizing Engagement on Social Media To effectively maximize engagement on social media, it’s crucial to understand and employ various strategies customized to each platform. For Facebook, aim to post between 9 a.m. and noon on weekdays, with Wednesdays being the best time to post on Facebook for likes. On Instagram, the best time to post on Instagram on a Wednesday is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Consider the best time to post on Instagram Monday as well. For Twitter, the best time to post on Twitter on Saturday can help increase visibility. Don’t forget LinkedIn and TikTok; post on LinkedIn from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and TikTok around noon. Finally, for YouTube, the best time to post on Instagram 2025 is between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Best Times to Post on Social Media for Engagement? To maximize engagement on social media, you should consider posting during peak activity times. For Facebook, aim for weekdays between 9 AM and noon, especially Wednesdays. On Instagram, post around 3 PM on Mondays or between 10 AM and 2 PM on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. LinkedIn users are active from 10 AM to noon on Tuesdays through Thursdays. For TikTok, target noon and early evening on Tuesdays and Thursdays to boost interaction. What Is the 5 5 5 Rule on Social Media? The 5 5 5 Rule on social media suggests you create a balanced content strategy by posting five engaging or entertaining pieces for every five promotional ones. This approach emphasizes providing value to your audience, nurturing interaction, and building community rather than just focusing on sales. What Are the Peak Hours for Social Media Posting? Peak hours for social media posting vary by platform. Typically, for Facebook, post between 9 AM and noon on weekdays, especially Wednesdays and Thursdays. On Instagram, aim for 3 PM to 9 PM on Mondays, with midday on Tuesdays and Thursdays being effective. LinkedIn users engage most around 10 AM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. For TikTok, target Sundays at 8 PM, along with Tuesdays at 4 PM and Wednesdays at 5 PM for ideal engagement. What Is the Best Time to Schedule Social Media Posts to Increase Customer Engagement? To increase customer engagement, you should schedule your social media posts during ideal times. Focus on posting between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays for platforms like Facebook, whereas Instagram performs best from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Mondays. Furthermore, consider your audience’s time zones and conduct A/B testing to identify specific times that yield the highest interaction rates. Analyzing past engagement data can greatly improve your posting strategy. Conclusion In summary, grasping the best times to post on social media is crucial for maximizing engagement. Aim for 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with a focus on mid-morning throughout the week. Each platform has its own peak activity times, so tailor your strategy accordingly. By analyzing your audience’s behavior, you can identify the most effective posting times for your specific content. Implement these strategies, and you’ll likely see increased visibility and interaction with your posts. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Best Times to Post on Social Media for Maximum Engagement" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In relation to posting on social media, timing can greatly influence your engagement levels. Research shows that the best overall time to post is at 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with a strong window from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM during the week. Different platforms have varying peak times, and grasping these can improve your visibility. To make the most of your strategy, you need to evaluate how to effectively determine your own ideal posting times. Key Takeaways The best overall time to post is 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with peak engagement from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on weekdays. Facebook posts perform best between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays, especially on Wednesdays. Instagram engagement peaks from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, particularly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For Twitter, optimal posting times are weekdays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays being most effective. LinkedIn users engage best around 1:00 PM PST on Mondays, while TikTok thrives on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons. Overall Best Times to Post on Social Media When you’re looking to maximize engagement on social media, timing plays a crucial role. The overall best time to post on social media is around 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, as engagement peaks during this hour across various platforms. To capture your audience effectively, consider posting between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM, which are ideal hours throughout the week. Mondays through Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM are consistently recommended for peak engagement. For Fridays, you’ll find that posting between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM effectively captures attention as users gear up for the weekend. Nevertheless, keep in mind that Sundays are typically the worst day to post, with considerably lower engagement levels. Best Times to Post by Platform Grasping the best times to post on various social media platforms is essential for maximizing your reach and engagement. For Facebook, the best time to post is between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. on weekdays, with Wednesdays showing the highest engagement. If you’re focusing on Instagram, aim for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., especially on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For Twitter, the best time to post is on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., with Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays being most effective. If you’re using LinkedIn, post around 1 p.m. PST on Mondays. Finally, for TikTok, target Saturdays at 9 a.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m. for ideal engagement during the week. Importance of Timing in Social Media Strategy Timing plays a critical role in the effectiveness of your social media strategy, as posts shared during peak engagement hours are more likely to capture attention and generate interaction. For instance, knowing the best time to post on Facebook can boost visibility, particularly in the mornings and during lunch breaks. Similarly, the best time to post on Instagram varies, with certain hours yielding higher engagement. You should likewise consider the best time to post on Twitter and the best times to post on FB on Saturday, Monday, and Friday. Engaging with cultural moments during these peak posting hours not only maximizes interaction but likewise aligns with your audience’s routines, in the end improving your brand’s connection and visibility across platforms. How to Find Your Own Best Posting Times How can you pinpoint the best times to post on social media for your unique audience? Start by analyzing audience behavior using platform-specific insights. This will reveal when your followers are most active, whether it’s the best time to post on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Next, conduct A/B testing by posting similar content at different times to measure engagement metrics. Utilize social media management tools like Sprout Social or Hootsuite to gather analytics on past posts and refine your posting strategy. Keep an eye on seasonal trends and shifts in demographics, as these can affect ideal posting times. Regularly reassess your strategy to guarantee you adapt to changing audience preferences and maintain effective engagement. Tips for Maximizing Engagement on Social Media To effectively maximize engagement on social media, it’s crucial to understand and employ various strategies customized to each platform. For Facebook, aim to post between 9 a.m. and noon on weekdays, with Wednesdays being the best time to post on Facebook for likes. On Instagram, the best time to post on Instagram on a Wednesday is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Consider the best time to post on Instagram Monday as well. For Twitter, the best time to post on Twitter on Saturday can help increase visibility. Don’t forget LinkedIn and TikTok; post on LinkedIn from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and TikTok around noon. Finally, for YouTube, the best time to post on Instagram 2025 is between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Best Times to Post on Social Media for Engagement? To maximize engagement on social media, you should consider posting during peak activity times. For Facebook, aim for weekdays between 9 AM and noon, especially Wednesdays. On Instagram, post around 3 PM on Mondays or between 10 AM and 2 PM on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. LinkedIn users are active from 10 AM to noon on Tuesdays through Thursdays. For TikTok, target noon and early evening on Tuesdays and Thursdays to boost interaction. What Is the 5 5 5 Rule on Social Media? The 5 5 5 Rule on social media suggests you create a balanced content strategy by posting five engaging or entertaining pieces for every five promotional ones. This approach emphasizes providing value to your audience, nurturing interaction, and building community rather than just focusing on sales. What Are the Peak Hours for Social Media Posting? Peak hours for social media posting vary by platform. Typically, for Facebook, post between 9 AM and noon on weekdays, especially Wednesdays and Thursdays. On Instagram, aim for 3 PM to 9 PM on Mondays, with midday on Tuesdays and Thursdays being effective. LinkedIn users engage most around 10 AM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. For TikTok, target Sundays at 8 PM, along with Tuesdays at 4 PM and Wednesdays at 5 PM for ideal engagement. What Is the Best Time to Schedule Social Media Posts to Increase Customer Engagement? To increase customer engagement, you should schedule your social media posts during ideal times. Focus on posting between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays for platforms like Facebook, whereas Instagram performs best from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Mondays. Furthermore, consider your audience’s time zones and conduct A/B testing to identify specific times that yield the highest interaction rates. Analyzing past engagement data can greatly improve your posting strategy. Conclusion In summary, grasping the best times to post on social media is crucial for maximizing engagement. Aim for 8:00 AM on Wednesdays, with a focus on mid-morning throughout the week. Each platform has its own peak activity times, so tailor your strategy accordingly. By analyzing your audience’s behavior, you can identify the most effective posting times for your specific content. Implement these strategies, and you’ll likely see increased visibility and interaction with your posts. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Best Times to Post on Social Media for Maximum Engagement" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Crowds flooded the freshly opened showroom floors on Day 2 of the CES and were met by thousands of robots, AI companions, assistants, health longevity tech, wearables and more. Siemens President and CEO Roland Busch kicked off the day with a keynote detailing how its customers are harnessing artificial intelligence to transform their businesses. He was joined onstage by Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang to announce an expanded partnership, saying they are launching a new AI-driven industrial revolution to reinvent all aspects of manufacturing, production and supply chain management. Lenovo ended the day with a guest star-rich visual banquet dedicated to spotlighting how its AI platforms can help people personally (wearables), with their businesses (enterprise platforms) and the world around them. To strike home his points, its CEO Yang Yuanqing was joined by tech superstars like Nvidia’s Huang, AMD CEO Lisa Su and Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan. The CES is a huge opportunity annually for companies large and small to parade products they plan to put on shelves this year. Here are the highlights from Day 2: Razer leans into AI Gaming tech company Razer is well known for bringing buzz-worthy hardware to CES, like haptic, or tactile, seat cushions and tri-screen laptops. This year, it’s reaching beyond its standard gaming base and demonstrating two AI-powered prototypes — an over-ear gaming headset that doubles as a general-purpose assistant, and an AI desk companion that can provide gaming advice and also organize a user’s life. The holographic companion, based on a Razor on-screen AI assistant launched last year (Project Ava), has transitioned off-screen into a small glass tube that sits near your computer. The animated sprite has built-in speakers and a camera so it can see the world around it. Both devices are AI agnostic, so you can use your preferred model. For the demo, the headset — Project Motoko — ran on OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Project Ava worked off xAI’s Grok. Although still in development, Razer said it expects both to be released commercially later this year. Robots on the tarmac Imagine your plane lands and, when you look out the window you see autonomous robots guiding it to the gate and then unloading the luggage. Oshkosh Corporation is pitching that future for airports big and small. At CES, it debuted a fleet of autonomous airport robots designed to help airlines pull off what it calls “the perfect turn” — a tightly timed process that happens after a plane lands, including fueling, cleaning, handling cargo and getting passengers off and back on. For travelers, CEO John Pfeifer says the goal is fewer delays without compromising safety. The technology is also designed to keep those tarmac tasks moving even during severe weather, like winter storms or extreme heat, when conditions are daunting for human crews, Pfeifer said. Testing with major airlines is already underway, and the robots would likely debut at large hub airports like Atlanta or Dallas, with a goal of rolling them out over the next few years. The vacuum that can climb stairs Chinese robovac maker Roborock has introduced a vacuum that literally sprouts chicken-like legs to navigate stairs and clean steps along the way. The newly introduced Saros Rover was a tad slow in its ascent and descent (but it was cleaning each step) during the demo, but Roborock says it will be able to traverse almost any style of stairwell, including spiraled. No release date was given for the Rover, which the company says is still in development. The Body Scan scale gets an upgrade While it may look like a typical scale you’d buy for your bathroom, Withings’ new Body Scan 2 measures much more than weight. Taking off their shoes and socks, people lined up to try out the “smart scale” that in 90 seconds measures 60 different biomarkers, including their heart age, vascular age and their metabolism using the pads of their feet and hands. The $600 scale, which will be available for purchase in the spring, also provides a nerve health score and measures changes in someone’s electrodermal activity, or the skin’s electrical properties due to sweat gland activity. The smart scale and a corresponding app, which costs $10 a month or $100 a year, provide personalized advice and a health trajectory for its users. The French company’s goals are to help people monitor their health and reverse bad habits to promote longevity. Fusion energy research gets a little support from Nvidia, Siemens Commonwealth Fusion Systems, NVIDIA and Siemens announced Tuesday that they are working together to use AI to hasten making nuclear fusion a new source of carbon-free energy. In Massachusetts, Commonwealth Fusion Systems is building a prototype fusion power plant called SPARC, which is about 70% complete. Through the new partnership, it will create a “digital twin,” or online simulation, of the physical machine. CFS CEO Bob Mumgaard said it will ask questions of the simulation to speed up progress on the physical machine and rapidly analyze data, compressing years of manual experimentation into weeks of understanding. SPARC is a prototype for the company’s first planned power plant, called ARC, that is meant to connect to the grid in the early 2030s. The device will use very strong magnets to create conditions for fusion to happen. Mumgaard also said CFS’s first high-temperature superconducting magnet has been installed in SPARC. —Shawn Chen and Rio Yamat, Associated Press View the full article

A recent federal court case has cast a glaring spotlight on the vulnerabilities within government relief programs aimed at helping small businesses. Ikponmwosa Erhinmwinrose, a 39-year-old from Atlanta, Georgia, has been convicted of multiple charges including wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Investigating authorities report that Erhinmwinrose and his co-conspirators managed to siphon off more than $7.6 million from vital economic relief programs initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. For small business owners, these developments serve as a potent reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity in navigating government assistance programs. The evidence against Erhinmwinrose was extensive; he impersonated over 1,000 victims to fraudulently obtain government benefits. Misusing stolen identities, he perpetrated schemes that not only robbed government resources but also left many individuals grappling with the fallout. Victims reported receiving unexpected notices about loan repayments they never made and being ridiculed on social media due to false associations with large fraudulent loans. The scale of this fraud emphasizes potential risks that small business owners must be aware of while trying to access financial aid. The programs designed to support businesses during economic crisis times can unfortunately attract unscrupulous actors. As stressors from the pandemic linger, understanding the mechanics of fraud can help small business owners navigate these essential resources more effectively. “Fraud in pandemic relief programs has real consequences—not just for businesses that need support but for individuals whose identities have been stolen,” stated a spokesperson from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. This case serves not only as a cautionary tale but also prompts essential questions about the systems in place to safeguard against such fraudulent activities. It encourages small businesses to take proactive steps to protect their information. According to experts, heightened vigilance is key: business owners are urged to keep their financial records up to date and secure. Training staff on data security, confirming the legitimacy of any unsolicited email solicitations, and utilizing credible sources for applying to relief programs are actionable steps every small business should take. Yet, navigating these complex programs while safeguarding oneself from fraud can present its own challenges. As more business owners turn to financial assistance from the government, maintaining diligence becomes even more crucial. The investigation into Erhinmwinrose involved multiple agencies, including the Small Business Administration’s Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. This collaborative approach underscores the seriousness of fighting fraud, especially in a climate where businesses are still reeling from economic stress. While this conviction highlights law enforcement’s commitment to addressing fraudulent activities, it also serves as a wake-up call for business owners: awareness and education can reduce individual vulnerabilities. For those who suspect fraudulent activity relating to these relief programs, the Department of Justice encourages reporting through their National Center for Disaster Fraud hotline. This allows businesses and individuals to play a role in preventing economic exploitation. As small business owners navigate these critical financial resources in uncertain times, lessons from such cases reinforce the need for vigilance. Staying informed about fraud and developing robust strategies for safeguarding sensitive information can offer peace of mind and protection in an increasingly complex economic landscape. For anyone interested in delving deeper into the details of the case, further information can be found in the original U.S. Department of Justice press release here. By about ensuring transparency and accountability in financial dealings, small business owners can better shield themselves against fraud while accessing the necessary support to thrive. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Atlanta Man Convicted in $7.6M COVID-19 Fraud Scheme" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A recent federal court case has cast a glaring spotlight on the vulnerabilities within government relief programs aimed at helping small businesses. Ikponmwosa Erhinmwinrose, a 39-year-old from Atlanta, Georgia, has been convicted of multiple charges including wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Investigating authorities report that Erhinmwinrose and his co-conspirators managed to siphon off more than $7.6 million from vital economic relief programs initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. For small business owners, these developments serve as a potent reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity in navigating government assistance programs. The evidence against Erhinmwinrose was extensive; he impersonated over 1,000 victims to fraudulently obtain government benefits. Misusing stolen identities, he perpetrated schemes that not only robbed government resources but also left many individuals grappling with the fallout. Victims reported receiving unexpected notices about loan repayments they never made and being ridiculed on social media due to false associations with large fraudulent loans. The scale of this fraud emphasizes potential risks that small business owners must be aware of while trying to access financial aid. The programs designed to support businesses during economic crisis times can unfortunately attract unscrupulous actors. As stressors from the pandemic linger, understanding the mechanics of fraud can help small business owners navigate these essential resources more effectively. “Fraud in pandemic relief programs has real consequences—not just for businesses that need support but for individuals whose identities have been stolen,” stated a spokesperson from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. This case serves not only as a cautionary tale but also prompts essential questions about the systems in place to safeguard against such fraudulent activities. It encourages small businesses to take proactive steps to protect their information. According to experts, heightened vigilance is key: business owners are urged to keep their financial records up to date and secure. Training staff on data security, confirming the legitimacy of any unsolicited email solicitations, and utilizing credible sources for applying to relief programs are actionable steps every small business should take. Yet, navigating these complex programs while safeguarding oneself from fraud can present its own challenges. As more business owners turn to financial assistance from the government, maintaining diligence becomes even more crucial. The investigation into Erhinmwinrose involved multiple agencies, including the Small Business Administration’s Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. This collaborative approach underscores the seriousness of fighting fraud, especially in a climate where businesses are still reeling from economic stress. While this conviction highlights law enforcement’s commitment to addressing fraudulent activities, it also serves as a wake-up call for business owners: awareness and education can reduce individual vulnerabilities. For those who suspect fraudulent activity relating to these relief programs, the Department of Justice encourages reporting through their National Center for Disaster Fraud hotline. This allows businesses and individuals to play a role in preventing economic exploitation. As small business owners navigate these critical financial resources in uncertain times, lessons from such cases reinforce the need for vigilance. Staying informed about fraud and developing robust strategies for safeguarding sensitive information can offer peace of mind and protection in an increasingly complex economic landscape. For anyone interested in delving deeper into the details of the case, further information can be found in the original U.S. Department of Justice press release here. By about ensuring transparency and accountability in financial dealings, small business owners can better shield themselves against fraud while accessing the necessary support to thrive. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Atlanta Man Convicted in $7.6M COVID-19 Fraud Scheme" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Integrated planning, not heroics, creates life-changing outcomes for clients. Big 4 Transparency By Dominic Piscopo, CPA For CPA Trendlines Go PRO for members-only access to more Dominic Piscopo. View the full article

Integrated planning, not heroics, creates life-changing outcomes for clients. Big 4 Transparency By Dominic Piscopo, CPA For CPA Trendlines Go PRO for members-only access to more Dominic Piscopo. View the full article

The deal comes as technology experts see likely 2026 artificial intelligence breakthroughs in mortgage to come through improved underwriting. View the full article

Budgeting in paid search isn’t just about setting a daily number. It requires understanding how platforms pace spend, the exceptions to those rules, and what changes when budgets are adjusted mid-month. Most PPC advertisers change budgets during the month and want to know how it will affect performance. Enterprise advertisers add complexity, with fiscal cycles and promotional flights that rarely align with calendar months. The problem is that many advertisers assume platforms will simply spread spend evenly. When that doesn’t happen, campaigns overspend one week and underspend the next. Both outcomes are costly. Overspending erodes profitability. Underspending leaves conversions on the table and can even reduce future budget allocations. Budgeting isn’t just math or planning. It’s the foundation of paid search performance. Without a clear understanding of how spend is paced – and how that pacing aligns with client plans – teams risk wasted budget, missed opportunity, and lost credibility. How budgets work in Google Ads At the campaign level, you set a daily budget. If everything is equal, that budget gets spread out over the month. The monthly rule: A $100 daily budget translates to $100 x 30.4 days, or $3,004 for the month. The promise: Google Ads guarantees you won’t be charged more than that monthly cap. The busy day rule (overdelivery): On high‑traffic days, the system can spend up to double your daily budget. If you set $100, you might spend $200 on Wednesday when demand spikes, and only $25 on a quiet Sunday. If you hit your daily limit, your ads stop showing. In your account, this appears as “Limited by budget,” and it is a signal that demand exceeded your available spend. Dig deeper: PPC budget planning: Aligning business goals, ad spend, and performance What happens when you change your budget mid‑month Here’s where things get tricky. If you change your budget on, say, the 8th of the month, Google recalculates everything from that day forward. Step change in monthly limit: The system combines your old budget for days 1-7 with your new budget for days 8-30. Your monthly cap shifts accordingly. Daily limit adjusts immediately: Your maximum daily spend (twice your daily budget) recalculates the moment you make the change. Pacing re‑optimized: Google adjusts how it spreads spend across the remaining days, updating your forecast in the budget report. Visual indicators: In reports, you’ll see a gray triangle marking the change date and a “step” in the monthly spend line. If you’re using a campaign total budget instead of an average daily budget, the rules differ. Average daily budget: Flexible, editable anytime, capped monthly spend, best for always‑on campaigns. Campaign total budget: Fixed, less flexible, no daily cap, best for promos or video flights. Campaign total budgets are fixed sums for a set duration, with no daily caps. The system simply tries to spend the total evenly by the end date. These are common in video or Demand Gen campaigns. Campaign total budgets are less flexible once a campaign is live, which can complicate pacing and optimization. As a result, edits mid-flight are discouraged. Think of daily budgets like a monthly allowance: you aim to spend consistently, and it balances out over time. Campaign totals are more like a project fee, where the system’s only goal is to spend the full amount by the deadline. The real challenge for paid search managers PPC budgets don’t exist in a vacuum. Targeting restrictions, aggressive CPA or ROAS goals, or narrow geographies can all cause underspending. Underspending is just as damaging as overspending because brands often can’t reclaim unused budget, which means missed opportunities and smaller allocations next cycle. Layer on seasonality and promotions like ramping up ad spend before Black Friday and the budgeting complexity multiplies. This is because Google recalculates budgets based on calendar months, and promotional flights rarely align neatly. That’s why senior PPC managers rely on spreadsheets, constant monitoring, and hands‑on adjustments to balance spend, targeting, and performance. The good news is that Google Ads tools make managing shifting budgets easier. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. How to project spend and impact before adjusting budgets Sometimes advertisers ask the paid ads team to cut spending mid‑month, for example, trimming $2,000 from the non-brand search campaign budget. This is where tools and logic checks become essential, so you can quickly project the input. 1. The budget report (spend projection) The budget report is your primary tool for visualizing how a mid‑month cut will affect your final bill. Because changing a budget creates a “step change” rather than a full reset, this report shows you exactly how the math shifts. Where to find it Go to the Campaigns page in your Google Ads account (left‑hand menu). Find the campaign you want to check. In the Budget column, hover over the amount or click the pencil icon. Select View budget report. What it shows Forecasted spend (dotted blue line): Projects your total spend by month‑end. Step change (gray triangle): Marks the day you made the cut, with the gray line stepping down to reflect the new monthly limit. Historical changes: Past adjustments are also visible, helping you understand spending patterns over time. How to use it After entering your new daily budget, check that the dotted blue forecast line ends at a number roughly $2,000 lower than your previous projection. This confirms the cut will achieve the savings you need. Note that while budget changes take effect immediately, pacing isn’t perfectly smooth. On the day you change it, Google may still spend up to twice your daily budget as it adapts. Performance often increases with higher budgets, so consider making gradual adjustments (10-20% every few days) rather than large cuts all at once. Dig deeper: How to manage a paid media budget: Allocation, risk and scaling 2. Performance planner (results projection) The budget report shows cost. The performance planner shows impact, modeling how budget cuts reduce clicks, conversions, ROAS, and other KPIs. How to use it Input the reduced budget scenario to see how many leads or sales you’ll sacrifice. This lets you report back not just “we saved $2,000,” but “we saved $2,000 and lost 50 conversions.” 3. Manual calculation (logic check) Sometimes you need to sanity‑check the math yourself. Check your Cost column for month‑to‑date spend. Subtract that from your new desired monthly total. Divide the remainder by the number of days left in the month and the flight. Google’s 30.4‑day average doesn’t apply mid‑flight. The system treats the rest of the month as a new period with a new daily cap. Manual math ensures you’re aligned with the month and your promotion period if you have one. Where paid search performance and financial planning intersect A useful way to think about these tools is to compare them to driving. Manual calculation is choosing to slow down to save gas. The budget report is your GPS, showing whether that pace still gets you home with fuel to spare. The performance planner is the reminder that driving slower also changes your arrival time. That’s why budgeting in paid search isn’t just math. It’s ad management and financial planning under constant change, where every adjustment affects pacing, reporting, and client expectations. Your role isn’t just to change budgets, but to explain the tradeoffs those changes create. Budgeting isn’t set and forget. It’s a continuous process of alignment between spend, performance, and business goals. Mastering that discipline is what separates paid search managers who keep campaigns running from those who earn long-term trust. Dig deeper: How to plan and manage paid media budgets in an AI-driven world View the full article