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One of the most annoying restrictions in Gmail is that, once you've picked an email address, you're stuck with it. There are exceptions for third-party addresses, like work emails tied to a company's domain, but for the typical @gmail.com account, no dice. Personally, I've had a number of loyalty programs and store accounts tied to an embarrassingly edgy email from high school for decades now, but finally, it seems like I'll be able to change it. A recently updated Google support page says the company is now "gradually rolling out" the ability to change your Gmail address, with some limitations. Oddly, the page is only available in Hindi for the moment, so I've reached out to Google for clarification about where and when the feature will be available and will update when I hear back. Still, the support page does say (through a machine translation) that the feature's coming "to all users," which implies it'll see a global release at some point. For good measure, I checked if I could change any of my personal gmail addresses, but no luck. But once the feature rolls out to you, here's how you'll be able to do it. On a computer or mobile device, navigate to myaccount.google.com/google-account-email. At the top of the page, click or tap "Personal Information." On mobile, this may show up as "Personal Info." Click or Tap on "Google Account Email." From there, click or tap on "Change Your Google Account Email Address" and enter your updated email address. Note that these instructions were filtered through a machine translation, so exact wording may differ depending on region. I'll update with official English instructions when available, but the process does seem simple enough. There are a couple of wrinkles, however. The big one is that emails sent to your old address will still be sent to your new one, and that your old email may still show up instead of your new one in some cases, like on Calendar events created before you changed your address. That's because your former name will be listed as an alias for the account, rather than deleted. That could be a pain if you're trying to leave old contacts behind, but it'll also ensure important contacts don't get lost in the shuffle, and it'll keep anyone else from registering a new account with that email address. You'll also still be able to use your old gmail address to sign into any accounts associated with it, and regardless of which name you sign in with, you'll still have access to all of your messages, photos, and other files. You can also revert to your old address at any time, but as for changing it to a new address, you can only do it once a year, and only three times total. So no changing it to a wacky new address every Halloween and then back to normal come November. Still, it should be a major quality-of-life upgrade, and should help Google's email service better catch up to more permissive email providers like Proton. No more sounding like an edgelord every time I talk to the checkout clerk at Sephora. View the full article

It’s “where are you now?” month at Ask a Manager, and all December I’m running updates from people who had their letters here answered in the past. Here are four updates from past letter-writers. 1. My promotion was canceled because of budget … but I’m still doing the work Ultimately, my promotion did end up going through! My manager really went to bat for me and pointed out the terrible optics of cancelling promotions that were already announced to people, and was able to get the decision reversed. I’m really thankful that I have such a great manager who was willing and able to stand up for us, and that the lab leadership listened and made a change. I did talk to my manager about the lead title, but ultimately there isn’t a good standard for who gets the titles and who doesn’t. Instead I decided to refocus my priorities on the work that is actually my responsibility and strategically let go of some of the extra work I was doing. In the end, the main project I was on had a sudden decrease in funding (this is a natural part of the way these projects work, but this one was at a suboptimal time.) I was moved off the project, but thanks to the extra work I was doing and the role I was playing for outside collaborators, I was specifically requested by project leadership to stay on part-time! (I was given other work so I am still working full time, just not on one project anymore.) Unfortunately, the funding situation is still hairy. They are discussing potential layoffs in our division unless some additional projects come through (which likely won’t happen before the federal government reopens.) However, it was definitely worth putting in the extra work in the end, both because I was able to secure the promotion and because it has put me in a place where I am well regarded and needed on several projects and therefore less sensitive to funding changes. So ultimately, the situation is still a little precarious, but it’s working out so far for me! Thank you for your advice, it was helpful to take a step out of the emotional side and look at things pragmatically. 2. Quitting when I work for a (difficult) friend (#2 at the link) I wrote in to get a script about how to step down from management, but potentially stay on as a Sunday bartender for an owner who previously had a bad reaction from me quitting her cleaning business. I will say, I have said nothing yet to her, as it is not yet the end of the football season I referenced. I await the time to do so. She has hired another front-of-house manager, who “as a man” she believes more than me … which is infuriating, and will be mentioned as part as my stepping down when I do so. Which won’t be until February at the latest. 3. People complain that I don’t want to be at work social events I wrote about my boss talking to me about how others perceive me in relation to work social events. Specifically, that people have commented to him that I don’t seem too excited about them. I confess that is true; I don’t really enjoy them, but I still go. The impression I have gotten from my boss is that I should like them, not merely be present for them. My workplace is a unique one, but I’m disinclined to describe it in detail for anonymity. Suffice it to say, it is not at all toxic. People are lovely. We work well and we generally get along. There is no politicking or rumor mongering. It’s a nonprofit, and we’re all there for our cause. I have considered my attitude. I spoke to one of my reports who has always been honest with me. He said he thinks one of the issues is my face — I definitely have RBF. So, when I feel neutral, my face says otherwise. I will try to work on “forcing” a smile, so that people don’t think I hate being there. I’ve also realized that I’ve allowed familiarity to cause me to be less careful in how plainly I speak — when someone asks what I think of something, I don’t tend to sugarcoat anything. I’m not a jerk who just “tells it like it is,” but I may be less diplomatic than I could be. I decided to address this by paying much closer attention, and being less forthright. I’ve set reminders so that I won’t forget that people don’t need to hear my opinions. I think this will help guard my tongue. In all, I still love my org. I enjoy the people I work with. I still don’t care for the social stuff, but I will try to address the perception. 4. What to say when declining an offer because of the health insurance (#5 at the link) By the time I sent my question in, I had already emailed them declining the offer without mentioning the health insurance issue. However, reading your response and many of the comments, it seemed like that would have been good feedback for them. I got a call from the head of the company a few days later asking why I had rejected the offer. I explained the situation and he put me in touch with their HR and benefits coordinator to see if there was any solution to be had. Although I really appreciated the effort and all the help they were willing to provide, we couldn’t really come to a solution. The health insurance provider they use has a reputation among doctors and professionals for being extremely slow with prior authorizations and I have multiple medications that I rely on that require PAs on an annual basis. Because potentially going months without those prescriptions wasn’t an option, and because getting insurance myself would effectively mean a significant pay cut, I ultimately declined the job (I did see the advice in the comments about asking for more money — while I was candid with the folks I spoke to about what the added cost of getting my own plan would mean for me, it didn’t seem like there was enough room in the salary range to cover the gap). I am endlessly frustrated by the entire health insurance system in this country, especially the fact that the coverage you receive is entirely dependent on what your employer has chosen. I feel like my employment options are limited both by my health insurance needs and my need to work remotely because of chronic conditions. The good news is, I wasn’t applying to this job because I felt like I needed to leave my current role. I am still doing a job I love with great people, and getting my meds and doctor visits covered. The post updates: the cancelled promotion, the difficult friend, and more appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Rapid post-Christmas rally unwinds, dragging down gold and other precious metalsView the full article

I am sad to report the passing of Andy Drinkwater, a super-experienced SEO and a friend to the search marketing industry. Andy was a UK-based SEO who loved educating his industry by contributing content and attending local events.View the full article

Below, Muriel Wilkins shares five key insights from her new book, Leadership Unblocked: Break Through the Beliefs That Limit Your Potential. Muriel is the founder and CEO of the leadership advisory firm Paravis Partners. She is also an executive coach to high-performing C-suite and senior executives, as well as host of the award-winning podcast Coaching Real Leaders. What’s the big idea? When leaders get stuck, their first instinct is to do more and push harder. But those actions don’t create lasting results because they’re focused on what they do and not on what they think. Sustainable leadership growth comes from examining the beliefs that drive our actions. Left unchecked, we risk stunting our leadership potential. Listen to the audio version of this Book Bite—read by Muriel herself—below, or in the Next Big Idea App. 1. You’re part of the problem. Every leader goes through rough patches. If you haven’t yet, you will. I’ve seen many accomplished leaders, from executives to emerging managers, eventually hit a wall. They’re chasing results that remain out of reach, struggling to influence, or trying to find their footing in a new role. No matter their title or situation, they share one thing in common: something is standing in the way of their leadership potential. Despite their best efforts, they’re still blocked. Usually, it’s because they’re focusing on what’s happening around them instead of what’s happening within them. Many high achievers try to hustle their way through whatever is holding them back. They double down on tactics and skills, thinking that if they just do more, they’ll break through. But until you turn inward and uncover what’s holding you back, you’ll keep repeating the same struggle and leadership will feel harder, more draining, and less rewarding than necessary. 2. Old beliefs can’t create new results. We’ve all been told that if you want to change something, change your actions: work harder, build new habits, learn new skills. But a change in behavior only scratches the surface. Real change happens on the level of your beliefs. “Beliefs that helped you succeed at one stage of your career may no longer serve you during the next.” The Buddha said, “What we think, we become.” Modern research backs that up. Scholars of psychology like Alia Crumb, Ellen Langer, and Carol Dweck have shown that what you believe about yourself, your circumstances, and your ability to grow has a measurable impact on outcomes. Beliefs act like the internal code that drives your leadership operating system. Beliefs that helped you succeed at one stage of your career may no longer serve you during the next. If you believe you need to have all the answers, you’ll struggle to empower others. If you believe your value comes from being in the details, you lose sight of leading through others. If you believe you can’t make a mistake, you’ll avoid risk and stifle innovation. You can’t lead at a new level with the same inner operating system. Until you evolve your beliefs, your results will stay the same. 3. Seven common beliefs quietly keep high performers stuck. Most leaders share a common set of beliefs that keep them stuck. I call these hidden blockers because they keep us locked in unproductive patterns, and they’re experts at eluding detection: I need to be involved. I need it done now. I know I’m right. I can’t make a mistake. If I can do it, so can you. I can’t say no. I don’t belong here. These self-talk mantras aren’t character flaws. They’re old success strategies. When you can identify the belief you’re leading from, you regain choice. Awareness is the first step to unblocking. 4. Ease comes when you can uncover, unpack, and unblock. To lead with more ease, the work is to uncover, unpack, and unblock what drives you: Uncover: Bring your belief to awareness. Unpack: Examine where the belief came from and how it shows up. Unblock: Reframe the belief so that it serves how you need to lead. This framework isn’t about positive thinking; it’s about strategic thinking. When you align your beliefs with the present moment, you expand your range and elevate your leadership altitude. 5. Great leaders learn to coach themselves. The ultimate goal is developing the capacity to coach yourself. When you can observe your patterns, question your beliefs, and realign in real time, you no longer need a crisis or coach to spark growth. You become your own coach—grounded, adaptive, and effective—in each moment. As you increase your capacity to coach yourself, you increase your capacity to coach others, which after all is what great leaders do. “A leader cannot transform an organization beyond their own capacity to transform themselves.” To lead differently, you must think differently. A leader cannot transform an organization beyond their own capacity to transform themselves. It can feel lonely and difficult at the top, but you don’t have to suffer through your leadership challenges, nor should others suffer because of how you lead. Becoming free of your hidden blockers unlocks your potential for achieving goals, delivering results, and leading with ease. Enjoy our full library of Book Bites—read by the authors!—in the Next Big Idea App. This article originally appeared in Next Big Idea Club magazine and is reprinted with permission. View the full article

The benefits are high, but only if the right people are involved. By Domenick J. Esposito 8 Steps to Great Go PRO for members-only access to more Dom Esposito. View the full article

The benefits are high, but only if the right people are involved. By Domenick J. Esposito 8 Steps to Great Go PRO for members-only access to more Dom Esposito. View the full article

The Federal Reserve is slated to undertake a number of important rules and regulations in 2026, but decisions around agency leadership and the The President administration's avowed effort to exert greater control over the central bank are likely to leave a lasting legacy at the agency. 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. Most outdoor speakers claim they can handle water. The Soundcore Boom 3i goes further: it's fully waterproof and dustproof with an IP68 rating, but it also resists saltwater, which is still rare at this size and price. That matters if your weekends involve beaches, boats, or the ocean rather than a backyard patio. Also, it floats, and more importantly, it does so facing upward, which keeps the drivers out of the water and the sound clear. That one detail makes a real difference when waves or movement would normally flip a speaker onto its side. The Boom 3i usually sells for $129.99, but it’s currently down to $79.99, its lowest price so far, according to price trackers. Soundcore Boom 3i by Anker, Compact Outdoor Speaker, IP68 Waterproof, Floating Playback, Saltwater-Resistant, BassUp 2.0, 50W Portable Speaker, Bluetooth 5.3, 16H, TWS, Kayak/Fishing/Camping-Blue $79.99 at Amazon $129.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Get Deal $79.99 at Amazon $129.99 Save $50.00 It weighs a little over three pounds and comes with a shoulder strap, so carrying it to a beach or campsite doesn’t feel like a chore. And pushing up to 50 watts, the Boom 3i is loud enough to cover a small gathering of about eight people without sounding strained. The sound quality is solid but not dramatic. You get punchy mid-bass and a warm tone, but very little deep bass, which is expected from a compact, front-facing speaker. There’s a BassUp button on top if you want more low-end emphasis, and the Soundcore app includes a nine-band equalizer for finer tuning. Battery life sits around 15 to 16 hours at moderate volume, and you can keep listening while charging over USB-C. The Boom 3i’s interesting extras include a Buzz Clean mode, which plays a low-frequency tone to shake sand and grit out of the speaker after a beach day. It works surprisingly well, though you may still need to rinse or shake it afterward. Plus, there’s an emergency alarm and voice amplifier built in, which could be useful for kayaking or group outings, even if they’re not things you’ll use often. On the downside, the speaker reportedly down-mixes stereo audio to mono unless you pair it with a second unit, and the app doesn’t show an exact battery percentage. All said, this isn’t the speaker for indoor listening or detailed sound. It’s for water-heavy trips where durability matters more than finesse. At this price, it’s a strong option for that specific use case. Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $229.99 (List Price $249.00) Sony WH-1000XM5 — $248.00 (List Price $399.99) Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 10.9" 64GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Graphite) — $139.99 (List Price $219.99) 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) Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core — $189.99 (List Price $189.99) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $29.99 (List Price $49.99) Meta Quest 3 512GB Mixed Reality VR Headset with Controllers — $499.00 (List Price $499.00) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

A significant portion of the loans in the pool by balance, 44.5%, are designated at non-QM, according to DBRS, adding that about 50% of the loans in the pool were made to investors for business purposes. View the full article

A modest improvement in prices and mortgage rates encouraged buyers. Signings have now increased for four straight months, matching a pandemic streak. View the full article

Ukraine president says after talks with Donald The President that 15-year assurance is not enough to deter RussiaView the full article

It’s that time — December’s waning days, when we prepare to turn the calendar page. Many Americans take stock, review goals accomplished and unmet, ponder hopes and plans. How’s our health? What’s up with our money? What about the country? Will the coming year look like the departing one year, or be something entirely different? Are we ready? It can be an overwhelming period. So The Associated Press reached out to professionals with varying expertises — home organization, risk management, personal training, personal finance, and political science — to talk about their perspectives on changes and transitions. And for something a little different, we gave each interviewee a chance to ask a question of one of the others. So let’s talk endings and beginnings. The change expert: Milestones stir emotions Transitions are professional organizer Laura Olivares’ working life. As co-founder of Silver Solutions, she works with senior adults and their families to help make sure they’re in safe environments, whether that means decluttering a lifetime of possessions, downsizing to another home, or helping families clear a house after a loved one’s passing. She offers this: Changes, even exciting ones, can unearth sadness or grief over places, things and people left behind. Acknowledging those feelings can help smooth the move from one chapter to another. “When you let go of something that was meaningful to you, it deserves a moment,” she says. “Whatever that moment is, could be a second, could just be an acknowledgement of it. Or maybe you set it on the on the mantle and you think about it for a while and when you’re ready to let it go, you let it go.” NEXT QUESTION: Certified personal trainer Keri Harvey asked: “What small weekly habits can I build that will help me stay organized during the year?” Olivares’ tips: In December, do a brain dump of thoughts, ideas, and goals. Then, before Jan. 1, schedule out tasks that move those priorities forward over the course of 2026. Olivares suggests three tasks on each of three days, so nine tasks per week. The actuary: Planning is important — but sometimes fickle Probably no group of people think more about the future than actuaries. Using data, statistics and probabilities, they devise models on how probable it is that certain events happen, and what it could cost to recover from them. Their work is vital to organizations like insurance companies. Listen to R. Dale Hall talk, though, and he sounds almost … philosophical. He’s managing director of research at the Society of Actuaries. Asked how the general public could think about a new year, he readily brings up strategies like mapping out risk scenarios and how to respond. There’s a balance to be struck, he says: We can’t control or predict everything and must accept the possibility of something unexpected. And the past isn’t always a perfect guide; just because something happened doesn’t mean it must again. “It’s the nature of taking risk, right? That yeah, there are going to be uncontrollable things,” Hall says. “There are ways to maybe diversify those risks or mitigate those risks, but no one has that perfect crystal ball that’s going to see three, six, nine, 12 months into the future.” NEXT QUESTION: From personal finance educator Dana Miranda: “Thinking about the variables we consider when making decisions or plans, how might the juxtaposition of the holiday season with the new year affect the way people are evaluating their finances and setting goals at the beginning of each year? … What do you recommend they do to ensure the holiday experience doesn’t skew financial goal-setting?” Hall’s advice: Keep ’em separate. He recommends people enjoy the holidays and hold off on financial goals until January. The personal finance authority: Be intentional about money In her work as a financial writer and a personal finance educator, Miranda encourages people to make conscious choices around their spending and saving, and understand that there’s no absolute rule. Miranda, author of “You Don’t Need a Budget,” says details are key. What works for one person may not work for another. And it’s something Americans should consider as another year of goals and resolutions approaches. Insisting that the same technique works for everybody can leave people feeling stuck, Miranda says. “We tend to be not good at talking about the nuances and that leaves people with, ‘Here’s the one right rule. It’s not possible for me to achieve that perfection, so I’m just going to feel ashamed of every move that I make that is not moving toward that perfect goal.'” NEXT QUESTION: From Jeanne Theoharis, a political science professor, who asked how Miranda gets people to look beyond the micro and consider the larger system of capitalism. “How does she also get people to think about more collective solutions—like union organizing, pressing City Council or Congress for changes?” Miranda is quick to make it clear she’s not an organizer but says she tries to evoke larger systemic issues when discussing personal finance. “The way that I try to move that needle just a little bit is to always bring in that political aspect to whatever conversation we’re having … to make the systemic and the cultural impact visible.” The trainer: Make goals attainable When it comes to changes and new years, one of the most popular areas is fitness, the subject of many a (failed) resolution. Personal trainer Harvey, of Form Fitness Brooklyn, says you can make positive, lasting change in fitness (and generally) with one philosophy: Start small and build. “We want to be mindful of making sure that we’re not asking too much or trying to overcompensate for what we feel like we left behind this past year or what we feel like we left on the table this past year,” she says. “It’s very reasonable to try and have the goal of getting to the gym twice a week, maybe three times a week, and then building from there instead of saying ‘Jan. 1, I’m starting, I’m gonna be at the gym five days a week, two hours a day.’ That’s not realistic and it’s not kind to ourselves.” NEXT QUESTION: From Hall: “What advice do you have for me to transition to an even more robust workout schedule in 2026 without falling into the risk of injuring myself by doing too much too soon?” Harvey emphasized warming up and having a mobility routine, and making the goal attainable by making it fun. “Find things that you actually enjoy doing and try and fit those in as well so that the idea of starting something new or adding to it isn’t one that comes with a negative like, ‘Oh, I don’t want to have to do this,’ where you’re dragging yourself into it.” The historian: Learn from your past It’s not just as individuals that we think about transitions. Nations and cultures have them, too. We can learn from them if we look at our history honestly and not through the guise of trying to hide the ugly parts, says Theoharis, professor of political science and history at Brooklyn College and the City University of New York Graduate Center. She points to the story of Rosa Parks, remembered as the catalyst of the Montgomery bus boycotts 70 years ago. But when Parks chose to resist, she didn’t know what her arrest would mean or what the outcome would be. Theoharis sees a lesson there for people looking to make change in today’s world and even individuals wanting to evolve. “A number of us would be willing to do something brave if we knew that it would work,” Theoharis says. “And we might even be willing to have some consequences. But part of what looking at the actual history of Rosa Parks or the actual history of the Montgomery bus boycott is in fact you have to make these stands with no sense that they will work.” NEXT (AND LAST) QUESTION: From Olivares, who wanted Theoharis’ thoughts on today’s civil rights battles. Theoharis referenced voting rights, which have been eroded in recent years. At the same time, remembrances of the turmoil during the Civil Rights years have become glossed over by a mythology of America overcoming its injustices. There’s a lesson there about what it takes to make real change for individuals, too, Theoharis says: It’s difficult to move forward if you’re not honestly addressing what’s come before. “Part of how we’ve gotten here is by that … lack of reckoning with ourselves, lack of reckoning with where we are, lack of reckoning with history.” —Deepti Hajela, Associated Press View the full article

Chip Wilson nominates three board directors and says investors have lost confidence in Lululemon’s leadershipView the full article

When you consider loans with collateral, it’s crucial to understand how they function. These loans require you to secure the borrowed amount with an asset, like your home or vehicle. If you can’t repay the loan, the lender can take possession of that asset. This reduces the lender’s risk, enabling them to offer lower interest rates and larger sums. But, what types of collateral loans exist, and are they the right option for you? Key Takeaways Collateral loans are secured loans where borrowers pledge assets like property or vehicles to guarantee repayment. The value of the collateral influences the loan amount, typically ranging from 70% to 85% of its appraised value. Borrowers must provide documentation proving ownership and undergo a collateral verification process during application. If borrowers default, lenders can seize the pledged collateral, leading to financial loss and a damaged credit score. Collateral loans generally offer lower interest rates than unsecured loans, making them a cost-effective borrowing option. What Is a Collateral Loan? A collateral loan, often referred to as a secured loan, is a financial product that requires you to pledge an asset to secure your borrowing. The collateral loan definition emphasizes that this loan type is backed by items such as property, vehicles, or savings accounts. If you default on repayment, the lender can seize the asset. Collateral loans typically offer lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans, making them attractive for borrowers with poor credit histories. The loan amount is usually a percentage of the collateral’s fair market value, which means higher loan-to-value (LTV) ratios can lead to increased interest rates. Common types of collateral loans include mortgages, home equity loans, auto loans, and personal loans using collateral. During the application process, lenders assess the asset’s value, review documentation, and evaluate your creditworthiness, which is vital in collateral lending. Comprehending what’s collateral in finance is fundamental for making informed borrowing decisions. Understanding Collateral for Loans Collateral is an asset you pledge to secure a loan, and it can take many forms, such as property, vehicles, or bank accounts. Comprehending the types of collateral available and how they function is vital, as they directly impact the loan amount you can borrow. If you fail to repay the loan, the lender may seize the collateral to recover their losses, making it important to choose wisely. Definition of Collateral When securing a loan, borrowers often pledge an asset to provide the lender with protection against the risk of default. This asset is known as collateral. It serves as a guarantee that the lender can seize if you fail to repay the loan. Comprehending collateral is vital, especially for secured loans for bad credit, as it can improve your chances of approval. Here are some common forms of collateral: Real estate Vehicles Savings accounts Personal goods like jewelry When you take out a loan secured loan, the value of your collateral influences the amount you can borrow. Types of Collateral Grasping the types of collateral available for loans is essential for making informed financial decisions. Collateral loans can involve various assets such as real estate, vehicles, and personal items like jewelry or art. For instance, home collateral loans use your home as security, whereas car loan collateral secures the loan against your vehicle. If you have bad credit, you might explore loans using a house as collateral, allowing you to leverage your property’s value. Personal collateral loans might include items like electronics or collectibles. Secured loans online often require specific collateral and can provide lower interest rates, making them appealing options. In the end, comprehending these types helps you choose the right loan for your financial needs. How Collateral Functions Comprehending how collateral functions in the context of loans is crucial for anyone considering borrowing against an asset. Here are four key points to understand: Collateral acts as a security pledge, allowing lenders to seize it if you default. The value of your collateral influences loan terms, typically granting loans at 70% to 85% of its appraised value. In case of default, lenders can repossess assets like vehicles or homes, affecting your credit score. Collateral can improve approval chances, especially for collateral loans for bad credit or secured personal loans for bad credit. Options include a loan using home as collateral or a personal loan secured by car, often resulting in favorable secured loan interest rates. How Collateral Loans Work Collateral loans, often referred to as secured loans, function by requiring you to pledge an asset—like real estate or a vehicle—as security for the borrowed funds. When you consider collateral loans on property or an auto secured loan, the loan amount is usually a percentage of the asset’s value, determined through professional appraisals. This process is vital for comprehending how to get a secured loan, as lenders assess the fair market value before approving your application. With secured borrowing, you often benefit from lower loan debt interest collateral rates than with unsecured loans, making these options more accessible, especially if you have limited credit history. Nonetheless, keep in mind that if you default on the loan, the lender can seize your collateral to recover the outstanding amount. Thus, grasping the responsibilities involved is fundamental when pursuing a secured personal loan. Types of Collateral Loans There are several types of collateral loans available, each designed to meet different borrowing needs during requiring specific assets as security. Comprehending these options can help you choose the right loan for your situation. Here are four common types: Home Equity Loans: These allow you to borrow against your home’s equity, but risk foreclosure if you miss payments. Auto Collateral Loans: Secured by the vehicle you’re financing, these loans can lead to repossession if you default. Car Title Loans: Using your car title as collateral, these loans often come with high interest rates and short repayment terms, making them a costly option. Secured Personal Loans: These may utilize savings accounts or investments as collateral for a personal loan, risking the loss of those assets if you fail to repay. Choosing the right secured lending option is essential for effective financial planning. Pros and Cons of Collateral Loans Many borrowers find collateral loans appealing owing to their potential benefits, but it’s important to weigh the advantages against the drawbacks. Collateral loans typically offer lower interest rates, making them more affordable compared to unsecured loans. You can likewise access larger loan amounts based on your collateral’s value, which may help secure funding for significant expenses or investments. Nonetheless, there’s a considerable risk: if you default, you could lose the pledged asset. Furthermore, obtaining these loans often requires more paperwork and documentation, adding complexity to the process. Although collateral loans can benefit those with a bad credit history through secured loan options, they can limit your future borrowing potential if your collateral is tied up. If you’re considering a personal loan to pay off debt, be mindful of these pros and cons before moving forward with loans with collateral. Application Process for Collateral Loans When you’re ready to apply for a collateral loan, it’s crucial to gather the necessary documentation, like proof of asset ownership and your financial statements. You’ll fill out a loan application that outlines your financial situation and details the asset you’re using as collateral. Comprehending how lenders evaluate your collateral’s fair market value and your overall creditworthiness will help you navigate the process more effectively. Required Documentation Overview Applying for a collateral loan requires specific documentation to guarantee a smooth and efficient process. Here’s what you need to gather: Proof of Asset Ownership: Titles, deeds, or purchase receipts for what can be used as collateral for a personal loan. Financial Statements: Include income verification, tax returns, and profit and loss statements for secured loan lenders to assess your creditworthiness. Professional Appraisal: This determines the fair market value of the collateral, impacting personal loan rates and terms. Loan Application: A detailed application outlining your financial situation, debts, and repayment plans, ensuring documentation must likewise demonstrate that the collateral isn’t pledged elsewhere, essential for a cash secured loan. Loan Evaluation Process Maneuvering through the loan evaluation process for collateral loans requires a clear comprehension of the steps involved, as each plays a crucial role in determining your loan’s outcome. First, you’ll need to research lenders, focusing on options like online secured loans for bad credit and the best secured loans available. Gather necessary documentation, including proof of asset ownership. Next, complete a detailed application reviewing your financial situation and pledged collateral. Lenders will conduct collateral verification and valuation, evaluating its fair market value against your creditworthiness. They may require a larger down payment if the loan-to-value ratio is high. Once approved, be prepared for a repayment schedule to avoid losing your pledged asset, whether it’s a loan for 1000 or personal loans to consolidate debt. Where to Find Loans With Collateral Finding loans with collateral can be straightforward if you know where to look. Here are some reliable sources: Banks that offer personal loans: They often have competitive rates and terms based on your creditworthiness and collateral value. Online lenders: These lenders typically provide a faster application process and more flexible requirements, making them a convenient option for securing an auto secured personal loan. Private lenders for personal loans: They might offer personalized terms and conditions, which can be beneficial if you’re seeking the best loans using a car as collateral. Peer-to-peer lending platforms: These platforms connect you with individual investors, potentially leading to lower rates for personal loans with low interest rates. Always compare offers from multiple lenders to guarantee you find the most suitable terms, as interest rates and collateral requirements can differ considerably across institutions. Collateral Loan Interest Rates When considering loans with collateral, comprehension of the interest rates associated with these loans is vital for making informed financial decisions. Collateral loans typically offer lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans, often ranging from 8.99% to 23.99%. Your creditworthiness and the value of the collateral you pledge greatly impact these rates. Typically, the more valuable your collateral, the better the terms you can secure, as lenders perceive less risk. Secured loans, which include collateral loans, often provide more favorable personal loan rates today, making them an attractive option for borrowers. Nevertheless, if the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is higher, you may face increased interest rates and closing costs. It’s important to compare private loan interest rates across multiple lenders, as these can vary based on the collateral type, lender policies, and your overall financial profile, ensuring you find the best deal available. Consequences of Not Repaying Collateral Loans If you fail to repay a collateral loan, the consequences can be severe and far-reaching. Defaulting on a collateral loan puts you at risk of losing your pledged assets, which can include property, vehicles, or savings accounts. Here are key consequences you should know: Financial Loss: You could lose valuable assets that serve as collateral. Credit Score Damage: Your credit score will likely plummet, complicating future borrowing efforts. Legal Action: Lenders may pursue legal action to recover any remaining balance after seizing the collateral, increasing your financial strain. Loan Restrictions: Your default will appear on your credit report, making it harder to obtain future loans or credit. Understanding the consequences of non-repayment is essential, as it can lead to long-term financial repercussions that affect your borrowing capacity for years to come. Is Using Collateral the Right Choice for You? Have you considered whether using collateral for a loan is the right choice for you? If you’re looking for a $25,000 personal loan and have a below-average credit score, collateral can improve your chances of approval. Secured loans typically offer lower interest rates, making them attractive for those seeking low interest loans to pay off debt. Nevertheless, it’s vital to assess your ability to make timely payments, as failing to repay means risking your pledged asset. The value of your collateral affects the loan amount, often between 70% to 85% of its assessed value. Comprehending the terms is fundamental; be aware of any fees for collateral appraisal and restrictions on selling or transferring the asset during the loan term. If you’re considering personal loans to pay off credit cards or an unsecured debt consolidation loan, weigh the benefits and risks before proceeding with collateral. Frequently Asked Questions Is It Good to Get a Loan With Collateral? Getting a loan with collateral can be a smart choice, especially if you need funds at lower interest rates. It often makes loans accessible to those with less-than-perfect credit, as the collateral reduces risk for lenders. You’ll typically receive a loan amount based on the collateral’s value, which can help finance significant purchases. Nonetheless, keep in mind that failing to repay could mean losing your asset, so assess your ability to make payments carefully. How Much Would a $10,000 Loan Cost per Month Over 5 Years? For a $10,000 loan over five years, your monthly payments typically range between $249.42 and $326.00, depending on the interest rate. Rates can vary from 8.99% to 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness. Over the loan term, you could end up paying between $14,965.20 and $19,560.00 in total, including principal and interest. How Does Collateral Work for a Loan? Collateral serves as security for a loan, giving lenders confidence that they can recover their funds if you default. When you pledge an asset, like a car or property, its value determines how much you can borrow, often expressed as a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. If you fail to repay, the lender can seize the collateral. Secured loans typically have lower interest rates because of reduced risk, making them more appealing for many borrowers. What Is the Danger of Putting up a Collateral for a Loan? When you put up collateral for a loan, you’re risking the asset if you default. Lenders can take legal action to seize and sell it, which mightn’t cover your total debt, leaving you with residual payments. Missing repayments can lead to quicker repossession compared to unsecured loans. Furthermore, defaulting can harm your credit score, making it harder to secure future loans. You must weigh these risks carefully before proceeding. Conclusion To summarize, collateral loans offer a practical solution for borrowers seeking larger amounts at lower interest rates. By pledging an asset, you can reduce the lender’s risk, improving your chances of approval, especially with less-than-perfect credit. Nonetheless, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons, as failure to repay can result in losing your collateral. Carefully consider your financial situation and needs to determine if a collateral loan is the right choice for you. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How Do Loans With Collateral Work?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you consider loans with collateral, it’s crucial to understand how they function. These loans require you to secure the borrowed amount with an asset, like your home or vehicle. If you can’t repay the loan, the lender can take possession of that asset. This reduces the lender’s risk, enabling them to offer lower interest rates and larger sums. But, what types of collateral loans exist, and are they the right option for you? Key Takeaways Collateral loans are secured loans where borrowers pledge assets like property or vehicles to guarantee repayment. The value of the collateral influences the loan amount, typically ranging from 70% to 85% of its appraised value. Borrowers must provide documentation proving ownership and undergo a collateral verification process during application. If borrowers default, lenders can seize the pledged collateral, leading to financial loss and a damaged credit score. Collateral loans generally offer lower interest rates than unsecured loans, making them a cost-effective borrowing option. What Is a Collateral Loan? A collateral loan, often referred to as a secured loan, is a financial product that requires you to pledge an asset to secure your borrowing. The collateral loan definition emphasizes that this loan type is backed by items such as property, vehicles, or savings accounts. If you default on repayment, the lender can seize the asset. Collateral loans typically offer lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans, making them attractive for borrowers with poor credit histories. The loan amount is usually a percentage of the collateral’s fair market value, which means higher loan-to-value (LTV) ratios can lead to increased interest rates. Common types of collateral loans include mortgages, home equity loans, auto loans, and personal loans using collateral. During the application process, lenders assess the asset’s value, review documentation, and evaluate your creditworthiness, which is vital in collateral lending. Comprehending what’s collateral in finance is fundamental for making informed borrowing decisions. Understanding Collateral for Loans Collateral is an asset you pledge to secure a loan, and it can take many forms, such as property, vehicles, or bank accounts. Comprehending the types of collateral available and how they function is vital, as they directly impact the loan amount you can borrow. If you fail to repay the loan, the lender may seize the collateral to recover their losses, making it important to choose wisely. Definition of Collateral When securing a loan, borrowers often pledge an asset to provide the lender with protection against the risk of default. This asset is known as collateral. It serves as a guarantee that the lender can seize if you fail to repay the loan. Comprehending collateral is vital, especially for secured loans for bad credit, as it can improve your chances of approval. Here are some common forms of collateral: Real estate Vehicles Savings accounts Personal goods like jewelry When you take out a loan secured loan, the value of your collateral influences the amount you can borrow. Types of Collateral Grasping the types of collateral available for loans is essential for making informed financial decisions. Collateral loans can involve various assets such as real estate, vehicles, and personal items like jewelry or art. For instance, home collateral loans use your home as security, whereas car loan collateral secures the loan against your vehicle. If you have bad credit, you might explore loans using a house as collateral, allowing you to leverage your property’s value. Personal collateral loans might include items like electronics or collectibles. Secured loans online often require specific collateral and can provide lower interest rates, making them appealing options. In the end, comprehending these types helps you choose the right loan for your financial needs. How Collateral Functions Comprehending how collateral functions in the context of loans is crucial for anyone considering borrowing against an asset. Here are four key points to understand: Collateral acts as a security pledge, allowing lenders to seize it if you default. The value of your collateral influences loan terms, typically granting loans at 70% to 85% of its appraised value. In case of default, lenders can repossess assets like vehicles or homes, affecting your credit score. Collateral can improve approval chances, especially for collateral loans for bad credit or secured personal loans for bad credit. Options include a loan using home as collateral or a personal loan secured by car, often resulting in favorable secured loan interest rates. How Collateral Loans Work Collateral loans, often referred to as secured loans, function by requiring you to pledge an asset—like real estate or a vehicle—as security for the borrowed funds. When you consider collateral loans on property or an auto secured loan, the loan amount is usually a percentage of the asset’s value, determined through professional appraisals. This process is vital for comprehending how to get a secured loan, as lenders assess the fair market value before approving your application. With secured borrowing, you often benefit from lower loan debt interest collateral rates than with unsecured loans, making these options more accessible, especially if you have limited credit history. Nonetheless, keep in mind that if you default on the loan, the lender can seize your collateral to recover the outstanding amount. Thus, grasping the responsibilities involved is fundamental when pursuing a secured personal loan. Types of Collateral Loans There are several types of collateral loans available, each designed to meet different borrowing needs during requiring specific assets as security. Comprehending these options can help you choose the right loan for your situation. Here are four common types: Home Equity Loans: These allow you to borrow against your home’s equity, but risk foreclosure if you miss payments. Auto Collateral Loans: Secured by the vehicle you’re financing, these loans can lead to repossession if you default. Car Title Loans: Using your car title as collateral, these loans often come with high interest rates and short repayment terms, making them a costly option. Secured Personal Loans: These may utilize savings accounts or investments as collateral for a personal loan, risking the loss of those assets if you fail to repay. Choosing the right secured lending option is essential for effective financial planning. Pros and Cons of Collateral Loans Many borrowers find collateral loans appealing owing to their potential benefits, but it’s important to weigh the advantages against the drawbacks. Collateral loans typically offer lower interest rates, making them more affordable compared to unsecured loans. You can likewise access larger loan amounts based on your collateral’s value, which may help secure funding for significant expenses or investments. Nonetheless, there’s a considerable risk: if you default, you could lose the pledged asset. Furthermore, obtaining these loans often requires more paperwork and documentation, adding complexity to the process. Although collateral loans can benefit those with a bad credit history through secured loan options, they can limit your future borrowing potential if your collateral is tied up. If you’re considering a personal loan to pay off debt, be mindful of these pros and cons before moving forward with loans with collateral. Application Process for Collateral Loans When you’re ready to apply for a collateral loan, it’s crucial to gather the necessary documentation, like proof of asset ownership and your financial statements. You’ll fill out a loan application that outlines your financial situation and details the asset you’re using as collateral. Comprehending how lenders evaluate your collateral’s fair market value and your overall creditworthiness will help you navigate the process more effectively. Required Documentation Overview Applying for a collateral loan requires specific documentation to guarantee a smooth and efficient process. Here’s what you need to gather: Proof of Asset Ownership: Titles, deeds, or purchase receipts for what can be used as collateral for a personal loan. Financial Statements: Include income verification, tax returns, and profit and loss statements for secured loan lenders to assess your creditworthiness. Professional Appraisal: This determines the fair market value of the collateral, impacting personal loan rates and terms. Loan Application: A detailed application outlining your financial situation, debts, and repayment plans, ensuring documentation must likewise demonstrate that the collateral isn’t pledged elsewhere, essential for a cash secured loan. Loan Evaluation Process Maneuvering through the loan evaluation process for collateral loans requires a clear comprehension of the steps involved, as each plays a crucial role in determining your loan’s outcome. First, you’ll need to research lenders, focusing on options like online secured loans for bad credit and the best secured loans available. Gather necessary documentation, including proof of asset ownership. Next, complete a detailed application reviewing your financial situation and pledged collateral. Lenders will conduct collateral verification and valuation, evaluating its fair market value against your creditworthiness. They may require a larger down payment if the loan-to-value ratio is high. Once approved, be prepared for a repayment schedule to avoid losing your pledged asset, whether it’s a loan for 1000 or personal loans to consolidate debt. Where to Find Loans With Collateral Finding loans with collateral can be straightforward if you know where to look. Here are some reliable sources: Banks that offer personal loans: They often have competitive rates and terms based on your creditworthiness and collateral value. Online lenders: These lenders typically provide a faster application process and more flexible requirements, making them a convenient option for securing an auto secured personal loan. Private lenders for personal loans: They might offer personalized terms and conditions, which can be beneficial if you’re seeking the best loans using a car as collateral. Peer-to-peer lending platforms: These platforms connect you with individual investors, potentially leading to lower rates for personal loans with low interest rates. Always compare offers from multiple lenders to guarantee you find the most suitable terms, as interest rates and collateral requirements can differ considerably across institutions. Collateral Loan Interest Rates When considering loans with collateral, comprehension of the interest rates associated with these loans is vital for making informed financial decisions. Collateral loans typically offer lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans, often ranging from 8.99% to 23.99%. Your creditworthiness and the value of the collateral you pledge greatly impact these rates. Typically, the more valuable your collateral, the better the terms you can secure, as lenders perceive less risk. Secured loans, which include collateral loans, often provide more favorable personal loan rates today, making them an attractive option for borrowers. Nevertheless, if the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is higher, you may face increased interest rates and closing costs. It’s important to compare private loan interest rates across multiple lenders, as these can vary based on the collateral type, lender policies, and your overall financial profile, ensuring you find the best deal available. Consequences of Not Repaying Collateral Loans If you fail to repay a collateral loan, the consequences can be severe and far-reaching. Defaulting on a collateral loan puts you at risk of losing your pledged assets, which can include property, vehicles, or savings accounts. Here are key consequences you should know: Financial Loss: You could lose valuable assets that serve as collateral. Credit Score Damage: Your credit score will likely plummet, complicating future borrowing efforts. Legal Action: Lenders may pursue legal action to recover any remaining balance after seizing the collateral, increasing your financial strain. Loan Restrictions: Your default will appear on your credit report, making it harder to obtain future loans or credit. Understanding the consequences of non-repayment is essential, as it can lead to long-term financial repercussions that affect your borrowing capacity for years to come. Is Using Collateral the Right Choice for You? Have you considered whether using collateral for a loan is the right choice for you? If you’re looking for a $25,000 personal loan and have a below-average credit score, collateral can improve your chances of approval. Secured loans typically offer lower interest rates, making them attractive for those seeking low interest loans to pay off debt. Nevertheless, it’s vital to assess your ability to make timely payments, as failing to repay means risking your pledged asset. The value of your collateral affects the loan amount, often between 70% to 85% of its assessed value. Comprehending the terms is fundamental; be aware of any fees for collateral appraisal and restrictions on selling or transferring the asset during the loan term. If you’re considering personal loans to pay off credit cards or an unsecured debt consolidation loan, weigh the benefits and risks before proceeding with collateral. Frequently Asked Questions Is It Good to Get a Loan With Collateral? Getting a loan with collateral can be a smart choice, especially if you need funds at lower interest rates. It often makes loans accessible to those with less-than-perfect credit, as the collateral reduces risk for lenders. You’ll typically receive a loan amount based on the collateral’s value, which can help finance significant purchases. Nonetheless, keep in mind that failing to repay could mean losing your asset, so assess your ability to make payments carefully. How Much Would a $10,000 Loan Cost per Month Over 5 Years? For a $10,000 loan over five years, your monthly payments typically range between $249.42 and $326.00, depending on the interest rate. Rates can vary from 8.99% to 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness. Over the loan term, you could end up paying between $14,965.20 and $19,560.00 in total, including principal and interest. How Does Collateral Work for a Loan? Collateral serves as security for a loan, giving lenders confidence that they can recover their funds if you default. When you pledge an asset, like a car or property, its value determines how much you can borrow, often expressed as a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. If you fail to repay, the lender can seize the collateral. Secured loans typically have lower interest rates because of reduced risk, making them more appealing for many borrowers. What Is the Danger of Putting up a Collateral for a Loan? When you put up collateral for a loan, you’re risking the asset if you default. Lenders can take legal action to seize and sell it, which mightn’t cover your total debt, leaving you with residual payments. Missing repayments can lead to quicker repossession compared to unsecured loans. Furthermore, defaulting can harm your credit score, making it harder to secure future loans. You must weigh these risks carefully before proceeding. Conclusion To summarize, collateral loans offer a practical solution for borrowers seeking larger amounts at lower interest rates. By pledging an asset, you can reduce the lender’s risk, improving your chances of approval, especially with less-than-perfect credit. Nonetheless, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons, as failure to repay can result in losing your collateral. Carefully consider your financial situation and needs to determine if a collateral loan is the right choice for you. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How Do Loans With Collateral Work?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

You can customize more on your Mac than you might have realized, and that extends to the file management software you use to browse around your system. Take, for example, Finder: There are a good number of alternatives around that bring with them extra features and different layouts. I've been testing out three of the most well-known and highly rated alternatives to Finder to see what I might be missing. Each one has its own appeal, but the third in the list here is so good that I might switch to it permanently for all my file and folder needs on macOS. Commander One Credit: Lifehacker As soon as you load up Commander One, you'll notice it has a busier interface than Finder, which may or may not suit you, depending on your attitude toward minimalism. Its layout is based around a dual-pane interface, and you can customize it in a variety of ways—even down to the fonts and colors used, if you want something bespoke. The software starts to show its potential when you move from just looking at your files and folders to actually doing something with them. You're able to rename files when copying and moving them; you get a dedicated file operations queue; and you can run complex searches through your system using regular expressions, too. I like the quick toggle switches for seeing hidden files and for previewing files without any additional apps, and connecting up to network locations and cloud storage is straightforward. There's even an integrated Terminal for you to make use of. It's handy having shortcut keys on show in the interface as well, and you can customize these as needed if you don't like the defaults. There's certainly a lot going on, and while the interface takes a little bit of getting used to, that's to be expected—and it doesn't take long to learn what's what. The Pro version of the software comes with extra features, including layout themes, and integrations for FTP, Google Drive, and Dropbox: That's yours for a one-off fee of $29.99. QSpace Pro Credit: Lifehacker QSpace Pro is the best Finder alternative I tested in terms of the interface customizations you get access to: You can tailor to a fine level of detail, though the default look isn't all that different from Finder. You can have up to four different system locations on view at once, with the panels arranged in a variety of different ways, and jumping between these layouts is easily done. After a short while using QSpace Pro I definitely felt I was better able to get around my Mac more efficiently, and when you've got a lot to do on your system, that really helps. Copying, moving, searching, deleting, tagging, and previewing is all intuitively and simply done, and you can easily hide parts of the interface if you know you won't need them. The wealth of settings available in QSpace Pro is a testament to how much you can do with this: Keyboard shortcuts, the context menu, new file creation, batch operations, folder syncing, iCloud links, and app launching can all be customized, and those are just some of the options available. It's like Finder, but with a lot more going on. QSpace Pro isn't free, however: Its features cost a one-off fee of $27.99 via the Mac App Store (or $29.99 via a direct download), though at the time of writing, those prices are down to $12.99 and $13.99, respectively. If you go through the QSpace Pro website, you can test the software out for 30 days for free before buying. Path Finder Credit: Lifehacker Path Finder is one of the Finder alternatives that's been around the longest, and I think it's the one I'm actually going to switch to permanently. It's absolutely packed with features and options to play around with, and if you spend a little time getting it set up the way you want it, it should seriously speed up all your file operations. There are a choice of different layouts to pick from, including a dual-pane layout that makes moving and copying more straightforward, and I very much appreciate the "stacking" approach that lets you pile up several files and folders in a temporary holding pane first, before you do anything with them. Batch file operations are supported, as are synced folders, so you can merge and compare two folders on your system as required. There's also extensive use of bookmarks and tab presets, so that you can quickly jump to the places on your Mac system that you need to visit the most—something that isn't always simple to do in Finder. The visual representations of how much space files and folders are taking up on disk is very handy, and so is the Dropbox integration (with Dropbox being my go-to cloud storage option). Admittedly it's not the most visually appealing of the software packages listed here, but that's not necessarily the most important thing in a file manager, and it adds all the features I didn't know I'd been missing from Finder. Path Finder is $29.99 for the year, but there's a 30-day trial available. View the full article

The United States on Monday announced a $2 billion pledge for U.N. humanitarian aid as President Donald The President’s administration continues to slash U.S. foreign assistance and warns United Nations agencies to “adapt, shrink or die” in a time of new financial realities. The money is a small fraction of what the U.S. has contributed in the past but reflects what the administration believes is a generous amount that will maintain the United States’ status as the world’s largest humanitarian donor. The pledge creates an umbrella fund from which money will be doled out to individual agencies and priorities, a key part of U.S. demands for drastic changes across the world body that have alarmed many humanitarian workers and led to severe reductions in programs and services. The $2 billion is only a sliver of traditional U.S. humanitarian funding for U.N.-backed programs, which has run as high as $17 billion annually in recent years, according to U.N. data. U.S. officials say only $8-$10 billion of that has been in voluntary contributions. The United States also pays billions in annual dues related to its U.N. membership. Critics say the Western aid cutbacks have been shortsighted, driven millions toward hunger, displacement or disease, and harmed U.S. soft power around the world. A year of crisis in aid The move caps a crisis year for many U.N. organizations like its refugee, migration and food aid agencies. The The President administration has already cut billions in U.S. foreign aid, prompting them to slash spending, aid projects and thousands of jobs. Other traditional Western donors have reduced outlays, too. The announced U.S. pledge for aid programs of the United Nations — the world’s top provider of humanitarian assistance and biggest recipient of U.S. humanitarian aid money — takes shape in a preliminary deal with the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA, run by Tom Fletcher, a former British diplomat and government official. Even as the U.S. pulls back its aid, needs have ballooned across the world: Famine has been recorded this year in parts of conflict-ridden Sudan and Gaza, and floods, drought and natural disasters that many scientists attribute to climate change have taken many lives or driven thousands from their homes. The cuts will have major implications for U.N. affiliates like the International Organization for Migration, the World Food Program and refugee agency UNHCR. They have already received billions less from the U.S. this year than under annual allocations from the previous Biden administration — or even during The President’s first term. Now, the idea is that Fletcher’s office — which last year set in motion a “humanitarian reset” to improve efficiency, accountability and effectiveness of money spent — will become a funnel for U.S. and other aid money that can be then redirected to those agencies, rather than scattered U.S. contributions to a variety of individual appeals for aid. US seeks aid consolidation The United States wants to see “more consolidated leadership authority” in U.N. aid delivery systems, said a senior State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity to provide details before the announcement at the U.S. diplomatic mission in Geneva. Under the plan, Fletcher and his coordination office “are going to control the spigot” on how money is distributed to agencies, the official said. “This humanitarian reset at the United Nations should deliver more aid with fewer tax dollars — providing more focused, results-driven assistance aligned with U.S foreign policy,” said U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Michael Waltz. U.S. officials say the $2 billion is just a first outlay to help fund OCHA’s annual appeal for money, announced earlier this month. Fletcher, noting the upended aid landscape, already slashed the request this year. Other traditional U.N. donors like Britain, France, Germany and Japan have reduced aid allocations and sought reforms this year. “The agreement requires the U.N. to consolidate humanitarian functions to reduce bureaucratic overhead, unnecessary duplication, and ideological creep,” the State Department said in a statement. “Individual U.N. agencies will need to adapt, shrink, or die.” “Nowhere is reform more important than the humanitarian agencies, which perform some of the U.N.’s most critical work,” the department added. “Today’s agreement is a critical step in those reform efforts, balancing President The President’s commitment to remaining the world’s most generous nation, with the imperative to bring reform to the way we fund, oversee, and integrate with U.N. humanitarian efforts.” At its core, the reform project will help establish pools of funding that can be directed either to specific crises or countries in need. A total of 17 countries will be targeted initially, including Bangladesh, Congo, Haiti, Syria and Ukraine. One of the world’s most desperate countries, Afghanistan, is not included, nor are the Palestinian territories, which officials say will be covered by money stemming from The President’s as-yet-incomplete Gaza peace plan. The project, months in the making, stems from The President’s longtime view that the world body has great promise, but has failed to live up to it, and has — in his eyes — drifted too far from its original mandate to save lives while undermining American interests, promoting radical ideologies and encouraging wasteful, unaccountable spending. Fletcher praised the deal, saying in a statement, “At a moment of immense global strain, the United States is demonstrating that it is a humanitarian superpower, offering hope to people who have lost everything.” —Jamey Keaten and Matthew Lee, Associated Press View the full article

We’re at a rare inflection point. Robots are moving from research labs and factory floors into everyday life. Right now, they’re being dropped into human spaces and, often, missing the mark. Yet embodied AI is becoming more intelligent, manipulation more capable, and perception more attuned. These shifts are giving robotics a new expressive range, the ability to move, interact, and take shape in ways that feel natural in human environments. It’s a moment full of possibility. Currently, people see robots as humanoid helpers or robotic arms, but we don’t have to be limited to these. They represent only a small slice of a much broader category of intelligent and autonomous physical systems, which are starting to show up across hotels, operating rooms, and beyond. Together, they make up an emerging landscape where many meaningful use cases haven’t yet been defined. Though they’ll share capabilities around intelligence and automation, each will need a distinct format that expresses its promise. All these use cases will require different robotic formats. What connects them is the need to fit and belong in human spaces. And not just physically fit, being able to navigate spatial and material complexities, but fit into the inherent social constructs these spaces embody. We need systems that move with the grain of human life, make people comfortable with their presence, and offer moments of surprise, delight, and personality. These are the kinds of systems we deserve, systems that let us engage with emerging technologies in ways that preserve our humanity. DESIGN FOR HUMAN SPACES Every human space is a system of invisible rules. We rarely think about them, but we follow them intuitively. They govern how we navigate, how we share space, and what feels acceptable or intrusive. Together they form culture. The home is a great place to begin understanding what it means to design robotic systems for human spaces because the lessons learned extend to other spaces, like hospitals, airports, and back-of-house environments. Home is one of the most complex human systems, full of rituals and meaning. Movement is deliberate and human-paced. At home, we adjust our speed without thinking, respond to subtle cues, and act in rhythm with others. Interaction is continuous, a fluid exchange of words, gestures, and glances. Trust is built gradually, through consistency and reliability. A robotic system entering a home must be designed with this context in mind. Our team has been developing a concept for a robot designed to keep the home in rhythm. Its body draws from familiar domestic archetypes, somewhere between furniture and appliance, so it feels native. A single arm at counter height allows it to take part in most daily routines, tidying, setting a table, and lending a hand where needed. Ultimately, the goal is to create a robot that follows the flow of home life. Their presence must be clear in intent, socially aware in behavior, and gentle enough to support home life without ever intruding on it. The same goal is true as we design robotics for other human domains. The challenge is to let go of our preconceived notions about technology and reflect on the context we’re entering by asking: What human patterns are at play? How do people move, communicate, and collaborate within them? What physical and social contexts shape our routines and expectations? From there, form, motion, behavior, personality, and interaction paradigms can be designed to reflect the domestic, civic, industrial, or social environment they inhabit. A restaurant kitchen, a factory, or a city street each has its own tempo, spatial grammar, and expectations of grace. Design that reads those cues and responds in kind builds trust; design that ignores them breaks it. Robots and other intelligent systems that respect these invisible rules will be accepted, while those that overlook them will feel out of place. Designing for context ensures these technologies feel like they belong in human spaces. Photo: created by frog HOW TO SHAPE THE NEXT INTERFACE As intelligence extends beyond screens and into the world around us, design grounded in people and context will make these technologies feel like they belong in human spaces. While we’re solving the technical hurdles, we also have a chance to define how these systems live among us. The prototypes and interaction models we create today will become the foundations others build upon, eventually solidifying into platforms, patterns, and conventions. They will shape not only how these systems look and act, but also our own behaviors and expectations—what we call culture. Because of that, these first design moments matter. The exciting thing is that we are still at the beginning. The frameworks and languages of robotics and other intelligent systems are in flux, giving us a rare opportunity to design without inherited norms. While we’re sharing how we can break paradigms in the home, this same approach can be used across contexts to frame new formats and use cases. In this moment, we are effectively writing the DNA for how intelligent systems will coexist with people. It is an incredible moment to shape the next chapter of human experience and ensure it’s one worth living with. Inna Lobel is the head of industrial design at frog. Thanks to my colleagues Katie Lim and Tom Frejowski for their collaboration and contributions to this work. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. For many of us, New Year's Eve represents not just the climax of a long holiday season, but also a time to simultaneously reflect, and to look forward to what's ahead—sometimes with optimism, sometimes with sheer dread. (Lately, mostly dread.) Movies have frequently recognized the simultaneously hopeful and perilous nature of the time. It can be a period of reassessment, or renewal, or massive change. This selection of choice New Year's Eve movies reflects that range of possibilities, including everything from romance and murder, to comedy and tragedy, to wild sex and heartbreaking loneliness. When Harry Met Sally (1989) Taking on an added poignance following the death of director Rob Reiner, his classic collaboration with Nora Ephron follows Billy Crystal's Harry and Meg Ryan's Sally over the course of 11 tempestuous years, with two major scenes set at New Year's Eve parties: The first involves a midnight kiss that signals the beginning of a potential romantic relationship between the two; the second comes at the climax of the film, when a decade's worth of growth, apart and together, sees the two in the same place at the same time, both literally and metaphorically. Rent When Harry Met Sally from Prime Video. When Harry Met Sally (1989) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Waiting to Exhale (1995) This Terry McMillan adaptation about the power of female friendships (which is, impossibly, celebrating its 30th anniversary) has an all-time great cast led by Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon. Bassett's character, Bernadine, has a singularly powerful revelation, leading to a memorable revenge sequence, on New Year's Eve. Stream Waiting to Exhale on Hulu and Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. Waiting to Exhale (1995) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu The Substance (2024) New Year's resolutions, for better or worse, frequently include promises to take better care of our bodies in the months to come—though we often just mean we want to find ways to look younger, skinnier, and prettier. In this lurid arthouse horror flick, Demi Moore plays Elisabeth Sparkle, a middle-aged celebrity fired from her aerobics show solely because of her age. She's soon introduced to the titular Substance, which allows her to generate a younger version of herself with her own consciousness. It's a dire warning about the potential costs of our endless hunger for youth, and the climax appropriately comes during a New Year's Eve telecast that goes horrifically askew. Stream The Substance on HBO Max or rent it from Prime Video. The Substance (2024) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max The Gold Rush (1925) You might be forgiven for forgetting that one of early American cinema's most memorable moments was centered around New Year's Eve: In Charlie Chaplin'e early classic, his Prospector character meets Georgia (Georgia Hale), a dance hall girl who dances with him to irritate an obnoxious suitor. She accepts his invitation to a NYE dinner, but mostly forgets about it. While she's having a blast at a big party, he's alone in his cabin, dreaming of company—and entertaining his make-believe guests with a pair of dancing potatoes. (Not to worry: Georgia soon comes to see what a catch the Prospector is.) Stream The Gold Rush on HBO Max, The Criterion Channel, and Prime Video. The Gold Rush (1925) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Phantom Thread (2017) There's a relatively brief (but crucial) scene in Paul Thomas Anderson's film set on New Year's Eve. Its climax is arguably the moment on which the entire film turns: Renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis) has been in a relationship with waitress Alma Elson (Vicky Krieps), one that seems poised to break through his carefully constructed routine. He refuses her request to go to a NYE party, though, and, when she goes on her own, he follows her and very nearly drags her away. The moment makes clear that, if this relationship has any chance of succeeding, drastic changes will need to happen. The contemplation of such coming change is, in a roundabout way, what New Year's Eve is all about. Stream Phantom Thread on Netflix or rent it from Prime Video. Phantom Thread (2017) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix The Godfather Part II (1974) The climax of the film, and the single most pivotal moment in Michael Corleone's life, comes during a New Year's Eve party in Cuba. It's the night that Michael (Al Pacino) learns of his betrayal by his brother, Fredo (John Cazale). The fateful kiss that ensues is a deliberate inversion of the traditional midnight kiss—one that ensures that neither Michael nor Fredo will be having a particularly happy year. Stream The Godfather Part II on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video. The Godfather Part II (1974) at Paramount+ Get Deal Get Deal at Paramount+ Rocky (1976) A little New Year's inspiration, perhaps, offered up by a film with multiple seasonal themes. Journeyman boxer Rocky Balboa is given a chance at the big time when heavyweight champion Apollo Creed (the late, great Carl Weathers) finds himself in need of an opponent for a planned fight. Unwilling to blow his big chance, Rocky finds a scrappy trainer and a scrappier love interest while working toward the big fight on New Year's Day. While the outcome isn't fully in Rocky's favor, he reminds us that sometimes we can win by losing, dusting ourselves off to fight again (in approximately 80 sequels and spin-offs). Stream Rocky on Peacock or rent it from Prime Video. Rocky (1976) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock Ghostbusters II (1989) It might be a lesser film in the Ghostbusters canon, but there's still plenty of fun to be had with this sequel. The entire film builds towards a New Year's Eve climax, with the machinations of Vigo the Carpathian and company moving toward the turning of the year. New York City is saved, ultimately, by some emotionally charged slime and a moving rendition of "Auld Lang Syne." Rent Ghostbusters II from Prime Video. Ghostbusters II (1989) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Apartment (1960) Set almost entirely between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, Billy Wilder’s Best Picture winner was groundbreaking in its approach to sexuality (aside from being among the finest American movies, pretty much ever). Jack Lemmon plays Bud Baxter, an insurance clerk who’s climbed the corporate ladder by loaning out his apartment to the higher-ups to use for their extramarital affairs. In the midst of that, a fraught affection develops between Bud and Shirley MacLaine’s Fran, the office building’s elevator operator, a woman who’s been in a joyless affair with Bud’s boss (Fred MacMurray). A fairly miserable New Year's Eve party gives way to something a bit more hopeful when Fran realizes that love might just be worth taking a chance on. Stream The Apartment on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. The Apartment (1960) at Tubi Learn More Learn More at Tubi Il Posto (1961) Along similarly wistful lines, the Italian classic satire Il Posto follows Domenico (Sandro Panseri), a young man pressured by his family to jump right into a career, which he does by signing on with a soul-sucking corporation. At work, he meets Antonietta (Loredana Detto), a young woman in a similar boat, with whom he steals a few moments at an office New Year's party. The film offers no tangible hope of an escape from the endless grind of modern-day capitalism, but it does serve as a timely reminder that the work is meaningless, and time spent with kindred spirits is far more valuable. Stream Il Posto on The Criterion Channel. Il Posto (1961) at The Criterion Channel Learn More Learn More at The Criterion Channel Snowpiercer (2013) Bong Joon-ho's post-apocalypse is coming up quick, what with Snowpiercer being set in 2031. Here, the survivors of climate catastrophe live together on one giant train that travels the frozen, lifeless globe. The annual celebration here comes once a year, when the train has completed a full circle of the world. It's one such celebration of the train's new year that the oppressed, maltreated residents of the train's tail end use as an opportunity to stage a revolt against the entitled and pampered passengers at the front. Not the worst New Year's resolution to make, honestly. Stream Snowpiercer on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. Snowpiercer (2013) at Tubi Learn More Learn More at Tubi The Poseidon Adventure (1972) An all-star triumph from the golden age of disaster cinema, the original Poseidon Adventure finds Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, Jack Albertson, Shelley Winters, and Red Buttons (among others) trapped on a cruise liner that's been capsized by an undersea earthquake, one that happens within moments of the ball drop and big party. They'll all have to spend New Year's Day clawing and scraping their way back to the surface—which is as good a hangover metaphor as you're likely to find in an upside-down boat movie. Stream The Poseidon Adventure on Prime Video. The Poseidon Adventure (1972) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Sleepless in Seattle (1993) New Year's Eve represents the past in Nora Ephron's romantic comedy-drama, as architect Sam (Tom Hanks) has a sweet but imagined conversation with his late wife set during holiday festivities. The future? Valentine's Day, as Sam and Annie (Meg Ryan) are drawn toward a meeting at the top of the Empire State Building. Stream Sleepless in Seattle on Starz or rent it from Prime Video. Sleepless in Seattle (1993) at Starz Learn More Learn More at Starz After the Thin Man (1936) The breezy, boozy chemistry between William Powell and Myrna Loy is a highlight of the entire Thin Man series, and it's still running strong in this first sequel, when married sleuths Nick and Nora Charles are expecting a dull New Year's Eve, only to find themselves in the middle of a kidnapping and murder (involving Jimmy Stewart in his first major film role). The previous movie is set at Christmas, so you might as well watch that one, too. Rent After the Thin Man from Prime Video. After the Thin Man (1936) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Holiday (1938) Would you rather spend New Year's Eve with William Powell and Myrna Loy or with Katherine Hepburn and Cary Grant? Why choose—Holiday and After the Thin Man are short enough that you can watch both in less time than a single Avatar movie. Here Grant plays Johnny Case, a self-made thousandaire (hey, it was the Depression) who wants to take some time off and enjoy the bit of money he's made while also planning to marry Julia, who's fine and fun and all, but ultimately can't compare to her vivacious older sister Linda (Hepburn). A series of memorable New Year's Eve somersaults set them both on the road to discovering each other, but George Cukor's film doesn't make it nearly that easy. Each needs to decide what they want out of life, and what they're willing to do to get it, before they can really see one another. It's just the tiniest bit under-appreciated for being one of the very best films from either lead. Rent Holiday from Prime Video. Holiday (1938) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video New Year's Evil (1980) Is it among the best of the slasher genre? It is not. It's pretty charmingly goofy, though, with a killer calling into a NYE radio show promising to kill people across the United States as midnight arrives in each time zone. In the harsh light of day, it probably won't fit the bill—but it might be perfect in that boozy post-midnight haze. It's also got a very solid title track. Stream New Year's Evil on MGM+. New Year's Evil (1980) at MGM+ Learn More Learn More at MGM+ Midnight Kiss (2019) Technically an episode of Hulu's Into the Dark anthology series, the feature-length Midnight Kiss finds a bunch of gay friends (and their straight female friend) heading out to a gorgeous place in the desert for an annual tradition: They'll each pick someone at random to kiss at midnight. Old resentments bubble to the surface, egged on (unbeknownst to most of them) by a serial killer. It's no spoiler to suggest that they won't all make it to New Year's Day. Stream Midnight Kiss on Hulu. Midnight Kiss (2019) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Sunset Boulevard (1950) One-time movie star Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson) is a mess, frankly, and it's never more clear than during her elaborate, catered New Year's party for two: her, and Joe (William Holden)—who we already know will wind up dead in Norma's pool. This might be the moment when we realize just how delusional the diva had become. On the other hand, NYE is a time for a little bit of sloppiness, and, though treated as an ancient relic, Swanson was only 50 when this was filmed, so maybe we can cut her some slack. Stream Sunset Boulevard on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video. Sunset Boulevard (1950) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Repeat Performance (1947) What if we consider, for just one moment, that the changing of years might not be a time of blessed renewal, but instead an opportunity to travel back in time and try to undo some of the stuff you royally fucked up in the prior year. Given that we're solidly in noir territory here, don't expect overwhelming success. On New Year's Eve 1946, Sheila Page (Joan Leslie) stands over the dead body of her husband, wishing that she could do things differently. Et voila! She's back at the beginning of the year and trying to stop the disintegration of her marriage with some help from her gay bestie (Richard Basehart). Stream Repeat Performance on Kanopy. Repeat Performance (1947) at Kanopy Learn More Learn More at Kanopy Bridget Jones's Diary (2001) Kicking off a (perhaps) unlikely franchise, this beloved rom-com is bookended by New Year's Eve gatherings: Bridget (Renée Zellweger) is 32, dorky, and worried about her weight (about which: Girl, you look great). Meeting old acquaintance Mark Darcy (Colin Firth) at a party, she overhears his comments about how she drinks too much, smokes too much, and dresses like her mother. Finding him rude but not entirely off the mark, she begins a year-long quest to change her life for the better. Stream Bridget Jones' Diary on Peacock and Paramount+. Bridget Jones's Diary (2001) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock About Time (2013) Another time-travel movie with a key New Year's Eve sequence, this one's significantly less murder-y. Rachel McAdams and Domhnall Gleeson star as Mary and Tim, a couple whose story is constantly in flux thanks to Tim's ability to move through time—an ability that comes in particularly handy when he wants to keep trying a New Year's kiss until it's just right. Rent About Time from Prime Video. About Time (2013) at Prime Video Get Deal Get Deal at Prime Video An American in Paris (1951) We do love a New Year's party theme, and they don't come much better (nor more thoroughly designed) than the black-and-white party at the center of Gene Kelly's An American in Paris, the film that won the Best Picture Oscar in its year. Stream An American in Paris on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. An American in Paris (1951) at Tubi Learn More Learn More at Tubi Ocean's 11 (1960) It's less a meticulously crafted piece of cinema than an excuse for the Rat Pack (Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop) to hang—but that cool, boozy chemistry goes a surprisingly long way. Sinatra plays Danny Ocean, who brings together his old Army buddies with an elaborate New Year's Eve plan to simultaneously rob five Las Vegas casinos: the Sahara, the Riviera, the Desert Inn, the Sands, and the Flamingo. Stream Ocean's 11 on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. Ocean's 11 (1960) at Tubi Learn More Learn More at Tubi Happy New Year (2014) With a bit of inspiration from Ocean's Eleven (the 2001 version), this Hindi-language action comedy stars Shah Rukh Khan as a gritty street fighter who plans a heist as a means of getting back at the man who had his father wrongfully imprisoned. His target? The real-life Hotel Atlantis in Dubai. The catch? He and his team will need to infiltrate a dance competition, though none of them can dance. The result is, unsurprisingly, glorious. Stream Happy New Year on Netflix. Happy New Year (2014) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix High School Musical (2006) Try not to be alarmed that the feel-good Disney Channel movie is, itself, old enough to start sending off college applications. Just enjoy the 2000s vibes and, particularly, the opening sequence. Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez (Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens) meet up at a ski lodge on New Year's Eve for a seasonally appropriate duet called "Start of Something New." Stream High School Musical on Disney+ or rent it from Prime Video. High School Musical (2006) at Disney+ Learn More Learn More at Disney+ Rent (2005) The adaptation of the stage musical (starring much of the original cast) kicks off on a chilly New York New Year's Eve, and asks the question that's on all of our minds around this time: How do you measure a year? Rent Rent from Prime Video. Rent (2005) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Are We There Yet? (2005) Ice Cube stars here alongside Nia Long, Jay Mohr and Tracy Morgan in a charmingly goofy (and family-friendly) movie about a New Year's Eve trip to the airport. Sounds simple, sure, but Nick (Ice Cube) is determined to impress the woman he likes by picking up her kids and bringing them to meet her for a flight to Vancouver. Suffice it to say, the kids do not make it easy. If you have even more time to kill on New Year's Eve, there's a sequel (Are We Done Yet?) and a spin-off TV series, all currently streaming. Stream Are We There Yet on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. Are We There Yet? (2005) at Tubi Learn More Learn More at Tubi Diner (1982) In 1959, a group of close, college-age friends reunite in time for the New Year's Eve wedding of Eddie (Steve Guttenberg), the circumstances prompting a fair bit of introspection on the prospect of fully transitioning to adulthood. NYE is a time for reflection, so why not? Kevin Bacon, Mickey Rourke, Daniel Stern, and Tim Daly make up the rest of the group. Rent Diner from Prime Video. Diner (1982) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Rosemary's Baby (1968) It's not just any old new year being celebrated in Rosemary's Baby, but the new year: the first year of a new satanic age about to be (literally) birthed by Mia Farrow's Rosemary Woodhouse. As of the New Year's Eve gathering in the film, Rosemary isn't in on the extent to which she, her body, and her pregnancy are being manipulated by people to whom she's merely a vessel, but her sense of isolation among supposed friends—and a critic toast to "The Year One!"—spurs her justified paranoia. Stream Rosemary's Baby on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video. Rosemary's Baby (1968) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Trading Places (1983) Trading Places starts off at Christmas and peaks with a New Year's Eve train ride involving a heist, two gorillas (one real, one fake), and multiple disguises. The comedy is often very silly here, but Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd have tremendous chemistry and, unusual for the 1980s, the movie has some very pointed commentary about corporate greed. Stream Trading Places on Paramount+, Peacock, and Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. Trading Places (1983) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ View the full article

It’s “where are you now?” month at Ask a Manager, and all December I’m running updates from people who had their letters here answered in the past. Remember the letter-writer whose boss (Ned) and she shared an office with a volatile jerk (Peter)? Here’s the update. After my letter was published, I spoke to Ned and told him I would not be assisting Peter further, which he fully supported. I started referring Peter to his adult children for assistance, which left him huffy but he stopped bothering me. He also began spending more and more time away from the office and out of state, “working” on their joint venture. As for Peter and Ned, their business relationship has ended and their personal relationship is slowly untangling. It was an explosive conclusion that ended in a company bankruptcy, home foreclosure, and other items that left Ned’s finances in ruin. Unfortunately everything was in his name for various (in my opinion bogus) reasons that left Peter getting off practically scot-free. People in the comments wanted to know if they were romantically involved and that was not the case. They owned a duplex, and when funds for their business venture became tight they decided to share one half and rent out the other. After the home foreclosure, Peter has left the office and in fact left the state entirely! it has been about eight months since he made that permanent transition. Their project failed (though Peter is convinced he can revive it, Ned has stepped away 100%). Ned now lives on his own in a quiet apartment that he is very happy to have to himself. We are back to focusing on his business, and the office is a different place. We are both happy and relaxed and have a great working relationship. Ned does not talk about his personal life with me much but I have noticed friends and family rally around him now that Peter is gone and he seems so happy and full of life, including taking some time of work. Prior to this, I could count the days he took off on one hand over five years, but now he is taking some much needed time for himself. As for me, I am taking on more complex and varied tasks and thriving. Don’t worry, Ned is compensating me fairly for the increased work and responsibilities and has expressed a desire to make sure I have contact with others in our field, as he is getting older and wants to make sure I have adequate contacts and transferable skills for the future. Peter is still moving files and equipment out of the office and will be here for one week in January, but the limited contact and the fact that he is failing has really cowed him and given me the ability to tolerate him in small doses, knowing he is going to be out of my life permanently very soon. Thank you and all the commenters for your advice. I know a lot of it was to leave, but I am happy I stuck it out. The post update: my boss and I share an office with a volatile jerk appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Google launched four official and confirmed algorithmic updates in 2025, three core updates and one spam update. This is in comparison to last year, in 2024, where we had seven confirmed updates, then in 2023, when we had nine confirmed updates and in 2022 and 2021, Google had 10 confirmed algorithmic updates. Fewer updates. Google appears to be confirming fewer updates, even though Google said a year ago, that we should expect more core updates, more often. But that doesn’t mean there were fewer updates. Google did reaffirm that it does not announce all core updates, that the search company only confirms the larger, broader core updates. Plus, I covered dozens of unconfirmed Google updates on the Search Engine Roundtable. It was a super volatile year, even without Google confirming as many algorithmic search updates. Google confirmed algorithm update summary We whipped up this timeline documenting all the confirmed Google search algorithm updates in 2025, so you can visualize the updates over the year. Three Google core updates in 2024 Google had three core updates in 20225, four core updates in 2024, the same number as it had in 2023, but in 2022 Google only had two core updates. We had core updates in March, June, and December. March 2025 core update. The Google March 2025 core update started rolling out March 13, it took 14 days to complete, and finished on March 27. Google told us this core update was a normal core update. Google wrote: “Today we released the March 2025 core update to Google Search. This is a regular update designed to better surface relevant, satisfying content for searchers from all types of sites. We also continue our work to surface more content from creators through a series of improvements throughout this year. Some have already happened; additional ones will come later.” The volatility from this update seemed similar to previous core updates – we broke that down over here. June 2025 core update. The June 2025 core update started rolling out on June 30, it took about 16 days to complete, and finished on July 17. Again, this was a normal broad core update. Google wrote: “This is a regular update designed to better surface relevant, satisfying content for searchers from all types of sites.” The volatility from this update seemed similar to previous core updates – we broke that down over here. The interesting thing with this update is that we saw some accounts of partial recoveries from the September 2023 helpful content update and previous core updates. Then we saw a lot of heated volatility from July 11th through July 14th. December 2025 core update. The December 2025 core update started rolling out on December 11, it did not yet complete, I will update this story once it is done rolling out. Again, this was a normal broad core update. Google wrote: “This is a regular update designed to better surface relevant, satisfying content for searchers from all types of sites.” The volatility was intense but also super calm throughout most of the weekdays. We had two big spikes, both on Saturdays, on December 13th and December 20th. One Google spam update in 2025 August 2025 spam update. The August 2025 spam update started rolling out on August 26, it took 27 days to complete, and finished on September 22. This update was a general and broad spam update. Google did not announce anything unique with this spam update. Google just wrote: “This is a normal spam update, and it will roll out for all languages and locations.” This spam update touched down very quickly, where sites that were impacted by this update saw the results within about 24 hours. It hit hard and fast. Then, around Sept. 9, the update heated up again, with a number of sites noticing ranking fluctuations and indexing issues. While many impacted sites saw steep declines in Google Search organic visibility, some sites that were hit by previous spam updates saw significant recoveries. Other Google algorithm changes, updates, tweaks or topics Other Google updates. While we had three core updates and one spam update, Google also pushed out other search specific updates in 2025. Here is a list of those: This year, Google released AI Mode and expanded AI Mode to more countries and regions throughout the year. Also, throughout the year, Google released update Gemini models to improve AI Mode and AI Overview responses. The lastest being Gemini 3 Flash, and Gemini 3 Pro. In June 2025, Google updated its ranking algorithms for explicit videos and content. Google wrote, “If you don’t allow Google to fetch your video content files, Google can’t run automated protections against egregious violations such as CSAM. Content that can’t be fetched may pose a risk to our users, so Google may demote or filter such pages where the embedded video content is unavailable and our automated systems determine that the page may contain explicit content. Not allowing Googlebot to fetch your video files may significantly affect the ranking of your explicit pages on Google Search, and especially in Video mode.” Google Search bugs. Google also had several search bugs throughout 2025: In June, Google has a serving issue within Google Search that was short lived. In August, Google had a crawling bug that took it several days to resolve. View the full article

When considering franchise opportunities in the USA, several options stand out because of their strong support systems and market demand. Notable choices include Mr. Rooter for plumbing services, Great Clips for haircuts, and Mosquito Authority for pest control. Each franchise offers unique advantages, from training to innovation. As you explore these options, you’ll discover even more diverse opportunities that cater to various industries and consumer needs, which can lead to potential success. Key Takeaways Mr. Rooter ranks as a top plumbing franchise with robust support and strong sales performance, appealing to investors. Great Clips offers extensive training and a reliable business model in the haircare industry, ensuring customer satisfaction and retention. Mosquito Authority is the leading pest control franchise with a low investment requirement and high demand due to increasing mosquito populations. Ideal Siding is the fastest-growing franchise in the home renovation sector, benefiting from strong market demand and customer satisfaction. Young Chefs Academy focuses on culinary education for children, meeting rising consumer interest in healthy eating with a low-cost entry point. Mr. Rooter Mr. Rooter is a leading franchise in the home services sector, particularly in plumbing, and it’s recognized as one of the top 100 franchises in the USA. If you’re exploring franchise opportunities in Arizona, Mr. Rooter stands out because of its robust support system, including extensive training and ongoing operational assistance. This franchise has consistently shown strong sales performance and location growth, highlighting its market potential for franchisees. With a long-standing presence in the industry, Mr. Rooter offers a reliable business model that appeals to many investors. Interested individuals can easily request free information about becoming a franchisee, making it a practical choice for those looking to invest in a stable and well-regarded franchise, even when considering options outside of the top 10 food franchises in the USA. Great Clips Great Clips stands out in the salon franchise scenery because of its strong brand recognition and trust among customers, which can greatly benefit franchisees. You’ll find that the franchise offers extensive training programs, equipping you with the necessary skills to manage operations effectively. Furthermore, with its ongoing growth and expansion opportunities, investing in a Great Clips franchise can be a promising venture for those looking to enter the hair care industry. Brand Recognition and Trust When considering brand recognition and trust within the hair salon industry, few franchises match the prominence of Great Clips. With over 4,400 locations across North America, this franchise stands out, often ranking among the top franchises in the annual Franchise 500 list. Its strong customer loyalty stems from efficient service and affordability, factors that resonate well with clients seeking good franchise restaurants. Great Clips’ recognizable logo and effective marketing strategies boost consumer trust, driving foot traffic to its salons. Furthermore, the brand’s emphasis on convenience—such as online check-in and mobile app scheduling—caters to a diverse clientele, solidifying its reputation as a customer-friendly option. This focus on accessibility positions Great Clips as a leading franchise in the USA. Comprehensive Training Programs A robust training program is crucial for the success of any franchise, and Great Clips thrives in this area. Their thorough training includes both classroom and hands-on instruction, ensuring you and your staff are equipped with the necessary skills for the hair care industry. You’ll learn about customer service, operational procedures, and marketing strategies, which are imperative for managing your salon and attracting clients. Plus, Great Clips offers ongoing support with refresher courses and updated materials. This commitment to training has earned high owner satisfaction ratings, placing them prominently in the franchise restaurant list. Training Aspect Description Benefits Initial Training Classroom and hands-on instruction Skill development Ongoing Support Refresher courses and updates Keeping up with trends Customer Service Focus Emphasis on client interaction Improved client retention Marketing Strategies Techniques for attracting clients Increased visibility and sales Growth and Expansion Opportunities With a solid foundation in training, Great Clips is well-positioned for growth and expansion in the competitive hair salon industry. Operating over 4,400 locations across North America, it demonstrates successful scalability and market penetration. The brand focuses on affordable and accessible haircare services, which have become increasingly popular, especially in suburban markets where convenience is vital. Unlike popular food franchises, Great Clips benefits from innovative marketing strategies that improve customer loyalty and retention, driving its growth potential. Furthermore, franchisees receive thorough training and ongoing support, allowing them to adapt to local market trends effectively. As you consider how many franchises there are in the United States, Great Clips stands out as a strong contender in the franchise environment. Mosquito Authority Recognized as the #1 mosquito control franchise in the United States, Mosquito Authority specializes in delivering effective mosquito and pest management services. With a cash investment of $35,000, it’s an accessible option for aspiring franchisees. Operating in a high-demand market, Mosquito Authority capitalizes on the growing need for pest control, driven by increasing mosquito populations and public health concerns. The franchise provides thorough training and ongoing support, guaranteeing you’re well-equipped to offer premium services. Its focus on customer satisfaction and effective pest management solutions aids in its expansion across various U.S. regions. Feature Details Benefit Initial Investment $35,000 Accessible for franchisees Training & Support Thorough & Ongoing Guarantees success Market Demand High because of health concerns Increased customer base Expansion Opportunities Nationwide growth potential Long-term profitability Hommati Hommati has quickly gained attention in the franchise world, opening a new location every week, which reflects strong market demand and growth potential. With a cash investment of $50,000, it’s accessible for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the real estate and property marketing industry. Hommati offers innovative solutions that help home buyers and sellers navigate the market effectively. As a franchisee, you’ll receive thorough training and ongoing support, ensuring you’re well-prepared to compete. The brand emphasizes technology and modern marketing strategies, enabling you to stand out in a constantly changing environment. This focus on innovation improves your sales potential, making Hommati a compelling option for those interested in the real estate sector. Taco Rico Taco Rico stands out in the thriving Tex-Mex industry, which is growing at an impressive annual rate of 4.8%. With an initial investment of only $50,000, it offers a relatively accessible opportunity for potential franchisees. The brand benefits from established recognition and a proven business model, which has led to its success in the competitive food service sector. Taco Rico‘s commitment to quality ingredients and customer satisfaction cultivates brand loyalty, encouraging repeat visits from customers. Furthermore, the franchise provides extensive training and support for franchisees, equipping them to effectively manage their operations. This guarantees they can capitalize on growth opportunities in their target markets, making Taco Rico a solid choice for aspiring business owners in the food industry. Ideal Siding As the demand for home improvement services continues to rise, Ideal Siding emerges as a leader in the siding renovation franchise sector. Recognized as the fastest-growing franchise in this niche, it capitalizes on homeowners’ needs for quality exterior renovations. With an accessible cash investment of $50,000, aspiring entrepreneurs can enter the home services market with relative ease. Ideal Siding emphasizes customer satisfaction, ensuring reliability for those seeking siding projects. The franchise boasts a robust support system that provides training and resources, which improves franchisee success and operational efficiency. Consistent demand driven by residential needs and economic factors further strengthens Ideal Siding’s market potential, making it a compelling choice for prospective franchise owners. Jiffy Junk Jiffy Junk stands out as a leading franchise in the debris removal industry, offering lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to tap into a growing market. With a cash requirement of $50,000, you can enter a sector experiencing high demand for efficient waste removal services. Jiffy Junk provides extensive training and ongoing support, ensuring you have the tools needed for successful operations and customer satisfaction. The flexible scheduling allows you to adapt to local market needs, catering to both residential and commercial clients. Feature Details Benefits Cash Requirement $50,000 Accessible entry point Training & Support Extensive programs Increased success rates Flexibility Adaptable scheduling Serves diverse customer base Market Demand Booming home services sector High growth potential Sparkle Wash Sparkle Wash is a prominent player in the pressure washing franchise sector, recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality exterior cleaning services for both residential and commercial properties. With a cash investment requirement of $50,000, it’s an accessible option for aspiring franchise owners. The franchise capitalizes on the growing demand for exterior maintenance and cleaning services, making it a sound business choice. Franchisees receive thorough training programs and ongoing support, equipping them with the necessary tools to succeed. Sparkle Wash emphasizes customer satisfaction and quality service, establishing itself as a reliable option within the competitive pressure washing industry. Young Chefs Academy Young Chefs Academy offers a unique culinary education program that teaches children crucial cooking skills and promotes nutritional awareness. With a low initial investment of $50,000, this franchise is an attractive option for aspiring franchisees who value thorough training and ongoing support. As consumer interest in cooking and healthy eating for kids grows, Young Chefs Academy is well-positioned to meet this demand as it encourages creativity and teamwork in a fun environment. Unique Culinary Education Program If you’re looking for an engaging way to introduce your child to the domain of cooking, the Unique Culinary Education Program offered by Young Chefs Academy might be the perfect fit. This program not only encourages a love for cooking but also promotes healthy eating habits among children. With hands-on cooking classes, young chefs learn essential skills while comprehending nutrition and food safety. Classes are designed to be interactive and educational. The franchise emphasizes community involvement with local events and workshops. The initial cash investment of $50,000 provides a low-cost entry point for aspiring franchisees. This combination of education, community engagement, and affordability makes Young Chefs Academy an appealing choice for those interested in culinary education. Franchisee Support and Training When considering a franchise opportunity, comprehension of the support and training provided can considerably influence your decision. Young Chefs Academy offers a robust training program that equips you with vital culinary skills and business management knowledge. Initial training lasts about two weeks, setting a solid foundation for success. You’ll likewise receive ongoing support, including marketing assistance and access to a network of fellow franchisees, allowing for shared experiences and advice. The franchise provides a structured curriculum for children’s culinary education, ensuring consistency across all locations. Continuous education opportunities keep you updated on industry trends and best practices. With a strong emphasis on franchisee support, Young Chefs Academy promotes community engagement and improves brand reputation, contributing to overall satisfaction. Growing Market Demand As the demand for educational experiences that blend fun and skill development continues to rise, Young Chefs Academy is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market. This franchise specializes in culinary classes for children, nurturing a passion for cooking from a young age. Here’s why it’s appealing: Low Cash Requirement: With a starting investment of just $50,000, it’s accessible for aspiring entrepreneurs. Rising Popularity: Parents are increasingly prioritizing unique extracurricular activities that promote creativity and healthy eating. Flexible Operations: The franchise model adapts to local market needs, making it versatile for various communities. Mobility Plus Mobility Plus stands out as a notable franchise opportunity that focuses on providing essential products and services for the elderly and disabled. With an initial cash investment of $50,000, it’s accessible for many aspiring franchisees entering the home services sector. This franchise operates within a high-demand market, driven by the increasing aging population seeking mobility aids and home modifications. As a franchisee, you’ll benefit from extensive training programs and ongoing support, which help you tackle operational challenges and improve service delivery. Mobility Plus emphasizes customer care and community engagement, contributing to its strong reputation in the franchise industry. Frequently Asked Questions Which Is the Most Profitable Franchise in the USA? The most profitable franchise in the USA is often considered to be McDonald’s, known for its high sales volumes and strong brand recognition. Franchisees typically enjoy a profit margin of around 40%, making it a lucrative option. Additional highly profitable franchises include Dunkin’ Donuts, with average gross sales of $1.2 million per unit, and 7-Eleven, which reports annual revenues of about $1.1 million. Home service franchises like Mr. Rooter likewise show strong profitability. What Is the 7 Day Rule for Franchise? The 7 Day Rule for franchises requires franchisors to provide a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) to potential franchisees at least 14 days before any agreements are signed or payments made. This rule guarantees you have enough time to review crucial information about the franchise, including fees and obligations. Which Is the Best Profitable Franchise? When evaluating the best profitable franchise, consider factors like market demand, investment, and support systems. Mr. Rooter shines in home services, whereas Taco Rico’s Tex-Mex concept shows strong growth potential. Mosquito Authority offers a low entry cost with high ROI because of consistent pest control demand. Great Clips stands out in the salon industry with robust franchisee support. Analyze these options based on your interests and financial goals to determine which suits you best. What Franchise Can I Buy for $10,000? If you’re looking to buy a franchise for $10,000 or less, consider ROK Financial Loan Brokerage. It requires only a $1,000 cash investment and offers a remote sales platform for business financing. On the other hand, N Zone Sports is a home-based youth sports franchise that starts around $30,000, which might be slightly above your budget but is still a low-cost option. Evaluating these franchises will help you find an affordable investment opportunity. Conclusion In conclusion, exploring franchise opportunities in the USA reveals a variety of options that cater to diverse markets. From home services like Mr. Rooter and Jiffy Junk to educational ventures like Young Chefs Academy, each franchise offers unique benefits and support systems. Whether you’re interested in cleaning, cooking, or home improvement, these franchises provide solid foundations for potential investors. Carefully consider each option and its growth potential to make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Best Franchises to Consider in the USA" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When considering franchise opportunities in the USA, several options stand out because of their strong support systems and market demand. Notable choices include Mr. Rooter for plumbing services, Great Clips for haircuts, and Mosquito Authority for pest control. Each franchise offers unique advantages, from training to innovation. As you explore these options, you’ll discover even more diverse opportunities that cater to various industries and consumer needs, which can lead to potential success. Key Takeaways Mr. Rooter ranks as a top plumbing franchise with robust support and strong sales performance, appealing to investors. Great Clips offers extensive training and a reliable business model in the haircare industry, ensuring customer satisfaction and retention. Mosquito Authority is the leading pest control franchise with a low investment requirement and high demand due to increasing mosquito populations. Ideal Siding is the fastest-growing franchise in the home renovation sector, benefiting from strong market demand and customer satisfaction. Young Chefs Academy focuses on culinary education for children, meeting rising consumer interest in healthy eating with a low-cost entry point. Mr. Rooter Mr. Rooter is a leading franchise in the home services sector, particularly in plumbing, and it’s recognized as one of the top 100 franchises in the USA. If you’re exploring franchise opportunities in Arizona, Mr. Rooter stands out because of its robust support system, including extensive training and ongoing operational assistance. This franchise has consistently shown strong sales performance and location growth, highlighting its market potential for franchisees. With a long-standing presence in the industry, Mr. Rooter offers a reliable business model that appeals to many investors. Interested individuals can easily request free information about becoming a franchisee, making it a practical choice for those looking to invest in a stable and well-regarded franchise, even when considering options outside of the top 10 food franchises in the USA. Great Clips Great Clips stands out in the salon franchise scenery because of its strong brand recognition and trust among customers, which can greatly benefit franchisees. You’ll find that the franchise offers extensive training programs, equipping you with the necessary skills to manage operations effectively. Furthermore, with its ongoing growth and expansion opportunities, investing in a Great Clips franchise can be a promising venture for those looking to enter the hair care industry. Brand Recognition and Trust When considering brand recognition and trust within the hair salon industry, few franchises match the prominence of Great Clips. With over 4,400 locations across North America, this franchise stands out, often ranking among the top franchises in the annual Franchise 500 list. Its strong customer loyalty stems from efficient service and affordability, factors that resonate well with clients seeking good franchise restaurants. Great Clips’ recognizable logo and effective marketing strategies boost consumer trust, driving foot traffic to its salons. Furthermore, the brand’s emphasis on convenience—such as online check-in and mobile app scheduling—caters to a diverse clientele, solidifying its reputation as a customer-friendly option. This focus on accessibility positions Great Clips as a leading franchise in the USA. Comprehensive Training Programs A robust training program is crucial for the success of any franchise, and Great Clips thrives in this area. Their thorough training includes both classroom and hands-on instruction, ensuring you and your staff are equipped with the necessary skills for the hair care industry. You’ll learn about customer service, operational procedures, and marketing strategies, which are imperative for managing your salon and attracting clients. Plus, Great Clips offers ongoing support with refresher courses and updated materials. This commitment to training has earned high owner satisfaction ratings, placing them prominently in the franchise restaurant list. Training Aspect Description Benefits Initial Training Classroom and hands-on instruction Skill development Ongoing Support Refresher courses and updates Keeping up with trends Customer Service Focus Emphasis on client interaction Improved client retention Marketing Strategies Techniques for attracting clients Increased visibility and sales Growth and Expansion Opportunities With a solid foundation in training, Great Clips is well-positioned for growth and expansion in the competitive hair salon industry. Operating over 4,400 locations across North America, it demonstrates successful scalability and market penetration. The brand focuses on affordable and accessible haircare services, which have become increasingly popular, especially in suburban markets where convenience is vital. Unlike popular food franchises, Great Clips benefits from innovative marketing strategies that improve customer loyalty and retention, driving its growth potential. Furthermore, franchisees receive thorough training and ongoing support, allowing them to adapt to local market trends effectively. As you consider how many franchises there are in the United States, Great Clips stands out as a strong contender in the franchise environment. Mosquito Authority Recognized as the #1 mosquito control franchise in the United States, Mosquito Authority specializes in delivering effective mosquito and pest management services. With a cash investment of $35,000, it’s an accessible option for aspiring franchisees. Operating in a high-demand market, Mosquito Authority capitalizes on the growing need for pest control, driven by increasing mosquito populations and public health concerns. The franchise provides thorough training and ongoing support, guaranteeing you’re well-equipped to offer premium services. Its focus on customer satisfaction and effective pest management solutions aids in its expansion across various U.S. regions. Feature Details Benefit Initial Investment $35,000 Accessible for franchisees Training & Support Thorough & Ongoing Guarantees success Market Demand High because of health concerns Increased customer base Expansion Opportunities Nationwide growth potential Long-term profitability Hommati Hommati has quickly gained attention in the franchise world, opening a new location every week, which reflects strong market demand and growth potential. With a cash investment of $50,000, it’s accessible for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the real estate and property marketing industry. Hommati offers innovative solutions that help home buyers and sellers navigate the market effectively. As a franchisee, you’ll receive thorough training and ongoing support, ensuring you’re well-prepared to compete. The brand emphasizes technology and modern marketing strategies, enabling you to stand out in a constantly changing environment. This focus on innovation improves your sales potential, making Hommati a compelling option for those interested in the real estate sector. Taco Rico Taco Rico stands out in the thriving Tex-Mex industry, which is growing at an impressive annual rate of 4.8%. With an initial investment of only $50,000, it offers a relatively accessible opportunity for potential franchisees. The brand benefits from established recognition and a proven business model, which has led to its success in the competitive food service sector. Taco Rico‘s commitment to quality ingredients and customer satisfaction cultivates brand loyalty, encouraging repeat visits from customers. Furthermore, the franchise provides extensive training and support for franchisees, equipping them to effectively manage their operations. This guarantees they can capitalize on growth opportunities in their target markets, making Taco Rico a solid choice for aspiring business owners in the food industry. Ideal Siding As the demand for home improvement services continues to rise, Ideal Siding emerges as a leader in the siding renovation franchise sector. Recognized as the fastest-growing franchise in this niche, it capitalizes on homeowners’ needs for quality exterior renovations. With an accessible cash investment of $50,000, aspiring entrepreneurs can enter the home services market with relative ease. Ideal Siding emphasizes customer satisfaction, ensuring reliability for those seeking siding projects. The franchise boasts a robust support system that provides training and resources, which improves franchisee success and operational efficiency. Consistent demand driven by residential needs and economic factors further strengthens Ideal Siding’s market potential, making it a compelling choice for prospective franchise owners. Jiffy Junk Jiffy Junk stands out as a leading franchise in the debris removal industry, offering lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to tap into a growing market. With a cash requirement of $50,000, you can enter a sector experiencing high demand for efficient waste removal services. Jiffy Junk provides extensive training and ongoing support, ensuring you have the tools needed for successful operations and customer satisfaction. The flexible scheduling allows you to adapt to local market needs, catering to both residential and commercial clients. Feature Details Benefits Cash Requirement $50,000 Accessible entry point Training & Support Extensive programs Increased success rates Flexibility Adaptable scheduling Serves diverse customer base Market Demand Booming home services sector High growth potential Sparkle Wash Sparkle Wash is a prominent player in the pressure washing franchise sector, recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality exterior cleaning services for both residential and commercial properties. With a cash investment requirement of $50,000, it’s an accessible option for aspiring franchise owners. The franchise capitalizes on the growing demand for exterior maintenance and cleaning services, making it a sound business choice. Franchisees receive thorough training programs and ongoing support, equipping them with the necessary tools to succeed. Sparkle Wash emphasizes customer satisfaction and quality service, establishing itself as a reliable option within the competitive pressure washing industry. Young Chefs Academy Young Chefs Academy offers a unique culinary education program that teaches children crucial cooking skills and promotes nutritional awareness. With a low initial investment of $50,000, this franchise is an attractive option for aspiring franchisees who value thorough training and ongoing support. As consumer interest in cooking and healthy eating for kids grows, Young Chefs Academy is well-positioned to meet this demand as it encourages creativity and teamwork in a fun environment. Unique Culinary Education Program If you’re looking for an engaging way to introduce your child to the domain of cooking, the Unique Culinary Education Program offered by Young Chefs Academy might be the perfect fit. This program not only encourages a love for cooking but also promotes healthy eating habits among children. With hands-on cooking classes, young chefs learn essential skills while comprehending nutrition and food safety. Classes are designed to be interactive and educational. The franchise emphasizes community involvement with local events and workshops. The initial cash investment of $50,000 provides a low-cost entry point for aspiring franchisees. This combination of education, community engagement, and affordability makes Young Chefs Academy an appealing choice for those interested in culinary education. Franchisee Support and Training When considering a franchise opportunity, comprehension of the support and training provided can considerably influence your decision. Young Chefs Academy offers a robust training program that equips you with vital culinary skills and business management knowledge. Initial training lasts about two weeks, setting a solid foundation for success. You’ll likewise receive ongoing support, including marketing assistance and access to a network of fellow franchisees, allowing for shared experiences and advice. The franchise provides a structured curriculum for children’s culinary education, ensuring consistency across all locations. Continuous education opportunities keep you updated on industry trends and best practices. With a strong emphasis on franchisee support, Young Chefs Academy promotes community engagement and improves brand reputation, contributing to overall satisfaction. Growing Market Demand As the demand for educational experiences that blend fun and skill development continues to rise, Young Chefs Academy is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market. This franchise specializes in culinary classes for children, nurturing a passion for cooking from a young age. Here’s why it’s appealing: Low Cash Requirement: With a starting investment of just $50,000, it’s accessible for aspiring entrepreneurs. Rising Popularity: Parents are increasingly prioritizing unique extracurricular activities that promote creativity and healthy eating. Flexible Operations: The franchise model adapts to local market needs, making it versatile for various communities. Mobility Plus Mobility Plus stands out as a notable franchise opportunity that focuses on providing essential products and services for the elderly and disabled. With an initial cash investment of $50,000, it’s accessible for many aspiring franchisees entering the home services sector. This franchise operates within a high-demand market, driven by the increasing aging population seeking mobility aids and home modifications. As a franchisee, you’ll benefit from extensive training programs and ongoing support, which help you tackle operational challenges and improve service delivery. Mobility Plus emphasizes customer care and community engagement, contributing to its strong reputation in the franchise industry. Frequently Asked Questions Which Is the Most Profitable Franchise in the USA? The most profitable franchise in the USA is often considered to be McDonald’s, known for its high sales volumes and strong brand recognition. Franchisees typically enjoy a profit margin of around 40%, making it a lucrative option. Additional highly profitable franchises include Dunkin’ Donuts, with average gross sales of $1.2 million per unit, and 7-Eleven, which reports annual revenues of about $1.1 million. Home service franchises like Mr. Rooter likewise show strong profitability. What Is the 7 Day Rule for Franchise? The 7 Day Rule for franchises requires franchisors to provide a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) to potential franchisees at least 14 days before any agreements are signed or payments made. This rule guarantees you have enough time to review crucial information about the franchise, including fees and obligations. Which Is the Best Profitable Franchise? When evaluating the best profitable franchise, consider factors like market demand, investment, and support systems. Mr. Rooter shines in home services, whereas Taco Rico’s Tex-Mex concept shows strong growth potential. Mosquito Authority offers a low entry cost with high ROI because of consistent pest control demand. Great Clips stands out in the salon industry with robust franchisee support. Analyze these options based on your interests and financial goals to determine which suits you best. What Franchise Can I Buy for $10,000? If you’re looking to buy a franchise for $10,000 or less, consider ROK Financial Loan Brokerage. It requires only a $1,000 cash investment and offers a remote sales platform for business financing. On the other hand, N Zone Sports is a home-based youth sports franchise that starts around $30,000, which might be slightly above your budget but is still a low-cost option. Evaluating these franchises will help you find an affordable investment opportunity. Conclusion In conclusion, exploring franchise opportunities in the USA reveals a variety of options that cater to diverse markets. From home services like Mr. Rooter and Jiffy Junk to educational ventures like Young Chefs Academy, each franchise offers unique benefits and support systems. Whether you’re interested in cleaning, cooking, or home improvement, these franchises provide solid foundations for potential investors. Carefully consider each option and its growth potential to make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Best Franchises to Consider in the USA" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Zohran Mamdani has promised to transform New York City government when he becomes mayor. Can he do it? Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist, already faces intense scrutiny, even before taking office in one of the country’s most scrutinized political jobs. Republicans have cast him as a liberal boogeyman. Some of his fellow Democrats have deemed him too far left. Progressives are closely watching for any signs of him shifting toward the center. On Jan. 1, he will assume control of America’s biggest city under that harsh spotlight, with the country watching to see if he can pull off the big promises that vaulted him to office and handle the everyday duties of the job. All while skeptics call out his every stumble. For Mamdani, starting off strong is key, said George Arzt, a veteran Democratic political consultant in New York who worked for former Mayor Ed Koch. “He’s got to use the first 100 days of the administration to show people he can govern,” he said. “You’ve got to set a mindset for people that’s like, ‘Hey, this guy’s serious.'” That push should begin with Mamdani’s speech on the day of his inauguration, where Arzt said it will be important for the new mayor to establish a clear blueprint of his agenda and tell New Yorkers what he plans to do and how he plans to do it. From there, he said Mamdani will have to count on the seasoned hands he’s hired to help him handle the concrete responsibilities of the job, while he and his team also pursue his ambitious affordability agenda. Managing expectations as a movement candidate Mamdani campaigned on a big idea: shifting the power of government toward helping working class New Yorkers, rather than the wealthy. His platform — which includes free child care, free city bus service and a rent freeze for people living in rent stabilized apartments — excited voters in one of America’s most expensive cities and made him a leading face of a Democratic Party searching for bright, new leaders during President Donald The President’s second term. But Mamdani may find himself contending with the relentless responsibilities of running New York City. That includes making sure the trash is getting picked up, potholes are filled and snow plows go out on time. When there’s a subway delay or flooding, or a high-profile crime or a police officer parks in a bicycle lane, it’s not unusual for the city’s mayor to catch some heat. “He had a movement candidacy and that immediately raises expectations locally and nationally,” said Basil Smikle, a Democratic political strategist and Columbia University professor, who added that it might be good for Mamdani to “Just focus on managing expectations and get a couple of good wins under your belt early on.” “There’s a lot to keep you busy here,” he said. A large part of Mamdani’s job will also be to sell his politics to the New Yorkers who remain skeptical of him, with Smikle saying “the biggest hurdle” is getting people comfortable with his policies and explaining how what he’s pushing could help the city. “It’s difficult to have this all happen on day one,” he said, “or even day 30 or even day 100.” Challenges and opportunities Mamdani’s universal free child care proposal — perhaps one of his more expensive plans — is also one that has attracted some of the strongest support from New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, a moderate from Buffalo who endorsed the mayor-elect. Hochul is eager to work with Mamdani on the policy and both leaders consider the program a top priority, although it’s not yet clear how exactly the plan could come to fruition. The governor, who is up for reelection next year, has repeatedly said she does not want to raise income taxes — something Mamdani supports for wealthy New Yorkers — however she has appeared open to raising corporate taxes. “I think he has allies and supporters for his agenda, but the question is how far will the governor go,” said state Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, a Mamdani ally. “There’s an acknowledgement that the voters have spoken, and there’s very clear policies that were associated with his successful campaign,” he said, “so to not make progress on them would be us thumbing our noses at the voters.” Mamdani’s pledge to freeze the rent for roughly 1 million rent stabilized apartments in the city would not require state cooperation. But that proposal — perhaps the best known of his campaign — is already facing headwinds, after the city’s departing mayor, Eric Adams, made a series of appointments in recent weeks to a local board that determines annual rent increases for the city’s rent stabilized units. The move could potentially complicate the mayor-elect’s ability to follow through on the plan, at least in his first year, although Mamdani has said he remains confident in his ability to enact the freeze. Other challenges await His relationship with some of the city’s Jewish community remains in tatters over his criticisms of Israel’s government and support for Palestinian human rights. The Anti-Defamation League, a prominent Jewish advocacy organization, plans to track Mamdani’s policies and hires as it pledged to “protect Jewish residents across the five boroughs during a period of unprecedented antisemitism in New York City.” Earlier this month, a Mamdani appointee resigned over social media posts she made more than a decade ago that featured antisemitic tropes, after the Anti-Defamation League shared the posts online. The group has since put out additional findings on others who are serving in committees that Mamdani set up as he transitions into his mayoral role. In response, Mamdani said the ADL often “ignores the distinction” between antisemitism and criticism of the Israeli government. The mayor-elect’s past call to defund the city’s police department continue to be a vulnerability. His decision to retain Jessica Tisch, the city’s current police commissioner, has eased some concerns about a radical shakeup at the top of the nation’s largest police force. And then there’s The President. Tensions between The President and Mamdani have appeared to cool — for now — after months of rancor led into a surprisingly friendly Oval Office meeting. Future clashes may emerge given the sharp political differences between them, particularly on immigration enforcement, along with anything else that could set off the mercurial president. —Anthony Izaguirre, Associated Press View the full article