ResidentialBusiness

While the tone is still generally upbeat, the market is mired below October's price highs and yields are range-bound. View the full article

The Thanksgiving holiday is nearly upon us, which means tens of millions of Americans will be traveling nationwide this week to visit their loved ones and celebrate around the dinner table with them on Thursday. The majority of that travel both to and from Turkey Day destinations is expected to kick off tomorrow, Tuesday, November 25, and run through Monday, December 1, which are the dates the American Automobile Association (AAA) defines as the 2025 Thanksgiving holiday period. It’s the busiest travel period for Americans, even beating out holidays like the Fourth of July and Christmas. While several million Americans are expected to make their Thanksgiving journeys by air or train, the overwhelming majority—more than 73 million this year—are expected to travel by car. If that includes you, you’ll want to pay attention to the latest data compiled by AAA. It reveals the best times to hit the roads during the upcoming holiday period and the times you should avoid being on the streets if you don’t want to experience the worst of the increased traffic congestion. Best times to hit the roads for the Thanksgiving travel period Except on Thanksgiving Day on Thursday, any other time that you travel during this Thanksgiving holiday period, you are likely to see more road congestion than usual. However, some times of the day are likely to see less travel congestion than others. Here are the best times to be in the car this Thanksgiving period if you want to avoid the worst of traffic, according to information compiled by AAA from transportation data and insights provider INRIX: Tuesday, November 25: Before 12 p.m. Wednesday, November 26: Before 11 a.m. Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving): Minimal Traffic Impact Expected Friday, November 28: Before 11 a.m. Saturday, November 29: Before 10 a.m. Sunday, November 30: Before 11 a.m. Monday, December 1: Before 8 p.m. Worst times to hit the roads for the Thanksgiving travel period INRIX says that Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon are expected to feature the heaviest congestion before Thanksgiving, and the Sunday after Thanksgiving is expected to see the heaviest traffic for return home journeys. The firm says that the worst times to be on the roads due to traffic congestion during the entire holiday period are as follows: Tuesday, November 25: 12 p.m.–9 p.m. Wednesday, November 26: 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving): Minimal Traffic Impact Expected Friday, November 28: 1 p.m.–7 p.m. Saturday, November 29: 1 p.m.–8 p.m. Sunday, November 30: 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Monday, December 1: 12 p.m.–8 p.m. More than 73 million people will travel by car this Thanksgiving AAA says 73.28 million people will take to the roads in cars this Thanksgiving holiday period. That’s 1.3 million more than the 71.99 million travelers who took to the roads during the 2024 Thanksgiving period—an increase of about 1.8%. It’s also 2.7 million more than those who took to the road in 2019, the last Thanksgiving before the outbreak of the pandemic. But travelers this week won’t only be taking to the roads to get to and from their Thanksgiving festivities. AAA says that while automobile travel will make up 89.6% of all travel in America during this Thanksgiving holiday period, millions of Americans will also be taking to the skies and rails. The association expects 6.07 million travelers to take flights during this holiday period, and another 2.48 million to travel by “other” modes of transportation, including buses, trains, and cruise ships. In total, AAA expects the number of travelers in America to reach 81.83 million this Thanksgiving holiday travel period. That’s a 2% increase from last year, when 80.22 million people traveled. And it’s 5.2% more than the 77.78 travelers who took to the road, skies, and rails in 2019. View the full article

An inside look at why Performance Max rewards marketers who prioritize data, creative strategy, and disciplined patience over granular controls and outdated PPC tactics. The post The Behaviors And Mindset Of Marketers Who Win With Performance Max appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Last month, I asked ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini the same question about three of my clients: “Who is [Brand Name] and what do they do?” Two out of three got it wrong. Wrong services. Outdated office locations. One even suggested a competitor as a better alternative. Here’s what makes that more than a curious mistake. What today’s AI errors reveal about brand visibility AI-sourced traffic jumped 527% year-over-year from early 2024 to early 2025. While that growth is real, it’s growing from a very small base. Most sites still see AI referrals representing less than 1% of total traffic. But when half the AI-generated descriptions of your brand are inaccurate, that’s not just a future problem. That’s shaping perceptions right now. The challenge isn’t whether to optimize for AI systems – it’s how to do so effectively. It’s figuring out what actually works versus what’s just repackaged fundamentals being sold as something revolutionary. And unlike traditional SEO, where we can forecast traffic and revenue with reasonable confidence, AI search doesn’t work that way. You can’t sell certainty here. You can only sell controlled learning. Most effective GEO tactics turn out to be SEO fundamentals applied to a new visibility layer. Structure, clarity, and consistent information have always mattered. What’s changed is that these principles now impact how AI systems summarize and cite your content, not just how users find and interact with it. The only way to separate truth from fiction is to run small, reversible experiments that produce decision-quality data. The cost of not knowing what works is higher than the cost of finding out. Below are three GEO experiments you can run to understand how AI systems read, summarize, and reuse your content. These are practical tests most teams can complete in 60–90 days, and each one produces clear insights about whether these tactics actually move the needle for your business. Think of these as controlled learning opportunities, not traffic promises. Experiment 1: Build an LLM-ready topic cluster Marketers have been building topic clusters for years. But GEO changes the rules. Generative systems don’t read content the way humans do. They chunk it, looking for clean entities, clear answers, consistent language, and predictable structure. When your content is organized in this way across an entire cluster, it becomes easier for AI systems to understand and cite you as a preferred source. This first experiment tests exactly that. Pick a cluster with business value Choose a topic where you already have strong content or where you desperately need to grow visibility. Use internal site search, Google Search Console queries, and customer support calls to find the natural-language questions your audience is already asking. These are often similar queries or prompts potential customers use in LLM platforms. Tip: If your support team hears the same question three times in a week, that’s your signal. Build (or rebuild) the cluster for machine readability Here’s what I’ve seen work across tests. Structure your pillar page around natural-language questions Your H2s should mirror the way real humans phrase queries: “What is [topic]?” “How much does [topic] cost?” “What’s the best option for beginners?” “What should I avoid?” AI tools favor pages that answer questions in the way users actually ask them. Not the way we think they should ask them. Lead with a summary-first design Make the first 100–150 words a fast, clear overview. No slow intros. No storytelling wind-up. No “In today’s fast-paced digital landscape…” fluff. Use consistent Q&A formatting Break down every page with predictable formatting: Question Short answer (1-2 sentences) Supporting detail (2-3 paragraphs) Optional table or list This format is great for LLMs. It tells them exactly where to look and what to extract. Don’t skip schema and internal links Use FAQPage, HowTo, Product, Organization, LocalBusiness, whatever’s relevant to your content. Use internal links to establish the cluster hierarchy so models don’t have to guess which page answers which question. Make the relationship between the pillar and supporting pages clear. Measure the right things Here’s what to track over the next 60 days: AI Overview appearances for your target cluster queries (use incognito mode and check manually twice per week, or use tools like Semrush if you have access) LLM citation patterns: Run the same queries through ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity. Do they reference your site? How accurately? Organic traffic and conversions within the cluster Consistency of descriptions: Are LLMs describing your content the same way, or are they confused? Here’s the key distinction. In traditional SEO, we focus on traffic and revenue metrics. With GEO experiments, you’re tracking leading indicators, signals that tell you whether AI systems understand and trust your content, even before those signals translate into measurable traffic. Think of it like this: Citation accuracy and entity recognition are the new “rankings.” They indicate whether you’re positioned to benefit as AI search volume grows. Compare against a control This is critical: test this cluster against another one you didn’t optimize. If the LLM-ready cluster shows more AI Overview inclusion, more accurate answers, and steadier organic performance, you’ve found a lever worth scaling. Example: I rebuilt a topic cluster for a dental practice around “teeth whitening options.” Within 75 days, they appeared in AI Overviews for nine out of 13 target queries, up from two. Traditional organic traffic held steady, but the brand’s visibility in AI-generated answers increased. Why this works (beyond just AI) Here’s what makes this experiment particularly valuable: the same structural improvements that help AI systems understand your content also tend to improve traditional search performance. Clear headings, direct answers, and logical content organization help Google parse your content more effectively. Users appreciate the clarity, too. Shorter time to finding answers typically correlates with better engagement metrics. So even if AI traffic remains a small percentage of your total traffic, you’re building content that performs better across all channels. That’s the kind of optimization worth investing in. Dig deeper: Chunk, cite, clarify, build: A content framework for AI search Experiment 2: Run a brand entity and sentiment sprint AI is terrible at nuance. If your brand story isn’t consistent across platforms, LLMs will sometimes make something up, or worse, they’ll confidently tell users something completely wrong about you. Models pull brand information from: Reviews (Google, Yelp, Trustpilot, niche directories). Business directories. Editorial content and news mentions. Reddit and industry forums. Social profiles. Schema markup. Knowledge graph sources (Wikidata, Crunchbase, etc.). They mix all of that into “the brand story” they present to users. If that story is inconsistent, models fill in the gaps with outdated or incorrect information. That’s where this experiment comes in. Audit what AI already thinks about you Ask ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity questions like: “Who is [Brand Name]?” “What does [Brand] offer?” “Is [Brand] good for [specific use case]?” “What are alternatives to [Brand]?” Log everything: Accuracy of the description. Sentiment (positive, neutral, negative). Sources referenced. Competitors mentioned. Any stale, incorrect, or misleading details. This becomes your “before” snapshot. Save screenshots. You’ll need them. Clean up entity signals everywhere You want consistency across all major touchpoints. Think of it this way: if your brand info is scattered, AI will Frankenstein together whatever it finds first. Here’s where the biggest wins come from: On-site cleanup Update your Home and About page with clear signals: what you do, where you operate, who you serve, recognizable brand names, and key differentiators. Implement Organization and LocalBusiness schema. Consolidate or redirect duplicate pages that confuse models. Off-site consistency Refresh business listings to ensure your name, descriptions, and categories match how you want the brand represented. Encourage detailed customer reviews. Details matter: models weigh specificity, not just star ratings. Strengthen editorial coverage on reputable, niche-relevant sites. Community and social presence Participate authentically in platforms like Reddit and industry forums. Many models pull from these sources when evaluating brand trust and sentiment. Retest and compare After 60–90 days, ask the same baseline questions again. Look for changes in: Description accuracy. Tone and sentiment. Placement in list-style answers. Mention frequency. Correct understanding of your services, product lines, or locations. Identify what moved the needle Sometimes, listing cleanup has the biggest impact. Other times, review detail makes the difference, and in some cases, editorial placements on authoritative sites carry more weight. This experiment helps you understand which signals matter most so you can build a playbook you can replicate across your brands or locations. Example A regional HVAC company I worked with was consistently described as “mainly serving residential customers” by AI systems, even though 60% of their revenue came from commercial work. After updating their Google Business Profile, homepage, and key directory listings with commercial-focused language and case studies, LLMs began accurately describing them as “residential and commercial” within 70 days. The fundamentals If this experiment feels familiar, that’s because it should. Cleaning up business listings, encouraging detailed reviews, and maintaining consistent NAP (name, address, phone) information has been local SEO best practice for years. What’s evolved is the impact: AI systems now aggregate this information to form “brand stories” that show up when people ask questions about businesses in your category. The tactics aren’t new. The reach and influence of getting them right has expanded significantly. This is actually good news. It means you don’t need to learn an entirely new discipline. You need to apply what you already know, just with renewed attention to consistency and accuracy across all the touchpoints AI systems reference. Dig deeper: Your brand in the age of generative search: How to show up and be cited Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. Experiment 3: Test summary formats for machine readability The more generative systems accelerate, the more they depend on quick, easy-to-parse summaries. LLMs lean hard on the first 150 words of your content. If that opening is unclear, fluffy, or buried in narrative, they’ll either skip your page entirely or misinterpret what you’re trying to say. This experiment helps you test which summary format increases your AI visibility and improves accuracy when AI systems cite you. The three formats to test Short bullet summaries: These work well for: Definitions. Processes. Pricing breakdowns. Pros and cons. Comparisons. Here’s an example: Quick summary: Cost range: $1,500–$5,000 Works best for: Small businesses with 10–50 employees Timeline: 2–4 weeks for full implementation Alternatives: In-house tools, freelance consultants Tight paragraph summaries: A two-to-three sentence version of the above. Clear, simple, and focused. Example: “[Service] typically costs between $1,500 and $5,000 depending on business size and customization needs. Most small businesses with 10–50 employees see full implementation within 2–4 weeks. Common alternatives include in-house tools and freelance consultants, though these often require more ongoing management.” Narrative intros: The traditional SEO approach, the “let me tell you a story” opener. Generative systems often skip this style entirely, which is why it’s worth testing whether removing narrative intros increases AI Overview inclusion. Where to test them How-to guides “Best of” lists Service pages Pricing pages FAQ-rich content Anywhere clarity matters, and AI systems are likely to pull answers. What to measure Over 60 days, track: AI Overview appearances for pages with each format Paraphrasing accuracy: Are LLMs using your summary correctly, or are they mangling it? User engagement patterns: Scroll depth, time on page, bounce rate Conversions: Do users appreciate clarity as much as machines do? What success looks like You’ll discover which summary format gives you: Higher inclusion in generative answers Better accuracy in how AI tools describe your content Stronger engagement from users who prefer clear takeaways Once you identify the winning format, scale it across your content library. Example An ecommerce client tested bullet-style summaries against traditional narrative intros on 20 product category pages. The bullet-format pages appeared in AI Overviews three times more often and had 22% higher click-through rates from organic search. Turns out humans appreciate clarity too. Dig deeper: Organizing content for AI search: A 3-level framework How to operate GEO testing like a mini program Most marketers find the 60–90 day model works best. This timeframe keeps experiments small and reversible while still producing meaningful data. Think of each experiment as a pilot project, a contained bet that delivers learning, not a major strategic shift requiring massive resources. Here’s the rhythm I like to use. Weeks 1–2: Baseline Document AI Overview presence for target queries. Log current LLM answers and entity accuracy. Note sentiment and competitor mentions. Record current organic metrics (traffic, conversions, engagement). Weeks 3–6: Execute Rebuild the cluster with LLM-friendly structure. Clean up entity signals and business listings. Implement new summary formats. Update schema and internal linking. Weeks 7–12: Measure Compare AI visibility before and after. Look for citation, mention, or inclusion changes. Evaluate user metrics to validate impact. Document what worked and what didn’t. This model is easy to replicate and provides clarity instead of guesswork. Each completed experiment either validates that a tactic works for your business (scale it) or shows it doesn’t move the needle (stop investing time there). What to avoid: Lessons from testing After running these experiments with multiple clients, I’ve seen a few patterns emerge around what doesn’t work or what creates more problems than it solves. Don’t manipulate content specifically for AI extraction Some marketers are experimenting with invisible text or content cloaking targeting AI bots. Even if these tactics work short term, AI platforms are rapidly developing spam detection systems. We’ve seen this pattern before with traditional search engines. Early manipulation tactics work until they don’t. Don’t test multiple changes simultaneously When you rebuild a topic cluster, update business listings, and change summary formats all at once, you won’t know which change actually drove results. Test one thing, measure it properly, then move to the next. Don’t assume AI systems automatically understand your brand They aggregate whatever information they find across the web. Your job is ensuring the right information is consistently available and clearly presented across all the sources they reference. Keep investment proportional to actual impact AI search is growing, but for most businesses, it still represents a small fraction of total traffic. Test these tactics, monitor the results, and invest based on what the data shows, not what the hype suggests. If these experiments drive meaningful business results for your specific situation, scale them. If they don’t, you’ve learned something valuable without over-investing in an emerging channel. What these GEO tests actually buy you The best part about these GEO experiments is that they’re designed as controlled learning opportunities, not traffic commitments. Even if AI search stays minimal for your business, the improvements you make – clearer content structure, consistent brand information, better-formatted summaries – typically improve traditional search performance too. That’s the beauty of focusing on fundamentals. When you build content that’s genuinely clear, well-structured, and helpful, it tends to perform well regardless of how search technology evolves. What you’re really buying with these experiments isn’t guaranteed AI traffic. You’re buying answers to questions that matter for your business: Do AI systems understand our brand correctly? Does structured content improve our visibility across multiple channels? Are there quick wins in entity cleanup that compound over time? Which summary formats resonate with both machines and humans? These three tests provide a starting point that’s manageable for most teams while producing actionable insights you can use to make informed decisions. They’re small enough to be reversible, focused enough to measure clearly, and valuable enough that the learning compounds regardless of how quickly AI search adoption grows. The goal isn’t to predict the future of AI search. It’s to position your brand to benefit from it as it grows while ensuring that if it doesn’t grow as fast as predicted, you’ve still made improvements that matter today. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. The Sonos Ace headphones are finally seeing their first major price drop for Black Friday, down to $279 from their usual $399 on Amazon. That’s a solid $120 off, and yes, the lowest price tracked so far, according to price trackers. Sonos Ace $279.00 at Amazon $399.00 Save $120.00 Get Deal Get Deal $279.00 at Amazon $399.00 Save $120.00 Sonos is best known for its home speakers and soundbars, but the Ace is its first shot at premium over-ear headphones, and it’s a good one. These don’t feel like a first-generation experiment. The build is lightweight and durable; the ear cups are soft and comfortable for long use; and the physical buttons are easy to find and press, which is great if you're tired of finicky touch controls. You get around 30 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation or Aware mode turned on, and closer to 40 if you keep both off. That puts it right up there with other top-tier options like Sony’s WH-1000XM5s. The Ace also supports Bluetooth multipoint, meaning you can stay connected to your laptop and phone at the same time and switch without much delay. Sound quality is clean and well-balanced out of the box, but you can tweak it in the Sonos app if you want more bass or brightness, notes this PCMag review. The ANC and transparency (or Aware) modes are both excellent, letting you tune out or tune in to your surroundings without a jarring switch. That said, there are a couple of limitations worth knowing. Unlike Sonos speakers, the Ace doesn’t support wifi playback, so you can’t stream directly from services the way you might with other Sonos gear. Still, they can pair with Sonos soundbars over Bluetooth, which might be a bonus if you're already in the Sonos ecosystem. Compared to similarly priced models like the AirPods Max or Sony’s latest WH-1000XM6, the Ace holds its ground, especially at this discounted price. Whether you're replacing an old pair or trying premium noise-canceling headphones for the first time, this deal makes the Sonos Ace worth a serious look. Our Best Editor-Vetted Early Black Friday Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $219.99 (List Price $249.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $279.00 (List Price $349.00) Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99) Sony WH-1000XM5 — $248.00 (List Price $399.99) Blink Outdoor 4 1080p Wireless Security Camera (5-Pack) — $159.99 (List Price $399.99) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $24.99 (List Price $49.99) NEW Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $298.00 (List Price $429.00) Shark AI Ultra Matrix Clean Mapping Voice Control Robot Vacuum with XL Self-Empty Base — $249.99 (List Price $599.00) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $349.00 (List Price $399.00) Western Digital 14TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive — $169.99 (List Price $279.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Another home furnishings retail chain has sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as it deals with higher costs, reduced sales, a downturn in the housing market, and President The President’s tariffs. American Signature Inc (ASI), parent company of American Signature Furniture and Value City Furniture, said Sunday that it has secured $50 million in debt financing as it seeks a buyer in an auction process. Here’s what to know. What is ASI and why is it bankrupt? Founded it 1948 and based in Columbus, Ohio, American Signature Inc is the parent company of two home furnishings retail chains: American Signature Furniture and Value City Furniture. Combined, the company has 120 stores across 17 states, it said in a court declaration over the weekend. The Value City brand is spread out across more states, with stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. American Signature, meanwhile, has locations in Delaware, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. Additionally, the company has distribution centers in Ohio, Georgia, Indiana, and California, two of which are owned and two of which are leased. ASI employs roughly 3,000 people. As for why it’s filing for bankruptcy, the retailer noted that it had experienced a period of rapid growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that sales have slipped over the last year. It cites a number of reasons for its dire straits, notably “one of the most severe housing market declines in recent history.” Macroeconomic factors including rising interest rates and inflation have further exasperated the situation for ASI, as have “newly established tariffs.” Which stores are closing as part of this process? The company said in its bankruptcy announcement that it expects stores to remain open throughout the process. However, in court filings it has identified five locations that it plans to close by early next year: Value City Furniture: 2320 Sardis Road North, Charlotte, NC 28227 American Signature Furniture: 1770 Galleria Blvd, Franklin, TN 37067 American Signature Furniture: 2130 Gallatin Pike North, Madison, TN 37115 American Signature Furniture: 2821 Wilma Rudolph Blvd, Clarksville, TN 37040 American Signature Furniture: 2075 Old Fort Parkway, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 Liquidation sales have already begun at these locations and are expected to be completed by the end of January 2026, court filings show. The company has enlisted SB360 Capital Partners to help with store closings and has warned that additional stores may close as the consultation process continues. It was not immediately clear how many job losses are expected. Fast Company reached out to ASI for additional details and will update this post if we hear back. What happens next? ASI has entered into an agreement with a so-called stalking horse bidder owned by the Schottenstein family, whom Columbus Monthly has referred to as the Ohio capital’s “last dynasty.” Holding company Schottenstein Stores Corporation also owns American Signature Inc, meaning the furniture chain could stay in the family. However, American Signature plans to seek a higher bidder during an auction process within about 45 days. American Signature’s bankruptcy follows a similar move by fellow home furnishings retailer At Home, which sought Chapter 11 protection in June and has closed a number of locations this year. This story is developing… View the full article

When starting a business, registering it properly is vital for its success. You need to determine your business structure, choose a unique name, and file necessary tax documents. Furthermore, registering with the Secretary of State and obtaining required licenses are fundamental steps. Each of these actions helps establish your business legally and protects you from future issues. Comprehending these steps thoroughly can save you time and trouble, so let’s explore them in detail. Key Takeaways Determine the appropriate business structure (LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship) based on your goals and liability considerations. Choose a unique business name and ensure it complies with state regulations and is available for registration. Register your business with the Secretary of State by completing necessary forms and submitting required fees. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and register for any necessary tax permits based on your business activities. Identify and apply for required licenses and permits, and ensure ongoing compliance with state regulations and filing deadlines. Determine Your Business Structure How do you decide on the best business structure for your venture? Start by evaluating your business goals, as the structure you choose—be it a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation—affects personal liability, taxation, and management obligations. Sole proprietorships are simple and require minimal registration, but they expose you to personal liability. Conversely, LLCs protect your personal assets while offering flexible taxation options, such as pass-through taxation. Corporations require more formalities, like drafting bylaws and filing Articles of Incorporation, but they provide limited liability and can raise capital through stock sales. Follow the necessary steps to register a business, including obtaining a trade name certificate, to guarantee compliance and operational success. Choose a Unique Business Name Choosing a unique business name is crucial for establishing your brand and avoiding legal issues. You should check its availability through the state business registry and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to guarantee no existing trademarks conflict with your choice. Furthermore, if you plan to operate under a different name, consider registering a “Doing Business As” (DBA) and remember to comply with state naming rules that apply to your business structure. Check Name Availability When registering your business, it’s essential to check if your desired name is available, as this step can save you from potential legal issues down the line. Start by searching your state’s business registry and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to see if the name is already in use or trademarked. Furthermore, conduct a local search through your county clerk’s office to identify any conflicts with existing businesses in your area. If you plan to operate under a different name, remember to file a Doing Business As (DBA) registration. Finally, guarantee consistency across your business name, domain name, and social media handles to strengthen your brand identity and recognition. Comply With Naming Rules Selecting a unique business name is critical for ensuring compliance with legal requirements and establishing your brand’s identity. First, check the availability of your chosen name through your state business registry and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to prevent legal conflicts. Be aware that naming rules differ by state; for example, LLCs and corporations may need specific identifiers like “LLC” or “Inc.” in their names. Consistency is crucial, so use the same name across all platforms, including websites and social media, to improve brand recognition. Registering your business name not only protects it from use by others but also boosts your professionalism and credibility in the marketplace, making it a fundamental step in your business path. Register a DBA Registering a Doing Business As (DBA) name allows you to operate under a name that differs from your official business name, providing flexibility in branding and marketing. To get started, check the availability of your desired DBA through your state’s business registry and the county clerk’s office, ensuring it doesn’t conflict with existing names. Typically, registering a DBA involves submitting a form and paying a fee, which can range from $10 to $100, depending on your jurisdiction. Moreover, consider trademark registration for added protection of your brand name at the national level. Consistency is key; use your DBA name across all marketing materials, business cards, and online profiles to establish a strong and recognizable brand identity. File Necessary Tax Information and Documents Filing the necessary tax information and documents is a vital step in establishing your business, as it guarantees compliance with federal and state regulations. First, you need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, important for tax reporting and hiring employees. Next, understand your state’s specific tax forms, which can differ based on your business structure. Don’t forget to register for a sales tax permit if you’re selling taxable goods or services. Furthermore, some states require franchise tax forms. Finally, keep accurate records of all submitted documents to make sure you’re prepared for future audits. Tax Requirement Description Employer Identification Number (EIN) Required for tax reporting and hiring. State Tax Forms Varies by business structure and state. Sales Tax Permit Needed for selling taxable goods/services. Franchise Tax Forms Required by some states based on business type. Record Keeping Vital for maintaining compliance. Register Your Business With the Secretary of State To successfully register your business with the Secretary of State, you need to first determine your business structure, whether it’s an LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship. After that, follow these vital steps: Confirm your business name is unique and complies with state naming rules. Complete the required registration forms and submit them along with the necessary filing fees, which can range from $50 to $500 or more, depending on your state. Consider obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, especially if you plan to hire employees. Maintain ongoing compliance by filing any required annual or biennial reports to keep your business in good standing. Each step is critical for securing your business’s legal status. Obtain Required Licenses and Permits Once you’ve registered your business, it’s essential to identify the specific licenses and permits you need based on your industry and local regulations. Each sector has its own requirements, so make sure you gather all necessary documentation before applying to streamline the process. Keeping up with renewals is equally important to avoid any compliance issues that could disrupt your operations. Identify Necessary Licenses When starting your business, identifying the necessary licenses and permits is crucial, as these requirements can vary widely depending on your industry and location. To guarantee you meet all legal obligations, consider the following steps: Consult state and local regulations to determine specific requirements. Check with local government offices or their websites for application processes. Identify common permits, such as health permits for food businesses and sales tax permits for retail. Regularly review and renew licenses, as many have expiration dates. Utilizing resources like the Small Business Administration (SBA) can likewise provide valuable tools and guides. Apply for Permits Having identified the necessary licenses and permits for your business, the next step involves applying for these required approvals. It’s essential to determine the specific licenses based on your industry and location, as different sectors have unique regulatory requirements. Common permits include health permits for food-related businesses, signage permits for physical locations, and sales tax permits for retail operations. Permit Type Level of Application Typical Approval Time Health Permit Local 2-4 weeks Signage Permit Local 1-3 weeks Sales Tax Permit State 1-2 weeks Business License Local/State 4-6 weeks Remember to apply early and regularly review your permits to maintain compliance. Comply With Additional State Requirements Managing additional state requirements is essential for successfully registering your business and ensuring long-term compliance. Each state has unique regulations that you must follow, adding extra steps to your registration process. Here are some common requirements to keep in mind: Publish a notice of formation in local newspapers to notify the public. File initial reports detailing your business structure and operations shortly after registration. Obtain specific industry-related permits or undergo inspections, depending on your state. Utilize compliance platforms like Mosey to help navigate state-specific requirements. Maintain Ongoing Compliance After Registration Maintaining ongoing compliance after registering your business is vital for avoiding penalties and ensuring smooth operations. You’ll need to file annual or biennial reports as required by your state to keep your business in good standing. Stay informed about any changes to state-specific regulations that may necessitate additional filings or updates. Designate a registered agent to receive legal documents, which helps you respond swiftly to compliance-related matters. It’s important to track and fulfill your tax obligations, such as sales tax and franchise tax, to avoid fines. Regularly review and update your business licenses and permits, as neglecting this can lead to legal issues or operational shutdowns. Staying proactive will keep your business running smoothly. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Steps to Registering Your Business? To register your business, start by choosing the right structure, like an LLC or corporation, considering liability and taxes. Next, select a unique name and check its availability. After that, file formation documents with your state, such as Articles of Organization or Incorporation, and pay any fees. Don’t forget to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS and secure needed licenses or permits based on your business type and location. What Are the Steps to Establish a Business? To establish a business, start by choosing a suitable business structure, like a sole proprietorship or LLC, since this impacts liability and taxes. Next, pick a unique name and verify its availability. After that, file the necessary formation documents with your state’s Secretary of State and pay the required fees. Don’t forget to obtain any needed licenses and register for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes and compliance. What Are the Four Main Steps Required to Establish a Business? To establish a business, you’ll first need to choose a legal structure, like an LLC or corporation, which affects liability and taxes. Next, register your business name to guarantee it’s unique and file any necessary documents with the state. After that, obtain required permits and licenses relevant to your business activities. Finally, register for taxes by applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and any applicable state taxes to guarantee compliance. Is Registering a Business the Same as LLC? No, registering a business isn’t the same as forming an LLC. When you register a business, you create a legal entity but may choose various structures, like a sole proprietorship or partnership. An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a specific structure that separates personal and business liabilities. To establish an LLC, you must file Articles of Organization with your state, which provides liability protection not available with other business types. Conclusion By following these seven crucial steps, you can successfully register your business and set a solid foundation for its future. Start by determining your business structure and choosing a unique name, then move on to file the necessary tax documents and register with the Secretary of State. Don’t forget to secure the required licenses and permits, comply with state regulations, and maintain ongoing compliance. These actions will help you avoid penalties and guarantee your business operates smoothly. Image via Google Gemini This article, "7 Essential Steps for Registering Your Business Successfully" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When starting a business, registering it properly is vital for its success. You need to determine your business structure, choose a unique name, and file necessary tax documents. Furthermore, registering with the Secretary of State and obtaining required licenses are fundamental steps. Each of these actions helps establish your business legally and protects you from future issues. Comprehending these steps thoroughly can save you time and trouble, so let’s explore them in detail. Key Takeaways Determine the appropriate business structure (LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship) based on your goals and liability considerations. Choose a unique business name and ensure it complies with state regulations and is available for registration. Register your business with the Secretary of State by completing necessary forms and submitting required fees. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and register for any necessary tax permits based on your business activities. Identify and apply for required licenses and permits, and ensure ongoing compliance with state regulations and filing deadlines. Determine Your Business Structure How do you decide on the best business structure for your venture? Start by evaluating your business goals, as the structure you choose—be it a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation—affects personal liability, taxation, and management obligations. Sole proprietorships are simple and require minimal registration, but they expose you to personal liability. Conversely, LLCs protect your personal assets while offering flexible taxation options, such as pass-through taxation. Corporations require more formalities, like drafting bylaws and filing Articles of Incorporation, but they provide limited liability and can raise capital through stock sales. Follow the necessary steps to register a business, including obtaining a trade name certificate, to guarantee compliance and operational success. Choose a Unique Business Name Choosing a unique business name is crucial for establishing your brand and avoiding legal issues. You should check its availability through the state business registry and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to guarantee no existing trademarks conflict with your choice. Furthermore, if you plan to operate under a different name, consider registering a “Doing Business As” (DBA) and remember to comply with state naming rules that apply to your business structure. Check Name Availability When registering your business, it’s essential to check if your desired name is available, as this step can save you from potential legal issues down the line. Start by searching your state’s business registry and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to see if the name is already in use or trademarked. Furthermore, conduct a local search through your county clerk’s office to identify any conflicts with existing businesses in your area. If you plan to operate under a different name, remember to file a Doing Business As (DBA) registration. Finally, guarantee consistency across your business name, domain name, and social media handles to strengthen your brand identity and recognition. Comply With Naming Rules Selecting a unique business name is critical for ensuring compliance with legal requirements and establishing your brand’s identity. First, check the availability of your chosen name through your state business registry and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to prevent legal conflicts. Be aware that naming rules differ by state; for example, LLCs and corporations may need specific identifiers like “LLC” or “Inc.” in their names. Consistency is crucial, so use the same name across all platforms, including websites and social media, to improve brand recognition. Registering your business name not only protects it from use by others but also boosts your professionalism and credibility in the marketplace, making it a fundamental step in your business path. Register a DBA Registering a Doing Business As (DBA) name allows you to operate under a name that differs from your official business name, providing flexibility in branding and marketing. To get started, check the availability of your desired DBA through your state’s business registry and the county clerk’s office, ensuring it doesn’t conflict with existing names. Typically, registering a DBA involves submitting a form and paying a fee, which can range from $10 to $100, depending on your jurisdiction. Moreover, consider trademark registration for added protection of your brand name at the national level. Consistency is key; use your DBA name across all marketing materials, business cards, and online profiles to establish a strong and recognizable brand identity. File Necessary Tax Information and Documents Filing the necessary tax information and documents is a vital step in establishing your business, as it guarantees compliance with federal and state regulations. First, you need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, important for tax reporting and hiring employees. Next, understand your state’s specific tax forms, which can differ based on your business structure. Don’t forget to register for a sales tax permit if you’re selling taxable goods or services. Furthermore, some states require franchise tax forms. Finally, keep accurate records of all submitted documents to make sure you’re prepared for future audits. Tax Requirement Description Employer Identification Number (EIN) Required for tax reporting and hiring. State Tax Forms Varies by business structure and state. Sales Tax Permit Needed for selling taxable goods/services. Franchise Tax Forms Required by some states based on business type. Record Keeping Vital for maintaining compliance. Register Your Business With the Secretary of State To successfully register your business with the Secretary of State, you need to first determine your business structure, whether it’s an LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship. After that, follow these vital steps: Confirm your business name is unique and complies with state naming rules. Complete the required registration forms and submit them along with the necessary filing fees, which can range from $50 to $500 or more, depending on your state. Consider obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, especially if you plan to hire employees. Maintain ongoing compliance by filing any required annual or biennial reports to keep your business in good standing. Each step is critical for securing your business’s legal status. Obtain Required Licenses and Permits Once you’ve registered your business, it’s essential to identify the specific licenses and permits you need based on your industry and local regulations. Each sector has its own requirements, so make sure you gather all necessary documentation before applying to streamline the process. Keeping up with renewals is equally important to avoid any compliance issues that could disrupt your operations. Identify Necessary Licenses When starting your business, identifying the necessary licenses and permits is crucial, as these requirements can vary widely depending on your industry and location. To guarantee you meet all legal obligations, consider the following steps: Consult state and local regulations to determine specific requirements. Check with local government offices or their websites for application processes. Identify common permits, such as health permits for food businesses and sales tax permits for retail. Regularly review and renew licenses, as many have expiration dates. Utilizing resources like the Small Business Administration (SBA) can likewise provide valuable tools and guides. Apply for Permits Having identified the necessary licenses and permits for your business, the next step involves applying for these required approvals. It’s essential to determine the specific licenses based on your industry and location, as different sectors have unique regulatory requirements. Common permits include health permits for food-related businesses, signage permits for physical locations, and sales tax permits for retail operations. Permit Type Level of Application Typical Approval Time Health Permit Local 2-4 weeks Signage Permit Local 1-3 weeks Sales Tax Permit State 1-2 weeks Business License Local/State 4-6 weeks Remember to apply early and regularly review your permits to maintain compliance. Comply With Additional State Requirements Managing additional state requirements is essential for successfully registering your business and ensuring long-term compliance. Each state has unique regulations that you must follow, adding extra steps to your registration process. Here are some common requirements to keep in mind: Publish a notice of formation in local newspapers to notify the public. File initial reports detailing your business structure and operations shortly after registration. Obtain specific industry-related permits or undergo inspections, depending on your state. Utilize compliance platforms like Mosey to help navigate state-specific requirements. Maintain Ongoing Compliance After Registration Maintaining ongoing compliance after registering your business is vital for avoiding penalties and ensuring smooth operations. You’ll need to file annual or biennial reports as required by your state to keep your business in good standing. Stay informed about any changes to state-specific regulations that may necessitate additional filings or updates. Designate a registered agent to receive legal documents, which helps you respond swiftly to compliance-related matters. It’s important to track and fulfill your tax obligations, such as sales tax and franchise tax, to avoid fines. Regularly review and update your business licenses and permits, as neglecting this can lead to legal issues or operational shutdowns. Staying proactive will keep your business running smoothly. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Steps to Registering Your Business? To register your business, start by choosing the right structure, like an LLC or corporation, considering liability and taxes. Next, select a unique name and check its availability. After that, file formation documents with your state, such as Articles of Organization or Incorporation, and pay any fees. Don’t forget to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS and secure needed licenses or permits based on your business type and location. What Are the Steps to Establish a Business? To establish a business, start by choosing a suitable business structure, like a sole proprietorship or LLC, since this impacts liability and taxes. Next, pick a unique name and verify its availability. After that, file the necessary formation documents with your state’s Secretary of State and pay the required fees. Don’t forget to obtain any needed licenses and register for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes and compliance. What Are the Four Main Steps Required to Establish a Business? To establish a business, you’ll first need to choose a legal structure, like an LLC or corporation, which affects liability and taxes. Next, register your business name to guarantee it’s unique and file any necessary documents with the state. After that, obtain required permits and licenses relevant to your business activities. Finally, register for taxes by applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and any applicable state taxes to guarantee compliance. Is Registering a Business the Same as LLC? No, registering a business isn’t the same as forming an LLC. When you register a business, you create a legal entity but may choose various structures, like a sole proprietorship or partnership. An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a specific structure that separates personal and business liabilities. To establish an LLC, you must file Articles of Organization with your state, which provides liability protection not available with other business types. Conclusion By following these seven crucial steps, you can successfully register your business and set a solid foundation for its future. Start by determining your business structure and choosing a unique name, then move on to file the necessary tax documents and register with the Secretary of State. Don’t forget to secure the required licenses and permits, comply with state regulations, and maintain ongoing compliance. These actions will help you avoid penalties and guarantee your business operates smoothly. Image via Google Gemini This article, "7 Essential Steps for Registering Your Business Successfully" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is now available at a $100 discount for Black Friday, bringing the Bluetooth model down to $399.99 from its original $499.99, and the LTE version to $449.99 from $549.99. That extra $50 for LTE only really matters if you plan to use the watch without your phone nearby. For most people who keep their phone close, the Bluetooth version is more than enough. Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (46mm, Bluetooth, Black Band) $399.99 at Amazon $499.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $399.99 at Amazon $499.99 Save $100.00 The physical rotating bezel makes a return with the Classic and remains one of the easiest ways to navigate the interface, particularly when your hands are sweaty or occupied. The display is brighter and more readable in direct sunlight, the case has been trimmed slightly for a sleeker fit, and the battery comfortably lasts through a full day and a night of sleep tracking. The watch also gets Google’s Gemini assistant and an updated sleep dashboard, so even if you don’t dive deep into data, the summaries are easier to understand. Samsung has added a few smart touches this year. The updated health sensors feel more accurate in everyday use, the dual-band GPS locks onto routes faster, and the gesture controls make one-handed navigation easier when you’re on the move. The AI running coach also feels more grounded, offering small adjustments to your stride or pace instead of vague motivational fluff. None of these are headline-grabbing changes, but they’re the kind that make a difference in daily use. Reviews (including this “excellent” PCMag review and our own hands-on review) agree that the Classic version feels more like a traditional watch while still packing in full smartwatch features. That said, the 46mm size may not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer a smaller or lighter option. And serious workout folks may want a longer battery life than the 30-ish hours you get here. But for an everyday smartwatch with a fitness angle, it strikes a strong balance. If you’re weighing your options, we’ve also compared the Google Pixel Watch 4 with the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic in detail so you can see how they match up. Our Best Editor-Vetted Early Black Friday Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $219.99 (List Price $249.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $279.00 (List Price $349.00) Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99) Sony WH-1000XM5 — $248.00 (List Price $399.99) Blink Outdoor 4 1080p Wireless Security Camera (5-Pack) — $159.99 (List Price $399.99) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $24.99 (List Price $49.99) NEW Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $298.00 (List Price $429.00) Shark AI Ultra Matrix Clean Mapping Voice Control Robot Vacuum with XL Self-Empty Base — $249.99 (List Price $599.00) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $349.00 (List Price $399.00) Western Digital 14TB Elements Desktop External Hard Drive — $169.99 (List Price $279.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

World shares and U.S. futures were mixed on Monday after Wall Street was buoyed by revived hopes for an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. The future for the S&P 500 was up 0.2% while that for the Dow Jones Industrial Average was nearly unchanged. Germany’s DAX gained 0.5% to 23,201.85, while the CAC 40 edged less than 0.1% lower to 7,978.77. Britain’s FTSE 100 inched up 0.1% to 9,547.77. Markets in Japan were closed for a holiday. Hong Kong’s benchmark, the Hang Seng, rose 2% to 25,716.50. It got a boost from a 4.7% gain for e-commerce giant Alibaba, which has reported strong demand for its updated Qwen AI app. Alibaba is due to report earnings on Tuesday. The Shanghai Composite index rose less than 0.1% to 3,836.77. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 gained 1.3% to 8,525.10. In South Korea, the Kospi reversed early gains, falling 0.2% to 3,846.06 on heavy selling of automakers. Taiwan’s Taiex added 0.3% and the Sensex in India shed 0.4%. This week, U.S. markets will be closed Thursday for the Thanksgiving holiday, which will be followed by the Black Friday and Cyber Monday retail rushes. After last week’s ups and downs over AI and Nvidia, traders will focus more on “the backbone of U.S. growth, the consumer, whose spending still drives two-thirds of GDP,” Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management said in a commentary. Data on the U.S. economy was scarce during the 6-week U.S. government shutdown, leaving investors struggling to parse trends in the economy. “This makes any sniff of holiday activity — foot traffic, discount depth, card authorizations — disproportionately important. In a data desert, even a puddle looks like a lake,” he said. On Friday, the S&P 500 gained 1% and the Dow climbed 1.1%. The Nasdaq composite rose 0.9%. Nearly 90% of stocks in the S&P 500 advanced. It was a fitting finish for a week that left the S&P 500 just 4.2% below its record but also forced investors to stomach the sharpest hour-to-hour swings since a sell-off in April. The jarring moves are testing investors following a monthslong and remarkably smooth surge for stocks, and they come down to two basic as-yet unanswered questions. Have prices for Nvidia, bitcoin and other stars of Wall Street shot too high? And is the Federal Reserve done with its cuts to interest rates, which would boost the economy and prices for investments? Markets took heart from a speech by the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, John Williams, who told a conference in Chile that he sees “room for a further adjustment” to interest rates. Other Fed officials have argued against a December cut, saying inflation is still too high. In the bond market, Treasury yields eased Friday on hopes for cuts from the Fed. Traders are now betting on a nearly 72% probability of a December cut, up sharply from 39% a day before, according to data from CME Group. That helped send the yield on the 10-year Treasury to 4.06% from 4.10% late Thursday. In other dealings early Monday, U.S. benchmark crude oil lost 43 cents to $57.63 a barrel. Brent crude, the international standard, gave up 38 cents to $61.56 a barrel. The U.S. dollar rose to 156.75 Japanese yen from 156.47 yen. The euro climbed to $1.1537 from $1.1516. Bitcoin was up 1.6%, near $86,000. On Friday, it briefly plunged below $81,000 before pulling back toward $85,000. That’s down from nearly $125,000 last month and brought it back to where it was in April, when markets were shaking because of President Donald The President’s higher tariffs. —Elaine Kurtenbach, AP Business Writer View the full article

Price increases show that western restrictions are limiting Moscow’s capabilities, Bank of Finland research findsView the full article

A strategic guide to building a measurable growth loop that connects authentic founder voices to full-funnel results. The post The Founder-Led Growth Loop: How To Amplify And Measure Executive Voice For Real ROI appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Performance Max (PMax) campaigns have become the cornerstone of AI-driven advertising. Both Google and Microsoft offer advertisers a way to consolidate creative assets, audience signals, and automation into a single campaign type. (Disclosure: I work as Microsoft’s product liaison.) While the concept is similar across platforms, the execution and feature sets differ significantly. This article aims to provide an objective comparison of Google PMax and Microsoft PMax as of late 2025. We’ll explore what’s universally true, what’s unique to each platform, and strategic considerations for advertisers looking to maximize performance. What’s universally true about PMax Despite platform differences, several foundational principles apply to PMax campaigns across both Google and Microsoft: Asset groups replace ad groups PMax campaigns use asset groups instead of ad groups. Each asset group contains a mix of creatives (images, headlines, videos where applicable) and audience signals. Unlike ad groups, asset groups do not carry inherent prioritization. Budget allocation is at the campaign level, so if you create multiple asset groups, expect the system to distribute spend algorithmically rather than based on your preferences. Tip: If you want to prioritize certain creative or audience segments, create separate campaigns rather than relying on asset groups. Automation and conversion requirements PMax is designed for automation. Both platforms require you to use Maximize Conversions or Maximize Conversion Value bidding strategies. This means you must have conversion tracking in place. Ideally, you should achieve at least 30 conversions within a 30-day period to ensure stable performance. Major changes, such as bid strategy shifts or prolonged pauses, trigger learning periods that can temporarily impact results. Goal alignment matters PMax works best when your goals reflect reality. Setting an artificially low ROAS target will not guarantee more volume; it will guarantee lower ROAS. Align your budgets and bidding strategies with actual business objectives to avoid performance volatility. Search term visibility and negatives Both platforms provide search term insights from keywordless technology and search themes. Google PMax supports negative keywords broadly, allowing up to 10,000 negatives per campaign. Microsoft PMax’s self-serve negative keyword support is still in pilot as of Q4 2025. Advertisers can chat with support to have negatives added to their campaigns until the full roll-out of the pilot. Ad rank and AI placements PMax campaigns compete based on ad rank, just like traditional search campaigns. Both platforms unlock AI-driven placements, but Microsoft has had these live longer and reports strong performance. If AI surfaces are a priority, PMax is the campaign type to lean into. What’s true for Google PMax Google PMax has matured significantly since its launch, offering robust features and transparency tools that advertisers have long requested. Channel-level reporting Google provides full channel reporting for PMax campaigns. You can see how budget is allocated across Search, Display, YouTube, and other networks. This transparency helps advertisers make informed decisions about complementary campaigns. Video creative Google PMax supports video assets, enabling placements on YouTube and Display. This is a major differentiator for advertisers focused on visual storytelling or brand awareness. Microsoft’s PMax is more focused on search, so advertisers who don’t value video placements may appreciate Microsoft’s budget allocation more. Brand controls and acquisition goals Google offers brand inclusions/exclusions and new customer acquisition goals as fully available features. These controls allow advertisers to refine targeting and optimize for incremental growth. Microsoft’s open pilot for New Customer Acquisition is focused on “purchase” goals, and additional conversion types are on the roadmap. Campaign and theme limits Google allows up to 100 PMax campaigns per account and up to 50 search themes per campaign. Creative automation Google has introduced AI-generated brand-consistent assets and video enhancements. This feature reduces creative production friction and ensures ads align with brand guidelines. Inventory mix and CPC dynamics Google PMax often allocates more spend to visual inventory (YouTube, Display), which can lower CPCs compared to Microsoft PMax’s heavier search mix. This impacts cost dynamics and should be factored into planning. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. What’s true for Microsoft PMax Microsoft PMax brings unique advantages, particularly for advertisers focused on B2B or leveraging Microsoft’s ecosystem. Higher campaign limits Microsoft allows up to 300 PMax campaigns per account. This flexibility benefits advertisers with complex account structures or diverse product lines. Impression-based remarketing Exclusive to Microsoft, impression-based remarketing lets you build audiences based on ad views (not clicks). You can target, exclude, or adjust bids for these audiences, accelerating learning and improving creative focus. Dig deeper: The future of remarketing? Microsoft bets on impressions, not clicks LinkedIn targeting signals Microsoft PMax integrates LinkedIn profile data, including industry, job function, and company size. This is a game-changer for B2B advertisers seeking high-quality leads. AI placement track record Microsoft PMax creatives have been serving in AI placements longer than Google, with strong performance indicators. If AI-driven inventory is a priority, Microsoft offers proven results. Search theme utility Microsoft Search Themes offer a useful way to educate the algorithm without limiting volume. This means the up to 25 Search Themes you can add to a PMax campaign act as grounding signals rather than volume caps. Aligning goals and structure across Google and Microsoft PMax When deciding between Google and Microsoft PMax (or determining how best to combine their strengths), your goals, resources, and audience should guide your strategy. PMax should be viewed as a tool for incrementality PMax is not a replacement for proven search campaigns. Use PMax to reach new audiences and capture incremental traffic, leveraging bias-free targeting and the platforms’ keywordless technologies that extend beyond traditional match types. Account structure becomes critical with PMax If your asset groups have distinct personas or objectives, it’s wise to create separate campaigns. Additionally, avoid setting more than a 40% to 50% difference in ROAS goals within a single campaign. On Microsoft, the ability to run up to 300 campaigns is only valuable if you have the resources to allocate budgets effectively. Creative diversity is an advantage across both platforms For Google, prioritize video assets to maximize YouTube reach. On Microsoft, make the most of LinkedIn signals and impression-based remarketing to drive B2B lead generation. Budget allocation strategies must account for inventory mix Google PMax may lean more heavily toward Display and YouTube, which has implications for CPCs and conversion paths. Microsoft tends to emphasize Search and LinkedIn audiences, which can deliver higher-quality leads but potentially at higher CPCs. Bringing the strengths of both PMax platforms together Both Google and Microsoft PMax represent the future of automated advertising. They share core principles (asset groups, automation, AI placements), and diverge in execution. Google excels in creative automation and transparency, while Microsoft shines in B2B targeting and remarketing innovation. For most advertisers, the best approach is not either/or but both, leveraging each platform’s strengths to achieve complementary goals. Whether you prioritize video storytelling or LinkedIn-powered lead generation, PMax offers a powerful way to scale campaigns intelligently. View the full article

Gary Illyes from Google said that even for him "the change is hard to accept" when it comes to how search is changing and evolving with the new AI features. He said this in response to an article published on the Bing Webmaster Blog written by both Fabrice Canel'¯and Krishna Madhavan'¯of Microsoft named How AI Search Is Changing'¯the'¯Way'¯Conversions'¯are Measured.View the full article

Back in July, Google announced Web Guide, an AI-organized search results page that experiments with how we find, surface and organize results from across the web. Well, it has been showing up more often, directly in the "All" tab, not even in the web tab.View the full article

Imagine telling someone that www.mysite.com/blog/myarticle and www.mysite.com/myarticle are actually the same page. To you, they’re the same, but to Google, even a small difference in the URL makes them separate pages. That is where the canonical tag steps in. In this guide, we will walk you through what a canonical URL is, how URL canonicalization works, when to use it, and which mistakes to avoid so that search engines always understand your preferred page version. Table of contents What is a canonical URL? How does URL canonicalization work? Why do canonical tags matter for SEO? When to use canonical tags? Implementing canonical URLs and canonical tags Implementing canonicalization in WordPress with Yoast rel=“canonical”: one URL to rule them all What is a canonical URL? A canonical URL is the main, preferred, or official version of a webpage that you want search engines like Google to crawl and index. It helps search engines determine which version of a page to treat as the primary one when multiple URLs lead to similar or duplicate content. As a result, it avoids duplicate content and protects your SEO ranking signals. All of the following URLs can show the same page, but you should set only one as the canonical URL: https://www.mysite.com/product/shoes https://mysite.com/product/shoes?ref=instagram https://m.mysite.com/product/shoes https://www.mysite.com/product/shoes?color=black What is a canonical tag? A canonical tag (also called a rel="canonical" tag) is a small HTML snippet placed inside the section of a webpage to tell search engines which URL is the canonical or master version. It acts like a clear label saying, “Index this page, not the others.” This prevents duplicate content issues, consolidates ranking signals, and supports proper canonicalization across your site. Here’s an example of a canonical tag in action: This tag should be placed on any alternate or duplicate versions that point back to the main page you want indexed. How does URL canonicalization work? Canonicalization is the process of selecting the representative or canonical URL of a piece of content. From a group of identical or nearly identical URLs, this is the version that search engines treat as the main page for indexing and ranking. Once you understand that, canonicalization becomes much easier to visualize. Think of it as a three-step workflow. How the canonicalization process works Here’s how the canonicalization works: Search engines detect duplicate or similar URLs Google groups URLs that return the same (or almost the same) content. These could come from: URL parameters HTTP vs. HTTPS versions Desktop vs. mobile URLs Filtered or sorted pages Regional versions Accidental duplicates like staging URLs You signal which URL is canonical You can guide search engines using canonical signals like: The rel="canonical" tag 301 redirects Internal links pointing to one preferred version Consistent hreflang usage XML sitemaps listing the preferred URL HTTPS over HTTP The strongest and clearest hint is the canonical tag placed in the head of the page. Google selects one canonical URL Google uses your signals, along with its own evaluation, to determine the primary URL. While Google typically follows canonical tags, it may override them if it detects stronger signals such as redirects, internal linking patterns, or user behaviour. Once Google settles on the canonical URL, search engines will: Consolidate link equity into the canonical page Index the canonical URL Treat all non-canonical URLs as duplicates Reduce crawl waste Avoid showing similar pages in search results Canonical tags are a hint, not a directive. Google may still distribute link equity differently if it deems the canonical tag unreliable. Reasons why canonicalization happens Canonicalization becomes necessary when different URLs lead to the same content. Some common reasons are: Region variants For example, you have one product page for the USA and one for the UK, like: https://example.com/product/shoes-us and https://example.com/product/shoes-uk. If the content is almost identical, use one canonical link or a clear regional setup to avoid confusion. Pro tip: For regional variants, combine canonical tags with hreflang to specify language/region targeting. Device variants When you serve separate URLs for mobile and desktop, such as: https://m.example.com/product/shoes and https://www.example.com/product/shoes. Canonical tags help search engines understand which URL is the primary version. Protocol variants Sorting and filtering often create many URLs that show similar content, like: https://example.com/shoes?sort=price or https://example.com/shoes?color=black&size=7 A single canonical URL, such as https://example.com/shoes, tells search engines which page should carry the main ranking signals. Also read: Optimizing ecommerce product variations for SEO and conversions Accidental variants Maybe a staging or demo version of the site is left crawlable, or both https://example.com/page and https://example.com/page/ return the same content Canonical tags and proper URL canonicalization help avoid these unintentional duplicates. Some duplicate content on a site is normal. The goal of canonicalization in SEO is not to eliminate every duplicate, but to show search engines which URL you want them to treat as the primary one. In practical aspects In practice, canonicalization comes down to a few key things: Placement The canonical tag is placed in the head of the HTML, for example: link rel="canonical" href="https://www.example.com/preferred-page" / Each page should have at most one canonical tag, and it should point to the clean, preferred canonical URL. Identification Search engines examine several signals to determine the canonical version of a page. The rel="canonical" tag is important, but they also consider 301 redirects, internal links, sitemaps, hreflang, and whether the page is served on HTTPS. When these signals are consistent, it is easier for Google to pick the right canonicalized URL. Crawling and indexing Once search engines understand which URL is canonical, they primarily crawl and index that version, folding duplicates into it. Link equity and other signals are consolidated to the canonical page, which improves stability in rankings and makes your canonical tag SEO setup more effective. The main rule for canonicalization is simple: if multiple URLs display the same content, choose one, make it your canonical URL, and clearly signal that choice with a proper canonical tag. Why do canonical tags matter for SEO? Google’s John Mueller puts it simply: ‘I recommend doing this kind of self-referential rel=canonical because it really makes it clear for us which page you want to have indexed or what this URL should be when it’s indexed.’ And that’s exactly why canonical tags matter; they tell search engines which version of a page is the real one. This keeps your SEO signals clean and prevents your site from competing with itself. They’re important because they: Avoid duplicate content issues: Canonical tags inform Google which URL should be indexed, preventing similar or duplicate pages from confusing crawlers or diluting rankings Consolidate link equity: Canonicalization works similarly to internal linking; both are techniques used to direct authority to the page that matters most. Instead of splitting ranking signals across duplicate URLs, all information is consolidated into a single canonical URL Improve crawl efficiency: Search engines don’t waste time crawling unnecessary duplicate pages, which helps them discover your important content faster Enhance user experience: Users land on the correct, up-to-date version of your page, not a filtered, parameterized, or accidental duplicate When to use canonical tags? Canonical tags are useful in various everyday SEO scenarios. Here are the most common scenarios where you’ll want to use a rel=canonical tag to signal your preferred URL. URL versions If your page loads under multiple URL formats, with or without “www,” HTTP vs. HTTPS, and with or without a trailing slash, search engines may index each version separately. A canonical tag helps you standardize the preferred version so Google doesn’t treat them as separate pages. Duplicate content Ecommerce sites, blogs with tag archives, and category-driven pages often generate duplicate or near-duplicate content by design. If the same product or article appears under multiple URLs (filters, parameters, tracking codes, etc.), canonical tags help Google understand which canonical URL is the authoritative one. This prevents cannibalization and protects your canonical SEO setup. Also read: Ecommerce SEO: how to rank higher & sell more online Syndicated content If your content is republished on partner sites or aggregators, always use a canonical tag that points back to your original version. This ensures your page retains the ranking signals, not the syndicated copy, and search engines know exactly where the content was originally published. If syndication partners don’t honor your canonical tag, consider using noindex or negotiating link attribution. Paginated pages Long lists or multi-page articles often create a chain of URLs like /page/2/, /page/3/, and so on. These pages contribute to the same topic but shouldn’t be indexed individually. Adding canonical tags to the paginated sequence (typically pointing to page 1 or a “view-all” version) helps consolidate indexing and keeps rankings focused on the primary page. Pro tip: For paginated content, use self-referencing canonicals (each page points to itself) unless you have a ‘view-all’ page that loads quickly and is crawlable. Also read: Pagination & SEO: best practices Site migrations When you change domains, restructure URLs, or move from HTTP to HTTPS, using consistent canonical tags helps reinforce which pages replace the old ones. It signals to search engines which canonicalized URL should inherit ranking power. During migrations, canonical tags act as a safety net to prevent duplicate versions from competing with each other. Implementing canonical URLs and canonical tags URL canonicalization is all about giving search engines a clear signal about which version of a page is the preferred or canonical URL. You can implement it in several simple steps. Using the rel=”canonical” tag The most common way (as shown multiple times in this blog post) to set a canonical URL is by adding a rel="canonical" tag in the head section of your page. It looks like this: link rel="canonical" href="https://www.example.com/preferred-url"/ This tag tells search engines which URL should carry all ranking signals and appear in search results. Ensure that every duplicate or alternate version links to the same preferred URL, and that the canonical tag is consistent throughout the site. You can also use rel="canonical" in HTTP headers for non-HTML content such as PDFs. This is helpful when you cannot place a tag in the page itself. Pro tip: While supported for PDFs, Google may not always honor canonical HTTP headers. Use them in conjunction with other signals (e.g., sitemaps). Also, ensure the canonical tag is as close to the top of the head section as possible so that search engines can see it early. Each page should have only one canonical tag, and it should always point to a clean, accessible URL. Avoid mixing signals. The canonical URL, your internal links, and your sitemap entries should all match. Setting a preferred domain in Google Search Console Google lets you choose whether you prefer your URLs to appear with or without www. Setting this preference helps reinforce your canonical signals and prevents search engines from treating www and non-www versions as different URLs. To set your preferred domain, open your property in Google Search Console, go to Settings, and choose the version you want to treat as your primary domain. Redirects (301 redirects) A 301 redirect is one of the strongest signals you can send. It permanently informs browsers and search engines that one URL has been redirected to another and that the new URL should be considered the canonical URL. Use 301 redirects when: You merge duplicate URLs You change your site structure You migrate to HTTPS You want to consolidate link equity from outdated pages Of course, redirects replace the old URL, while canonical tags suggest a preference without removing the duplicate. With Yoast SEO Premium, you can manage redirects effortlessly right inside your WordPress dashboard. The built-in redirect manager feature of the SEO plugin helps you avoid unnecessary 404s and prevents visitors from landing on dead ends, keeping your site structure clean and your user experience smooth. A smarter analysis in Yoast SEO PremiumYoast SEO Premium has a smart content analysis that helps you take your content to the next level! Get Yoast SEO Premium »Only $118.80 / year (ex VAT) Additional canonicalization techniques There are a few more ways to support your canonical setup. XML sitemaps: Always include only canonical URLs in your sitemap. This helps search engines understand which URLs you want indexed Hreflang annotations: For multi-language or multi-region sites, hreflang tags help search engines serve the correct regional version while still respecting your canonical preference Link HTTP headers: For files like PDFs or other non-HTML content, using a rel="canonical" HTTP header helps you specify the preferred URL server-side Each of these methods reinforces your canonical signals. When you use them together, search engines have a much clearer understanding of your canonicalized URLs. Implementing canonicalization in WordPress with Yoast Manually adding a rel="canonical" tag to the head of every duplicate page can be fiddly and error prone. You need to edit templates or theme files, keep tags consistent with your sitemap and internal linking, and remember special cases, such as PDFs or paginated series. Modifying site code and HTML is risky when you have numerous pages or multiple editors working on the site. Yoast SEO makes this easier and safer. The plugin automatically generates sensible canonical URL tags for all your pages and templates, eliminating the need for manual theme file edits or code additions. You can still override that choice on a page-by-page basis in the Yoast SEO sidebar: open the post or page, go to Advanced, and paste the full canonical URL in the Canonical URL field, then save. Automatic coverage: Yoast automatically adds canonical tags to pages and archives by default, which helps prevent many common duplicate content issues Manual override: For special cases, use the Yoast sidebar > Advanced > Canonical URL field to set a custom canonical. This accepts full URLs and updates when you save the post Edge cases handled: Yoast will not output a canonical tag on pages set to noindex, and it follows best practices for paginated series and archives Developer options: If you need custom behavior, you can filter the canonical output programmatically using the wpseo_canonical filter or use Yoast’s developer API Cross-domain and non-HTML: Yoast supports cross-site canonicals, and you can use rel=”canonical” in HTTP headers for non-HTML files when needed Both Yoast SEO and Yoast SEO Premium include canonical URL handling, and the Premium version adds extra automation and controls to streamline larger sites. Must read: How to change the canonical URL in Yoast SEO for WordPress rel=“canonical”: one URL to rule them all Canonical URLs may seem like a small technical detail, but they play a huge role in helping search engines understand your site. When Google finds multiple URLs displaying the same content, it must select one version to index. If you do not guide that choice, Google will make the decision on its own, and that choice is not always the version you intended. That can lead to split ranking signals, wasted crawl activity, and frustrating drops in visibility. Using canonical URLs gives you back that control. It tells search engines which page is the primary version, which ones are duplicates, and where all authority signals should be directed. From filtering URLs to regional variants to accidental duplicates that slip through the cracks, canonicals keep everything tidy and predictable. The good news is that canonicalization does not have to be complicated. A simple rel=”canonical” tag, consistent URL handling, smart redirects, and clean sitemap signals are enough to prevent most issues. And if you are working in WordPress, Yoast SEO takes care of almost all of this automatically, so you can focus on creating content instead of wrestling with code. At the end of the day, canonical URLs are about clarity. Show search engines the version that matters, remove the noise, and keep your authority consolidated in one place. When your signals are clear, your rankings have a solid foundation to grow. The post Canonical URLs: definitive guide to canonical tags appeared first on Yoast. View the full article

For the past week or so, a number of local SEOs and local business owners have been unable to see the admin panel, also known as NMX, when they search for their business in Google Search. This is not impacting everyone. I see it, many see it, but for some businesses, it does not show up.View the full article

Is CUJO AI the largest telco solution vendor that you've never heard of? Chances are that it is. The post Security & device intelligence at the forefront: CUJO AI racks up another Tier-1 win, this time it’s T-Mobile USA appeared first on Wi-Fi NOW Global. View the full article

Has the process of spectrum regulation in Europe finally lost its last semblance of legitimacy? Europe is on the brink of a grievous mistake. The post Editorial: The worst spectrum blunder in European history is in the making. But it can still be fixed. appeared first on Wi-Fi NOW Global. View the full article

Microsoft sent emails to some advertising announcing the retirement of the Microsoft Advertising mobile app. The app will stop working as of January 2026 and will be removed from the app store this month.View the full article

Google has officially launched scheduling and multi-location publishing for Google Posts in Google Business Profiles. This was a feature Google tested last month and is now fully live.View the full article

Findings are respite for German conglomerate facing sliding sales of blockbuster drugs and US legal challenges View the full article

Hello and welcome to Modern CEO! I’m Stephanie Mehta, CEO and chief content officer of Mansueto Ventures. Each week this newsletter explores inclusive approaches to leadership drawn from conversations with executives and entrepreneurs, and from the pages of Inc. and Fast Company. If you received this newsletter from a friend, you can sign up to get it yourself every Monday morning. Being a life sciences CEO is not for the faint of heart. Drug discovery and patent approvals are costly and time-consuming, and even if an executive can steer a company to clinical trials, there’s a very small chance the product will be commercialized. One study says that 90% of clinical drug development fails because the treatment didn’t have its intended impact, had the wrong formulations, or harmed patients. “You have a business challenge, a science challenge, a clinical trial challenge, and a regulatory challenge,” says Kevin Conroy, CEO of the colorectal cancer screening company Exact Sciences. “It’s like solving a complex puzzle, and there’s simply no guarantee of success.” When companies do solve that puzzle, the rewards can be huge: As Modern CEO went to press, Exact Sciences announced it was selling to Abbott in a deal valued at $21 billion. Still, biotech and health technology companies are now confronting an additional burden: simmering science skepticism. Pew Research Center found that in 2024, 76% of Americans believed that scientists act in the public’s best interest, up slightly from 2023 but down 10 points from pre-pandemic levels. A new survey from Pew shows that 24% of parents of school-age children question whether vaccines have undergone enough safety testing. Rebuilding trust in science Some lawmakers are fanning the flames. Health and Human Services secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has called for changes in the ways vaccines are tested. The White House has cut budgets at the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation, and moved to terminate federal funding to universities, all of which participate in the funding of medical and science research. Conroy says the current environment is a call to action to the biosciences industry to help rebuild trust with the public and lawmakers. “How can we in this field show success that brings back a stronger belief in science, in data, in clinical studies, in evidence generation?” he asks. “I think it’s our responsibility to do that.” According to Conroy, Exact Sciences isn’t facing any societal or political headwinds. It makes a colon cancer test (if you’re a certain age, you’ve probably been served ads for its Cologuard Kit) that will screen five million people for cancer this year. “Science skepticism hasn’t touched cancer screening,” he says. “People on the left and right are touched equally by cancer.” Still, Exact Sciences and other science companies have benefited from an ecosystem of government-funded research, rigorous approvals, and endorsements that make the U.S. a biotech innovation powerhouse. Exact Sciences was founded in 1995 by an engineer who wanted to develop an alternative to colonoscopies, but the company struggled for years to develop a test. Conroy joined in 2009 after meeting with David Ahlquist, a Mayo Clinic physician who had spent 20 years researching noninvasive colon cancer detection—research funded by the National Institutes of Health, the National Cancer Institute, and the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science. Exact Sciences collaborated with Ahlquist on an approach that tests a patient’s stool for abnormal DNA or blood cells that might indicate the presence of colon cancer. Cologuard received FDA approval in 2014, after a huge clinical trial involving 10,000 patients; that same year the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said it intended to cover the test, and the American Cancer Society included the test in its colon cancer screening guidelines—a key recommendation that helped build public trust in the at-home kit. “Exact Sciences would not be here without federally funded research at the Mayo Clinic,” Conroy says. Follow the data Conroy notes that all businesses can gain from a scientific approach—running experiments, conceding when something doesn’t work (even if you’ve invested time and money in the research), and following the data. At Exact Sciences, such rigor extends beyond the lab. Before the company launched its kits, the team tested two different product designs for sample collection—a scoop and a container. The team thought consumers would favor the scoop, but research showed 85% of users preferred the container. “We would have made a big mistake if we had trusted our gut,” Conroy says. “A lot of times you’re so passionate as a CEO, you skip all of those steps and just bulldoze your way toward the answer you’d like to see. I’m as guilty of that as the next CEO.” I asked Conroy how biotech executives can help restore trust in science and rally support for the broader system of grants and research funding now under fire. He notes that he travels to Washington from Exact Sciences’ headquarters in Madison, Wisconsin, every quarter to meet with lawmakers, largely to advocate for early detection of diseases but also to talk about innovation and discovery. “Every CEO in this field should be doing the same thing. It’s too important for America’s competitiveness,” he says. Deadline extended We’re extending the deadline for Modern CEO of the Year nominations by a few days. If you or someone you know has had a standout 2025, please fill out this nomination form by November 28. We’ll name the Modern CEO of the Year on December 29. Read more: science in focus This Sam Altman–backed CEO is using AI to get drugs to market faster The most innovative biotech companies of 2025 Why Jennifer Doudna is one of the 10 most innovative people of the last 10 years View the full article

Stephen Miran’s old shop reckons that stocks are ‘not even close’ to a bubbleView the full article

Sector deemed resilient even as a wave of investment raises fears over future vulnerabilityView the full article