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

Product pages are webpages designed to drive online purchases. See 16 strong examples you can learn from. View the full article

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

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

You might think that Chrome for mobile is just a mini version of Google's desktop browser, designed for quickly browsing the web, while all your serious work can only happen on your computer. While Chrome for desktop will likely always be more capable, Chrome for mobile has its own share of powerful features that you should explore. Once you customize its cluttered home screen, you'll find a browser where organizing and pinning tabs is intuitive, blocking notifications is easy, and every website opens in dark mode. Use pinned tabs to keep track of important pages Option to pin tabs in overflow menu. Below: Pinned tabs section. Credit: Khamosh Pathak On desktop, you might be used to pinning tabs to gain quick access to important pages. For example, I always keep Gmail and Trello pinned in my default browser. This keeps the bookmarks bar and bookmark folders free for link organization. But Chrome for Android and iOS lacked this feature until fairly recently. If you didn't know you could do it, it might be time to start pinning tabs on your device, especially when it comes to tablets. Pinning tabs in Chrome for mobile is slightly different than on desktop, though. After opening a page, you'll have to open the Tabs menu. Then, tap and hold on a page and tap the Pin Tab button. Pinned tabs show up in a special pill-shaped "Pinned Tabs" section at the bottom of the tab switcher. Tapping on one will instantly take you to the pinned page. One added advantage? When you close all tabs because of tab overload, pinned tabs won't disappear. Prevent tab overload by closing old inactive tabs Credit: Khamosh Pathak Safari on iPhone automatically closes tabs that are older than 30 days. Chrome has something similar for Chrome for Android, but the feature on the iOS version is surprisingly limited. By default, any tab that you don't use for 21 days automatically gets moved to "Inactive Tabs." You'll find this section at the top of the Tabs page. This means that when you open the main Tabs screen, you'll only see tabs that you've used recently. But just because the inactive tabs are tucked away, that doesn't mean they're gone. If you have hundreds of inactive tabs cluttering things up, it's time to close them manually. Go to the Inactive Tabs section, tap the Close all inactive tabs button, and confirm from the popup. Every time the list gets a bit too crowded, go in and clear it out. Android users, though, get a Safari-like option to automatically close any tabs that haven't been active for over three months (iOS users don't have this option yet). Go to Settings > Tabs and tab groups > Move to inactive session and make sure that the Automatically close inactive items feature is enabled. Move Chrome's address bar to the bottom Credit: Khamosh Pathak Speaking of Safari-like features, Chrome now has an option to move the address bar to the bottom of the screen on both Android and iPhone. This is great news for anyone who uses a giant phone like I do. (Why Google doesn't just switch this to the default, I will never know.) To move the address bar to the bottom, simply tap and hold on the address bar, then tap the Move address bar to bottom button. Going forward, there will be no need to stretch your fingers just to switch to another website. Use "Send to Your Devices" to open your mobile links on desktop Credit: Khamosh Pathak If you use Chrome on both mobile and desktop, you can use a little-known feature to send any link from your phone to the Chrome desktop app. On your smartphone, tap the Share button and choose the Send to Your Devices option. From the list, select the Chrome browser where you want to send it to, and tap the Send to your device button. The next time you open Chrome, you'll see a popup saying that a page was shared from one of the devices. Click on Open in new tab to resume reading or working on the website on your computer. Block websites from spamming you with notifications (Android only) Credit: Khamosh Pathak Spammers love to abuse Chrome for Android's notification system. Every random website you visit wants to send you alerts, and if you tap “Allow” even once, you're inundated with dozens of notifications a day. Luckily, Chrome has an option that blocks all sites from even presenting a popup for enabling notifications. Go to Settings > Site settings > Notifications and switch to Don't allow sites to send notifications. Websites won't be allowed to ask you for notification access, and they won't be able to send you notifications either. If you want to keep the feature enabled, you can also disable notifications on a per-site basis from the section. Set up your phone so Picture-in-Picture works on any website Credit: Khamosh Pathak Picture-in-picture isn't just for YouTube and media apps. Chrome also supports this feature natively on both Android and iOS. This means you can tune in to any website's video, and watch it in a little floating window no matter if they have a dedicated app or not. As long as Picture-in-Picture is enabled on your phone, all you have to do is to open the video playback, and go to the home screen. (This works with YouTube as well, but only if you're paying for YouTube Premium.) On iPhone, you'll even see a PiP button in the native video player, which will automatically close the app, and bring you to the home screen with the video still playing in the floating window. If Picture-in-Picture is not enabled, you can set it up from the Settings app. On Android, go to Apps > Special app access > Picture-in-Picture > Chrome and enable the “Allow picture-in-picture” feature. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Picture in Picture and make sure that the Start PiP Automatically feature is enabled. Use this setting to force any website into dark mode Credit: Khamosh Pathak If you use dark mode on your phone, you might be use to being blinded when you open a news site that only offers a light theme. But there's a simple fix here: All you need is to enable an experimental feature that forces all websites into dark mode, with a black background and white text (without impacting any media or images). Go to the Chrome address bar and enter "Chrome://flags." Search for "dark" from the top. In the Auto Dark Mode for Web Contents option, tap on the drop-down and switch to Enabled, then tap the Relaunch button to restart Chrome. This works on both Android and iOS. Lock Incognito tabs when you leave Chrome Credit: Khamosh Pathak Incognito tabs are private for a reason, and yet, they're as accessible as your standard tabs. Fortunately, Chrome has a feature that can automatically lock Incognito tabs when you leave the browser—again, something that should be enabled by default. On Android, go to Settings > Privacy and Security and enable Lock Incognito tabs when you leave Chrome. Verify using your fingerprint or passcode to enable the feature. On iOS, the steps are slightly different. Go to Settings > Privacy and security > Hide Incognito tabs. Here, you can either choose to hide the tabs after 10 minutes, or, better yet, use Lock Immediately with Face ID option for a safer route. Remove the Discover feed and customize the start page Credit: Khamosh Pathak Chrome's start page can be a bit much, especially on iOS. What you want is quick access to the address bar or the search bar, but that's precisely what's farthest to reach. Instead, what you'll find are sections for your top sites, card suggestions, and, of course, the Discover feed, where Google shows you all the articles you might be interested in. Thankfully, this start page is customizable, and you can disable all three sections to keep things clean and simple. Tap "Edit" from the top-left corner of the new tab page, and disable each feature that you no longer wish to use. When all features are disabled (and you've switched to a calmer background), you'll likely find the new tab page is much more useful. Join the beta to test out new features early Credit: Khamosh Pathak If you like being on the bleeding edge of tech, you can test new Chrome features before anyone else gets their hands on them, whether you have an iPhone or Android. On iOS, it's as simple as installing the Google Chrome beta from the TestFlight app. If you already have the app installed, the beta version will replace the stable app. On Android, visit the Google Chrome beta testing site, log in with the Google Play account you use on your smartphone, and choose Become a tester. Once enrolled, you will get an update for Chrome that will switch you out to the latest beta version. If you want to leave the program and return to the stable build, go back to the same website, and use the Leave the program button. View the full article

Consider options beyond donor advised funds. By Randy A. Fox The Holistic Guide to Wealth Management Go PRO for members-only access to more Randy Fox. View the full article

Consider options beyond donor advised funds. By Randy A. Fox The Holistic Guide to Wealth Management Go PRO for members-only access to more Randy Fox. View the full article

The CEO of Crypto.com, Kris Marszalek, announced on Thursday that he was laying off 12% of the company’s staff. Marszalek cited AI as the driving factor behind the layoffs. Here’s what you need to know. What’s happened? On Thursday, Crypto.com CEO Kris Marszalek took to X to announce that the company was cutting 12% of its staff. Marszalek cited AI as the reason for the layoffs. In the X post, Marszalek said that Crypto.com was “joining the list of companies integrating enterprise-wide AI” and suggested that those who do not embrace artificial intelligence won’t be around for long. “Companies that do not make this pivot immediately will fail,” Marszalek wrote. “Companies that move slowly will be left behind.” Marszalek said that, as a result of this embrace of AI, Crypto.com would lay off around 12% of its workforce in “roles that do not adapt in our new world,” noting that the layoffs would be “targeted.” Marszalek is hardly the first CEO to blame AI for layoffs. Most recently, Block CEO Jack Dorsey said he would lay off 4,000 employees, primarily due to a shift toward greater reliance on AI. However, some question whether an embrace of AI tools is actually the driving factor behind tech industry layoffs, or whether CEOs are simply using AI as a smokescreen to mask other reasons. Crypto.com recently paid the largest sum ever for a domain name Of course, it’s not hard to believe that Marszalek truly believes his own words about the seismic impact AI will have on companies in the months and years ahead, especially after he purchased the AI.com domain name in February for a record-breaking $70 million—the most ever paid for a domain name. This week’s layoff announcement also comes after the company’s own cryptocurrency, Cronos (CRO), has suffered a dramatic fall in value over the past several months. After rising from a low of around $0.08 in early July, CRO spiked to over $0.32 cents by late August. But since then, the token’s value has crashed by around 70%, falling to around $0.07 as of this writing, according to CoinMarketCap data. Popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ether have also seen their values decline since last summer. This isn’t Crypto.com’s first round of layoffs This week’s announced layoffs are not the first time that Crypto.com has cut staff. In June 2022, the firm let go of about 5% of its workforce, totaling about 260 employees. At the time, Marszalek said the layoffs would allow the company to “stay focused on executing against our roadmap and optimizing for profitability as we do so.” Then, in January 2023, Crypto.com announced that it would eliminate approximately 20% of its workforce, citing the fallout from the collapse of cryptocurrency exchange FTX. “We are joining the list of companies integrating enterprise-wide AI,” a Crypto.com spokesperson told Fast Company when reached for comment. “As we continue to prioritize resources around key growth areas and drive efficiencies across our business, we reduced our workforce by approximately 12 percent. All impacted team members have been notified and are receiving resources to support their transition.” The company did not say how many employees were impacted. This story is developing… View the full article

As you explore new business opportunities, consider the emerging franchise options that are gaining traction in 2025. From fitness and wellness franchises that cater to health-conscious consumers, to pet services tapping into the growing pet ownership trend, the scenery is diverse. Home care and senior services are likewise essential, reflecting the aging population’s needs. Each sector offers unique advantages and challenges that could align with your entrepreneurial goals. What might be the best fit for your aspirations? Key Takeaways Home services franchises, like cleaning and landscaping, offer low startup costs and consistent demand for aspiring entrepreneurs. The booming pet services sector includes grooming, boarding, and training franchises, reflecting the increase in pet ownership. Education and tutoring franchises are gaining traction, catering to parents prioritizing their children’s academic success. Fitness and wellness franchises, including boutique gyms and specialized studios, engage diverse audiences and promise brand loyalty through membership models. Innovative food and beverage franchises focus on health-conscious options and unique dining experiences, appealing to evolving consumer preferences. Emerging Franchise Opportunities in 2025 As you look ahead to 2025, it’s essential to contemplate the emerging franchise opportunities that align with changing consumer preferences and market demands. Fast-growing franchises in home services, like cleaning and landscaping, are appealing because of low startup costs and consistent demand for reliable providers. Furthermore, the pet services sector is booming, with unique franchises in grooming, boarding, and training capitalizing on increased pet ownership and spending. The education and tutoring sector likewise presents promising loan franchise opportunities, as parents increasingly prioritize their children’s learning. Each of these areas not only reflects current consumer trends but likewise offers a chance for entrepreneurs to invest in sectors poised for growth and sustainability. Fitness and Wellness Franchises The growth in emerging franchise opportunities naturally leads to a focus on fitness and wellness franchises, which are becoming increasingly popular among entrepreneurs. With a heightened consumer focus on health, these franchises often utilize membership-based revenue models that boost brand loyalty. You’ll find opportunities in boutique gyms and personal training studios, allowing you to tap into niche markets with personalized offerings. Franchises like PickleRage illustrate the trend of specialized fitness, engaging communities through activities like pickleball that appeal to diverse demographics. Established business models in this sector simplify operations for new owners, providing a clear roadmap to success. As demand for fitness and wellness services continues to rise, this market represents a promising investment for potential franchisees in California and beyond. Pet Services Franchises The pet services industry is booming, driven by a growing number of pet owners and their increasing demand for quality care options. With franchise support systems that provide training and operational guidance, you can easily establish a successful business in this flourishing market. As pet owners often seek regular services like grooming and daycare, you’ll benefit from customer loyalty and a steady stream of income. Growing Pet Industry Demand With consumer spending on pet care projected to surpass $109.6 billion in 2024, the pet services industry is clearly on an upward trajectory, highlighting a strong demand for related services. The increasing number of pet owners, now about 70% of U.S. households, drives consistent demand for pet services, creating ample opportunities for franchise growth. Here’s a quick overview of potential pet service franchises: Franchise Type Startup Cost Customer Loyalty Pet Grooming Low High Pet Boarding Moderate High Pet Training Low High Mobile Pet Care Low Moderate Pet Supplies Moderate High If you’re considering a new business franchise, ask yourself: What are the questions for franchise opportunities? Franchise Support Systems Steering through the domain of pet services franchises often proves easier when you have strong support systems in place. These franchises typically offer extensive training programs that equip you to handle various business aspects from day one. You’ll also receive ongoing support from franchisors, including marketing assistance and operational guidance, crucial for attracting and keeping customers in this competitive market. Many franchises promote a robust community among owners, nurturing networking opportunities and shared resources that improve your business performance. With established brand recognition, you can build customer trust and loyalty, leading to higher revenue potential. Furthermore, the pet services sector remains resilient to economic fluctuations, providing indispensable services like grooming and training that maintain steady demand year-round. Home Care and Senior Services Franchises As America’s population ages, the demand for home care and senior services franchises is surging, creating a lucrative opportunity for potential franchisees. By 2030, it’s projected that 20% of the U.S. population will be 65 or older, driving the need for services like companionship, personal care, and assistance with daily living activities. These franchises often have lower startup costs than traditional businesses, making them accessible to many aspiring franchisees. You’ll benefit from thorough training and support from franchisors, ensuring you’re well-prepared to meet client needs. Furthermore, the home care industry is set to grow at 7.9% annually through 2025, reflecting a consistent demand for quality senior care services and providing a steady revenue stream. Food and Beverage Franchises When you’re exploring food and beverage franchises, you’ll find a range of trending concepts that cater to modern consumer preferences. Health-conscious options and unique dining experiences are becoming increasingly popular, allowing you to tap into lucrative markets. Trending Food Concepts In today’s dynamic market, food and beverage franchises are thriving owing to a blend of consumer demand and innovative concepts that cater to evolving preferences. You’ll find several trending food concepts gaining traction, making them prime candidates for investment: Fast-casual dining: These franchises focus on quality ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere, appealing to those seeking a better dining experience than traditional fast food. Unique beverage options: Specialty coffee shops and bubble tea stores attract younger customers looking for trendy, Instagrammable choices. Ghost kitchens: These delivery-only concepts minimize overhead costs and allow franchisees to enter the market more easily. With a projected annual growth rate of over 3% through 2025, exploring these concepts could lead to successful business ventures. Health-Conscious Options With consumers increasingly prioritizing health and wellness, the demand for health-conscious food and beverage franchises continues to rise. This sector is witnessing significant growth, with the International Franchise Association projecting a 2.5% growth rate by 2025. Franchises like smoothie bars and salad shops often have lower startup costs and require less space than traditional restaurants, making them accessible to new franchisees. These businesses benefit from strong brand recognition and loyal customers who value nutritious options. Many established health-focused franchises offer thorough training and marketing support, equipping you to thrive in a competitive market. The broadening market now includes plant-based offerings and meal-prep services, aligning perfectly with the growing trend toward healthier lifestyles and sustainable eating habits. Unique Dining Experiences As health-conscious dining options gain popularity, a parallel trend is emerging in the food and beverage franchise industry: unique dining experiences. Consumers are increasingly drawn to novel culinary adventures, and franchises in this sector capitalize on that interest. They often provide strong brand recognition and marketing support, enhancing customer attraction and retention. Here are some key features: Focus on locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Innovative concepts like immersive dining and interactive meal experiences. Extensive training programs in culinary arts, customer service, and operational management. These elements not only cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly options but also create opportunities for franchisees to tap into niche markets. Investing in unique dining experiences can yield substantial returns in today’s competitive market. Education and Tutoring Franchises Education and tutoring franchises present a compelling opportunity for investors looking to enter a steadily growing market. With parents prioritizing their children’s academic success, the demand for these services is on the rise. Many franchises focus on specialized subjects like STEM and test preparation, aligning with current educational trends. Here’s a quick overview of key factors driving this market: Key Factor Description Benefit Steady Demand Increasing focus on academic performance Lucrative investment opportunity Recurring Revenue Students enroll for extended periods Consistent income for franchisees Community Impact Improves local educational outcomes Supports families in academic growth Investing in an education franchise not only generates income but also favorably impacts your community. Innovative Retail and E-Commerce Franchises Investors seeking opportunities in the evolving marketplace should consider the potential of innovative retail and e-commerce franchises. These franchises leverage technology to improve customer experiences, catering to the growing demand for sustainable products and convenient shopping options. Here are key trends to watch: Augmented Reality & AI: Many brands implement these technologies for personalized shopping experiences. Sustainable Products: Emerging franchises focus on eco-friendly offerings, attracting environmentally conscious consumers. Hybrid Shopping Models: Franchises blending in-store and online experiences, like click-and-collect services, provide flexibility. The e-commerce sector is projected to surpass $6.5 trillion in sales by 2023, making it a fertile ground for new retail franchises. Furthermore, subscription models encourage customer loyalty and create recurring revenue opportunities. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Franchise Business to Start? The best franchise business to start often lies in sectors with proven demand, like food and beverage, health and wellness, or home services. These industries typically offer established business models, extensive training, and ongoing support, which can improve your chances of success. Furthermore, consider emerging markets such as pet services or child care, where consumer spending is rising. What Is the 7 Day Rule for Franchise? The 7 Day Rule requires franchisors to provide a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) at least 14 days before you sign any agreements or make payments. This rule aims to protect you by ensuring you have ample time to review critical information, including financial performance and fee structures. With this time, you can seek legal or financial advice, helping you make an informed investment decision and reducing potential disputes or dissatisfaction later on. What Is the Most Profitable Franchise to Own? The most profitable franchise to own often falls within the food and beverage sector, with brands like Dunkin’ and Subway leading the way. These franchises benefit from strong consumer demand and established brand loyalty, resulting in high sales volumes. Furthermore, low startup costs for certain concepts, such as coffee shops, can improve profit potential. Home service franchises, like Mr. Rooter, likewise show resilience, catering to ongoing consumer needs for crucial services. Which Franchise Is Best for Beginners? When considering which franchise is best for beginners, low-cost options are often ideal. Food and beverage franchises, like coffee shops, thrive on consumer demand and established business models. Home services franchises, such as cleaning or landscaping, require minimal startup investment and adapt well to economic changes. Fitness franchises attract health-conscious customers with membership models, whereas educational franchises consistently appeal to parents seeking quality tutoring for their children, ensuring reliable revenue. Conclusion In conclusion, exploring franchise opportunities in 2025 reveals diverse options across various sectors. Fitness and wellness franchises cater to health-conscious consumers, whereas pet services tap into the growing pet ownership trend. Home care and senior services address the needs of an aging population, and education franchises focus on enhancing children’s learning. Furthermore, food and beverage franchises and innovative retail options provide further avenues for entrepreneurial growth. Each sector presents unique advantages worth considering for potential franchisees. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 New Business Franchises to Consider" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

As you explore new business opportunities, consider the emerging franchise options that are gaining traction in 2025. From fitness and wellness franchises that cater to health-conscious consumers, to pet services tapping into the growing pet ownership trend, the scenery is diverse. Home care and senior services are likewise essential, reflecting the aging population’s needs. Each sector offers unique advantages and challenges that could align with your entrepreneurial goals. What might be the best fit for your aspirations? Key Takeaways Home services franchises, like cleaning and landscaping, offer low startup costs and consistent demand for aspiring entrepreneurs. The booming pet services sector includes grooming, boarding, and training franchises, reflecting the increase in pet ownership. Education and tutoring franchises are gaining traction, catering to parents prioritizing their children’s academic success. Fitness and wellness franchises, including boutique gyms and specialized studios, engage diverse audiences and promise brand loyalty through membership models. Innovative food and beverage franchises focus on health-conscious options and unique dining experiences, appealing to evolving consumer preferences. Emerging Franchise Opportunities in 2025 As you look ahead to 2025, it’s essential to contemplate the emerging franchise opportunities that align with changing consumer preferences and market demands. Fast-growing franchises in home services, like cleaning and landscaping, are appealing because of low startup costs and consistent demand for reliable providers. Furthermore, the pet services sector is booming, with unique franchises in grooming, boarding, and training capitalizing on increased pet ownership and spending. The education and tutoring sector likewise presents promising loan franchise opportunities, as parents increasingly prioritize their children’s learning. Each of these areas not only reflects current consumer trends but likewise offers a chance for entrepreneurs to invest in sectors poised for growth and sustainability. Fitness and Wellness Franchises The growth in emerging franchise opportunities naturally leads to a focus on fitness and wellness franchises, which are becoming increasingly popular among entrepreneurs. With a heightened consumer focus on health, these franchises often utilize membership-based revenue models that boost brand loyalty. You’ll find opportunities in boutique gyms and personal training studios, allowing you to tap into niche markets with personalized offerings. Franchises like PickleRage illustrate the trend of specialized fitness, engaging communities through activities like pickleball that appeal to diverse demographics. Established business models in this sector simplify operations for new owners, providing a clear roadmap to success. As demand for fitness and wellness services continues to rise, this market represents a promising investment for potential franchisees in California and beyond. Pet Services Franchises The pet services industry is booming, driven by a growing number of pet owners and their increasing demand for quality care options. With franchise support systems that provide training and operational guidance, you can easily establish a successful business in this flourishing market. As pet owners often seek regular services like grooming and daycare, you’ll benefit from customer loyalty and a steady stream of income. Growing Pet Industry Demand With consumer spending on pet care projected to surpass $109.6 billion in 2024, the pet services industry is clearly on an upward trajectory, highlighting a strong demand for related services. The increasing number of pet owners, now about 70% of U.S. households, drives consistent demand for pet services, creating ample opportunities for franchise growth. Here’s a quick overview of potential pet service franchises: Franchise Type Startup Cost Customer Loyalty Pet Grooming Low High Pet Boarding Moderate High Pet Training Low High Mobile Pet Care Low Moderate Pet Supplies Moderate High If you’re considering a new business franchise, ask yourself: What are the questions for franchise opportunities? Franchise Support Systems Steering through the domain of pet services franchises often proves easier when you have strong support systems in place. These franchises typically offer extensive training programs that equip you to handle various business aspects from day one. You’ll also receive ongoing support from franchisors, including marketing assistance and operational guidance, crucial for attracting and keeping customers in this competitive market. Many franchises promote a robust community among owners, nurturing networking opportunities and shared resources that improve your business performance. With established brand recognition, you can build customer trust and loyalty, leading to higher revenue potential. Furthermore, the pet services sector remains resilient to economic fluctuations, providing indispensable services like grooming and training that maintain steady demand year-round. Home Care and Senior Services Franchises As America’s population ages, the demand for home care and senior services franchises is surging, creating a lucrative opportunity for potential franchisees. By 2030, it’s projected that 20% of the U.S. population will be 65 or older, driving the need for services like companionship, personal care, and assistance with daily living activities. These franchises often have lower startup costs than traditional businesses, making them accessible to many aspiring franchisees. You’ll benefit from thorough training and support from franchisors, ensuring you’re well-prepared to meet client needs. Furthermore, the home care industry is set to grow at 7.9% annually through 2025, reflecting a consistent demand for quality senior care services and providing a steady revenue stream. Food and Beverage Franchises When you’re exploring food and beverage franchises, you’ll find a range of trending concepts that cater to modern consumer preferences. Health-conscious options and unique dining experiences are becoming increasingly popular, allowing you to tap into lucrative markets. Trending Food Concepts In today’s dynamic market, food and beverage franchises are thriving owing to a blend of consumer demand and innovative concepts that cater to evolving preferences. You’ll find several trending food concepts gaining traction, making them prime candidates for investment: Fast-casual dining: These franchises focus on quality ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere, appealing to those seeking a better dining experience than traditional fast food. Unique beverage options: Specialty coffee shops and bubble tea stores attract younger customers looking for trendy, Instagrammable choices. Ghost kitchens: These delivery-only concepts minimize overhead costs and allow franchisees to enter the market more easily. With a projected annual growth rate of over 3% through 2025, exploring these concepts could lead to successful business ventures. Health-Conscious Options With consumers increasingly prioritizing health and wellness, the demand for health-conscious food and beverage franchises continues to rise. This sector is witnessing significant growth, with the International Franchise Association projecting a 2.5% growth rate by 2025. Franchises like smoothie bars and salad shops often have lower startup costs and require less space than traditional restaurants, making them accessible to new franchisees. These businesses benefit from strong brand recognition and loyal customers who value nutritious options. Many established health-focused franchises offer thorough training and marketing support, equipping you to thrive in a competitive market. The broadening market now includes plant-based offerings and meal-prep services, aligning perfectly with the growing trend toward healthier lifestyles and sustainable eating habits. Unique Dining Experiences As health-conscious dining options gain popularity, a parallel trend is emerging in the food and beverage franchise industry: unique dining experiences. Consumers are increasingly drawn to novel culinary adventures, and franchises in this sector capitalize on that interest. They often provide strong brand recognition and marketing support, enhancing customer attraction and retention. Here are some key features: Focus on locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Innovative concepts like immersive dining and interactive meal experiences. Extensive training programs in culinary arts, customer service, and operational management. These elements not only cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly options but also create opportunities for franchisees to tap into niche markets. Investing in unique dining experiences can yield substantial returns in today’s competitive market. Education and Tutoring Franchises Education and tutoring franchises present a compelling opportunity for investors looking to enter a steadily growing market. With parents prioritizing their children’s academic success, the demand for these services is on the rise. Many franchises focus on specialized subjects like STEM and test preparation, aligning with current educational trends. Here’s a quick overview of key factors driving this market: Key Factor Description Benefit Steady Demand Increasing focus on academic performance Lucrative investment opportunity Recurring Revenue Students enroll for extended periods Consistent income for franchisees Community Impact Improves local educational outcomes Supports families in academic growth Investing in an education franchise not only generates income but also favorably impacts your community. Innovative Retail and E-Commerce Franchises Investors seeking opportunities in the evolving marketplace should consider the potential of innovative retail and e-commerce franchises. These franchises leverage technology to improve customer experiences, catering to the growing demand for sustainable products and convenient shopping options. Here are key trends to watch: Augmented Reality & AI: Many brands implement these technologies for personalized shopping experiences. Sustainable Products: Emerging franchises focus on eco-friendly offerings, attracting environmentally conscious consumers. Hybrid Shopping Models: Franchises blending in-store and online experiences, like click-and-collect services, provide flexibility. The e-commerce sector is projected to surpass $6.5 trillion in sales by 2023, making it a fertile ground for new retail franchises. Furthermore, subscription models encourage customer loyalty and create recurring revenue opportunities. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Franchise Business to Start? The best franchise business to start often lies in sectors with proven demand, like food and beverage, health and wellness, or home services. These industries typically offer established business models, extensive training, and ongoing support, which can improve your chances of success. Furthermore, consider emerging markets such as pet services or child care, where consumer spending is rising. What Is the 7 Day Rule for Franchise? The 7 Day Rule requires franchisors to provide a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) at least 14 days before you sign any agreements or make payments. This rule aims to protect you by ensuring you have ample time to review critical information, including financial performance and fee structures. With this time, you can seek legal or financial advice, helping you make an informed investment decision and reducing potential disputes or dissatisfaction later on. What Is the Most Profitable Franchise to Own? The most profitable franchise to own often falls within the food and beverage sector, with brands like Dunkin’ and Subway leading the way. These franchises benefit from strong consumer demand and established brand loyalty, resulting in high sales volumes. Furthermore, low startup costs for certain concepts, such as coffee shops, can improve profit potential. Home service franchises, like Mr. Rooter, likewise show resilience, catering to ongoing consumer needs for crucial services. Which Franchise Is Best for Beginners? When considering which franchise is best for beginners, low-cost options are often ideal. Food and beverage franchises, like coffee shops, thrive on consumer demand and established business models. Home services franchises, such as cleaning or landscaping, require minimal startup investment and adapt well to economic changes. Fitness franchises attract health-conscious customers with membership models, whereas educational franchises consistently appeal to parents seeking quality tutoring for their children, ensuring reliable revenue. Conclusion In conclusion, exploring franchise opportunities in 2025 reveals diverse options across various sectors. Fitness and wellness franchises cater to health-conscious consumers, whereas pet services tap into the growing pet ownership trend. Home care and senior services address the needs of an aging population, and education franchises focus on enhancing children’s learning. Furthermore, food and beverage franchises and innovative retail options provide further avenues for entrepreneurial growth. Each sector presents unique advantages worth considering for potential franchisees. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 New Business Franchises to Consider" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The wholesale lender says it agreed to a $660,000 deal last summer for employees seeking overtime pay, an agreement the plaintiffs say never existed. View the full article

In a notable case underscoring the importance of compliance with federal relief programs, Sean Eric Thompson from Pace, Florida, received a four-year prison sentence for a series of fraudulent activities designed to enrich himself at the expense of small businesses seeking relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. This development serves as a crucial reminder for small business owners regarding the ramifications of misusing government assistance programs. Thompson, 44, previously pleaded guilty to an extensive array of charges, including wire fraud, money laundering, and bankruptcy fraud. The charges stemmed from a scheme in which he fraudulently applied for funds through the Small Business Administration’s Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). This fund aimed to provide necessary financial support to establishments like restaurants and bars that suffered losses due to the pandemic. “Pandemic relief funds were created to support businesses in crisis, not enrich individuals like Mr. Thompson,” stated FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. His remarks highlight the accountability that comes with these relief programs, emphasizing the goal of safeguarding taxpayer money meant for those in genuine need. In May 2021, Thompson, a part-owner of a business that operated a brewery and restaurant, submitted fraudulent documentation, claiming his business had incurred COVID-related losses of $1,128,233. The SBA disbursed the full amount declared in his application. However, instead of using these funds to stabilize his business, Thompson diverted over $150,000 to his personal investment account, utilizing taxpayer money for personal expenses. This case not only illustrates the legal repercussions of fraud against government programs but also presents critical learning points for small business owners navigating these avenues. The RRF was designed to address immediate financial shortfalls, yet it is crucial that funds are utilized strictly for the intended purposes, ensuring compliance with all rules set forth by the SBA. Non-compliance, as evidenced by Thompson’s case, can lead to severe repercussions, including fines and imprisonment. In August 2023, Thompson filed for bankruptcy, during which he presented materially false statements, omitting the RRF funds and other assets in his disclosures. His bankruptcy testimony further included false claims, revealing the lengths to which he went to conceal his fraud. The case closed with the submission of falsified financial statements to the bankruptcy trustee. “This defendant tried to rip off the federal government by enriching himself with U.S. taxpayer funds intended to help small businesses struggling during the COVID pandemic,” remarked U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin. His office is dedicated to holding fraudsters accountable, reflecting a broader commitment among federal law enforcement to counteract misuse of pandemic relief programs. For small business owners, this serves as a cautionary tale. Awareness about the strict guidelines surrounding federal funding initiatives is vital. Misrepresenting information, even if unintentional, can lead to investigations, loss of funding, and significant legal troubles. Engaging with the SBA or other agencies for clarity on program eligibility, documentation, and applications can mitigate risks associated with compliance. As awareness grows regarding the oversight of pandemic relief programs, the heightened scrutiny from agencies like the SBA Office of Inspector General is evident. Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Jason Xerri stated, “The SBA Office of Inspector General remains committed to aggressively pursuing individuals who exploited pandemic relief programs for personal gain.” This underscores the government’s intent to protect taxpayer funds and ensure that relief reaches businesses genuinely in need. As the repercussions of fraud unfold, small business owners must remain vigilant. Understanding the significance of accurate reporting and the potential challenges posed by compliance issues can safeguard businesses from legal ramifications. The lessons gleaned from cases like Thompson’s will prove invaluable as businesses continue to engage with federal funding initiatives in the years to come. For further details about this case and ongoing efforts to combat fraud, you can view the original U.S. Department of Justice press release here or the SBA article. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Florida Man Sentenced to Four Years for COVID-19 Relief Fraud" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In a notable case underscoring the importance of compliance with federal relief programs, Sean Eric Thompson from Pace, Florida, received a four-year prison sentence for a series of fraudulent activities designed to enrich himself at the expense of small businesses seeking relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. This development serves as a crucial reminder for small business owners regarding the ramifications of misusing government assistance programs. Thompson, 44, previously pleaded guilty to an extensive array of charges, including wire fraud, money laundering, and bankruptcy fraud. The charges stemmed from a scheme in which he fraudulently applied for funds through the Small Business Administration’s Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). This fund aimed to provide necessary financial support to establishments like restaurants and bars that suffered losses due to the pandemic. “Pandemic relief funds were created to support businesses in crisis, not enrich individuals like Mr. Thompson,” stated FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. His remarks highlight the accountability that comes with these relief programs, emphasizing the goal of safeguarding taxpayer money meant for those in genuine need. In May 2021, Thompson, a part-owner of a business that operated a brewery and restaurant, submitted fraudulent documentation, claiming his business had incurred COVID-related losses of $1,128,233. The SBA disbursed the full amount declared in his application. However, instead of using these funds to stabilize his business, Thompson diverted over $150,000 to his personal investment account, utilizing taxpayer money for personal expenses. This case not only illustrates the legal repercussions of fraud against government programs but also presents critical learning points for small business owners navigating these avenues. The RRF was designed to address immediate financial shortfalls, yet it is crucial that funds are utilized strictly for the intended purposes, ensuring compliance with all rules set forth by the SBA. Non-compliance, as evidenced by Thompson’s case, can lead to severe repercussions, including fines and imprisonment. In August 2023, Thompson filed for bankruptcy, during which he presented materially false statements, omitting the RRF funds and other assets in his disclosures. His bankruptcy testimony further included false claims, revealing the lengths to which he went to conceal his fraud. The case closed with the submission of falsified financial statements to the bankruptcy trustee. “This defendant tried to rip off the federal government by enriching himself with U.S. taxpayer funds intended to help small businesses struggling during the COVID pandemic,” remarked U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin. His office is dedicated to holding fraudsters accountable, reflecting a broader commitment among federal law enforcement to counteract misuse of pandemic relief programs. For small business owners, this serves as a cautionary tale. Awareness about the strict guidelines surrounding federal funding initiatives is vital. Misrepresenting information, even if unintentional, can lead to investigations, loss of funding, and significant legal troubles. Engaging with the SBA or other agencies for clarity on program eligibility, documentation, and applications can mitigate risks associated with compliance. As awareness grows regarding the oversight of pandemic relief programs, the heightened scrutiny from agencies like the SBA Office of Inspector General is evident. Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Jason Xerri stated, “The SBA Office of Inspector General remains committed to aggressively pursuing individuals who exploited pandemic relief programs for personal gain.” This underscores the government’s intent to protect taxpayer funds and ensure that relief reaches businesses genuinely in need. As the repercussions of fraud unfold, small business owners must remain vigilant. Understanding the significance of accurate reporting and the potential challenges posed by compliance issues can safeguard businesses from legal ramifications. The lessons gleaned from cases like Thompson’s will prove invaluable as businesses continue to engage with federal funding initiatives in the years to come. For further details about this case and ongoing efforts to combat fraud, you can view the original U.S. Department of Justice press release here or the SBA article. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Florida Man Sentenced to Four Years for COVID-19 Relief Fraud" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

It’s the Friday open thread! The comment section on this post is open for discussion with other readers on any work-related questions that you want to talk about (that includes school). If you want an answer from me, emailing me is still your best bet*, but this is a chance to take your questions to other readers. * If you submitted a question to me recently, please do not repost it here, as it may be in my queue to answer. The post open thread – March 20, 2026 appeared first on Ask a Manager. 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. Convertible laptops are a versatile and affordable alternative to buying a separate laptop and tablet. They offer touchscreen capability, multiple viewing modes, and greater portability than traditional laptops, which is a perk for commuters. They’re also useful if you want a second screen but don’t want to invest in a full second laptop or desktop. One of the most popular options is the entry-level 14-inch ASUS Chromebook Flip CX1 Convertible Laptop, which is down to a record low of $279.99 (originally $369.99), according to price trackers. Asus Chromebook Flip CX1 2-in-1 $279.99 at Amazon $369.99 Save $90.00 Get Deal Get Deal $279.99 at Amazon $369.99 Save $90.00 It’s one of the most affordable convertible laptops with a 360-degree hinge, a 13-inch touchscreen, and all the essentials for everyday tasks like streaming video, getting work done, multitasking, or serving as a secondary device. That said, it’s not designed for more intensive tasks like design work, competitive gaming, and video editing. It has an Intel Celeron N4500 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of eMMC storage, and lasts up to 11 hours per charge. It can be used in laptop, tent, or tablet mode, adding to its versatility. While it doesn’t have the high-end specs and performance of dedicated computers, this 2-in-1 does come with fingerprint login, a backlit keyboard, dual speakers, and a 1080p webcam. It also has fast-charging USB-C, USB-A, and micro-SD ports, offering more connectivity than many budget Chromebooks. If you’re looking for a model that covers the basics and your priority is versatility and convenience at under $300, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX1 2-in-1 is a strong choice. However, if you need more storage, better brightness and visuals, and a more capable processor, it’s worth stepping up to a slightly more powerful model like the ASUS Chromebook CM14 Flip or the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus, though those upgrades will come with a higher price tag. Our Best Editor-Vetted Amazon Big Spring Sale Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $148.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Sony WH1000XM6- Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $398.00 (List Price $459.99) Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $299.00 (List Price $399.00) Blink Video Doorbell Wireless (Newest Model) + Sync Module Core — $35.99 (List Price $69.99) Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (White) — $39.99 (List Price $59.99) Fire TV Stick 4K Max Streaming Player With Remote — $34.99 (List Price $59.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

AI won’t make SEO obsolete, but it’ll change how the work gets done. There’s a growing concern that as AI systems improve, they’ll replace the need for human SEO analysis entirely. Early experiments suggest otherwise. While AI can assist with technical tasks and even generate usable outputs, it still depends heavily on detailed human input, structured data, and technical oversight to produce meaningful results. The real shift is toward redistribution. AI is accelerating parts of the workflow, raising the bar for execution, and changing where human expertise matters most. Why AI hasn’t made SEO obsolete AI aims to reduce the need for semi-technical expertise. Where data is highly structured (e.g., coding a Python script), it has an advantage. Even then, human expertise is still required. AI can generate scripts, but without detailed instructions and debugging, the output is often unusable. Generative AI can produce working functions with strong prompts, but it still “thinks” like a machine. That’s why technical practitioners are best positioned to get the most from it. Technical knowledge is also required for AI-assisted SEO tasks like generating product descriptions or alt text at scale. Even with tools like OpenAI’s API, you still need to transform and structure data into rich, usable prompts — for example, turning Product Information Management data into prompt-ready inputs. AI depends on human instructions, and output quality reflects input quality. Thinking in structured terms — IDs, classes, and distinct entities — is key to getting reliable results. It’s what makes the output usable. That makes prompt creation a critical skill. Employers should factor in technical expertise when using AI to drive efficiency. However, don’t celebrate too soon. As AI evolves and absorbs more information, this advantage may be temporary. For now, AI still depends on human expertise to function — which is why SEO isn’t obsolete. Your customers search everywhere. Make sure your brand shows up. The SEO toolkit you know, plus the AI visibility data you need. Start Free Trial Get started with Where AI struggles without human input Data is both AI’s strength and weakness. Early generative AI models relied on curated data within their LLMs. OpenAI’s models couldn’t perform web searches up to and including GPT-4. After GPT-4, AI systems began relying less on internal data and more on web searches for fresh information. Because the web isn’t curated and contains a lot of misinformation, this initially represented a step backward for most AI tools, including ChatGPT and Gemini. This shift also mirrors how traditional algorithms rely on raw information. This raises a key question: Is more information always better for AI? The open web contains both empirical data and subjective opinion, and AI often can’t distinguish between the two. Giving it access to uncurated data has arguably caused more errors and issues in its outputs. Finding the right balance of data remains a challenge. How much data helps or harms performance, and how much curation is needed? While developers continue refining LLMs and connected systems, users still need to load up prompts with as much detail as possible to offset how AI sources and evaluates information. These limitations highlight a core issue: without structured input and human judgment, AI struggles to produce reliable SEO insights. Dig deeper: 6 guiding principles to leverage AI for SEO content production Why full SEO automation is harder than it sounds Basic AI tools can assist with SEO tasks, but full automation is far more complex than it sounds. That said, AI platforms and technologies are evolving rapidly. The first wave of this evolution came as organizations began producing AI agent platforms like Make, N8N, and MindStudio. These platforms provide a canvas for automating workflows, combining inputs, outputs, and AI-driven decision-making. Used well, they can turn from-scratch content creation into structured editorial processes, with efficiency gains that can be significant. However, applying this to real-world SEO work is where complexity sets in. A full technical SEO audit pulls from multiple data sources and environments — crawl data, browser-level diagnostics, and desktop tools. While parts can be automated, stitching everything together into a reliable, end-to-end workflow is difficult and often requires custom infrastructure, API work, and ongoing maintenance. Even with platforms like N8N, full end-to-end automation of complex SEO tasks remains challenging. Simpler, checklist-style audits can be automated, but deeper, more technical work often needs to be simplified to fit automation — which isn’t advisable. In practice, fully automating SEO at depth requires tradeoffs — which is why human expertise is still critical. Dig deeper: AI agents in SEO: A practical workflow walkthrough Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. See terms. AI tools are advancing — but not replacing SEOs More recently, there’s been a wave of local AI applications that let you create your own “brain” on a laptop or desktop. These tools are often code editors with support for popular AI models, along with local structures for saving reusable skills, similar to Claude Projects or ChatGPT Custom GPTs. Tools like Cursor and Claude Code allow you to connect models, generate code, and automate parts of workflows through prompts. It’s possible to use these technologies to vibecode a system that automates a technical SEO audit. I attempted this. While the capability exists, building a system that matches the depth and quality of a manual audit could take months, especially when handling large volumes of data. Initial issues included memory limitations, where AI struggled to retain both the data and its detailed instructions. In some cases, outputs were also misweighted — for example, flagging missing H1s as critical despite finding no instances. These issues could be resolved over time, but they highlight that these tools aren’t automatic shortcuts. Making effective use of them still requires technical expertise, time, testing, and troubleshooting. They lower the barrier to building AI-driven systems, but they don’t eliminate the need for technical expertise. They simply shift the work. What would need to change for SEO to become obsolete For SEO to become obsolete, AI would need to operate independently, reliably, and at scale — without human correction. Generative AI can only act with human input, and it struggles to differentiate between fact and fiction. Some algorithms have reached their limits in terms of commercial viability. This is arguably why Google is trying to convince us that links are redundant before they truly are. Consider AI as an evolution of algorithmic output. These systems can attempt to make analytical determinations based on input data. However, the idea that feeding AI more and more data is an unrestricted path to success is already running into significant limitations. This doesn’t mean technical analysts are entirely safe. Humanity’s ambition for faster, more efficient insights will continue. Initially, AI will be seen as the solution to everything. If one AI falls short, another can critique its results. However, AI requires significant processing power. The real challenge will be finding the balance between AI and simpler algorithms. Algorithms should handle basic tasks, while AI should be used for analysis and insights. This balance between AI and algorithmic efficiency is still years — perhaps decades — away. Only then will AI truly test SEO professionals and create the potential for redundancies. AI’s learning is hindered by the web’s misinformation, providing SEO professionals with temporary insulation. This advantage won’t last forever, but it offers a valuable head start. Dig deeper: How AI will affect the future of search AI adoption won’t make SEO obsolete overnight There are also limitations tied to how society adopts AI. Many technological innovations — like the internet and the calculator — were initially considered “cheating.” Calculators were banned from exam rooms, and the internet was seen as a shortcut compared to traditional research. Yet those perceptions didn’t last. Most technologies, despite rapid advancement, aren’t adopted quickly due to cost and social factors. We value human perspective and often resist tools that threaten how we think or work. The main barrier to AI replacing us is how we perceive it. As long as it’s seen as a threat to our ability to provide, it won’t fully replace human roles. That perception, however, will change over time. As these technologies become normalized, adoption will follow. Governments will adapt, and expectations around human creativity will continue to evolve. Algorithms and Google didn’t end human interaction on the web, and AI won’t eliminate contributions from people. In the medium to long term, adaptation is inevitable. See the complete picture of your search visibility. Track, optimize, and win in Google and AI search from one platform. Start Free Trial Get started with SEO and AI: Technical expertise still matters AI integration with SEO: Contrary to fears, AI won’t make SEO obsolete. Instead, it will reshape how SEO is practiced. AI can automate routine tasks like generating product descriptions and alt text, but its effectiveness still depends on precise, technically sound input. Importance of technical expertise: The ability to craft detailed, technically sound prompts is becoming more valuable. This ensures AI tools are used effectively and reinforces the role of experienced SEO professionals. Data sensitivity in AI performance: AI performance varies significantly depending on the data it processes. Systems using curated datasets behave differently from those relying on open web data. This highlights the importance of data strategy and structured oversight. Evolving roles in SEO: As AI advances, SEO roles are shifting. Professionals are more likely to focus on managing AI systems and refining outputs rather than being replaced by them. Societal acceptance and adaptation: Widespread adoption of AI in SEO depends on how quickly society embraces these tools. As normalization and regulation evolve, so will the role of SEO professionals. Future outlook: Despite AI’s capabilities, the creative, strategic, and complex aspects of SEO still require human insight. The future of SEO is a collaboration between human expertise and machine efficiency. Dig deeper: How to start an SEO program from scratch in the AI age View the full article

On the one hand, the fact that Walmart passed $1 trillion in market cap is notable, but not especially surprising. The company has long been the largest company in the world, measured by revenue. Almost everyone is familiar with the small five-and-dime store that started in one of the most rural towns in America and grew up to become the biggest retailer in the world. On paper, this looks like just another milestone in a 64-year-old success story. But a closer look at how Walmart just hit a market cap reserved almost exclusively for tech giants reveals how the company has changed, even in just the past three years. For the past six decades, Walmart was the king of bricks and mortar. No one would think of it as the underdog, but as more and more shopping moved online, the company faced intense pressure, especially from Amazon. And so, over the past few years, Walmart rebuilt itself into something that looks a lot more like a tech company. It even moved its stock to the Nasdaq, listed next to Apple, Nvidia, Meta, and—of course—Amazon. Here are the three most significant things that led to Walmart’s transformation into a $1 trillion giant: The most tangible part is actually something most people won’t ever see—at least, not directly. In late 2024, Walmart used its AI to overhaul 850 million lines of product data. This is pretty boring stuff—granular details like dimensions, descriptions, and specifications, for nearly every item it sells. In the past, that kind of cleanup would have required 100 times the head count and a decade of manual entry. By doing it with code, Walmart built a foundation in which search results actually match customer intent. It’s the difference between guessing what you’re looking for and using technology to give you exactly what you want. The second part of this story is about where the money was actually coming from. Retailers typically live on a 3 percent margin, while tech companies typically expect much more. To get to a $1 trillion market cap, Walmart had to find a way to make more than a few cents on a gallon of milk. They found it in Walmart Connect, the company’s advertising arm. Over the past three years, this has grown into a high-margin business that looks a lot more like something from Amazon, Google, or Meta. In late 2025, ad sales jumped 53 percent. That’s significant, considering that advertising has margins in the 70 to 80 percent range. And, because 90 percent of Americans live within 10 miles of a Walmart, the company has a “closed-loop” data set. They know what you see on your Vizio TV at home and what you actually put in your cart an hour later. That has turned advertising and Walmart+ membership into roughly one-third of Walmart’s operating income. Finally, the most Amazonian move Walmart made was realizing its 4,700 stores weren’t just places people go to shop, but also conveniently located fulfillment centers. By automating warehouse tasks and investing in AI-driven logistics, Walmart can now offer same-day delivery to 95 percent of U.S. households. The company’s e-commerce push finally became a standalone profitable unit in 2025. By keeping its global workforce steady at 2.1 million while revenue soared, Walmart proved it could scale its business without just adding more stores or employees. This shift became real when Walmart moved its stock from the NYSE to the Nasdaq in December. It was Walmart’s way of telling the market: Value us as a technology-focused growth company, not a grocery chain. It took Sam Walton six decades to build the physical network. But it was a three-year sprint into AI and advertising that turned that network into a trillion-dollar asset. The stores are still there, but the business model underneath them has completely changed. —Jason Aten This article originally appeared on Fast Company’s sister website, Inc.com. Inc. is the voice of the American entrepreneur. We inspire, inform, and document the most fascinating people in business: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters that represent the most dynamic force in the American economy. View the full article

An inflationary energy shock has drained optimism over UK rate cuts and hammered popular hedge fund tradesView the full article

AI bots could outnumber humans on the web by 2027, according to Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince, as agent-driven browsing explodes alongside generative AI adoption. Prince made the prediction at SXSW, warning that bots are already reshaping how the internet is used — and how it’s monetized. Why we care. Search is shifting from human clicks to AI-generated answers. If bots become the web’s primary “users,” you’ll need to reshape your strategy to ensure AI systems can access, trust, and use your content. The details. Prince said AI agents generate far more web activity than humans because they gather information differently. A person shopping might visit five sites. An AI agent could hit thousands. “If a human were doing a task… you might go to five websites. Your agent… will often go to a thousand times the number of sites.” “So it might go to 5,000 sites. And that’s real traffic, and that’s real load.” He also noted the web’s baseline is shifting fast. “For a long time, the internet was about 20% bot traffic.” “We suspect that in 2027 the amount of bot traffic online will exceed the amount of human traffic.” Prince said this growth isn’t spiking like COVID-era traffic. It’s rising steadily with no end in sight. Between the lines. Prince compared AI to past shifts like mobile and social. The difference: users may no longer visit websites directly. Instead, they rely on AI interfaces that aggregate and answer. “The business model of the internet was… create content, drive traffic, and then sell things… That was the business model.” “That breaks down because… bots don’t click on ads.” “Customers are trusting the output from the helpful robot. They’re not clicking through the footnotes.” AI sandboxes. AI agents also change how computing works behind the scenes. Prince described a future where “sandboxes” — temporary environments for AI agents — spin up and shut down instantly, potentially millions of times per second. “You can… as easily as you open a new tab in your browser… spin up new code which can then run and service the agents.” “We think that there will be literally millions of times a second these sort of sandboxes… being created… and then torn back down.” The result: sustained pressure on internet infrastructure. “We’re seeing internet traffic grow and grow and grow. And we don’t see anything that’s going to slow it down or stop it.” The business impact. Companies are already split on how to respond to AI agents. Prince pointed to diverging strategies across major retailers. “There are three radically different strategies about how they are going to interact with the bots.” At the core is a bigger risk: losing the customer relationship. “The nature of bots is going to be that it disintermediates the relationship between you and your customer.” “Agents… don’t care about brand.” For publishers. Prince argued AI could both hurt and help media. While AI reduces direct traffic and breaks ad-based models, AI companies need unique, original data — especially local and hard-to-replicate information — and may pay for it. “Traffic has always been a really bad proxy for value.” “What they actually want is… unique local interesting information they can’t get elsewhere.” He pointed to local media as an example. “If you don’t have the Park Record, then you don’t get that information.” “We may make more off licensing our content to AI companies than we do off digital advertising.” For small businesses. Prince was more blunt. AI agents optimize for price, quality and efficiency — not brand loyalty or proximity. “My bot doesn’t care.” “My bot is going to figure out actually who is the best… and route that traffic.” That could erode traditional advantages. “The shortcuts of trust that small business had in the past… are going to be much more difficult.” “The natural tendency of AI is towards that level of aggregation.” What to watch. The next phase of the web will hinge on control and compensation. Prince said: “There has to be some exchange of value.” “We’ve got to figure out… what’s going to pay for it.” Prince said the core question is still unresolved: “What is the future business model of the internet?… I don’t know what it’s going to be, but it’s going to change.” The SXSW interview. The Internet After Search View the full article

Nearly 90,000 bottles of children’s ibuprofen have been recalled across the United States, according to an enforcement report this week from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Strides Pharma Inc. has recalled 89,952 bottles of Children’s Ibuprofen Oral Suspension following customer complaints of a “gel-like mass and black particles” in the medicine. The India-based company had manufactured the ibuprofen for Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc. based in Hawthorne, New York. The recall comes from Strides Pharma’s Bridgewater, New Jersey, subsidiary. Strides Pharma initiated the recall on March 2, with the FDA labeling it a Class II recall on Monday, March 16. A Class II indicates a situation in which use or exposure to the product could cause “temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences” with a very small possibility of serious adverse health consequences. Wondering if your medicine is impacted? Here’s all the information we have on the ibuprofen recall. What products are affected? The impacted medication is Children’s Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, USP, 100 mg per 5mL, in 4 FL OZ (120 mL) bottles. Two lots are included in the recall: 7261973A: Best by January 31, 2027 7261974A: Best by January 31, 2027 Where and when was the product sold? Right now, all we know is that the children’s ibuprofen bottles were distributed nationwide. The FDA report states that a letter was sent out to the public, but there’s no press release and specific details about how individuals were notified are not included in the report. Media outlets only began reporting on the recall this week—despite that March 2 start date. Fast Company reached out to Strides Pharma and Taro Pharmaceuticals for more information and will update this story if we hear back. What should I do if I have this product? Do not use any recalled ibuprofen if you have it. There’s no information yet about the potential for a refund or other next steps. This story is developing… View the full article

The dangerous heat wave shattering March records all over the U.S. Southwest is more than just another extreme weather blip. It’s the latest next-level weather wildness that is occurring ever more frequently as Earth’s warming builds. Experts said unprecedented and deadly weather extremes that sometimes strike at abnormal times and in unusual places are putting more people in danger. For example, the Southwest is used to coping with deadly heat, but not months ahead of schedule, including a 110-degree Fahrenheit (43.3 Celsius) reading in the Arizona desert on Thursday that smashed the highest March temperature recorded in the U.S. On Thursday, sites in Arizona and southern California had preliminary readings of 109 F (about 43 C), which would be the hottest March day on record for the United States. “This is what climate change looks like in real time: extremes pushing beyond the bounds we once thought possible,” said University of Victoria climate scientist Andrew Weaver. “What used to be unprecedented events are now recurring features of a warming world.” March’s heat would have been virtually impossible without human-caused climate change, according to a report Friday by World Weather Attribution, an international group of scientists who study the causes of extreme weather events. More than a dozen scientists, meteorologists and disaster experts queried by The Associated Press put the March heat wave in a kind of ultra-extreme classification with such events as the 2021 Pacific Northwest heat wave, the 2022 Pakistan floods and killer hurricanes Helene, Harvey and Sandy. The area of the U.S. being hit by extreme weather in the past five years has doubled from 20 years ago, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Extremes Index, which includes various types of wild weather, such as heat and cold waves, downpours and drought. The United States is breaking 77% more hot weather records now than in the 1970s and 19% more than the 2010s, according to an AP analysis of NOAA records. In the United States, the number and average cost of inflation-adjusted billion-dollar weather disasters in the last couple years is twice as high as just 10 years ago and nearly four times higher than 30 years ago, according to records kept by NOAA and Climate Central, a nonprofit group of scientists and communicators who research and report on climate change. Trying to keep up with extremes and failing “It’s really hard to even keep up with how extreme our extremes are becoming,” said Climate Central Chief Meteorologist Bernadette Woods Placky. “It’s changing our risk, it’s change our relationship with weather, it’s putting more people in risky situations and at times we’re not used to. So yes, we are pushing extremes to new levels across all different types of weather.” For government officials who have to deal with disaster it’s been a huge problem. Craig Fugate, who directed the Federal Emergency Management Agency until 2017, said he saw extremes increasing. “We were operating outside the historical playbook more and more. Flood maps, surge models, heat records — events kept showing up outside the envelope we built systems around. That’s just what we saw,” Fugate said via email. He added: “We built communities on about 100 years of past weather and assumed that was a good guide going forward. That assumption is starting to break. And the clearest signal isn’t the science debate. It’s insurers walking away.” ‘Virtually impossible’ without climate change Climate scientists at World Weather Attribution did a flash analysis — which is not peer-reviewed yet — of whether climate change was a factor in this Southwest heat wave. They compared this week’s expected temperatures to what’s been observed in the area in March since 1900 and computer models of a world with climate change. They found that “events as warm as in March 2026 would have been virtually impossible without human-induced climate change.” That warming, from the burning of coal, oil and natural gas, added between 4.7 degrees to 7.2 degrees F (2.6 to 4 degrees C) to the temperatures being felt, the report found. “What we can very confidently say is that human-caused warming has increased the temperatures that we’re seeing as a result of this heat dome, and it’s going to be pushing those temperatures from what would have been very uncomfortable into potentially dangerous,” said report co-author Clair Barnes, an Imperial College of London attribution scientist. Examples abound of high heat and extreme weather The Southwest heat wave is solidly in the category of “giant events,” with temperatures up to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (16.7 degrees Celsius) above normal, said Stanford University climate scientist Chris Field. He listed five others in the last six years: a 2020 Siberia heat wave, the 2021 Pacific Northwest heat wave that had British Columbia warmer than Death Valley, the summer of 2022 in North America, China and Europe, a 2023 western Mediterranean heat wave and a 2023 South Asian heat wave with high humidity. And that doesn’t include the East Antarctica heat wave of 2022 when temperatures were 81 degrees (45 degrees Celsius) warmer than normal. That’s the biggest anomaly recorded, said weather historian Chris Burt, author of the book “Extreme Weather.” Worsening wild weather influenced by climate change isn’t just superhot days, but includes deadly hurricanes, droughts and downpours, scientists told AP. Devastating floods hit West Africa in 2022 and again in 2024. Iran is in the midst of a six-year drought. And the deadly Typhoon Haiyan hitting the Philippines in 2013 shocked the world. Superstorm Sandy, which in 2012 flooded New York City and neighbors, had tropical storm-force winds that covered an area nearly one-fifth the area of the contiguous United States. It spawned 12-foot seas over 1.4 million square miles, about half the size of the U.S., with energy equivalent to five Hiroshima-sized atomic bombs, said Yale Climate Connections meteorologist Jeff Masters. And don’t forget wildfires that are worsened by heat and drought, so recent extremes should include 2025’s Palisades and Eaton wildfires, which were the costliest weather disaster in the United States last year, said Climate Central meteorologist and economist Adam Smith. “This is due to climate change, that we see more extreme events, and more intense ones and have so many records being broken,” said Friederike Otto, an Imperial College of London climate scientist who coordinates World Weather Attribution. The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. —Seth Borenstein, AP Science Writer View the full article

Fans of the Bachelor franchise are accustomed to hearing that the upcoming season will be the most “shocking” one ever. But this time, it’s the events leading up to the season that have been hard to believe. In fact, the life of season 22’s Bachelorette became so controversial, the latest season won’t even make it on air. On Thursday, just days before the newest season of The Bachelorette, starring Taylor Frankie Paul, star of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, was scheduled to premiere, ABC pulled the plug. The shocking news came shortly after TMZ published a video from 2023 which showed Paul kicking, hitting, and throwing chairs at her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen. “In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of The Bachelorette at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family,” a Disney Entertainment Television spokesperson said in a statement. Investigation was already underway While the video of Paul was troubling, it wasn’t the first hint of controversy to surface before the latest season of ABC’s hit reality dating show. It comes after reports that the filming of Mormon Wives was paused amid an ongoing domestic violence investigation into Paul and Mortensen. Days ago, a spokesperson for the Draper police confirmed to People the “domestic assault investigation” involving the two is active and said “allegations have been made in both directions.” A spokesperson for Paul told NBC News in a statement that Paul is “very grateful for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety and security.” The statement continued, “After years of silently suffering extensive mental and physical abuse as well as threats of retaliation, Taylor is finally gaining the strength to face her accuser and taking steps to ensure that she and her children are protected from any further harm.” The statement also noted that Paul is preparing to share her story with the world. Paul was previously arrested in 2023 for alleged domestic violence and pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault. A franchise with ongoing controversy As for the Bachelor franchise, it’s far from the only controversy in recent years. Last year, after ABC opted out of filming a new season of The Bachelorette season altogether. The decision came as two of the franchise’s executive producers exited amid allegations of a “toxic workplace.” The franchise has been accused of a long history of racist practices, most visibly, a lack of diversity. The network let go of long-time host Chris Harrison in 2021 after a controversial conversation with Rachel Lindsay, the first Black Bachelorette. Zooming out, the abrupt cancellation underscores how fragile even one of TV’s most durable reality franchises has become. Once built on fairy-tale endings and predictable drama, The Bachelor universe is now grappling with a steady drumbeat of off-screen controversies that are increasingly impossible to separate from what airs on screen. View the full article

David Solomon’s comments in annual shareholder letter underscore Wall Street’s wariness around non-bank lendingView the full article

Too many potential clients, not enough staff or capacity. Gear Up for Growth With Jean Caragher For CPA Trendlines Go PRO for members-only access to more Jean Marie Caragher. View the full article

Too many potential clients, not enough staff or capacity. Gear Up for Growth With Jean Caragher For CPA Trendlines Go PRO for members-only access to more Jean Marie Caragher. View the full article