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PayPal and BigCommerce are stepping up their partnership to introduce an embedded payment processing service specifically designed for small businesses. Set to launch in the United States in 2026, BigCommerce Payments powered by PayPal promises a streamlined merchant experience with key features that address the ever-evolving landscape of ecommerce. Travis Hess, CEO at Commerce, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “BigCommerce Payments represents a major step forward in creating a seamless and simplified intelligent commerce experience for Commerce merchants.” With this new offering, small businesses can access advanced payment capabilities, simplified account management, and the highly popular buy now, pay later (BNPL) option via PayPal’s Pay Later program—all seamlessly integrated into the BigCommerce Control Panel. One of the standout features of this new payment solution lies in its ability to keep small business owners in control. By embedding payment options directly into their existing platform, merchants can avoid the hassle of switching between multiple systems. This integration culminates in a dedicated “Money” dashboard, where business owners can monitor and manage their payment activities. Essential functionalities include real-time balance insights, top-ups and payouts, currency management, and bank and card connections. Michelle Gill, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Small Business & Financial Services at PayPal, remarked, “Together with Commerce, we’re not just addressing the needs of today’s merchants; we’re empowering them to seize the future with confidence and agility.” This sentiment resonates particularly well with small business owners who are increasingly faced with the need for agile solutions that can adapt to market demands. The introduction of this co-branded solution not only streamlines the payment experience but also allows for greater transparency. While the new service will be implemented through BigCommerce, the merchant’s payment relationship will remain directly with PayPal. This ensures that small business owners still have access to PayPal’s trusted reliability, security, and global reach. However, small business owners should consider potential challenges as they look forward to this new offering. Transitioning to BigCommerce Payments from other existing solutions may require adaptation and some initial learning curves. Existing merchants using PayPal’s Complete Payments solution will have the option for a seamless transition, but businesses relying on different payment systems may face hurdles in migration. Furthermore, while the embedded nature of BigCommerce Payments aims to simplify the payment process, it also raises questions about dependency. Relying primarily on one platform for payment processing could limit flexibility in exploring alternative payment solutions in the future. The launch in 2026 promises to impact a considerable number of small businesses operating through BigCommerce, which is widely known for its user-friendly platform. As online shopping continues to rise, these payment enhancements are likely to empower small business owners by giving them tools to better manage transactions and customer interactions. As ecommerce develops, solutions like BigCommerce Payments could very well become essential for small businesses striving to remain competitive. By enabling easier management of financial operations within a single interface, this new software not only seeks to simplify business processes but also enables merchants to focus on what truly matters: growing their businesses. For more details on the announcement, visit the original press release here. By combining the strengths of PayPal and BigCommerce, this collaboration aims to reshape the way small businesses approach payment processing, making it more intuitive and efficient. Ultimately, as small business owners assess their operational needs, solutions like BigCommerce Payments will be worth considering for a more resilient and empowered future. Image via Envanto This article, "PayPal and BigCommerce Set to Launch Embedded Payments in 2026" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

PayPal and BigCommerce are stepping up their partnership to introduce an embedded payment processing service specifically designed for small businesses. Set to launch in the United States in 2026, BigCommerce Payments powered by PayPal promises a streamlined merchant experience with key features that address the ever-evolving landscape of ecommerce. Travis Hess, CEO at Commerce, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “BigCommerce Payments represents a major step forward in creating a seamless and simplified intelligent commerce experience for Commerce merchants.” With this new offering, small businesses can access advanced payment capabilities, simplified account management, and the highly popular buy now, pay later (BNPL) option via PayPal’s Pay Later program—all seamlessly integrated into the BigCommerce Control Panel. One of the standout features of this new payment solution lies in its ability to keep small business owners in control. By embedding payment options directly into their existing platform, merchants can avoid the hassle of switching between multiple systems. This integration culminates in a dedicated “Money” dashboard, where business owners can monitor and manage their payment activities. Essential functionalities include real-time balance insights, top-ups and payouts, currency management, and bank and card connections. Michelle Gill, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Small Business & Financial Services at PayPal, remarked, “Together with Commerce, we’re not just addressing the needs of today’s merchants; we’re empowering them to seize the future with confidence and agility.” This sentiment resonates particularly well with small business owners who are increasingly faced with the need for agile solutions that can adapt to market demands. The introduction of this co-branded solution not only streamlines the payment experience but also allows for greater transparency. While the new service will be implemented through BigCommerce, the merchant’s payment relationship will remain directly with PayPal. This ensures that small business owners still have access to PayPal’s trusted reliability, security, and global reach. However, small business owners should consider potential challenges as they look forward to this new offering. Transitioning to BigCommerce Payments from other existing solutions may require adaptation and some initial learning curves. Existing merchants using PayPal’s Complete Payments solution will have the option for a seamless transition, but businesses relying on different payment systems may face hurdles in migration. Furthermore, while the embedded nature of BigCommerce Payments aims to simplify the payment process, it also raises questions about dependency. Relying primarily on one platform for payment processing could limit flexibility in exploring alternative payment solutions in the future. The launch in 2026 promises to impact a considerable number of small businesses operating through BigCommerce, which is widely known for its user-friendly platform. As online shopping continues to rise, these payment enhancements are likely to empower small business owners by giving them tools to better manage transactions and customer interactions. As ecommerce develops, solutions like BigCommerce Payments could very well become essential for small businesses striving to remain competitive. By enabling easier management of financial operations within a single interface, this new software not only seeks to simplify business processes but also enables merchants to focus on what truly matters: growing their businesses. For more details on the announcement, visit the original press release here. By combining the strengths of PayPal and BigCommerce, this collaboration aims to reshape the way small businesses approach payment processing, making it more intuitive and efficient. Ultimately, as small business owners assess their operational needs, solutions like BigCommerce Payments will be worth considering for a more resilient and empowered future. Image via Envanto This article, "PayPal and BigCommerce Set to Launch Embedded Payments in 2026" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

U.S. stocks are rising toward more records on Wednesday as Wall Street waits to hear from the Federal Reserve in the afternoon about what it will do with interest rates. The S&P 500 added 0.3% in morning trading. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 231 points, or 0.5%, as of 10:15 a.m. Eastern time, and the Nasdaq composite was 0.6% higher. All three indexes are coming off their latest all-time high. The bond market was also relatively steady as the countdown ticked to the announcement from the Fed. The widespread expectation is that it will announce the second cut of the year to its main interest rate in hopes of helping the slowing job market. More important will be whether the Fed gives hints about another cut to rates in December and beyond. Wall Street is banking on it. In the meantime, the deluge continues of big U.S. companies reporting how much profit they made during the summer. The pressure is on to deliver growth because that’s one way they can quiet criticism that their stock prices have shot too high in recent months. Caterpillar rallied 12% after reporting stronger profit and revenue for the latest quarter than analysts expected. CEO Joe Creed said Caterpillar saw resilient demand, as customers bought more equipment, even with a “dynamic environment.” Teradyne soared 14.6% after the company, which makes automated test equipment and advanced robotics systems, likewise reported a stronger profit than analysts expected. CEO Greg Smith credited strength related to artificial-intelligence applications and said “AI-related test demand remains robust.” Nvidia, meanwhile, was the strongest force lifting the S&P 500 after rallying 4.4%. It became the first company valued at $5 trillion on Wall Street, just three months after the AI darling was the first to break through the $4 trillion barrier. They helped offset a 42.6% plunge for Fiserv. The payments and financial technology company reported weaker profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected, slashed its profit forecast for the year and revamped its board of directors and leadership team. The stock is heading toward its worst day since it began trading in 1986. Mondelez International fell 2.8%, even though it reported stronger results than analysts expected. The company, whose brands include Oreo cookies and Toblerone chocolate, has been dealing with record-high inflation for the cost of cocoa. It expects challenging conditions to continue in some markets, though it hopes that price increases are moderating for cocoa. In stock markets abroad, indexes were mixed in Europe following a stronger finish in Asia. Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 jumped 2.2% to another record. Seoul’s Kospi rose 1.8% to its own all-time high after President Donald The President met with South Korea’s leader following his visit in Japan. Stocks rose 0.7% in Shanghai ahead of a meeting between The President and China’s leader, Xi Jinping. The world’s two largest economies have been locked in an escalating trade war, with Washington imposing high tariffs and tightened technology controls and China retaliating with curbs on rare earth shipments, one of its key sources of leverage. In the bond market, the yield on the 10-year Treasury was holding at 3.99%, where it was late Tuesday. It’s been coming down from nearly 4.80% early this year, a notable move for the bond market, as expectations have climbed for several cuts to rates by the Federal Reserve. But the Fed has also warned that it may have to halt the cuts if inflation accelerates beyond its still-high level, because lower rates can worsen inflation. Making an already tough course for Fed officials more difficult is the U.S. government’s shutdown. That has delayed important updates on the economy that would normally help guide the Fed’s decision-making process. —Stan Choe, AP business writer AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed. View the full article

Six questions to ask. By August Aquila MAX: Maximize Productivity, Profitability and Client Retention Go PRO for members-only access to more August J. Aquila. View the full article

Six questions to ask. By August Aquila MAX: Maximize Productivity, Profitability and Client Retention Go PRO for members-only access to more August J. Aquila. View the full article

Microsoft Project Online Professional was a cloud-based project management solution that allowed teams to plan, track and deliver projects through online collaboration. As part of the Microsoft Project suite, it offered tools for scheduling, resource management and portfolio tracking across multiple initiatives. As of October 1, 2025, new users will not be able to sign up, with the software being retired on September 30, 2026. Project Online Professional integrated with Microsoft 365 applications and SharePoint, enabling users to manage projects from anywhere. Though widely used for enterprise project management, Microsoft has retired this product in favor of newer solutions. What Is Project Online Professional? Project Online Professional was an advanced project management solution created for detailed project planning, scheduling and resource management. As part of the Microsoft Project suite, Microsoft Project Online Professional served as a professional cloud-based project management tool rather than a simple task tracker because of its extensive scheduling and reporting capabilities. The platform included Gantt charts, task lists, calendars and resource allocation tools. It integrated with Microsoft 365 and SharePoint, though it required additional setup and training to use effectively. While Project Online Professional was a reliable enterprise project management platform with Gantt charts, resource planning and critical path analysis, it lacked the modern collaboration and real-time capabilities found in newer tools. It didn’t provide interactive kanban boards for visual task management, live dashboards for portfolio tracking or intuitive mobile access for quick updates. ProjectManager bridged these gaps with cloud-based project management, real-time dashboards and team collaboration tools that enhanced visibility and efficiency across organizations. /wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ms-project-pm-integration.pngLearn more There are lots of project management software tools to choose from. Microsoft Project Online Professional is just one, and if you’re already a customer, you’ll need to find another one in the coming year. ProjectManager is a good choice as it will import, edit and share your MS Project files, something that Planner, which is replacing it, can’t do. But we don’t expect you to sign up on our word alone. Read on and see what features are available, how they can help manage projects big and small, and then make an educated decision. We’re sure you’ll come to see that our software is the best Microsoft Project alternative on the market. Project Online Professional Pricing Plans Microsoft Project Online Professional was a subscription-based cloud application that cost $30 per user, per month. It was designed for project managers and organizations that required advanced project management capabilities, collaboration features and integration with Microsoft 365 applications. The platform connected seamlessly with Project Online and Project Server to support enterprise-level portfolio management, reporting and resource tracking across distributed teams. Project Online Professional included features such as automated scheduling, pre-built templates, timesheets, resource management and built-in reports. It allowed users to plan projects with Gantt charts, assign resources and track performance using detailed analytics. However, its setup process could be complex, requiring SharePoint configuration and administrative oversight for permissions and access. The licensing model also tied users to Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem, limiting flexibility for teams using other tools or workflows. While Project Online Professional offered enterprise-grade project management tools, it lacked the real-time collaboration and simplicity that modern teams needed. ProjectManager provides an easier, more agile alternative. It offers multiple project views, including Gantt, board, calendar, list and sheet, with live dashboards and AI-powered reporting. Teams can balance workloads, track time and manage costs without switching apps. Plus, it imports Microsoft Project files directly for a seamless transition. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Gantt-CTA-2025.jpgLearn more Of course, there are more alternatives to Microsoft Project Online Professional on the market. While teams that got in before the tool stopped accepting new users might find the tool adequate, they’re going to have to find something new sooner than later. ProjectManager is the best choice for those who used Project Online Professional for several reasons, no less that we can import your old files and Microsoft Planner, which is replacing its project management software, can’t. But before making a decision, let’s look at the facts. Project Online Professional Views Project Online Professional was the full-featured cloud-connected desktop application for Microsoft Project Online. It provided a complete set of scheduling and management views for project managers who needed to plan, track and report on multiple projects within an enterprise environment. Unlike Project Online Essentials, which was limited to browser-based collaboration, Project Online Professional combined the power of the desktop client with web synchronization through Project Web App (PWA). The following list highlights the main views that were available in Project Online Professional: Gantt Chart View: Displayed project tasks, dependencies, and timelines with advanced formatting and critical-path highlighting. Task Sheet View: Allowed project managers to enter, group and edit task details in a tabular format. Calendar View: Presented tasks and milestones in a traditional calendar layout. Network Diagram View: Visualized task dependencies and project flow in a node-based diagram. Timeline View: Offered a high-level summary of major tasks and milestones, often used for executive reporting. Resource Sheet View: Listed resources, costs, and availability to support capacity planning. Resource Usage View: Displayed each resource’s workload and assignments over time. Team Planner View: Provided a visual layout of resource assignments to detect overallocations and rebalance workloads. Task Usage View: Showed tasks with detailed time-phased work and cost data for each assignment. Reports View: Enabled the creation of visual reports, charts and dashboards directly in the desktop client. (Project Online Professional supported both local and connected modes, syncing data with Project Online through Project Web App for enterprise visibility.) Related: What Is Microsoft Project Standard? Uses, Features and Pricing Project Online Professional Features Project Online Professional offered the complete project planning and management capabilities of the Microsoft Project desktop application, combined with the ability to connect to the cloud-based Project Online service. It was designed for project managers who needed to build detailed schedules, manage resources and report on performance across projects. While it required a Microsoft 365 subscription, it could also function offline and sync updates once reconnected. The following list summarizes the key features of Project Online Professional: Full desktop client for Windows with advanced scheduling and task management tools Ability to create, edit and publish project plans to Project Online Resource management with assignments, capacities, and cost rates Timesheet integration for capturing actual work from team members Critical path analysis and baseline tracking for performance measurement Built-in visual reports and customizable dashboards for insights Co-authoring and collaboration through SharePoint and Microsoft Teams integration Portfolio and roadmap visibility when connected to Project Online Premium environments Synchronization with Project Web App for centralized enterprise reporting Compatibility with Project Online Essentials users for team collaboration and status updates What Is Project Online Professional Used for? Project Online Professional was used to manage complex projects, programs and portfolios within organizations that relied on Microsoft 365. It served as a cloud-based solution for planning, scheduling and tracking project progress across distributed teams. Project managers used it to assign tasks, monitor workloads and ensure alignment with organizational goals through detailed reporting and real-time data insights. Many businesses used Microsoft Project Online Professional to centralize project information and improve visibility across departments. It helped track budgets, manage resources and control timelines while integrating with tools such as SharePoint and Power BI. The platform enabled executives to analyze performance metrics and identify risks, ensuring projects stayed on time and within scope. Although it offered powerful functionality, its complexity often required technical setup and specialized training for effective use. Related: What Is Microsoft Planner Premium? Uses, Features and Pricing Pros and Cons of Project Online Professional Project Online Professional was a feature-rich project management solution that supported enterprise-level planning and collaboration. It connected project managers, team members and stakeholders through a centralized platform for managing resources, timelines and deliverables. However, while it provided advanced capabilities, it also presented challenges in terms of usability, cost and accessibility. Pros of Project Online Professional Provided advanced tools for project planning and scheduling across multiple teams Integrated seamlessly with Microsoft 365, SharePoint and Power BI Offered cloud-based access to project data and real-time updates Enabled resource and portfolio management at an enterprise scale Included reporting dashboards for performance tracking and forecasting Cons of Project Online Professional Required significant setup time and technical expertise to deploy effectively Had a steep learning curve for new users unfamiliar with Microsoft’s project suite Offered limited flexibility for agile workflows and real-time collaboration Depended heavily on other Microsoft tools for full functionality Carried a high subscription cost compared to lightweight cloud alternatives ProjectManager Is the Best Microsoft Project Alternative ProjectManager outperforms Microsoft Project Online Professional by providing multiple project views that give teams flexibility and clarity. Users can switch between Gantt charts, kanban boards, calendars, lists and sheet views, allowing them to manage tasks visually or numerically depending on the project phase. Unlike Project Online Professional, ProjectManager enables seamless linking of tasks across projects, color-coded indicators for status and easy customization of fields. Teams can import MS Project files directly, edit and share them in real time, something Planner and other Microsoft replacements cannot do. Learn more about how our dynamic software outperforms Project Online Professional. Optimize Resource Management ProjectManager simplifies resource management through detailed workload charts, the team page and real-time availability tracking. Managers can assign tasks based on capacity, balance workloads dynamically and monitor team performance across multiple projects. The platform allows tracking of hours, costs and utilization, ensuring resources are used efficiently. Unlike Project Online Professional, ProjectManager provides a centralized view of all team members and roles, making it easy to reassign tasks, anticipate bottlenecks and keep projects on schedule without relying on multiple tools. [/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Team-Light-2554x1372-1.png] Enhance Project Tracking ProjectManager’s tracking tools provide a comprehensive view of project progress with secure timesheets, AI-powered reports and real-time dashboards. Teams can track milestones, budget, risks and performance indicators in one platform. AI Project Insights help predict delays and resource conflicts, enabling proactive decision-making. Unlike Project Online Professional or Planner, ProjectManager allows live updates and collaboration across devices, making it easier to manage portfolios, communicate changes and share reports instantly. The ability to import MS Project files ensures continuity without losing historical data. /wp-content/uploads/2025/10/AI-Insights-Light-Mode-Dashboard-GPT5.png Project Online Professional FAQs As Microsoft retired Project Online Professional, many users had questions about its discontinuation, replacements and differences from other Microsoft Project offerings. The following FAQs clarify these points and explain what users needed to know when transitioning to newer tools. Why did Microsoft discontinue Project Online Professional? Microsoft discontinued Project Online Professional as part of a shift toward modern, cloud-based project management solutions with enhanced collaboration and usability features. The platform had limited real-time collaboration, mobile accessibility and intuitive dashboards compared to newer alternatives. Microsoft aimed to streamline its project management offerings while encouraging users to migrate to solutions that supported integrated planning, reporting and execution in a more flexible and user-friendly environment. What replaced Project Online Professional after its retirement? After retiring Project Online Professional, Microsoft recommended Project for the web and Project Plan 3 or Project Plan 5 subscriptions for enterprise project management. These replacements offered improved cloud-based collaboration, interactive dashboards, multiple project views and easier integration with Microsoft Teams. The new platforms allowed teams to manage tasks, resources and reporting more efficiently while retaining compatibility with existing Project Online Professional files for smooth migration. How did Project Online Professional differ from Project Online Professional and Premium? Project Online Professional differed from Project Online Premium and other Microsoft Project plans primarily in functionality and licensing. While Project Online Professional focused on individual project managers with task and resource management, Premium offered enterprise portfolio management, advanced reporting and workflow automation. The Professional plan had fewer collaboration tools, simpler reporting and no portfolio-level analytics, making it suitable for smaller teams or single-project environments compared to the more comprehensive Premium offering. Related Microsoft Project Content Project Online Professional isn’t the only tool offered by Microsoft. For readers who still haven’t made up their minds as to which is the best project management software for their needs, check out the links below. There are articles on a slew of Microsoft Project alternatives, versions for Mac and much more. 20 Best Microsoft Project Alternatives: Free & Paid Options What Is Microsoft Project Professional? Uses, Features and Pricing 6 Free & Open-Source Microsoft Project Alternatives: Ranked Microsoft Project Gantt Chart: A How-to Guide With Pros & Cons Microsoft Project: Plans, Training and How to Download 10 Top Microsoft Project Management Software, Apps & Tools Microsoft Project for Mac: How to Run MS Project Files on Mac ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post What Is Project Online Professional? Uses, Features and Pricing appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

While I updated my iPhone to iOS 26 as soon as I could, I haven't yet pulled the trigger with macOS Tahoe. I love my M1 iMac, but I worry that Apple's first version of this new update isn't quite optimized for the five-year-old chip, and have been waiting to see if a future version of Tahoe performs a bit better. As it happens, that next version is well on its way—and does seem improved, at that. Apple has been beta testing macOS Tahoe 26.1 alongside iOS 26.1 since September, and it dropped the release candidates for both of the updates on Tuesday. The "RC," as the name implies, is what Apple thinks is the finished version of any given software release. Barring any major bugs or glitches discovered by developers and public testers, this will be the version of macOS Tahoe 26.1 released to the general public. That release will likely come next week. In the meantime, we know what features Apple has in store for Mac users who decide to update. This is a much smaller revision than macOS 26, but 26.1 does bring some interesting new features for users to explore. Control over Liquid Glass' appearanceBy far the most striking difference between this year's Apple updates and last year's is Liquid Glass. This new design language is Apple's most drastic UI change in years, and while some people love it, others hate it. I've enjoyed the new look on my iPhone, but I understand why some users dislike how some elements let the background shine through, in some cases reducing visibility. Apple seems to have taken the criticism to heart: With macOS Tahoe, as well as iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1, the company now gives users the option to control how Liquid Glass looks, at least to a degree. The new toggle, which you can find in System Settings > Appearance, has two options: "Clear," which retains the original look of Liquid Glass, and "Tinted," which increases the opacity of your system's UI elements. With Tinted, you won't see as much of the background poke through, and whatever does come through doesn't take over the overlayed element as much. If you find Liquid Glass in macOS Tahoe too clear and "glassy," this might be a good option to try. Expanded support for Apple Music AutoMix Apple's latest round of updates introduced a new DJ-like feature to Apple Music. AutoMix will automatically build a transition between songs, fading one song into another. It's a cool feature (when it works well), and can make transitioning between dissimilar songs a lot smoother. With macOS 26.1, AutoMix now works over AirPlay. Previously, you lost this feature when beaming your music to an AirPlay device. Better FaceTime audio qualityApple says that Mac users updating to 26.1 should experience improved FaceTime audio quality in low-bandwidth conditions. The company doesn't elaborate, but this is good news on its, uh, face: If you're calling someone in a low-signal area, or with a weak wifi connection, you should be able to hear each other better. Communication Safety and Web content filters for child accountsIf your Mac has child accounts (made for ages 13 through 17), Communication Safety and Web content filters will be enabled by default for those accounts after updating to this latest version. These filters are designed to limit adult websites, protecting underage users from content they shouldn't be accessing. A new Network iconAs spotted by the MacOSBeta subreddit, Apple has updated the Network icon for macOS 26.1. The new icon looks great, in my opinion, sporting a blue theme with glow effects: A new Macintosh HD iconSimilarly, the Macintosh HD icon gets a small refresh. The original Tahoe icon was a major redesign over the previous, iconic icon. Now, Apple has removed the additional elements to simplify the design. (I still miss the original.) This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. A few security updates, probablyApple hasn't announced security updates for macOS 26.1 yet, but in all likelihood, they will. Apple doesn't often issue true security patches like other companies, barring an emergency patch. Instead, the company usually bundles its security patches within point updates like 26.1. Once the official update drops, expect Apple to update its security release notes to include details about these patches. View the full article

Everyone must know exactly what does and does NOT fall within the lines of scoped services. By Jody Padar Radical Pricing – By The Radical CPA Go PRO for members-only access to more Jody Padar. View the full article

Everyone must know exactly what does and does NOT fall within the lines of scoped services. By Jody Padar Radical Pricing – By The Radical CPA Go PRO for members-only access to more Jody Padar. View the full article

Five accounting weak points that helped hide it. By Ed Mendlowitz 77 Ways to Wow! Go PRO for members-only access to more Edward Mendlowitz. View the full article

Five accounting weak points that helped hide it. By Ed Mendlowitz 77 Ways to Wow! Go PRO for members-only access to more Edward Mendlowitz. View the full article

Stewart McLaurin knew it was coming. An entire wing of the White House, a building he calls “the most special, important building on the planet,” was going to be replaced to make way for a ballroom that President Donald The President wants to add to the building. But when McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Association, saw the first images of backhoes tearing into the East Wing, it still came as a bit of a shock. “When the reality of things happen, they strike us a little bit differently than the theory of things happening, so it was a bit of a jarring moment,” McLaurin told The Associated Press in an interview Tuesday. McLaurin, who has led the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization for more than a decade, did not take a position on the changes. It’s not his job. “Ours is not to make happen, or to keep from happening — but to document what does happen, what happens in this great home that we call the White House,” he said. But he said he sees a silver lining from the “jarring” images: they have piqued public interest in White House history. “What has happened since then is so amazing in that in the past two weeks, more people have been talking about White House history, focused on White House history, learning what is an East Wing, what is the West Wing … what are these spaces in this building that we simply call the White House,” McLaurin said. The President demolishes the East Wing The general public became aware of the demolition work on Oct. 20 after photos of construction equipment ripping into the building began to circulate online, prompting an outcry from Democrats, preservationists and others. In a matter of days, the entire two-story East Wing — the traditional base of operations for first ladies and their staffs — was gone. The demolition included a covered walkway between the White House, the family movie theater and a garden dedicated to first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. The President had talked about building a ballroom for years, and pushed ahead with his vision when he returned to office in January. His proposal calls for a 90,000-square-foot structure, almost twice the size of the 55,000-square-foot White House itself and able to accommodate 1,000 people. The plan also includes building a more modern East Wing, officials have said. The Republican president ordered the demolition despite not yet having sign-off for the ballroom construction from the National Capital Planning Commission, one of several entities with a role in approving additions to federal buildings and property. The White House has yet to submit the ballroom plans for the commission’s review because it is closed during the government shutdown. The President appointed loyalists to the planning commission in July. On Tuesday, he also fired the six members of the Commission of Fine Arts, a group of architectural experts that advises the federal government on historic preservation and public buildings. A new slate of members who are more aligned with The President’s policies will be named, a White House official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly on personnel decisions. The Washington Post was first to report the firings. East Wing art and furnishings preserved It was the job of the White House curator and their staff to carefully remove, catalog and store the art, the official portraits of former first ladies, and furnishings from the East Wing, McLaurin said. The White House Historical Association does not have a decision-making role in the construction. But it has been working with the White House to prepare for the changes. “We had known since late summer that the staff of the East Wing had moved out. I actually made my last visit on the last day of tours on August the 28th,” McLaurin said. Working with the curator and chief usher, the association used 3D scanning technology “so that every room, space, nook and cranny of the East Wing, whether it was molding or hinges or door knobs or whatever it was, was captured to the -nth degree” to be digitally recreated as an exhibit or to teach the history of that space, McLaurin said. A photographer also documented the building as it was being taken apart. It will be a while before any images are available, but McLaurin said items were found when flooring was pulled up and when wall coverings were pulled back that “no living person remembered were there. So those will be lessons in history.” White House has grown over the years The President’s aides have responded to criticism of the demolition by arguing that other presidents have made changes to the White House, too. The President has said the White House needs a bigger entertaining space. McLaurin said the building continues to evolve from what it looked like when it was built in 1792. “There is a need to modernize and to grow,” he said, noting that White House social secretaries for generations have chafed at the space limitations for entertaining. “But how it’s done and how it’s accomplished and what results is really the vision of the president who undertakes that project.” What the White House Historical Association does Jacqueline Kennedy created the historical association in 1961 to help preserve the museum quality of the interior of the White House and educate the public. It receives no government funding and raises money mostly through private donations and sales of retail merchandise. It is not the mission of the association to take a position on construction, McLaurin said. Its primary mandate is preserving the State Floor and some of the historic bedrooms upstairs in the private living quarters, and teaching the history of the White House, which is an accredited museum. The State Floor is made up of the Green, Blue and Red Rooms, the East Room and State Dining Room, the Cross Hall and Grand Foyer. “Ours is not to support — or to not support,” McLaurin said. “Ours is to understand, to get the details.” Since the demolition, McLaurin said he has seen attendance spike at a free-of-charge educational center the association opened in September 2024 a block from the White House. “The People’s House: A White House Experience” is open seven days a week — including during the current government shutdown. The educational center saw its busiest days the weekend of Oct. 17-19, with about 1,500 daily visitors, up from a previous average of 900, he said. —Darlene Superville, Associated Press View the full article

Proposed carve-out of Everllence has also attracted preliminary interest from private equity firms including EQTView the full article

At Adobe MAX, the annual creativity conference, Adobe unveiled the findings of its inaugural Creators’ Toolkit Report, which reveals that a staggering 86 percent of global creators are now using creative generative AI in their work. This shift marks a significant change in how small business owners and content creators leverage technology to enhance their operations and reach broader audiences. The report, which surveyed over 16,000 creators across various countries, paints a picture of a vibrant creator economy where artificial intelligence is not just a passing trend but an essential part of the creative workflow. “Creators today aren’t passively using creative generative AI, they’re intentionally curating the tools they trust,” said Mike Polner, Vice President & Head of Product Marketing for Creators at Adobe. This sentiment reflects a growing trend among small business owners to adopt AI tools that empower their creative processes and business growth. Key findings from the report highlight the transformative impact of creative generative AI on the creator economy. A significant 76 percent of respondents noted that AI has accelerated their business growth or follower base, while 81 percent indicated that it enables them to produce content they otherwise couldn’t have. Moreover, 85 percent believe that AI positively influences the creator economy, underscoring its potential to help small businesses thrive in a competitive landscape. Small business owners can harness creative generative AI in several practical ways. The top applications identified in the report include editing and enhancing existing content (55 percent), generating new assets like images and videos (52 percent), and brainstorming ideas (48 percent). With 60 percent of creators employing multiple AI tools to enhance their output, the message is clear: diversifying toolsets can lead to improved quality and creativity. However, the integration of AI tools does not come without its challenges. The report reveals that 69 percent of creators harbor concerns about their content being used to train AI without permission, highlighting the importance of trust and transparency in AI applications. Furthermore, barriers to adoption include high costs (reported by 38 percent), unreliable output quality (34 percent), and uncertainties about AI training methods (28 percent). Small business owners should weigh these factors carefully when considering the adoption of AI tools. Looking ahead, the report introduces the concept of “agentic AI,” which refers to AI systems that proactively assist users by suggesting actions and automating tasks. While 70 percent of creators express excitement about this next evolution of AI, they emphasize the necessity of maintaining creative control. Specifically, 85 percent would consider using AI that learns their unique creative style, indicating a preference for personalized tools that enhance rather than replace human creativity. Interestingly, mobile devices have emerged as essential creative studios for creators. The report reveals that 72 percent of respondents frequently create content on mobile devices, and 75 percent anticipate producing even more mobile content in the coming year. For small business owners, this trend opens up new avenues for content creation on the go, allowing for flexibility and spontaneity in capturing and sharing marketing materials. The methodology behind the report adds credibility to its findings. Conducted in partnership with The Harris Poll, the survey focused on emerging and semi-professional creators—primarily Gen Z and Millennials—who are increasingly shaping the digital landscape. This demographic shift suggests that small business owners should be mindful of the preferences and behaviors of younger creators as they adapt their marketing strategies. As the creator economy continues to evolve, small business owners must stay informed about the capabilities and implications of creative generative AI. By embracing these technologies, they can elevate their content creation processes, engage more effectively with their audiences, and ultimately drive growth in their businesses. The insights from Adobe’s Creators’ Toolkit Report provide a roadmap for navigating this dynamic landscape, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Image via Envanto This article, "86% of Creators Embrace AI Tools, Revolutionizing Content Creation" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

At Adobe MAX, the annual creativity conference, Adobe unveiled the findings of its inaugural Creators’ Toolkit Report, which reveals that a staggering 86 percent of global creators are now using creative generative AI in their work. This shift marks a significant change in how small business owners and content creators leverage technology to enhance their operations and reach broader audiences. The report, which surveyed over 16,000 creators across various countries, paints a picture of a vibrant creator economy where artificial intelligence is not just a passing trend but an essential part of the creative workflow. “Creators today aren’t passively using creative generative AI, they’re intentionally curating the tools they trust,” said Mike Polner, Vice President & Head of Product Marketing for Creators at Adobe. This sentiment reflects a growing trend among small business owners to adopt AI tools that empower their creative processes and business growth. Key findings from the report highlight the transformative impact of creative generative AI on the creator economy. A significant 76 percent of respondents noted that AI has accelerated their business growth or follower base, while 81 percent indicated that it enables them to produce content they otherwise couldn’t have. Moreover, 85 percent believe that AI positively influences the creator economy, underscoring its potential to help small businesses thrive in a competitive landscape. Small business owners can harness creative generative AI in several practical ways. The top applications identified in the report include editing and enhancing existing content (55 percent), generating new assets like images and videos (52 percent), and brainstorming ideas (48 percent). With 60 percent of creators employing multiple AI tools to enhance their output, the message is clear: diversifying toolsets can lead to improved quality and creativity. However, the integration of AI tools does not come without its challenges. The report reveals that 69 percent of creators harbor concerns about their content being used to train AI without permission, highlighting the importance of trust and transparency in AI applications. Furthermore, barriers to adoption include high costs (reported by 38 percent), unreliable output quality (34 percent), and uncertainties about AI training methods (28 percent). Small business owners should weigh these factors carefully when considering the adoption of AI tools. Looking ahead, the report introduces the concept of “agentic AI,” which refers to AI systems that proactively assist users by suggesting actions and automating tasks. While 70 percent of creators express excitement about this next evolution of AI, they emphasize the necessity of maintaining creative control. Specifically, 85 percent would consider using AI that learns their unique creative style, indicating a preference for personalized tools that enhance rather than replace human creativity. Interestingly, mobile devices have emerged as essential creative studios for creators. The report reveals that 72 percent of respondents frequently create content on mobile devices, and 75 percent anticipate producing even more mobile content in the coming year. For small business owners, this trend opens up new avenues for content creation on the go, allowing for flexibility and spontaneity in capturing and sharing marketing materials. The methodology behind the report adds credibility to its findings. Conducted in partnership with The Harris Poll, the survey focused on emerging and semi-professional creators—primarily Gen Z and Millennials—who are increasingly shaping the digital landscape. This demographic shift suggests that small business owners should be mindful of the preferences and behaviors of younger creators as they adapt their marketing strategies. As the creator economy continues to evolve, small business owners must stay informed about the capabilities and implications of creative generative AI. By embracing these technologies, they can elevate their content creation processes, engage more effectively with their audiences, and ultimately drive growth in their businesses. The insights from Adobe’s Creators’ Toolkit Report provide a roadmap for navigating this dynamic landscape, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Image via Envanto This article, "86% of Creators Embrace AI Tools, Revolutionizing Content Creation" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

As Hurricane Melissa battered the Caribbean this week, social media became awash with AI-generated content that blurs the line between reality and fiction. Described by CBS News as “one of the strongest hurricanes ever recorded in the Atlantic,” Melissa reached Category 5 intensity as it made landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday. CNN reports that it has already caused seven deaths in the northern Caribbean, and is the most powerful storm to hit the basin since 2019’s Hurricane Dorian. Amid a crisis, social media is flooded Over the last few days, major social media platforms have been saturated with AI-generated videos—depicting a wide range of content supposedly related to the hurricane, from towering waves battering coastal towns to sharks gliding through floodwaters, destroyed airports, and an aerial view of the storm’s eye that reached over 17,000 views. Much of this content was made possible by Sora 2—OpenAI’s new text-to-video app—released less than a month ago, which allows users to generate lifelike videos simply by typing a description. The app, free on iPhones, has proven to be as mesmerizing as it is disturbing—quickly taking over social media feeds in the weeks since its release. But it’s also caused alarm among people who worry about its potential to spread misinformation. “It’s as if deepfakes got a publicist and a distribution deal,” Daisy Soderberg-Rivkin, a former trust and safety manager at TikTok, told NPR earlier this month. “It’s an amplification of something that has been scary for a while, but now it has a whole new platform.” As it turns out, it’s now becoming increasingly harder to trust what you see on screen. Turning a catastrophe into clickbait The proliferation of misleading content regarding natural disasters poses a real threat, well beyond the trivial AI-generated slop that typically clogs social feeds. “This storm is a huge storm that will likely cause catastrophic damage, and fake content undermines the seriousness of the message from the government to be prepared,” Amy McGovern, a University of Oklahoma meteorology professor, told the news agency Agence France-Presse (AFP). In a report on Monday, AFP said it identified numerous AI-generated clips—many, but not all, marked with OpenAI’s Sora watermark—spreading across social media feeds. The videos ranged from dramatic newscasts and scenes of severe flooding to fabricated human suffering. Other videos seemed to show locals—often speaking with exaggerated Jamaican accents that reinforced stereotypes—partying, boating, jet skiing, swimming, or otherwise downplaying the severity of what forecasters have warned could be the island’s most violent storm on record. After AFP flagged the clips, TikTok reportedly removed over two dozen videos and multiple accounts sharing them. Reached for comment, TikTok told Fast Company that its community guidelines require AI-generated or heavily edited content depicting realistic people or events to be labeled. It said unlabeled content may be removed, restricted, or relabeled. The platform prohibits material that “misleads on matters of public importance or harms individuals,” even if labeled. In Jamaica, users seeking updates on Hurricane Melissa are encouraged to consult official sources, including the Jamaica Information Service and TikTok’s event guides. Similar content appeared on Facebook and Instagram, despite Meta’s policies requiring labels for AI-generated videos. OpenAI and Meta did not respond to requests for comment. Experts worry that AI-generated content can overshadow critical safety warnings. Jamaica’s information minister, Senator Dana Morris Dixon, urged the public to rely on official sources, according to AFP. The risks extend far beyond natural disasters In the Sora era, anyone can generate nearly any scene imaginable with a single prompt, but experts have long raised concerns about generative AI and misinformation. For instance, studies indicate that warning labels alone may not suffice to combat AI-generated falsehoods and can sometimes have unintended effects on users’ perception of credibility. Aaron Rodericks, head of trust and safety at Bluesky, noted in an interview with NPR that the public is unprepared for such a collapse between reality and fabrication. “In a polarized world, it is easy to create fabricated evidence targeting identity groups or individuals, or to conduct large-scale scams. What once existed as a rumor—like a fabricated story about an immigrant or politician—can now be turned into seemingly credible video proof,” Rodericks said. And this is only the beginning OpenAI’s Sora 2 app, where many of these recent clips surfaced, is just the newest player in the expanding world of increasingly powerful video creation tools. This year alone has brought a wave of AI-driven innovations across platforms. As of May, users could chat with AI personas on Instagram, and TikTok’s “AI Alive” tool enabled still images to be turned into videos with a single command. By September, Meta introduced its new “Vibes” app, featuring a TikTok-style AI-generated feed. Together, they signal a new race to shape the future of the internet. View the full article

When you’re reviewing a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), it’s essential to focus on several key elements. Start by examining the franchisor’s legal structure and management qualifications, as these can considerably impact your investment. Look closely at financial performance representations and ongoing fees, which will affect your profitability. Furthermore, evaluating litigation history and current franchisee experiences can provide insights into potential risks. Comprehending these factors will help you make an informed decision about the franchise opportunity ahead. Key Takeaways Analyze the franchisor’s legal structure, history, and management team’s qualifications in Items 1 and 2 for credibility and stability. Review Financial Performance Representations in Item 19, focusing on historical results and engaging with current franchisees for insights. Evaluate initial and ongoing franchise fees in Items 5 and 6, considering their impact on profitability and return on investment. Investigate the litigation history in the FDD, noting patterns in lawsuits and their implications for operational or ethical concerns. Assess outlet data in Item 20, looking for trends in openings, closures, and overall franchise system health, including state-specific performance. Key Information About the Franchisor When considering a franchise opportunity, it’s vital to comprehend the key information about the franchisor. Begin with Item 1 of the FDD, which outlines the franchisor’s legal structure, history, and affiliates, helping you assess credibility. Next, review Item 2, where the management team’s qualifications and industry experience are highlighted, ensuring they can support you effectively. Item 3 reveals the franchisor’s litigation history, showcasing any legal disputes that could indicate potential risks. Investigate Item 4 for bankruptcy history, as this provides insight into financial stability. Finally, Item 13 discusses trademarks, important for grasping brand identity and legal protections. Consulting a franchise attorney is advisable, as franchise attorney fees and franchise lawyer fees can provide valuable guidance during your FDD review. Understanding Financial Performance Representations Comprehending Financial Performance Representations (FPR) is vital for anyone considering a franchise opportunity, as these disclosures offer valuable insights into the financial health of existing franchisees. Found in Item 19 of the FDD, FPR includes data on earnings, gross sales, and profit margins, though only about half of franchisors provide this information. It’s important to review these historical financial results accurately, as misleading claims can lead to poor investment decisions. Engaging with current franchisees can provide context to the FPR, helping you build a realistic profit and loss statement. Recognizing these aspects can reveal the franchise’s financial viability and potential risks, making it worthwhile to factor in any franchise attorney cost when evaluating your options. Evaluating Franchise Fees and Obligations Comprehending franchise fees and obligations is essential for anyone looking to invest in a franchise, as these costs can greatly influence your financial success. You’ll need to understand the initial franchise fee, service fees, royalties, and technology fees, all of which are mandated by the Arthur Wishart Act for transparency. Carefully evaluate the initial fees listed in Item 5 against your expected return on investment. Ongoing fees in Item 6 can notably impact your profitability, so clarify all financial obligations to the franchisor before signing any agreement. Reviewing Item 7, which estimates total initial investment costs, helps you assess affordability. Finally, consider the long-term financial implications of ongoing fees, as they affect the overall sustainability of your franchise business. Analyzing Litigation History Analyzing the litigation history of a franchisor is crucial for comprehending the potential legal risks tied to your franchise investment. The FDD must disclose any current and past litigation over the last ten years, highlighting critical legal issues. A high volume of lawsuits or repeated franchisee claims against the franchisor may indicate systemic problems that deserve further scrutiny. Under the Arthur Wishart Act, franchisors must provide details on ongoing and settled lawsuits, ensuring transparency. You should examine the nature of the allegations, as patterns—especially those concerning franchisee rights—could reveal operational or ethical concerns. Investigating past lawsuit outcomes and their impact on franchise operations can shed light on the franchisor’s ability to resolve disputes effectively. Assessing Outlet and Franchisee Data When evaluating outlet and franchisee data, it’s essential to look closely at Item 20 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), which outlines a three-year history of both franchise and corporate-owned outlets. This section provides data on outlets opened, closed, transferred, and terminated, letting you assess the overall health of the franchise system. Analyze trends like net changes in outlets to identify growth patterns and potential stability or instability. Additionally, pay attention to state-specific data, as localized performance issues may differ from national averages. Investigate the reasons behind franchisee departures disclosed under the Arthur Wishart Act, as significant exits could signal systemic problems. Engaging with existing franchisees offers valuable insights into their experiences and the franchise’s viability. Frequently Asked Questions What to Look for in an FDD? When you’re reviewing an FDD, focus on key items that reveal important information. Start with Item 1 for the franchisor’s history and affiliations, then check Item 3 for any litigation that might signal risks. Next, analyze Items 5 and 6 to understand all fees involved. Don’t overlook Item 19 for potential earnings insights, and finally, review Item 21 for financial statements that assess the franchisor’s stability and support capabilities for franchisees. How to Review FDD? To review an FDD effectively, start by examining Item 1 for details about the franchisor’s history and structure. Next, check Item 3 for any litigation history, as this can reveal potential risks. Then, evaluate Items 5 and 6 to understand all fees involved. Review Item 19 for financial performance representations, providing insight into potential earnings. Finally, analyze Item 21 for financial statements, which help assess the franchisor’s stability and support capabilities. What Is the 14 Day Rule for FDD? The 14-day rule requires franchisors to give you the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) at least 14 days before you sign a franchise agreement or make any payment. This rule guarantees you have enough time to review the FDD thoroughly and seek advice if needed. Established by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), it aims to promote transparency and protect you from hasty decisions that could lead to financial loss or misrepresentation. What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are essential for evaluating any franchise opportunity. To begin with, Product refers to the quality and uniqueness of the offerings, ensuring they meet market demand. In addition, Price involves comprehending all costs, such as initial fees and royalties, that impact profitability. Thirdly, Place focuses on location strategy, including territory protections and competition analysis. Finally, Promotion encompasses the marketing support from the franchisor, helping you effectively attract customers and grow your business. Conclusion In summary, reviewing a Franchise Disclosure Document is essential for making informed decisions. Focus on the franchisor’s structure, management qualifications, and any litigation history that may affect reputation. Carefully analyze financial performance representations and ongoing fees to understand potential profitability. Furthermore, assess the history of franchise outlets and engage with current franchisees for firsthand insights. By thoroughly examining these elements, you’ll gain a clearer picture of the franchise opportunity and its long-term viability. Image via Envanto This article, "What to Look for in an FDD Review?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re reviewing a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), it’s essential to focus on several key elements. Start by examining the franchisor’s legal structure and management qualifications, as these can considerably impact your investment. Look closely at financial performance representations and ongoing fees, which will affect your profitability. Furthermore, evaluating litigation history and current franchisee experiences can provide insights into potential risks. Comprehending these factors will help you make an informed decision about the franchise opportunity ahead. Key Takeaways Analyze the franchisor’s legal structure, history, and management team’s qualifications in Items 1 and 2 for credibility and stability. Review Financial Performance Representations in Item 19, focusing on historical results and engaging with current franchisees for insights. Evaluate initial and ongoing franchise fees in Items 5 and 6, considering their impact on profitability and return on investment. Investigate the litigation history in the FDD, noting patterns in lawsuits and their implications for operational or ethical concerns. Assess outlet data in Item 20, looking for trends in openings, closures, and overall franchise system health, including state-specific performance. Key Information About the Franchisor When considering a franchise opportunity, it’s vital to comprehend the key information about the franchisor. Begin with Item 1 of the FDD, which outlines the franchisor’s legal structure, history, and affiliates, helping you assess credibility. Next, review Item 2, where the management team’s qualifications and industry experience are highlighted, ensuring they can support you effectively. Item 3 reveals the franchisor’s litigation history, showcasing any legal disputes that could indicate potential risks. Investigate Item 4 for bankruptcy history, as this provides insight into financial stability. Finally, Item 13 discusses trademarks, important for grasping brand identity and legal protections. Consulting a franchise attorney is advisable, as franchise attorney fees and franchise lawyer fees can provide valuable guidance during your FDD review. Understanding Financial Performance Representations Comprehending Financial Performance Representations (FPR) is vital for anyone considering a franchise opportunity, as these disclosures offer valuable insights into the financial health of existing franchisees. Found in Item 19 of the FDD, FPR includes data on earnings, gross sales, and profit margins, though only about half of franchisors provide this information. It’s important to review these historical financial results accurately, as misleading claims can lead to poor investment decisions. Engaging with current franchisees can provide context to the FPR, helping you build a realistic profit and loss statement. Recognizing these aspects can reveal the franchise’s financial viability and potential risks, making it worthwhile to factor in any franchise attorney cost when evaluating your options. Evaluating Franchise Fees and Obligations Comprehending franchise fees and obligations is essential for anyone looking to invest in a franchise, as these costs can greatly influence your financial success. You’ll need to understand the initial franchise fee, service fees, royalties, and technology fees, all of which are mandated by the Arthur Wishart Act for transparency. Carefully evaluate the initial fees listed in Item 5 against your expected return on investment. Ongoing fees in Item 6 can notably impact your profitability, so clarify all financial obligations to the franchisor before signing any agreement. Reviewing Item 7, which estimates total initial investment costs, helps you assess affordability. Finally, consider the long-term financial implications of ongoing fees, as they affect the overall sustainability of your franchise business. Analyzing Litigation History Analyzing the litigation history of a franchisor is crucial for comprehending the potential legal risks tied to your franchise investment. The FDD must disclose any current and past litigation over the last ten years, highlighting critical legal issues. A high volume of lawsuits or repeated franchisee claims against the franchisor may indicate systemic problems that deserve further scrutiny. Under the Arthur Wishart Act, franchisors must provide details on ongoing and settled lawsuits, ensuring transparency. You should examine the nature of the allegations, as patterns—especially those concerning franchisee rights—could reveal operational or ethical concerns. Investigating past lawsuit outcomes and their impact on franchise operations can shed light on the franchisor’s ability to resolve disputes effectively. Assessing Outlet and Franchisee Data When evaluating outlet and franchisee data, it’s essential to look closely at Item 20 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), which outlines a three-year history of both franchise and corporate-owned outlets. This section provides data on outlets opened, closed, transferred, and terminated, letting you assess the overall health of the franchise system. Analyze trends like net changes in outlets to identify growth patterns and potential stability or instability. Additionally, pay attention to state-specific data, as localized performance issues may differ from national averages. Investigate the reasons behind franchisee departures disclosed under the Arthur Wishart Act, as significant exits could signal systemic problems. Engaging with existing franchisees offers valuable insights into their experiences and the franchise’s viability. Frequently Asked Questions What to Look for in an FDD? When you’re reviewing an FDD, focus on key items that reveal important information. Start with Item 1 for the franchisor’s history and affiliations, then check Item 3 for any litigation that might signal risks. Next, analyze Items 5 and 6 to understand all fees involved. Don’t overlook Item 19 for potential earnings insights, and finally, review Item 21 for financial statements that assess the franchisor’s stability and support capabilities for franchisees. How to Review FDD? To review an FDD effectively, start by examining Item 1 for details about the franchisor’s history and structure. Next, check Item 3 for any litigation history, as this can reveal potential risks. Then, evaluate Items 5 and 6 to understand all fees involved. Review Item 19 for financial performance representations, providing insight into potential earnings. Finally, analyze Item 21 for financial statements, which help assess the franchisor’s stability and support capabilities. What Is the 14 Day Rule for FDD? The 14-day rule requires franchisors to give you the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) at least 14 days before you sign a franchise agreement or make any payment. This rule guarantees you have enough time to review the FDD thoroughly and seek advice if needed. Established by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), it aims to promote transparency and protect you from hasty decisions that could lead to financial loss or misrepresentation. What Are the 4 P’s of Franchising? The 4 P’s of franchising are essential for evaluating any franchise opportunity. To begin with, Product refers to the quality and uniqueness of the offerings, ensuring they meet market demand. In addition, Price involves comprehending all costs, such as initial fees and royalties, that impact profitability. Thirdly, Place focuses on location strategy, including territory protections and competition analysis. Finally, Promotion encompasses the marketing support from the franchisor, helping you effectively attract customers and grow your business. Conclusion In summary, reviewing a Franchise Disclosure Document is essential for making informed decisions. Focus on the franchisor’s structure, management qualifications, and any litigation history that may affect reputation. Carefully analyze financial performance representations and ongoing fees to understand potential profitability. Furthermore, assess the history of franchise outlets and engage with current franchisees for firsthand insights. By thoroughly examining these elements, you’ll gain a clearer picture of the franchise opportunity and its long-term viability. Image via Envanto This article, "What to Look for in an FDD Review?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Intuit recently unveiled its new Intuit Accountant Suite, a cutting-edge platform designed specifically for accounting firms seeking to enhance efficiency and profitability. In an era when small businesses often feel overwhelmed by the complexities of managing client accounts, this AI-powered solution promises to streamline operations and improve service delivery. The introduction of Intuit Accountant Suite comes at a time when the demands on accounting practices continue to grow. “Accounting firms play a vital role in advising their clients on key growth strategies, while managing their own complex operations,” says Simon Williams, vice president of accountant partnerships and engagement at Intuit. The suite aims to give firms the tools they need to thrive in a competitive landscape. Key Benefits for Small Businesses The Intuit Accountant Suite integrates five core capabilities into one platform, making it easy for accounting professionals to manage client interactions and internal procedures. Here are some standout features aimed at benefiting small business owners: Consolidated Client Management: Firms can manage all client files in one centralized location, reducing the need for multiple accounts and streamlining access to essential information. Custom Dashboard: Each team member can personalize their home base, ensuring that critical tasks and AI-generated insights are easily accessible and tailored to individual workflows. Role-Based Access Controls: This feature allows for efficient delegation of tasks, enabling firms to customize roles and permissions, which helps keep compliance in check across various services like accounting and payroll. AI-Powered Client Insights: A new feature provides analytics and benchmarking, giving accountants firm-wide insights to facilitate informed decision-making. These capabilities are designed to not only enhance productivity but also free up time for accountants to focus on higher-value advisory services—an essential shift as businesses look for enhanced support from their advisors. Real-World Applications Small business owners stand to gain significantly by utilizing the expertise of accounting firms that embrace the Intuit Accountant Suite. For example, quick access to analytics can help identify the most profitable clients or areas that require more resources, fostering better business strategies. Additionally, with the automated processes for payroll and reporting, firms can allocate resources more effectively, improving overall responsiveness and service quality. Dan Luthi, partner at Ignite Spot, notes, “One of the hardest parts of running a firm is staying connected to the pulse of the business beyond day-to-day client work. The foundation being built with Intuit Accountant Suite has the potential to reshape how we visualize and respond to what’s happening in our practice.” Potential Challenges to Consider While the Intuit Accountant Suite offers substantial benefits, small business owners should also be aware of potential challenges that may arise with its adoption. Transitioning to a new platform can require a learning curve, both for the accounting firms and their small business clients. Additionally, data security is always a consideration when integrating multiple systems and platforms. It’s essential for firms to ensure that their existing data is correctly transitioned to the new suite while maintaining rigorous security protocols. Moreover, since the software relies on AI and machine learning, firms will need to commit to ongoing training to leverage its full potential fully. Staying updated with additional AI-powered workflows and tools announced for future implementation will be critical for maximizing efficiency and growth. The Intuit Accountant Suite, currently available for U.S.-based accounting firms at no cost, reflects Intuit’s commitment to empowering accounting practices with technology that drives value. The suite is expected to evolve with even more AI functions, making it a worthy option for firms looking to scale operations and enhance client service efficiently. Small business owners interested in leveraging the advantages of a modern accounting platform should consider engaging with firms using the Intuit Accountant Suite to ensure they receive the best insights and support available. For more details, visit the original press release here. This article, "Intuit Unveils AI-Powered Accountant Suite to Streamline Firm Operations" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Intuit recently unveiled its new Intuit Accountant Suite, a cutting-edge platform designed specifically for accounting firms seeking to enhance efficiency and profitability. In an era when small businesses often feel overwhelmed by the complexities of managing client accounts, this AI-powered solution promises to streamline operations and improve service delivery. The introduction of Intuit Accountant Suite comes at a time when the demands on accounting practices continue to grow. “Accounting firms play a vital role in advising their clients on key growth strategies, while managing their own complex operations,” says Simon Williams, vice president of accountant partnerships and engagement at Intuit. The suite aims to give firms the tools they need to thrive in a competitive landscape. Key Benefits for Small Businesses The Intuit Accountant Suite integrates five core capabilities into one platform, making it easy for accounting professionals to manage client interactions and internal procedures. Here are some standout features aimed at benefiting small business owners: Consolidated Client Management: Firms can manage all client files in one centralized location, reducing the need for multiple accounts and streamlining access to essential information. Custom Dashboard: Each team member can personalize their home base, ensuring that critical tasks and AI-generated insights are easily accessible and tailored to individual workflows. Role-Based Access Controls: This feature allows for efficient delegation of tasks, enabling firms to customize roles and permissions, which helps keep compliance in check across various services like accounting and payroll. AI-Powered Client Insights: A new feature provides analytics and benchmarking, giving accountants firm-wide insights to facilitate informed decision-making. These capabilities are designed to not only enhance productivity but also free up time for accountants to focus on higher-value advisory services—an essential shift as businesses look for enhanced support from their advisors. Real-World Applications Small business owners stand to gain significantly by utilizing the expertise of accounting firms that embrace the Intuit Accountant Suite. For example, quick access to analytics can help identify the most profitable clients or areas that require more resources, fostering better business strategies. Additionally, with the automated processes for payroll and reporting, firms can allocate resources more effectively, improving overall responsiveness and service quality. Dan Luthi, partner at Ignite Spot, notes, “One of the hardest parts of running a firm is staying connected to the pulse of the business beyond day-to-day client work. The foundation being built with Intuit Accountant Suite has the potential to reshape how we visualize and respond to what’s happening in our practice.” Potential Challenges to Consider While the Intuit Accountant Suite offers substantial benefits, small business owners should also be aware of potential challenges that may arise with its adoption. Transitioning to a new platform can require a learning curve, both for the accounting firms and their small business clients. Additionally, data security is always a consideration when integrating multiple systems and platforms. It’s essential for firms to ensure that their existing data is correctly transitioned to the new suite while maintaining rigorous security protocols. Moreover, since the software relies on AI and machine learning, firms will need to commit to ongoing training to leverage its full potential fully. Staying updated with additional AI-powered workflows and tools announced for future implementation will be critical for maximizing efficiency and growth. The Intuit Accountant Suite, currently available for U.S.-based accounting firms at no cost, reflects Intuit’s commitment to empowering accounting practices with technology that drives value. The suite is expected to evolve with even more AI functions, making it a worthy option for firms looking to scale operations and enhance client service efficiently. Small business owners interested in leveraging the advantages of a modern accounting platform should consider engaging with firms using the Intuit Accountant Suite to ensure they receive the best insights and support available. For more details, visit the original press release here. This article, "Intuit Unveils AI-Powered Accountant Suite to Streamline Firm Operations" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The United States and South Korea advanced trade talks on Wednesday, addressing details of $350 billion that would be invested in the American economy, after negotiations and ceremonies that included the presentation of a gold medal and crown to President Donald The President. Both were gifts from the country’s president, Lee Jae Myung, who dialed up the flattery while Washington and Seoul worked to nail down financial promises during the last stop of The President’s Asia trip. Although both sides said progress has been made — The President said things were “pretty much finalized” — no agreement has been signed yet. The framework includes gradual investments, cooperation on shipbuilding and the lowering of The President’s tariffs on South Korea’s automobile exports, according to Kim Yong-beom, Lee’s chief of staff for policy. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The announcement came after a day of adulation for the visiting American president from his hosts. There was a special lunch menu featuring U.S.-raised beef and a gold-adorned brownie. A band played The President’s campaign anthem of “Y.M.C.A.” when he stepped off Air Force One. Lee told him that “you are indeed making America great again.” The President can be mercurial and demanding, but he has a soft spot for pomp and circumstance. He was particularly impressed by a choreographed display of colorful flags as he walked along the red carpet. “That was some spectacle, and some beautiful scene,” The President told Lee during their meeting. “It was so perfect, so flawlessly done.” Earlier in the day, The President even softened his rhetoric on international trade, which he normally describes in predatory terms where someone is always trying to rip off the United States. “The best deals are deals that work for everybody,” he said during a business forum. Washington and Seoul have been working on a trade deal The President was visiting while South Korea is hosting the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in the historical city of Gyeongju. He previously stopped in Japan, where he bonded with the new prime minister, and Malaysia, where he attended a summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The Republican president has been trying to tie up trade deals along the way, eager to show that his confrontational approach of tariffs is paying dividends for Americans who are uneasy about the job market and watching a federal government shutdown extend into its fifth week. However, South Korea has been particularly tough to crack, with the sticking point being The President’s demand for $350 billion of direct investment in the U.S. Korean officials say putting up cash could destabilize their own economy, and they’d rather offer loans and loan guarantees instead. The country would also need a swap line to manage the flow of its currency into the U.S. The President, after meeting with Lee, said “we made our deal pretty much finalized.” He did not provide any details. Oh Hyunjoo, a deputy national security director for South Korea, told reporters earlier in the week that the negotiations have been proceeding “a little bit more slowly” than expected. “We haven’t yet been able to reach an agreement on matters such as the structure of investments, their formats and how the profits will be distributed,” she said Monday. It’s a contrast from The President’s experience in Japan, where the government has worked to deliver the $550 billion in investments it promised as part of an earlier trade agreement. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced up to $490 billion in specific commitments during a dinner with business leaders in Tokyo. For now, South Korea is stuck with a 25% tariff on automobiles, putting automakers such as Hyundai and Kia at a disadvantage against Japanese and European competitors, which face 15%. Lee, speaking at the business forum before The President arrived, warned against trade barriers. “At a time when protectionism and nationalism are on the rise and nations focus on their immediate survival, words like ‘cooperation,’ ‘coexistence’ and ‘inclusive growth’ may sound hollow,” he said. “Yet, paradoxically, it is in times of crisis like this that APEC’s role as a platform for solidarity shines brighter.” The President and Lee swap praise despite disagreements Lee took office in June and had a warm meeting with The President at the White House in August, when he praised Oval Office renovations and suggested building a The President Tower in North Korea. He took a similar approach when The President visited on Wednesday. The gold medal presented to The President represents the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, the country’s highest honor, and The President is the first U.S. president to receive it. The President said “it’s as beautiful as it can possibly be” and “I’d like to wear it right now.” Next was a replica of a royal crown from the Silla Kingdom, which existed from 57 B.C. to 935 A.D. The original crown was found in a tomb in Gyeongju, the kingdom’s capital. Besides trade disagreements, there have been other points of tension between Washington and Seoul this year. More than 300 South Koreans were detained during a U.S. immigration raid on a Hyundai plant in Georgia in September, sparking a sense of outrage and betrayal. Lee said at the time companies would likely hesitate to make future investments unless the visa system was improved. “If that’s not possible, then establishing a local factory in the United States will either come with severe disadvantages or become very difficult for our companies,” he said. Asked Monday about the immigration raid, The President said, “I was opposed to getting them out,” and he said an improved visa system would make it easier for companies to bring in skilled workers. The President-Xi meeting is expected Thursday While in South Korea, The President is also expected to hold a closely watched meeting on Thursday with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Washington and Beijing have clashed over trade, but both sides have indicated that they’re willing to dial down tensions. The President told reporters aboard Air Force One on Wednesday that he expects to lower tariffs targeting China over the flow of fentanyl ingredients. “They’ll be doing what they can do,” he said. The President added that “China is going to be working with me.” The President sounded resigned to the idea that he wouldn’t get to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on this trip. The president previously floated the possibility of extending his stay in South Korea, but on Wednesday said “the schedule was very tight.” North Korea has so far dismissed overtures from Washington and Seoul, saying it won’t resume diplomacy with the United States unless Washington drops its demand for the North’s denuclearization. North Korea said Wednesday it fired sea-to-surface cruise missiles into its western waters, in the latest display of its growing military capabilities as The President visits South Korea. The President brushed off the weapons test, saying “he’s been launching missiles for decades, right?” The two leaders met during The President’s first term, although their conversations did not produce any agreements about North Korea’s nuclear program. Associated Press writers Kim Tong-hyung and Hyung-jin Kim contributed from Seoul, South Korea, and Josh Boak contributed from Tokyo. —Chris Megerian, Associated Press View the full article

The following content is brought to you by Lifehacker partners. If you buy a product featured here, we may earn an affiliate commission or other compensation. You spent hours carving a perfectly frightful jack-o'-lantern for Halloween. Now you just need to light it up somehow for maximum scare factor. Maybe you plan on using electric candles or tea lights to glow up your scary gourd. If you choose the more traditional route of lighting your pumpkin with a real candle, however, you definitely want to follow some fire-safety protocols. BIC EZ LOAD Lighter $10.65 $14.20 Save $3.55 Get Deal Get Deal $10.65 $14.20 Save $3.55 Carving your pumpkin is only half the battle, but you should also be careful when lighting the candle inside. This is where a reloadable BIC EZ LOAD Lighter can come in handy. The long, thin wand easily gets into your jack-o'-lantern—and your grill, fireplace, and campfires. Now through Oct. 31, you can even save 25% on two BIC EZ LOAD starter kits with the code SPOOKY25.* Be smart about lighting your pumpkin’s candleIf you’re going old-school and using a real candle this year, make sure your pumpkin is sitting on a flat, stable surface so that it won’t tip over. Cut a good-sized hole in the gourd’s lid to let the heat from the candle escape, and put in a squatty votive candle, no tapered types. Use the BIC EZ LOAD Lighter to light the candle from a safe distance, and then place the lid ajar so that smoke can get out. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish and relight up to 15,000* timesAnother Halloween-night safety trick is to blow out your pumpkin’s candle—and all candles—in between groups of trick-or-treaters. As the first reloadable lighter in the BIC lineup, the BIC EZ LOAD ensures you’re always able to brighten any moment in three easy steps. Whenever the lighter wand is running low on fuel, all you have to do is pop open the bottom cap and replace it with a new BIC Maxi Pocket Lighter. Providing up to 15,000* lights, the BIC EZ LOAD Lighter is conveniently replaceable up to 10 times with a BIC Maxi Pocket Lighter. Safe, reliable lighting for Halloween and beyondThe BIC EZ LOAD Lighter will be lighting the moment for many of your Halloweens, backyard bonfires, and camping trips to come. In addition to being reloadable, each lighter goes through over 50 quality checks and meets BIC's stringent safety standards. Now through Oct. 31, nab two BIC EZ LOAD starter kits, with two BIC Maxi Pocket Lighters included, at 25% off with code SPOOKY25. DISCLAIMERS: *Based on reloading up to 10x with BIC Maxi. *25% off orders $40+ through midnight ET on October 31st, 2025. View the full article

SerpAPI said it will “vigorously defend” itself after being sued by Reddit for allegedly scraping and reselling data from the platform via Google Search results. The response. SerpAPI called Reddit’s language “inflammatory” and said it was “extremely disappointed” to learn of the lawsuit without prior communication. “Our work is guided by a simple principle: public search data should be accessible,” the company said. SerpAPI argued its position is backed by the First Amendment and called Reddit’s actions a threat to “the free and open Web we all enjoy.” What they’re saying. According to SerpApi: “For eight years, SerpApi has operated transparently and lawfully, helping countless developers, researchers, and businesses build on top of publicly available search data. Our technology is used across multiple industries, from SEO, marketing, and advertising to copyright verification, background checks, news monitoring, and now AI. Our work is guided by a simple principle: public search data should be accessible. And accessibility cannot exist without clean unified data structures, speed, and automation possibilities.” Catch up quick. Reddit sued SerpAPI, Perplexity, Oxylabs, and AWMProxy last week, claiming they scraped Reddit content from Google results “at an industrial scale” and hid their identities to bypass restrictions. Reddit: Claimed it set a “trap” for Perplexity to prove scraping. Is seeking financial damages and a ban on further data use. Zoom out. Reddit licenses its data to OpenAI and Google. Meanwhile, Google and Reddit are reportedly exploring a deeper AI partnership that could bring Reddit discussions directly into AI Overviews and other Google experiences. Why we care. This fight isn’t just about data – it’s about control. The big tech platforms are battling over who owns the information that powers search results and AI-generated answers, while brands struggle to understand what’s driving rankings, visibility, and attribution. SerpApi’s statement. Our Response to Reddit, Inc. v. SerpApi, LLC: Defending the First Amendment View the full article

Intuit is making waves in the small business world with the launch of its innovative Intuit Intelligence, a cutting-edge system designed to help businesses thrive in the era of artificial intelligence. This announcement, made during the Intuit Connect event in Las Vegas, highlights a significant shift in how businesses can leverage technology to streamline operations, make data-driven decisions, and ultimately boost growth. At the heart of Intuit’s new offerings is the promise of a virtual team of AI agents that work across various financial pillars, including customer management, payroll, accounting, and tax. These tools allow small business owners to ask any question related to their operations and receive instant, data-backed answers. For instance, inquiries about turning leads into sales or projecting profitability can now be answered almost immediately, enabling quicker decision-making and strategic planning. “We are leading the largest technology disruption in our history that will fundamentally change how businesses compete and grow,” said Intuit CEO Sasan Goodarzi. This statement underscores the transformative potential of the new system, suggesting that small business owners can gain a distinct competitive advantage through the effective use of Intuit’s platform. One of the standout features of Intuit Intelligence is its ability to automate complex tasks. Small business owners can command the system to perform functions like running payroll with simple prompts, thus freeing up valuable time. According to Intuit, businesses can save up to 12 hours per month by utilizing these simplified operations, allowing owners to focus on growth and customer service rather than getting bogged down in administrative tasks. The introduction of specialized AI agents marks a significant leap forward. New tools like the Sales Tax Agent and Payroll Agent are designed to enhance compliance and accuracy. The Sales Tax Agent ensures that businesses charge the correct sales tax and identify potential issues before they arise, while the Payroll Agent proactively collects employee hours, detects anomalies, and prepares payroll drafts for approval. Intuit is also enhancing its Enterprise Suite, an ERP solution aimed at mid-market businesses. This AI-native platform promises faster onboarding, advanced multi-entity management, and improved reporting capabilities. For small businesses operating across multiple locations or entities, these features can simplify financial management and provide deeper insights into performance metrics. While the benefits of these innovations are compelling, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. The transition to an AI-driven platform may require an initial investment of time and resources for training and integration. Businesses accustomed to traditional processes might face a learning curve as they adapt to new technologies. Furthermore, reliance on AI for critical business functions raises questions about data security and privacy, which are paramount for any small business. The Intuit Accountant Suite also emerged as a significant addition, tailored specifically for accounting firms. This platform aims to unify firm management by integrating client collaboration, service delivery, and business planning into one customizable dashboard. Accountants can leverage AI to answer complex queries about client profitability or automate the generation of reports, thereby enhancing their service offerings. As these innovations start rolling out to U.S.-based businesses and accountants, early adopters are likely to find themselves at a competitive advantage. The integration of AI into everyday business processes could redefine operational efficiency, allowing small firms to operate smarter and uncover new growth opportunities. With Intuit’s commitment to delivering real-time, personalized insights, small business owners now have a powerful tool to navigate the complexities of modern commerce. By embracing these advancements, they can position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving marketplace, where the ability to adapt and leverage technology will be key to survival and growth. This article, "Intuit Launches AI-Driven Innovations to Empower Business Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Intuit is making waves in the small business world with the launch of its innovative Intuit Intelligence, a cutting-edge system designed to help businesses thrive in the era of artificial intelligence. This announcement, made during the Intuit Connect event in Las Vegas, highlights a significant shift in how businesses can leverage technology to streamline operations, make data-driven decisions, and ultimately boost growth. At the heart of Intuit’s new offerings is the promise of a virtual team of AI agents that work across various financial pillars, including customer management, payroll, accounting, and tax. These tools allow small business owners to ask any question related to their operations and receive instant, data-backed answers. For instance, inquiries about turning leads into sales or projecting profitability can now be answered almost immediately, enabling quicker decision-making and strategic planning. “We are leading the largest technology disruption in our history that will fundamentally change how businesses compete and grow,” said Intuit CEO Sasan Goodarzi. This statement underscores the transformative potential of the new system, suggesting that small business owners can gain a distinct competitive advantage through the effective use of Intuit’s platform. One of the standout features of Intuit Intelligence is its ability to automate complex tasks. Small business owners can command the system to perform functions like running payroll with simple prompts, thus freeing up valuable time. According to Intuit, businesses can save up to 12 hours per month by utilizing these simplified operations, allowing owners to focus on growth and customer service rather than getting bogged down in administrative tasks. The introduction of specialized AI agents marks a significant leap forward. New tools like the Sales Tax Agent and Payroll Agent are designed to enhance compliance and accuracy. The Sales Tax Agent ensures that businesses charge the correct sales tax and identify potential issues before they arise, while the Payroll Agent proactively collects employee hours, detects anomalies, and prepares payroll drafts for approval. Intuit is also enhancing its Enterprise Suite, an ERP solution aimed at mid-market businesses. This AI-native platform promises faster onboarding, advanced multi-entity management, and improved reporting capabilities. For small businesses operating across multiple locations or entities, these features can simplify financial management and provide deeper insights into performance metrics. While the benefits of these innovations are compelling, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. The transition to an AI-driven platform may require an initial investment of time and resources for training and integration. Businesses accustomed to traditional processes might face a learning curve as they adapt to new technologies. Furthermore, reliance on AI for critical business functions raises questions about data security and privacy, which are paramount for any small business. The Intuit Accountant Suite also emerged as a significant addition, tailored specifically for accounting firms. This platform aims to unify firm management by integrating client collaboration, service delivery, and business planning into one customizable dashboard. Accountants can leverage AI to answer complex queries about client profitability or automate the generation of reports, thereby enhancing their service offerings. As these innovations start rolling out to U.S.-based businesses and accountants, early adopters are likely to find themselves at a competitive advantage. The integration of AI into everyday business processes could redefine operational efficiency, allowing small firms to operate smarter and uncover new growth opportunities. With Intuit’s commitment to delivering real-time, personalized insights, small business owners now have a powerful tool to navigate the complexities of modern commerce. By embracing these advancements, they can position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving marketplace, where the ability to adapt and leverage technology will be key to survival and growth. This article, "Intuit Launches AI-Driven Innovations to Empower Business Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article