News & Insights

Small businesses serve as the backbone of the economy, employing nearly 61.6 million Americans and driving innovation across various industries, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. However, they often face economic challenges that disproportionately affect them due to their limited resources.

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Nonprofit organizations address critical needs that often fall outside the reach of government and business efforts. Economically, according to Tronvig, nonprofits play a significant role by contributing $1.4 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2022, accounting for 5.6% of the GDP. Their influence extends beyond direct operations, creating a ripple effect in local economies. For instance, in sectors like the arts, 100 jobs in a nonprofit can spur an additional 152 jobs in related industries. This multiplier effect demonstrates how nonprofits bolster economic stability through their demand for goods, services, and employment​.

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On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve reduced its key interest rate by a quarter percentage point, marking the third consecutive reduction. This decision came with a cautionary message regarding the possibility of further decreases in the coming years.

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Phoenix, Arizona, has become a thriving hub for small businesses, fueled by strong population growth, innovation, and strategic support from local organizations. The state is home to 611,097 small businesses, which account for 99.5% of all companies in Arizona. Additionally, 1.1 million employees work for small businesses in the state, representing 42.9% of the total workforce, according to Arizona Commerce Authority the small business owners in Phoenix are not only making significant contributions to the local economy but are also setting an example across the nation with their resilience and adaptability.

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Staying ahead of social media trends is crucial for maximizing reach, engagement, and conversions. One of the most significant trends is the rise of short-form video content. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have popularized these dynamic and easily consumable formats. According to EverGreenSocial Data, 69% of marketers report achieving a higher ROI from short-form videos compared to other types of content.

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Niche markets are experiencing significant growth as consumers increasingly seek personalized experiences and products tailored to their specific needs. Small businesses are well-positioned to take advantage of this trend by offering targeted solutions that resonate deeply with their audiences. For example, a Deloitte survey found that 80% of consumers prefer brands that provide personalized experiences. Additionally, a 2019 article in the Harvard Business Review reported that 65% of consumers prefer to buy from brands that advocate for sustainability.

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All small business owners need to be aware that there is a new federal law known as the Corporate Transparency Act that requires the filing of a “Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI)” form, which must be filed by January 1, 2025.

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The global banking industry is undergoing a significant transformation in 2024, influenced by changing economic conditions, technological advancements, and evolving consumer expectations. According to Statista, the market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 4.92%, reaching a value of $10.83 trillion by 2029. However, McKinsey & Company notes that sustainable growth presents challenges, particularly as banks face declining net interest margins, expected to shrink from 3.1% in 2023 to approximately 2.7% by 2030. This compression is primarily driven by potential global interest rate reductions that could reverse the profitability gains realized during previous rate hikes.

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Cyber Monday, celebrated annually the Monday after Thanksgiving, has become a cornerstone of global online shopping. According to Captial One in 2024, it is projected to generate a staggering $13.2 billion in sales, reflecting a 6.1% increase from the $12.4 billion spent in 2023. This growth continues a trend of steady gains over the past decade, with the day now accounting for a significant share of holiday shopping sales​.

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Beneficial ownership refers to the individuals who ultimately own, control or benefit from a business or legal entity. This can occur either by exercising substantial control or by holding at least a 25% ownership stake according to GreenBurgTraurig. Unlike nominal ownership, which may only be reflected in official documents, beneficial ownership offers transparency regarding who truly benefits from or directs the entity’s activities. This distinction is crucial in preventing the misuse of legal structures for illicit purposes.

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