News & Insights

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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According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Americans spent an estimated $17 billion on Small Business Saturday in 2023, highlighting its significant impact. Celebrated annually after Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday was launched in 2010 by American Express and has been supported by the SBA since 2011. This event emphasizes the vital role that small businesses play in the U.S. economy.

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Embracing technological advancements can be essential for growth, efficiency, and competitiveness in today’s business landscape. Generative AI has emerged as a game-changer, enabling businesses to automate content creation, enhance customer engagement, and streamline operational processes. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 98% of small businesses leveraging AI tools are experiencing significant benefits, with generative AI now used by 40%. These tools are empowering even the smallest companies to excel beyond their limits by scaling their capabilities.

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The National Business & Economic Outlook for the coming 12 months presents a blend of promising growth opportunities and notable challenges. According to the "2024 Women and Minority Business Owner Spotlight" report by Bank of America, over 70% of women and minority business owners expect revenue growth, indicating strong optimism. Notably, minority business owners show increased confidence, with 78% predicting an improved economic environment compared to 2023.

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Scammers defrauded thousands of holiday shoppers through online scams, non-delivery schemes, and fake listings, resulting in substantial financial losses. The FBI reported almost 12,000 victims resulting in losses of over $73 million last holiday season due to scams, with thousands of victims falling prey to phishing emails, fake online stores, and fraudulent social media ads designed to deceive consumers into disclosing personal and financial information.

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