Sat, February 22, 2025

by: TechCrunch

Augury and Hightouch are in the unicorn club

Welcome to Startups Weekly — your weekly recap of everything you can't miss from the world of startups. Want it in your inbox every Friday? Sign up here.

by: Forbes

From Memes To $500 Million In Revenue: The Pump.Fun Phenomenon

Pump Fun has made it easy for anyone to launch a memecoin. And the founders have made become multi-millionaires in the process.

by: eNCA

Organisations want Finance Minister to speak on SME's on 2025 budget

On Wednesday, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana planned to announce an increase of 2 percentage points in VAT during the 2025 budget speech. However, objections within the Government of National Unity forced the minister to delay his speech. Critics argue that increasing VAT would come at a dire human cost, especially for the poor.

by: AOL

Mercedes-Benz won't be following Tesla and Elon Musk into robotaxis

The Cybercab was unveiled last October at a glitzy event at a Warner Bros. studio in Burbank, Calif. It's a battery-powered autonomous car without a steering wheel or pedals. It's currently being beta tested in the Bay Area, where Tesla employees hail rides using an app, though the vehicles still feature safety drivers.

by: MSN

3 numbers that show how dramatic Walmart's transformation has been with Amazon nipping at its heels

While investors weren't too thrilled when Walmart reported a conservative outlook during its fourth-quarter earnings this week, the company shared three key numbers that underscore just how much the company has grown in recent years.

by: GOBankingRates

I'm a Bank Teller: 9 Reasons You Should Never Ask for $2 Bills From the Bank

Two dollar bills -- what grandfather doesn't love giving them and what kid doesn't love getting some extra money? But they're not all whimsy and fun times -- in fact, bank teller Rachael P. said

by: AOL

America's foremost DEI shareholder activist warns that anti-diversity groups are forcing companies to underperform

Removing obstacles to women and people of color creates a true meritocracy, and shareholders know that's good for business, says Andy Behar, CEO of As You Sow.

by: Week99er

Qubetics Secures $13.5M as the Best Crypto Presale for 2025, While Litecoin Price Prediction Shake Up the Market

In the crypto market recent developments have captured the attention of investors and enthusiasts alike. Canary Capital's proposed Litecoin Spot ETF has been listed on the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC),

by: Kiplinger

Social Security Fairness Act Adds to Pressure on Safety Net

While the law seeks to level the playing field for many federal employees, the sustainability of the Social Security system is now facing even more challenges.

by: MSN

Leadership and business culture in startups: How to build a motivated team

In the dynamic world of startups, effective leadership and a strong organizational culture are crucial for success.

by: MSN

'Carol from accounts': Row erupts at Cheshire West and Chester Council meeting

Use precise geolocation data and actively scan device characteristics for identification. This is done to store and access information on a device and to provide personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. List of Partners (vendors)

by: Tuko

University of Kabianga Advertises 20 Vacancies for Job Seekers

The University of Kabianga has announced 20 job vacancies, offering opportunities for both academic and non-teaching staff. The positions include lecturer roles.

by: CNN

Dow tumbles more than 700 points as inflation and tariff fears mount

US stock markets fell sharply Friday after an economic report showed American consumers are growing increasingly fearful of price increases and how President Donald Trump's tariffs could reignite the inflation crisis.

by: MSN

After 150 Years of Friendship, the U.S. and Canada Come to Blows

Tariff threats and talk of making Canada the 51st state have unleashed rancor and instability into one of the world's most powerful partnerships

by: MSN

Local business sues city over issues related to rail development

The owners of a now-closed Chinatown shop are suing the city for damages they claim were caused by the city's public transit authority.

by: Kiplinger

Five Wins for Federal Employees in the Social Security Fairness Act

This is part one of a three-part series about making the most of the changes in Social Security benefits for federal employees brought about by the new Social Security Fairness Act (SSFA). Part two arrives on Saturday,
Fri, February 21, 2025

by: Inc

What Would Trump Taking Control of the USPS Mean for You?

by: jacobin

US Economic Decline Has Been Greatly Exaggerated

A focus on GDP and national accounts gives a misleading picture of US economic power. In the age of globalization, production can be based in countries like China while most of the profits flow back to American firms,

by: Marketplace

What do you want to know about business or the economy?

In our weekly I've Always Wondered series, we tackle all of your questions about business, finance and the economy. Have you ever wondered why gas prices end in nine-tenths of a cent? What you should do with old savings bonds? Why cereal doesn't come in resealable bags? Or how tariffs will impact the economy?

by: Calendar

Ditch the Juggling Act: 12 Ways Automated Scheduling Will Revolutionize Your Life (and Business)

While you are buried under a stack of sticky notes, trying to make sense of scribbled appointments, your phone buzzes with last-minute changes. Does this sound familiar? If you are a busy entrepreneur,

by: Politico

Three potential pitfalls for phase 2 Gaza talks

The second round of talks to end the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip begins in the coming days, and former officials see three potential challenges that could derail progress towards a permanent cease-fire.

by: Salon

Why you should consider freezing your credit right now

To freeze your credit, you'll need to contact each of the three major credit bureaus individually. Once your credit is frozen, you can temporarily lift the freeze when you need to apply for credit, and then reinstate it afterward.

by: coloradopolitics

Colorado House committee votes to advance bill to adjust state's pay structure for tipped workers

Colorado's pay structure for tipped workers is set to change with House Bill 1208. The bill aims to address wage disparities and local minimum wage hikes.

by: CNN

Target is getting hit from all sides on DEI

The lawsuit suit shows that Target is essentially getting squeezed from both sides on DEI. Target did not respond to CNN's request for comment on the suit. There's a long backstory to the suit, which alleges that Target's DEI initiatives led to its 2023 Pride Month merchandise that drew the ire of conservative media figures.

by: manilatimes

BIR, Customs collections higher in January - Recto

REVENUE collections improved last month, a Cabinet official said, with the Bureau of International Revenue (BIR) and Bureau of Customs (BOC) both posting year-on-year gains.

by: Fortune

What if AI creates more jobs than it destroys?

First, some of the company's most successful AI applications favor more employment, Mockenbrock said, as they allow for better and faster "resolutions" and a higher emotional connection between caller and agent.

by: Investopedia

MercadoLibre Stock Sets All-Time High as Q4 Earnings Blow Past Estimates

MercadoLibre shares surged on Friday after the Latin American e-commerce giant's fourth-quarter earnings came in well above expectations.

by: Reuters

Tariffs, federal government spending cuts restrain US business activity

U.S. business activity nearly stalled in February amid mounting fears over tariffs on imports and deep cuts in federal government spending, erasing all the gains notched in the aftermath of President Donald Trump's election victory.

by: AOL

What type of business savings account is right for you?

As a business owner, your company's financial health depends on smart money management. Whether you're building an emergency fund or setting aside cash for new equipment, choosing the right savings vehicle is crucial for your business's growth and stability.

by: Kiplinger

UnitedHealth Stock Drags on the Dow After DOJ Probe News

UnitedHealth Group stock is sinking Friday after media reports indicated the Justice Department is investigating the health insurer. Here's what to know.

by: Kiplinger

Block Stock Falls After Revenue, Earnings Miss Expectations

Block stock is down Friday after the payments company missed expectations for its fourth quarter. Here's what you need to know.

by: Reuters

Exclusive: Abrdn to launch China asset management venture with Citic unit, sources say

Abrdn is in advanced talks with Citic Bank to launch an asset management joint venture in China, two people with knowledge of the matter said, as the British firm looks to bolster its presence in the world's second-largest economy.

by: Forbes

Section 382 Limitations For Tech Companies Dealing With R&D Capitalization Requirements

I've discussed the changes to IRC Section 174 at length in previous articles, warning about the TCJA's change to research and experimental costs under 174, as well as the IRS finally providing some guidance on how to calculate the capitalization.

by: Reuters

Block shares drop as spending slowdown puts BNPL expansion in focus

Payments firm Block's shares fell 8% in premarket trading on Friday as a slowdown in spending growth fueled investor concerns, turning the spotlight to its bet on buy-now, pay-later lending to drive profits in 2025.

by: Forbes

Progress Over Perfection: Empowering Finance Teams With Digital Fluency

A lot of the conversation centered around adapting leadership capabilities for the digital era and responsibly championing AI integration, exciting but somewhat overwhelming responsibilities. Alas, as the saying goes,

by: Forbes

She Earns More: Redefining Power And Partnership In Modern Families

When women lead financially, they pave the way for healthier, more balanced relationships—but this requires intention and communication.

by: AOL

Should you sign a loan or pay a fee to get your tax refund early? Here's what you need to know

The average tax refund amount was just over $3,100 last year. For many Americans, that money can bring wonders: it could pay several months' rent, be a downpayment for a car, or allow you to buy several shares of tech stock.

by: Bloomberg

Trump's Tariff Wars Leave US Small Business With Nowhere to Hide

American companies of all sizes are on edge over President Donald Trump's tariffs, but it's arguably small business that is most exposed.Most Read from BloombergTrump to Halt NY Congestion Pricing by Terminating ApprovalAirbnb Billionaire Offers Pre-Fab Homes for LA Fire VictimsSorry,

by: MSN

Europe's Economic Stagnation Persists, Latest Business Surveys Say

The eurozone economy continued to flatline in February, torn between signs of revival in Germany and sharp decline in France.

by: Fortune

Starbucks hoped mobile orders and the drive-through would save its business. New CEO Brian Niccol says that was a mistake.

Starbucks new CEO Brian Niccol says "I think we got confused that mobile ordering could solve the entire business".

by: MSN

Two Rivers Heroes Arcade owner says he'll close if business doesn't improve

Michael Cleveland opened Heroes Arcade, 2022 Washington St., because he loves vintage pinball and arcade games, but economic woes have slowed business.

by: Zawya

Microsoft AI Tour showcases groundbreaking AI innovations driving transformation and growth across Oman

The Microsoft AI Tour in Oman underscored the company's unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving digital ecosystem

by: MSN

India's F&B on Ventilator: Archit Singhal's Eye-Opening Book Calls for Urgent Industry Reforms

India's food and beverage (F&B) industry, a key employer of unorganized labor, is facing an urgent crisis. In his latest book, India's F&B on Ventilator, Archit Singhal delivers a powerful analysis of the industry's sluggish growth,

by: MSN

French business activity contracts much more than expected in February, PMI shows

French business activity slumped much more than expected in February, according to a survey published on Friday, as new business and backlogs in the dominant services sector sharply declined. The HCOB France flash purchasing managers index (PMI) for services,

by: cnbctv18

Unsecured loans and digital risks: RBI and bank officials flag challenges

Regulatory oversight, declining CASA ratios, and third-party dependencies are putting pressure on banks to rethink their strategies.

by: Reuters

UK runs record January budget surplus but misses forecasts

Britain's government ran a record budget surplus of 15.4 billion pounds ($19.5 billion) last month, official figures showed on Friday, but in a setback for finance minister Rachel Reeves it was well below economists' and officials' expectations.

by: Bloomberg

Bessent Plans First Call With China Counterpart on Friday

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said he will hold his first introductory call with his Chinese counterpart on Friday, and reiterated longstanding US calls for its biggest geostrategic rival to rebalance its economy toward domestic consumption.

by: Forbes

The Future Of Wall Street And Enterprise: Fintech 50 2025

These growing startups are making the most of the AI revolution to save time and spot fraud for financial institutions, investors and founders.

Why you should consider freezing your credit right now

To freeze your credit, you'll need to contact each of the three major credit bureaus individually. Once your credit is frozen, you can temporarily lift the freeze when you need to apply for credit, and then reinstate it afterward.

The article from MSN Money discusses the benefits of freezing your credit as a protective measure against identity theft. It explains that with the rise in data breaches and identity theft, freezing your credit can prevent unauthorized access to your credit reports, thereby stopping potential fraudsters from opening new accounts in your name. The process involves contacting the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—to request a freeze, which can now be done online or by phone, making it more convenient than before. The article highlights that while this action might slightly inconvenience you when you need to apply for new credit, the security benefits far outweigh this minor hassle. It also notes that credit freezes are free, and you can temporarily lift or permanently remove the freeze if necessary. The piece concludes by emphasizing the peace of mind that comes with knowing your credit is locked down, especially in an era where personal data is increasingly at risk.

Read the Full Salon Article at:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/personalfinance/why-you-should-consider-freezing-your-credit-right-now/ar-AA1zxqqL