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  • Council mulls senior, veteran tax work-off programs

    Council mulls senior, veteran tax work-off programs

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    To help homeowners age 60 and up and veterans of all ages lower their property tax bills, the City Council is considering an ordinance to create senior and veteran property tax work-off programs.

    If the City Council adopts state legislation, the administration could then establish programs to allow seniors and veterans to volunteer their services to the city in exchange for lower property taxes.

    To do this, the City Council must first accept two provisions of state law. The council is scheduled to take this up at its next meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 13.

    Communities in the region that already offer senior tax work-off programs include, but are not limited to, Salem, Beverly, Danvers, Boxford, Ipswich, Hamilton, Wenham, Marblehead and Middleton, according to various municipal websites. Some towns such as Middleton and Swampscott offer both senior and veteran tax work-off programs.

    On Cape Ann, Rockport and Manchester-by-the-Sea offer the ability of seniors to volunteer to be able to reduce their taxes, while Essex and Gloucester do not.

    Councilor at-Large Jason Grow, Councilor at-Large Val Gilman and Ward 2 Councilor Dylan Benson co-sponsored the order to enable the creation of the senior and veterans tax work-off programs before the council’s three-member Ordinances and Administration Standing Committee on Monday, Feb. 5. The committee unanimously recommended the move.

    Grow told the subcommittee senior homeowners could volunteer in exchange for an abatement at a rate of 125 hours or $2,000.

    “It’s basically minimum wage up to $2,000,” he said.

    The senior tax work-off program would be for those 60 and up. There was a recent change in the legislation to allow for “the proxy possibility” for seniors who are infirm or unable to do the volunteer work to appoint someone to do it for them in exchange for the tax abatement, Grow said.

    The enabling statute for the veteran tax work-off program makes it eligible for any veteran with no age restriction. This would allow for the establishment of a program for veterans that offers up to a $1,500 tax reduction in exchange for volunteer hours.

    The council’s responsibility would be to accept the state legislation and it would be up to the administration to establish the parameters of the program, such as how much its funded, how many volunteers would be recommended, and what the maximum abatement might be, Grow said.

    The reason to bring this forward was because property taxes continue to be a burden, especially on seniors.

    “We have a program of abatement in the assessors’ office currently that seniors can take advantage of,” he said. “This is just one more opportunity for seniors and veterans to take advantage of volunteering in the community for whatever roles the administration determines is acceptable for this, and take that money off of their taxes and help with the annual expenses of living in Gloucester.”

    Gilman, who serves as an ex-officio member of the Council on Aging, said they have been talking about doing a better job about communicating to Gloucester residents about the repertoire of benefits and cost savings available to them.

    “Because the cost of aging in place has become more demanding and it’s a big concern for seniors,” she said.

    Gilman said she looked online to see what other communities were doing to help seniors save, and one of them was the tax work-off program. Nearly 100 municipalities in Massachusetts doing this. She shared the idea with the Council on Aging “and the response was very positive.”

    Benson said he has seen the positive impact of the senior tax work-off programs in other communities.

    Lynn, Salem, Amesbury, Beverly, Newburyport and a number of area towns already have senior work-off programs, and Newburyport and Amesbury offer both veteran and senior tax work-off programs.

    The reason he thinks this will help senior is because “it’s not forcing anyone to do anything, it’s an incentive and it’s an ability for seniors and veterans to have another way to reduce their property taxes,” Benson said.

    Ward 4 Councilor Frank Margiotta, a member of Ordinances and Administration, gave the proposal “kudos.” Ward 3 Councilor and subcommittee member Marjorie Grace asked Benson what types of work seniors were doing.

    Benson reiterated the council was only adopting state legislation and it would be up to the administration to enact the program.

    However, in other communities, Benson said the work involves clerical volunteer hours to do things like scanning documents, greeting people in City Hall, beach cleanups or helping out at a senior and veterans centers.

    Ward 5 Councilor Sean Nolan, the council vice president and chair of the subcommittee, noted that in Rockport, people would adopt fire hydrants to maintain or shovel out.

    “There is a lot places for people to give their expertise,” Nolan said.

    Grow added state legislation states such programs should not take away jobs or staffing.

    With the three-member committee recommending the order’s adoption, the City Council is scheduled to take up the matter under committee reports at its meeting on Tuesday, 6:30 p.m., in the Kyrouz Auditorium in City Hall.

    Ethan Forman may be contacted at 978-675-2714, or at eforman@gloucestertimes.com.



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    By Ethan Forman | Staff Writer

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  • Poll: Voters object to right-to-shelter funding

    Poll: Voters object to right-to-shelter funding

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    BOSTON — A majority of Massachusetts voters don’t support the use of taxpayer dollars to pay for migrant housing, according to a new poll by a conservative group, which is renewing calls to update the state’s right-to-shelter law.

    The poll, commissioned by the Fiscal Alliance Foundation, found that 53% of the 788 registered voters surveyed oppose the use of public funds to provide emergency housing for asylum seekers under the shelter law.

    At least 90% of Republicans who responded to the poll said “no” when asked about taxpayer funding for migrant shelter, while 62% of unenrolled or “independent” voters opposed the spending. At least 30% of Democrats also oppose it, according to the poll.

    “What is clear from this poll, the migrant crisis is at the forefront of voters’ minds and the solutions to date are not satisfactory,” the Fiscal Alliance’s spokesman Paul Craney said. “While the governor continues to spend valuable taxpayer money on the right to shelter benefits for newly arrived migrants, a majority of the voters disagree with this decision.”

    A majority of those surveyed, or 79%, said they wouldn’t accept a migrant family into their home in response to a question about Gov. Maura Healey’s call for homeowners to “sponsor” asylum seekers in need of temporary housing.

    Ninety-six percent of Republicans say they wouldn’t sponsor a migrant family, while 82% of unenrolled voters and 68% of Democrats said they also wouldn’t provide housing to migrants, pollsters said.

    Massachusetts has seen an unprecedented influx of thousands of asylum seekers over the past year amid a historic surge of immigration along the U.S.-Mexico border.

    Healey declared a state of emergency in August and deployed the National Guard to help deal with the influx of migrants. Her administration also set a 7,500-family cap on the number of people eligible for emergency housing in October.

    Under the “right-to-shelter” law, Massachusetts is required to provide emergency housing to homeless families, but critics say the law was never designed to provide for a large migrant population.

    To date, the state has opened four large-scale “overflow” sites for families, including one at the Cass Recreational Complex, in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood. There are also smaller emergency shelter sites in hotels and motels in about 90 communities, including Salem, Methuen and Andover.

    But more than 600 families are on a wait list for emergency housing, according to the state Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.

    Healey has estimated that the state will spend up to $2 billion to support emergency shelter for homeless families and migrants through the end of the next fiscal year.

    Despite requests from Healey and members of the state’s congressional delegation for federal funding, the Biden administration has only provided about $2 million to the state for emergency shelter and other migrant needs.

    But Healey has also refused to consider changes to the right to shelter law, arguing that other states without similar policies are also seeing large numbers of migrants.

    Republicans and conservative groups also argue that the state’s hodgepodge of “sanctuary” policies are encouraging migrants to relocate to the state.

    The number of people encountered at the U.S.-Mexico border last month was expected to exceed 300,000, a record high, according to the latest Department of Homeland Security figures.

    The poll found nearly 65% of voters blame President Joe Biden and Congress for inaction on the migrant crisis. But pollsters say the data also shows that Healey’s favorability has taken a hit as the migrant crisis drags on.

    “Voters may blame Washington for the migrant crisis but they are not satisfied with some of the policies being proposed on the state level for how to deal with the issue,” Craney said.

    Christian M. Wade covers the Massachusetts Statehouse for North of Boston Media Group’s newspapers and websites. Email him at cwade@cnhinews.com



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    By Christian M. Wade | Statehouse Reporter

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  • AI and ML in Debt Recovery Processes | Entrepreneur

    AI and ML in Debt Recovery Processes | Entrepreneur

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    Financial institutions use artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models to reshape debt recovery. Although you probably haven’t noticed any changes yet — these technologies are already having a massive impact on the finance industry.

    Why AI and ML Are Essential for Debt Recovery

    Debt grows out of control as people’s priorities shift, interest rates hit historic highs, and the cost of living rises. For instance, outstanding credit card debt reached over $1 trillion in the United States in 2023. Although it’s an unfortunate milestone, it reveals a systematic issue.

    Now more than ever, loans are becoming delinquent. About 28% of American consumers have at least one debt in collections, and over one in four people can’t afford to repay what they borrow. You should be able to recognize the dilemma financial institutions are facing. Realistically, they can no longer afford to stay idle.

    With delinquencies becoming more frequent, financial institutions are turning to modern technology for help. They use artificial intelligence and machine learning technology to enhance debt recovery efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and ensure fair collection practices.

    Are you wondering why banks need AI and ML? Simply put, algorithms are unlike other modern technologies because they mimic human intelligence. If you’ve ever spoken to a chatbot, you know how lifelike they are. Financial institutions rely on them because they can imitate actual logic and reasoning without the risk of human error.

    Why Do Creditors Use AI and ML Technologies?

    Financial institutions use AI and ML technology for debt-related processes because it’s more affordable. It’s also faster and more accurate than humans are, offering numerous cost and time-saving benefits.

    Predictive analytics — the practice of using historical data to predict future trends — is one of the main reasons financial organizations use AI. It improves business outcomes significantly by providing data-driven insights and increasing repayment chances.

    AI lets creditors reach out to you much faster, making you more likely to repay your outstanding debt. Research shows direct engagement noticeably increases customer satisfaction, improving business outcomes. Their effort might even enhance their public reputation.

    Creditors who use AI and ML perform noticeably better than the competing financial institutions. Research shows around 12% of businesses outperform competitors just by using algorithms. As these technologies become more lucrative, adoption rates are increasing.

    If anything, you can be certain financial institutions rely on AI because it increases their return on investment. While algorithmic processing and data storage costs money, it’s usually much cheaper than hiring and employing a human to do the same job in double the time.

    How Are AI and ML Technology Used in Debt Recovery?

    Financial institutions use AI and ML models in numerous ways, from customer outreach to risk analysis. Since the technology is so versatile, its applications are practically limitless.

    Early Intervention

    What if financial institutions could predict delinquency before it happened? AI and ML technologies make that possibility a reality. Algorithms can use your risk level, credit scores and loan history to build a profile on you and predict how likely you are to miss future payments.

    Predictive analytics lets financial institutions prepare backup plans like debt settlement or credit counseling to help you stay in good standing and avoid collections. Early intervention strategies increase the chances they get their return on investment while protecting your savings.

    Customer Experiences

    Usually, banks use stock templates to message you. They can tailor their communications with AI and ML. For example, they can send you unemployment resources if they notice your salary suddenly drops to zero for an extended period. This technology lets you receive context-specific recommendations from financial experts.

    Risk Assessment

    AI and ML technologies can build a risk profile on you using your credit score, loan history and financial behavior. They can also monitor global trends like e-commerce spending or interest rate fluctuation to see how likely people are to enter delinquency.

    Customer Communication

    ML models can track whether you prefer to talk over the phone, email or text. Also, they can analyze your response to identify your mood. As a result, they can react accordingly and de-escalate high-tension situations.

    If you’re like most people, you’ll like AI chatbots. According to a 2020 survey, around 41% of people have positive experiences with them, with 34% saying they provide valuable assistance. Being able to ask questions and get immediate responses is much better than sitting on hold.

    Message Clarification

    Have you ever opened mail from your bank only to see confusing legal jargon? Many institutions have realized making their messages easier to understand will increase your chances of repaying. Consequently, they’ve adopted natural language processing, a kind of ML model.

    You know what a natural language processing algorithm is, even if you haven’t heard the term. It reads and generates text like humans do — think of chatbots and generative AI. Banks can use this technology to make their messages easily understandable and more accessible.

    How AI and ML Technologies Reshape Debt Recovery

    Historically, debt recovery has been a tedious, drawn-out process. After you missed enough payments, your creditor would mail you reminders and warnings. They’d send your loan to a collection agency if you didn’t respond. Sometimes, they’d even take legal action to garnish your wages, forcing you to pay.

    Creditors want to get paid and you don’t want to face a lawsuit — AI and ML models can help. These technologies are reshaping this lengthy back-and-forth, transforming it into something more convenient for both parties.

    ML models can develop early intervention strategies based on custom, data-driven risk profiles. Instead of waiting to take action until loans become delinquent, financial institutions can be proactive. They can send personalized reminders or suggest steps you can take.

    Debt identification is another technology reshaping recovery practices. Sometimes, creditors mix up customer details and contact the wrong person. Other times, collection agencies go after debt you’ve already discharged through bankruptcy. AI prevents this by automatically pulling up a data-based profile on you whenever banks need to reach out.

    One of the most noticeable AI-driven changes involves communication. You no longer have to wait five to seven business days for every exchange. Chatbots and voicebots can solve the most common questions in minutes. Also, administrative algorithms speed up message processing.

    Algorithms can provide context-specific solutions when it comes to actual debt recovery. AI’s ability to offer data-driven guidance almost instantaneously allows creditors to spend more time on your case. Instead of sending you straight to collections, they may take alternative actions.

    How Does AI-Driven Debt Recovery Benefit You?

    If you owe tens of thousands of dollars, you’re not alone. In the United States, the average household had $101,915 in debt in 2023. Nationwide, that amounts to over $17.1 trillion in total. Realistically, there’s a good chance your loans will become delinquent — meaning you should want a new and improved recovery process.

    Most importantly, AI-driven debt recovery protects your savings. If your loans are delinquent for too long and end up in collections — or your creditor sues you to garnish your wages — you’re forced to give up what little you have. Intervention and communication ML models can help you stay up to date and offer alternatives before your situation gets to that point.

    If you’re like most people, the stress of owing money gets to you. Fortunately, the convenience of modern technology can make things easier. You can get one from AI in seconds instead of waiting multiple business days for a human response about your debt. Arguably, peace of mind is more valuable than anything.

    AI technology is one of the few solutions that benefits you as much as it does creditors. For one, it can increase your credit score because it helps prevent delinquency. Since 35% of your credit score depends on your payment history, a few missed bills can be damaging. At the very least, you maintain what you have instead of plummeting from a 745 to a 650 in a matter of months.

    Generally, AI technology is also much fairer and more ethical than humans are. Your first instinct might be to doubt that fact, considering algorithms are, by definition, less human. However, they don’t judge based on looks, ethnicity, or voice — they only use facts and trends. As a result, their risk assessments, messages, and suggestions will be more relevant to you.

    The Future Outlook of AI in Debt Recovery

    In all likelihood, AI’s introduction into debt recovery will permanently change how creditors and collection agencies operate. After all, algorithms can process massive amounts of data in seconds, automatically carry out high-level tasks, respond to numerous people simultaneously, and recognize patterns humans can’t.

    For now, you should expect improvements in customer experience, more personalized messages, and new quality-of-life features. Since implementation happens on the backend, the only noticeable changes will be convenience and response times. While creditors will use algorithms to improve their debt recovery, they probably won’t announce they’re using AI.

    In the long term, AI and ML technologies will revolutionize how funds are given out and paid back. It will change how creditors communicate with you, what alternatives they offer, and how soon they send your loan to collections. Even though it will likely take years before the entire finance industry catches on, the change is practically inevitable.

    AI and ML Technologies Are Transformative

    You might find it challenging to believe AI and ML models could reshape the financial industry. Some people thought the same thing about the internet. Many creditors are already adopting these technologies, so it’s only a matter of time before they permanently transform ordinary debt recovery processes.

    Featured Image Credit: Photo by Karolina Grabowska; Pexels

    The post AI and ML in Debt Recovery Processes appeared first on Due.

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    Devin Partida

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  • Decoding Real Returns on Your Investments | Entrepreneur

    Decoding Real Returns on Your Investments | Entrepreneur

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    Understanding the real returns on your investments

    Investing in financial instruments such as money market CDs, short treasuries, or high-yield savings accounts yielding 5% may seem lucrative. However, investors must comprehend what they’re actually receiving after taxes. The tax bracket an investor falls into significantly impacts their after-tax returns.

    For instance, if an investor is in a 24% tax bracket, their after-tax returns would be 3.8%. If they’re in a 32% tax bracket, their after-tax returns would be 3.4%. And if they’re in the highest tax bracket of 37%, their after-tax returns would be 3.15%.

    The impact of state taxes on your returns

    The state an investor resides in can also significantly impact their after-tax returns. For example, if an investor lives in New York, the highest tax bracket adds an additional 10.9% to their taxes, bringing their after-tax returns down to 2.6%.

    In California, the situation is even more dire. The highest tax bracket adds an extra 14.4% to an investor’s taxes, bringing their after-tax returns down to a mere 2.43%.

    The risk and returns of cash investments

    Cash is often considered a riskless asset. However, a riskless asset will always underperform risk assets over time. This is because risk assets, such as stocks and bonds, have the potential for higher returns to compensate for their higher risk.

    Over the past decade, cash has underperformed every primary asset class except commodities. This means that if an investor had invested their money in almost any other asset class, they would have seen higher returns than if they had kept their money in cash.

    The futility of timing the market

    Many investors try to time the market in an attempt to maximize their returns. They try to buy when prices are low and sell when prices are high. However, this strategy is often unsuccessful.

    The market’s movements are unpredictable and influenced by many factors, many of which are beyond an individual investor’s control. Therefore, trying to time the market is often a futile endeavor.

    Instead of trying to time the market, a better strategy is to invest consistently over time. This approach, known as dollar-cost averaging, reduces the risk of making a large investment at the wrong time. It also allows investors to take advantage of the market’s long-term upward trend.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, investors need to understand the actual returns on their investments after taxes. The state they live in and their tax bracket can significantly impact their after-tax returns.

    Cash may seem safe, but it underperforms risk assets over time. And while it may be tempting to try to time the market, a more effective strategy is to invest consistently over time. By understanding these principles, investors can make more informed investment decisions and potentially increase their returns.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q. What is the impact of tax brackets on investment returns?

    The tax bracket an investor falls into significantly impacts their after-tax returns. For instance, if an investor is in a 24% tax bracket, their after-tax returns would be 3.8%. If they’re in a 32% tax bracket, their after-tax returns would be 3.4%. And if they’re in the highest tax bracket of 37%, their after-tax returns would be 3.15%.

    Q. How do state taxes affect investment returns?

    The state an investor resides in can also significantly impact their after-tax returns. For example, if an investor lives in New York, the highest tax bracket adds an extra 10.9% to their taxes, bringing their after-tax returns down to 2.6%. In California, the highest tax bracket adds an additional 14.4% to an investor’s taxes, bringing their after-tax returns down to a mere 2.43%.

    Q. What are the risks and returns of cash investments?

    Cash is often considered a riskless asset. However, a riskless asset will always underperform risk assets over time. This is because risk assets, such as stocks and bonds, have the potential for higher returns to compensate for their higher risk. Over the past decade, cash has underperformed every major asset class except for commodities.

    Q. Why is timing the market often a futile endeavor?

    The market’s movements are unpredictable and influenced by many factors, many of which are beyond an individual investor’s control. Therefore, trying to time the market is often a futile endeavor. Instead of trying to time the market, a better strategy is to invest consistently over time. This approach, known as dollar-cost averaging, reduces the risk of making a significant investment at the wrong time. It also allows investors to take advantage of the market’s long-term upward trend.

    Q. What is the importance of understanding actual returns on investments?

    It’s important for investors to understand the real returns on their investments after taxes. The state they live in and their tax bracket can significantly impact their after-tax returns. Cash may seem like a safe investment, but it underperforms risk assets over time. And while it may be tempting to try to time the market, a more effective strategy is to invest consistently over time. By understanding these principles, investors can make more informed investment decisions and potentially increase their returns.

    The post Decoding Real Returns on Your Investments appeared first on Due.

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    Taylor Sohns MBA, CIMA®, CFP®

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  • Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. Sells 3,692 Shares of Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG)

    Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. Sells 3,692 Shares of Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG)

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    Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. reduced its position in shares of Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG – Free Report) by 14.0% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 22,649 shares of the real estate investment trust’s stock after selling 3,692 shares during the quarter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc.’s holdings in Simon Property Group were worth $2,447,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

    A number of other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Arlington Trust Co LLC bought a new position in Simon Property Group during the third quarter valued at $25,000. DT Investment Partners LLC grew its holdings in Simon Property Group by 714.3% during the third quarter. DT Investment Partners LLC now owns 228 shares of the real estate investment trust’s stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares during the period. Nemes Rush Group LLC bought a new position in Simon Property Group during the second quarter valued at $26,000. Selway Asset Management bought a new position in Simon Property Group during the third quarter valued at $26,000. Finally, Financial Freedom LLC bought a new position in shares of Simon Property Group in the fourth quarter worth $27,000. 84.73% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

    Simon Property Group Trading Down 0.8 %

    NYSE SPG opened at $136.79 on Tuesday. The stock’s 50-day simple moving average is $139.58 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $123.16. Simon Property Group, Inc. has a twelve month low of $100.17 and a twelve month high of $146.91. The company has a quick ratio of 0.94, a current ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 7.40. The company has a market capitalization of $44.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.27, a PEG ratio of 6.63 and a beta of 1.65.

    Simon Property Group Increases Dividend

    The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 8th will be given a dividend of $1.95 per share. This is an increase from Simon Property Group’s previous quarterly dividend of $1.90. This represents a $7.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.70%. Simon Property Group’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 112.59%.

    Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

    A number of equities analysts have recently commented on SPG shares. StockNews.com raised Simon Property Group from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a report on Friday, January 19th. Truist Financial raised their price target on Simon Property Group from $128.00 to $139.00 and gave the stock a “hold” rating in a report on Tuesday, January 16th. Morgan Stanley lowered Simon Property Group from an “overweight” rating to an “equal weight” rating and raised their price target for the stock from $132.00 to $143.00 in a report on Thursday, December 21st. Stifel Nicolaus cut their price target on Simon Property Group from $139.00 to $130.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 31st. Finally, Piper Sandler raised their price target on Simon Property Group from $148.00 to $172.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a report on Wednesday, December 20th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Simon Property Group currently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus price target of $137.75.

    View Our Latest Analysis on Simon Property Group

    Simon Property Group Profile

    (Free Report)

    Simon is a real estate investment trust engaged in the ownership of premier shopping, dining, entertainment and mixed-use destinations and an S&P 100 company (Simon Property Group, NYSE: SPG). Our properties across North America, Europe and Asia provide community gathering places for millions of people every day and generate billions in annual sales.

    Further Reading

    Institutional Ownership by Quarter for Simon Property Group (NYSE:SPG)

    Receive News & Ratings for Simon Property Group Daily – Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts’ ratings for Simon Property Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com’s FREE daily email newsletter.

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    ABMN Staff

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  • File Your State and Federal Returns for $25 With H&R Block | Entrepreneur

    File Your State and Federal Returns for $25 With H&R Block | Entrepreneur

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    Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

    There are only two months left until your favorite time of year: Tax season. While that’s a tad early, it’s also true that IRS data shows an overall 15% increase in average refunds so far (according to CNBC Select). If that actually makes you eager to file this year, then you might also be interested in this deal on H&R Block’s Deluxe software.

    It can help you file both your state and federal returns with assistance on more than 350 credits and deductions to maximize the amount you get back — plus loads of other perks. For a limited time, you can get H&R Block Deluxe for only $24.97, normally $49.99.

    H&R Block Deluxe: All-around worry-free filing.

    H&R Block Deluxe is designed to be easy to use, whether it’s your first time filing without an accountant or you’re a seasoned filer. The software will walk you through the state and federal programs step-by-step so you can feel confidence in its accuracy, and those who used TurboTax or Quicken in previous years can easily import old returns and data.

    You’ll also get access to an abundance of resources like 13,000 searchable articles, FAQs, and tips on tax preparation. Uniquely, H&R Block will also represent you in-person in the rare case of an audit at no additional cost.

    Unlike web-based programs, H&R Deluxe is actually a downloadable app for your PC or Mac, so you can save your work and complete it later. This could also be handy to reference when you’re filing next year’s return.

    Use H&R Block Deluxe to file your taxes and maximize your refund, now only $24.97 (reg. $49.99) on sale until February 11 at 11:59 p.m. PT. No coupon is needed.

    StackSocial prices subject to change.

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    Entrepreneur Store

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  • After Jamie Dimon warns of market ‘rebellion’ against $34 trillion national debt, Jerome Powell says it’s past time for an ‘adult conversation’ about unsustainable fiscal policy

    After Jamie Dimon warns of market ‘rebellion’ against $34 trillion national debt, Jerome Powell says it’s past time for an ‘adult conversation’ about unsustainable fiscal policy

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    With the United States’ national debt closing in on $34.2 trillion, some of the biggest figures in the world of finance have been speaking out. But few expected Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell to address the issue—at least until this weekend, when Powell spoke out about the debt on CBS’ 60 Minutes Sunday. “In the long run, the U.S. is on an unsustainable fiscal path,” Powell warned.

    Even as the U.S. economy avoided a widely forecast recession in 2023, record government spending and lower tax receipts led the national debt to surge to an all-time high. And that trend has continued into this year. The U.S.’s government debt to GDP ratio, a measure of total public debt to economic growth, has surged from just over 100% in 2019 to over 120%. That’s down from the COVID-era peak of 133%, but as Powell put it, the government’s debt is still “growing faster than the economy.” 

    This means it’s now “past time, to get back to an adult conversation among elected officials about getting the federal government back on a sustainable fiscal path,” Powell argued Sunday.

    ‘Borrowing from future generations’

    It’s rare to see a Fed official discuss politics. The U.S. central bank is supposed to be a non-partisan, independent institution, after all. Powell reiterated as much in his 60 Minutes interview over the weekend, saying “we mostly try very hard not to comment on fiscal policy and instruct Congress on how to do their job, when actually they have oversight over us.”

    But almost immediately after that statement, Powell criticized lawmakers for “effectively borrowing from future generations” with their “unsustainable” policies. “It’s time for us to get back to putting a priority on fiscal sustainability,” he added.

    Fed Chair Powell joins a number of critics of fiscal policy and the surging national debt, including JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon. Dimon, warned last month that the U.S. economy is headed for a “cliff” if something isn’t done to address the federal government’s excessive debt burden.

    “We see the cliff. It’s about 10 years out, we’re going 60 miles an hour [toward it],” he said at a Bipartisan Policy Center panel. Dimon argued that U.S. lawmakers will need to alter the current path of spending and control the national debt or there could be “rebellion” among foreign owners of U.S. government bonds.

    Other Wall Street heavyweights have been criticizing rising federal deficits for years. Mark Spitznagel, founder and chief investment officer of the private hedge fund Universa Investments, told Fortune last year that we are living “the greatest credit bubble in human history.”

    “And that’s not my opinion, that’s just numbers,” he said. “There is no question about the fact that we are living in an age of leverage, an age of credit, and it will have its consequences.”

    Ray Dalio, founder of the hedge fund giant Bridgewater Associates, has also been warning of brewing issues. In December, he argued that the U.S. government is reaching an “inflection point” with its debt problem. Eventually, the government will have to borrow just to make its annual debt servicing payments, and that’s a recipe for a debt crisis, Dalio warned.

    Some good news?

    The good news? As Powell described Sunday, the U.S. still has a “dynamic, innovative, flexible, adaptable economy, more so than other countries.” Powell argued that this is the “big reason” why the U.S. economy has outperformed its peers over the past few years—but there are a few others, as Fortune detailed last week. America’s dynamic economy means the debt situation isn’t too far gone to rectify just yet. But as Powell said: “sooner is better than later.”

    Despite the criticism, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has brushed off concerns about the rising national debt. The key metric Yellen looks at is net interest payments as a share of GDP, and that is still “at a very reasonable level,” she argued in a CNBCinterview last September.

    Subscribe to the CFO Daily newsletter to keep up with the trends, issues, and executives shaping corporate finance. Sign up for free.

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  • 4 Areas of Your Business to Prioritize Data Investment in to Help Grow Your Business | Entrepreneur

    4 Areas of Your Business to Prioritize Data Investment in to Help Grow Your Business | Entrepreneur

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    Your company is awash in data. In today’s digital age, business data comes from various sources, including customer interactions, sales figures, social media metrics, and operational statistics. E-commerce giants like Amazon track user behavior, purchase history, and browsing patterns to personalize recommendations and enhance user experience. Healthcare organizations utilize data from patient records, clinical trials, and wearables to improve treatments and develop innovative solutions. But what about your business?

    This abundance of data presents opportunities and challenges for businesses striving to extract meaningful insights and make data-driven decisions. You’re probably asking, “Which data is most important, though?” That’s a key question to answer, especially if you want to make smarter business choices. Though all data has some value, you want to prioritize the data that will enable you to be faster, smarter, and more competitive. When you do, you can increase the efficiency of your team and hopefully grow your business.

    This isn’t just theory. In early 2023, Google Cloud asked Harvard Business Review to conduct a survey for its organization. The survey showed that 81% of the companies that successfully navigated the economic upheaval of the pandemic years were serious about investing in data. A full 58% focused heavily on AI solutions as well.

    The point here is clear: to be in the winner’s circle, you can’t afford to ignore your data. Yet you don’t need to treat all data as equally important. Your goal should be to pick and choose areas to harness your data to give you more decision-making confidence. Not sure which areas to concentrate on first? The following four should all benefit from routine data collection and evaluation.

    1. SEO Efforts

    Trying to outrank other businesses and websites for keywords is only getting more demanding. Even if you follow Google’s general SEO starter guidelines to the letter, you may only get a modest amount of traction. To rank more quickly for keywords and give your SEO efforts a lift, turn to data. Utilizing data-driven keyword research tools and analytics that track user search behavior and competition metrics can provide invaluable insights to refine your keyword targeting strategy.

    One way to leverage keyword data is by using it to plan and organize your content. Consider creating content pillars for publishing blog articles, web pages, and other owned content. Content pillars include pillar pages built upon strong keywords. Other pages can then be written as extensions of the pillars, creating an authority-heavy network of interrelated content. As marketing strategy platform DemandJump explains, using pillar-based marketing can grow your topical authority. Rather than trying to come up with keywords on your own, you can rely on a data-rich platform to recommend keywords based on your company’s products or services.

    In addition to content pillar marketing, you can also leverage data during other SEO practices like backlinking. Organic backlinks help show your dominance and legitimacy to search engine crawlers. You’ll need a way to monitor them and ensure they’re coming from authority-rich places, though. Therefore, it’s worthwhile to invest in a SaaS platform or application that can monitor your backlinks in real-time. That way, you have more control moving forward and be able to keep making smart SEO moves based on numbers, not instincts.

    2. Financial Data

    Financial data should form the backbone of strategic decision-making for any business. Utilizing this type of data effectively helps business owners gain insights into revenue streams, cost structures, and overall financial health. If you want to turn a profit, you really can’t ignore these numbers. By leveraging tools for financial analysis and forecasting, you can make informed decisions to optimize profitability, manage cash flow, and allocate resources.

    For example, examining financial data trends can help you identify areas of high and low performance within different product lines or services. This allows business owners or CFOs to strategically allocate resources to their most profitable ventures while reevaluating underperforming areas. You’d avoid wasting money and time by ensuring you prioritize your money makers. There are many tools you can use to make keeping track of this data easier. Tools like QuickBooks can track expenses, revenues, and cash flow in real-time.

    As an added bonus, financial data analysis also aids in risk management and strategic planning. By carefully examining historical data and market trends, you can forecast potential risks and opportunities. This allows you to take proactive measures to reduce risks and capitalize on emerging market trends. Overall, leveraging financial data ultimately leads to sustainable business growth and profitability. If you’re not closing examining these numbers, set aside time to do so.

    3. Customer Service Approaches

    Another area where data can be your best friend is your customer service department. For instance, a predictive data software solution can anticipate problems before they arise by spotting trends. This makes you more able to put measures in place to avoid costly problems, such as foreseeable customer returns.

    With improvements in generative AI, the customer service data you amass can be more than just numbers. Consider generative AI transcription software as an example. This type of software can be trained to understand customer language and interpret tones. CMSWire reporting notes that customer service representatives who rely on generative AI in a “copilot” capacity feel like they’re able to be 14% more productive. Plus, they’re less likely to want to leave, which is a boon for your company if you’ve dealt with constant agent turnover.

    Happy, satisfied customers are those whose issues get handled right away with a minimum amount of friction. If you’re struggling to keep buyers from churning, putting money into being more data-driven in your customer support workflows makes sense. By harnessing data to predict customer needs and behavior, you can proactively address issues, personalize experiences, and preemptively provide solutions. This helps foster stronger relationships and loyalty, ultimately reducing churn rates significantly.

    Take a moment to walk through your customer journeys to begin. You’ll soon find areas where data innovations (and maybe generative AI products like agent assistants and chatbots) can address gaps. Once those gaps are filled, you should experience less customer dropoff. At that point, you can start to make changes aimed at improving your existing customer service now that you have a baseline to work from.

    4. Employee Engagement Strategies

    If you’ve been following Gallup’s yearly employee engagement polls, you know that active worker engagement has dropped to 32%. At the same time, disengagement is up to 18%. To avoid having teams of unhappy staffers, use data in creative ways to improve the employee experience.

    Case in point, you may want to elicit employee feedback through anonymous surveys or small-meeting focus groups. With the insights you glean, you can begin to build a database that reveals the engagement level throughout your workforce. Be sure to pick out a few key performance indicators to measure, too, such as historic turnover rates and absenteeism rates.

    In time, you’ll be able to get a benchmark reading of your employee engagement. From that point, you can begin to take measures to nudge it upward. As an example, you might begin to routinely recognize and reward employees to see if it produces a measurable effect. Remember: Engaged employees are more loyal and are better suited to be champions for your brand. With data, you can better understand how to keep high performers from leaving and help them reach their full potential.

    Informed Decisions Benefit Your Business

    Every day, you and your team members are going to have to make big and small decisions. Being able to use data as a guide allows everyone to move ahead with more assurance and keep your organization on the right track. Data keeps everyone on the same page and provides insights you wouldn’t otherwise have. It’s worth taking your time to explore and understand the data you have available.

    Featured Image Credit: Photo by Karolina Grabowska; Pexels; Thank you. 

    The post 4 Areas of Your Business to Prioritize Data Investment in to Help Grow Your Business appeared first on Due.

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  • Which Financial Stock Holds the Earnings Edge – First American Financial (FAF) or Moody’s Corporation (MCO)? | Entrepreneur

    Which Financial Stock Holds the Earnings Edge – First American Financial (FAF) or Moody’s Corporation (MCO)? | Entrepreneur

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    Amid the ongoing demand for financial services and an increasing incorporation of digital technology, the financial industry presents a strong and promising outlook. The prevailing high-interest rate environment provides further stimulus to the financial services companies. With financial services companies Moody’s (MCO) and First American Financial (FAF) set to unveil their quarterly results soon, let’s compare the financial services stocks and ascertain which of the two holds the earnings edge. Read on to find out….

    The financial services sector is poised to undergo significant expansion due to substantive demand among enterprises and the rising integration of cutting-edge technology. Banks, insurance firms, brokerage entities, and money management institutions could further benefit from the high-interest rate environment.

    This article evaluates and compares the fundamentals of financial services companies, Moody’s Corporation (MCO) and First American Financial Corporation (FAF), to ascertain which one is better equipped to capitalize on the flourishing industry momentum as these stocks prepare for their quarterly earnings releases.

    Historically, the financial services sector has often been a catalyst for progression, helping individuals and organizations navigate socioeconomic shifts. Service providers within the financial services industry, such as insurance, investment management, banking, and capital markets, are well-positioned to remain resilient and experience considerable long-term growth, fueled by escalating demand for financial services from enterprises.

    The interest rates, currently set between 5.25%-5.5%, are anticipated to remain elevated for some more months before projected rate cuts commence. The revenue of the financial services industry positively correlates with higher interest rates. High-interest conditions compel borrowers to pay more interest, thereby creating a potential avenue for increased revenue for these service entities.

    Furthermore, the continued digitalization of financial services like credit card processing, easy credit, insurance coverage, tax accounting methodologies, wealth management, mortgage financing, and ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ (BNPL) solutions have induced a paradigm shift within the finance sector.

    From a technological perspective, financial companies anticipate leveraging cutting-edge GenAI technology for improved fraud detection and insightful behavioral analysis of customers. This development can, in turn, bolster sector growth even further.

    The financial services market is expected to grow from $31.14 trillion in 2023 to $33.54 trillion in 2024 at a CAGR of 7.7%. The market is expected to witness stronger growth, reaching $44.93 trillion in 2028, growing at a CAGR of 7.6%.

    With a market cap of over $73 billion, MCO operates as an integrated risk assessment firm worldwide. Meanwhile, FAF, with a market cap of $6.25 billion, is a premier provider of title, settlement, and risk solutions for real estate transactions and the leader in the digital transformation of its industry.

    The fourth-quarter results for both MCO and FAF are due for revelation soon. MCO’s revenue and EPS are expected to increase 15.3% and 44.9% year-over-year to $1.49 billion and $2.32, in the fiscal fourth quarter ending December 2023, while FAF’s revenue and EPS are expected to decline 10% and 39% year-over-year to $1.52 billion and $0.82, respectively.

    In terms of price performance, MCO has gained 30.7% over the past nine months, while FAF gained 5.9%. However, over the past year, MCO has gained 21.3% to close the last trading session at $399.60, whereas FAF has lost 5% to close the last trading session at $60.57. MCO is a clear winner here.

    Here are the reasons why I think MCO might perform better in the near term:

    Recent Financial Results

    MCO’s revenue for the fiscal third quarter that ended September 30, 2023, came at $1.47 billion, up 15.5% year-over-year, while its adjusted operating income grew 32.2% from the prior-year quarter to $657 million.

    The company’s adjusted net income and adjusted EPS rose 31.5% and 31.4% from the prior-year quarter to $447 million and $2.43, respectively. For the nine months that ended September 30, 2023, its free cash flow increased 65.3% year-over-year to $1.48 billion.

    On the contrary, FAF’s net sales came to $1.48 billion during the fiscal third quarter ended September 30, 2023, reflecting a decline of 18.8% year-over-year. Adjusted net income and adjusted net income per share stood at $128.20 million and $1.22, down 27.5% and 27.4%, respectively, from the year-ago quarter.

    However, FAF’s cash and cash equivalents, as of September 30, 2023, stood at $1.58 billion, compared to $1.22 billion as of December 31, 2022.

    Past And Expected Financial Performance

    MCO’s revenue has grown at 4.7% CAGRs over the past five years, while FAF’s revenue has grown at 1.5% CAGRs over the same period. MCO’s EBITDA and EBIT grew at 2.6% and 1.3% CAGRs, respectively, over the past five years, while FAF’s EBITDA and EBIT grew at negative 5.8% and 9.5% CAGRs, respectively.

    Analysts expect MCO’s revenue to increase 9% year-over-year to $1.60 billion in the fiscal first quarter ending March 2024, while EPS is expected to come at $2.82. The company surpassed consensus revenue and EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, which is impressive.

    FAF’s revenue is expected to decline 1.2% year-over-year to $1.43 billion, while EPS is expected to rise 47.2% year-over-year to $0.72 in the fiscal first quarter ending March 2024. The company surpassed consensus EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters while failing to surpass consensus revenue estimates in three of the trailing four quarters.

    Profitability

    MCO’s trailing-12-month EBITDA margin of 42.80% is higher than FAF’s 9.66%. In addition, MCO’s trailing-12-month Return on Total Capital of 12.11% is higher than FAF’s 3.91%. Moreover, MCO’s trailing-12-month Return on Total Assets of 11.87% is higher than FAF’s 2.22%.

    Thus, MCO seems more profitable.

    POWR Ratings

    MCO has an overall rating of B, which equates to a Buy in our proprietary POWR Ratings system. Conversely, FAF has an overall rating of C, translating to a Neutral. The POWR Ratings are calculated considering 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.

    Our proprietary rating system also evaluates each stock based on eight distinct categories. MCO’s Quality grade of B is in sync with its higher-than-industry profitability metrics. Its trailing-12-months EBIT margin of 36.43% is 71.9% higher than the industry average of 21.20%. Moreover, its trailing-12-month CAPEX/Sales of 4.84% is 138.8% higher than the industry average of 2.03.

    Conversely, FAF’s C grade for Quality justifies its mixed profitability. Its trailing-12-month EBIT margin of 6.76% is 68.1% lower than the industry average of 21.20%. However, its trailing-12-month CAPEX/Sales of 4.41% is 117.7% higher than the industry average of 2.03.

    Within the Financial Services (Enterprise) industry, MCO is ranked #12 out of 100 stocks, while FAF is ranked #41.

    Beyond what we’ve stated above, we have also rated both stocks for Growth, Value, Momentum, Stability, and Sentiment. Click here to view MCO ratings. Get all FAF ratings here.

    The Winner

    As we delve deeper into the digital age, observing a marked surge in advanced technologies, the financial services industry finds itself on the cusp of unprecedented growth and expansion. High interest rates are set to further bolster this performance, potentially boosting profitability for those within the sector. Industry players MCO and FAF could benefit from these industry tailwinds.

    However, it is MCO stands out notably due to its profitability, promising outlook, vigorous financial health, and encouraging bottom-line forecasts, making it the more advantageous pick now.

    Our research shows that the odds of success increase when one invests in stocks with an Overall Rating of Strong Buy or Buy. View all the top-rated stocks in the Financial Services (Enterprise) here.

    What To Do Next?

    Get your hands on this special report with 3 low priced companies with tremendous upside potential even in today’s volatile markets:

    3 Stocks to DOUBLE This Year >

    MCO shares closed at $399.60 on Friday, down $-2.94 (-0.73%). Year-to-date, MCO has gained 2.31%, versus a 4.01% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index during the same period.

    About the Author: Sristi Suman Jayaswal

    The stock market dynamics sparked Sristi’s interest during her school days, which led her to become a financial journalist. Investing in undervalued stocks with solid long-term growth prospects is her preferred strategy.

    Having earned a master’s degree in Accounting and Finance, Sristi hopes to deepen her investment research experience and better guide investors.

    More…

    The post Which Financial Stock Holds the Earnings Edge – First American Financial (FAF) or Moody’s Corporation (MCO)? appeared first on StockNews.com

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  • Make Informed Investment Decisions With Lifetime Access to Tykr for $119.99 | Entrepreneur

    Make Informed Investment Decisions With Lifetime Access to Tykr for $119.99 | Entrepreneur

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    Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

    Every entrepreneur knows that success lies in smart investments. Yet, navigating the financial markets can be a daunting task. Recognizing this, the creators of the Tykr Stock Screener developed a premium product aimed at simplifying this process for both the seasoned investors and those scooping up stocks for the first time. Not just a tool, this invaluable platform also serves as a mentor, guiding users towards safer and more lucrative investment decisions.

    So, what makes Tykr an indispensable financial adviser in your pocket? Starting with the initial steps it shields you from common rookie mistakes: stepping into high-risk moves and heartbreaking losses. Its highly efficient algorithm sifts through a universe of over 30,000 U.S. and International stocks, swiftly recognizing the ones with promising return prospects. It takes users behind the scenes, explaining the “why” behind every recommendation, thereby nurturing an understanding of the market dynamics.

    For those of you embracing a cautious investment strategy, Tykr’s exclusive score feature adds an extra layer of security. It rates stocks out of 20, offering a clear insight into a stock’s financial strength. Knowing the Margin of Safety (MOS), an indicator of potential returns, further equips you to take calculated risks. Who said the stock market was all about gambling?

    Finding robust investments takes no more than 30 seconds, even for first timers navigating the platform. The seemingly complex world of stock trading is simplified to three categories: On Sale (potential buy), Watch, Overpriced (potential sell). Sorting your investment priorities becomes as straightforward as categorizing your emails.

    Tykr has proven itself an indispensable tool for seasoned and novice investors alike looking to secure their financial future.

    Recognized as a vital investment tool, its user-friendly interface and insightful algorithm are key to making smarter financial decisions.

    For a limited time, score a lifetime subscription to a Tykr Stock Screener Premium plan for $119.99.

    Prices subject to change.

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    Entrepreneur Store

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  • Did the Fed Put a Lid on Stock Prices? | Entrepreneur

    Did the Fed Put a Lid on Stock Prices? | Entrepreneur

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    The S&P 500 (SPY) was off to another great start in 2024. That was until Chairman Powell grabbed the mic at his January 31st press conference. And things went south in a hurry. Why is that? And what does that mean for stock investors in the days and weeks ahead? Investment expert Steve Reitmeister shares his views along with this top 13 trades in the commentary that follows below.

    Stocks were merrily on their way towards a rendezvous with new all time highs at 5,000 before Fed Chairman Powell took the podium on Wednesday afternoon. At first investors liked what they heard with some buoyancy in stock prices.

    But once Powell made it clear that he sees rate cuts as highly unlikely at the next meeting in March, then stock prices tumbled into a -1.61% loss for the S&P 500 (SPY).

    Gladly it was not all bad. In fact, I would say that it was a bit of an overreaction.

    So, let’s spend our time today digging into the key Fed statements and what that means for the market in the days and weeks ahead.

    Market Commentary

    I religiously watch the Fed press conferences which commences 30 minutes after they release their rate hike decision. The prepared statements typically reflect the same sentiment as found in the aforementioned press release.

    The key to the event always resides in the Q&A section. These unprepared remarks by Powell reveal much more insight. Beyond the words is also the body language and emphasis from the Fed chairman. You can instantly see the market’s reaction to every positive and negative comment.

    The net result of the January 31st press conference was a near free fall in stock prices. Beyond the -1.61% we see a much more painful -2.45% slashing of small caps in the Russell 2000 index.

    Why?

    It pretty much comes down to one vital sentence:

    “I don’t think it’s likely that the committee will reach a level of confidence by the time of the March meeting to identify March is the time to do that (start cutting rates).”

    With that the odds of a March rate cut were lowered…short term bond rates went higher…and stocks imploded.

    Gladly on Thursday cooler heads prevailed. That’s because Powell also made it clear that the committee still thinks that 3 rate cuts are on the way this year. So shifting out expectations for the first cut to May 1st is not so bad in the grand scheme of things.

    Net-net, the 10 year Treasury rate has dropped back under 4% and stock prices are back on the upswing with 5,000 looming large on the horizon.

    Now let’s get into some of the granular detail from Powell’s press conference as there are some very interesting concepts to share. In general, I am paraphrasing what was said to get straight to the point.

    (Here are the key ideas from the prepared statement section)

    Inflation still too high and thus path forward is uncertain.

    Policy is well into restrictive territory. And thus, doing well on dual mandate to get inflation back down to 2% goal while also achieving maximum employment.

    Reversing policy too soon would risk re-igniting inflation which is bad news for the average consumer.

    Reversing too late has downside risks to the economy and the labor market.

    They are acutely aware of the balancing act required and continue to do what they believe is necessary.

    (After Powell’s prepared statements investors are realizing it’s the same old song from the Fed and that they overreacted to some of the language in the press release. With that bond rates fell and stock prices climbed temporarily.

    Now onto the Q&A portion which, as noted above, typically unlocks much more valuable insights.)

    The committee is still all agreeing to cut rates. And 3 times this year is the most recent prediction. The key question is WHEN to start the cuts?

    Would a weakening in the employment picture hasten your desire to cut rates? Yes!

    But right now employment is still a bit strong…and that provides still too much wage inflation. Less of a problem than before…but still too high.

    You didn’t agree that soft landing has happened. But would you say that a hard landing is off the table?

    Executive Summary from Powell: Growth is solid to strong. Ditto for labor market. And have seen inflation come down. Overall, this is a pretty good picture.

    And thus he side stepped the soft/hard landing discussion.

    Key statement: Don’t think March rate cut is likely based on meeting today. And from there the bottom dropped out of the stock market.

    Wednesday @ 2pm ET the S&P 500 stands at 4,889. Yet at the closed all the way down to 4,845.65 (1.61%). Russell 2000 was even worse at -2.45%.

    (End of Powell press conference statements).

    As noted earlier, traders were overly zealous to hit the sell button on Wednesday afternoon. Yet as they woke up Thursday they saw that in reality the investment landscape had not changed that much.

    Meaning that a 6 to 12 week delay for the first rate cut doesn’t really change the economic outlook nor bullish case for stocks.

    On the other hand, the S&P 500 is pretty fully valued at PE of 20. Thus, as this stage we need to see an acceleration in the economy to stoke earnings growth to substantiate much higher share prices.

    This most recent earnings season does not help that picture as future estimates have actually been cut. In fact, the next 3 quarters are expected to average a tepid 1.5% average earnings growth which is well below the long term average closer to 8%.

    No…this is not a case for a large scale correction nor to go bearish. This is simply a case for 5,000 likely to be a place of stiff resistance for a while leading to an extended consolidation and trading range.

    In those periods the overall market average may flat line, but the cream of the crop companies will rise to the top. Especially those with healthy growth prospects trading at reasonable or discounted valuations.

    This is precisely the stocks that the POWR Ratings helps us drill into and explains our recent outperformance…and consistent outperformance over time.

    Want to know the best of these stocks to own now?

    Read on below for the answer.

    What To Do Next?

    Discover my current portfolio of 12 stocks packed to the brim with the outperforming benefits found in our exclusive POWR Ratings model. (Nearly 4X better than the S&P 500 going back to 1999)

    This includes 5 under the radar small caps recently added with tremendous upside potential.

    Plus I have 1 special ETF that is incredibly well positioned to outpace the market in the weeks and months ahead.

    This is all based on my 43 years of investing experience seeing bull markets…bear markets…and everything between.

    If you are curious to learn more, and want to see these lucky 13 hand selected trades, then please click the link below to get started now.

    Steve Reitmeister’s Trading Plan & Top Picks >

    Wishing you a world of investment success!

    Steve Reitmeister…but everyone calls me Reity (pronounced “Righty”)
    CEO, StockNews.com and Editor, Reitmeister Total Return

    SPY shares were trading at $493.59 per share on Friday morning, up $4.39 (+0.90%). Year-to-date, SPY has gained 3.85%, versus a % rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index during the same period.

    About the Author: Steve Reitmeister

    Steve is better known to the StockNews audience as “Reity”. Not only is he the CEO of the firm, but he also shares his 40 years of investment experience in the Reitmeister Total Return portfolio. Learn more about Reity’s background, along with links to his most recent articles and stock picks.

    More…

    The post Did the Fed Put a Lid on Stock Prices? appeared first on StockNews.com

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  • Carvana’s comeback: Shifting gears from turbulence to triumph | Entrepreneur

    Carvana’s comeback: Shifting gears from turbulence to triumph | Entrepreneur

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    Carvana’s (NYSE: CVNA) journey from financial uncertainty to market recovery is a testament to the company’s strategic adaptation and operational resilience. Once faced with significant challenges, the company has executed a series of decisive moves to stabilize its position and chart a path toward sustainable growth. These strategic moves include cost-cutting measures and technological advancements that reflect Carvana’s response to immediate financial pressures and its commitment to long-term planning. As the company navigates through these changes, it showcases a compelling case of recovery, highlighting the importance of agility and foresight in today’s dynamic market landscape.

    Carvana’s path to financial stability

    In a market sector where operational stability and financial health are essential, Carvana’s journey over the past 18 months demonstrates a rigorous strategic overhaul to secure its market position and ensure its economic viability. The company, renowned for revolutionizing the car buying and selling experience through its digital platform, encountered formidable challenges that imperiled its business continuity and fiscal foundation. In response, Carvana embarked on a comprehensive cost-management program, a crucial element of which involved significant workforce reduction, eliminating $1.1 billion in annualized operational expenses.

    Carvana’s dual-edged strategy

    The strategic redirection also encompassed the deployment of “Carli,” an innovative software solution leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance the efficiency of the vehicle reconditioning process. This initiative marked a significant advancement in Carvana’s operational capabilities, enabling more streamlined workflows and reducing the time and resources required to prepare vehicles for sale. Implementing such technology not only signifies Carvana’s commitment to operational excellence but also underscores its foresight in harnessing digital innovations to drive business optimization.

    Carvana’s economic resurgence

    This comprehensive approach to financial restructuring and operational optimization yielded remarkable outcomes, most notably reflected in the substantial appreciation of Carvana’s stock price. From a valuation of $5, the company’s shares experienced a meteoric rise to $55, an indicator of the financial markets’ renewed confidence in Carvana’s business model and future prospects. This financial resurgence is a testament to Carvana’s strategic agility and ability to adapt to adverse conditions through decisive management actions and technological adoption.

    The strategic measures undertaken by Carvana over this period not only stabilized the company during a phase of economic uncertainty but also positioned it for a trajectory of sustainable growth. Through financial discipline and innovative operational practices, Carvana has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, essential for thriving in the competitive and ever-evolving automotive marketplace.

    Wall Street weighs in

    The resurgence of Carvana has not gone unnoticed by Wall Street, with analysts closely monitoring the company’s trajectory. The sentiment, however, remains mixed. The majority of Carvana’s analysts have positioned their ratings towards a cautious “Hold,” with an average price target suggesting a modest discount to the current stock price. This consensus reflects an acknowledgment of Carvana’s efforts to stabilize and grow and underscores the challenges and uncertainties. Despite the skepticism, Carvana’s strategic moves to reduce debt and enhance operational efficiencies have painted a picture of a company on the mend, albeit with a long road still to navigate.

    Financial footing and future prospects

    As the company prepares for its next earnings announcement, the investment community’s eyes are fixed on Carvana’s financials. With expectations of an EPS improvement yet a forecasted revenue decline, the upcoming earnings report is anticipated to provide critical insights into Carvana’s fiscal health and strategic direction. The company’s financial outlook remains a blend of cautious optimism and realism, acknowledging the hurdles to achieving profitability in the short term while highlighting the potential for growth and stability in the long run. This balanced perspective is crucial for understanding Carvana’s position in a competitive and rapidly changing market.

    Navigating challenges on the horizon

    Carvana’s path to sustained growth is fraught with challenges. Despite efforts to reduce debt, the company’s substantial debt burden persists as a major apprehension that could potentially affect its financial adaptability. Operational efficiency, critical for maintaining growth momentum, requires continuous innovation, particularly in logistics and vehicle reconditioning processes. Additionally, corporate governance issues, particularly the control exerted by the Garcia family, have raised eyebrows and elicited legal scrutiny. The competitive landscape of the used car market, coupled with regulatory and economic headwinds, further complicates Carvana’s operational strategy. Addressing these challenges is paramount for Carvana to solidify its market position and ensure long-term viability.

    Carvana at a crossroads

    Carvana’s journey from the brink of financial distress to a position of strategic resilience is an example of corporate adaptation and perseverance. The company’s ability to pivot, streamline operations, and address financial vulnerabilities has set the stage for a potential market resurgence. However, the road ahead is complex, with financial, operational, and market challenges that require diligent management and strategic foresight. As Carvana navigates these challenges, its story serves as a compelling case study in the dynamics of the used car market and the broader themes of innovation and resilience in the face of adversity. For investors and market watchers, Carvana’s evolution offers valuable insights into the interplay between strategic decision-making and market performance in the digital age.

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    Jeffrey Neal Johnson

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  • Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW) Stock Forecasts

    Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW) Stock Forecasts

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    Summary

    Illinois Tool Works is a global manufacturer of engineered industrial products and equipment. The company’s operations are divided into seven segments: Test & Measurement and Electronics, Automotive OEM, Polymers & Fluids, Food Equipment, Welding, Construction Products, and Specialty Products. The shares are a component of the S&P 500. The company has 46,000 employees.

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  • Rank Group Enjoys Strong Results, Remains Optimistic about UK Growth

    Rank Group Enjoys Strong Results, Remains Optimistic about UK Growth

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    The Rank Group released its latest interim results, uncovering details regarding its progress over the six months ended December 31, 2023. The company referred to the period as H1 2023/24, with results pointing to an increase in net gaming revenue (NGR) year-over-year. Besides financial data, Rank Group released details regarding its expectations for 2024 in key markets.

    Focusing on the UK, John O’Reilly, the company’s chief executive, explained that the business is positioned well for further growth, boosted by the upcoming regulatory changes within the retail gambling sector in the country. The changes are expected to come into effect at some point this year, according to the company, possibly around the summer. “These reforms cannot come soon enough in enabling us to modernize our proposition to better meet our customers’ expectations,” added O’Reilly.

    “We are well positioned to optimize the opportunities afforded by the UK Government’s planned land-based regulatory reforms which will hopefully be implemented through the passing of secondary legislation in the summer of 2024.“

    John O’Reilly, chief executive of The Rank Group

    Last year, the Gambling Act review white paper was released, outlining a number of suggestions that are expected to completely overhaul the gambling industry across the country. Among the proposed changes are the implementation of limits for online slots, changes in the ratio of B and C gambling devices, as well as implementation of affordability checks, among other improvements.

    Yet, so far the government hasn’t set a deadline for the implementation of the changes, while consultations with stakeholders on certain topics are still ongoing. Ultimately, the review of the Gambling Act 2005 is expected to ensure that the laws in the country fit the digital age.

    The Company Posts Strong Results Despite Challenges

    When it comes to financial results, Rank Group posted £362.6 million ($460 million) in NGR for H1 2023/24. This figure, compared to the £338.9 million ($430 million) reported for the corresponding period a year ago, showed an increase of 7%. Additionally, Rank Group confirmed that its operating profit for the latest trading period was £16.2 million ($20.6 million).

    “Whilst it remains a challenging economic environment, we are positive about the future and expect LFL operating profit for the year ending 30 June 2024 to be in line with our expectations,“

    reads a statement released by The Rank Group

    While the company acknowledged that the economic environment remains challenging, it was still optimistic about its future performance. Rank Group said that it anticipates its upcoming financial results for the year ending June 30, 2024, to coincide with its initial expectations.

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    Jerome García

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  • BetMakers Reports Revenue Growth, Highlights Achievements in Q2 FY24

    BetMakers Reports Revenue Growth, Highlights Achievements in Q2 FY24

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    The leading international provider of business-to-business betting technology, content data, services and solutions, BetMakers Technology Group, released its latest quarterly activities report earlier this week. The company’s unaudited Q2 FY24 report reveals details regarding its performance for the three months ended December 31, 2023.

    For the latest trading period, BetMakers posted strong revenue which hit AU$25.1 million ($16.4 million). This result, marked a year-over-year increase of 10% when compared to the corresponding period in 2022. The company explained that the strong revenue growth was fueled by an increase in the number of new customers.

    Additionally, BetMakers’ Q2 FY24 report revealed that cash receipts for the period hit AU$26.5 million ($17.3 million). This result also represented an uptick. Compared to Q1 FY24, cash receipts marked an increase of 8%.

    In its latest report, BetMakers unveiled details regarding its underlying EBITDA for the latest period. The company confirmed that the underlying EBITDA loss for Q2 FY24 was AU$1.2 million ($782,000), a result that marked a substantial improvement when compared to the AU$9.1 million ($5.9 million) in underlying EBITDA loss posted for Q2 FY23. According to BetMakers, the result helped move “the company closer to profitability.”

    Restructuring and Renewing of Agreements Fuel the Company’s Growth

    Matt Davey, BetMakers’ executive chair, explained in a statement that the company continues to follow its operational strategy that aims at profitability and reduction of operating expenses. He spoke about the number of important partnerships and deals the company signed during the latest trading period, predicting that they will help propel BetMakers’ expansion.

    “We are continuing to execute on our strategy of growing the top line, lowering our operating expenses, and moving towards profitability, as evidenced by the quarter’s results.“

    Matt Davey, executive chair at BetMakers

    Davey spoke about the streamlining of the company’s operations that helped simplify its business, dividing it into two prime segments: Global Tote and Global Betting Services. According to him, the restructuring helped provide “a much more effective and efficient way for us to manage and report on the business.”

    “I am pleased to say that we again signed new customer agreements and extended contracts with key partners, which is expected to aid BetMakers’ growth going forward,“

    added Davey

    Notably, BetMakers renewed and signed new contracts during the latest trading period. In Q2 FY24, the company renewed its agreement with ZeTurf in the Netherlands and its deal with the Meadowlands in New Jersey.

    Additionally, BetMakers renewed its deal with PointsBet in Australia and William Hill in the UK. The company also clinched a new partnership with Malaysia’s Selangor Turf Club, among other important partnerships.

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    Jerome García

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  • High rents leave many financially stretched

    High rents leave many financially stretched

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    High rents leave many financially stretched – CBS News


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    While rents have been easing for the past few months nationwide, prices are still up significantly compared to before the pandemic, largely due to inflation. Providence, Rhode Island, saw one of the highest rent increases in the U.S. last year, and according to researchers, you need a salary of close to $83,000 to afford a two-bedroom apartment there. Nancy Chen reports.

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  • Walmart rewrites the rulebook: Equity, expansion, and evolution | Entrepreneur

    Walmart rewrites the rulebook: Equity, expansion, and evolution | Entrepreneur

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    Walmart (NYSE: WMT) has recently unveiled a series of strategic initiatives that underscore its commitment to growth, employee empowerment, and customer satisfaction. These announcements, ranging from a significant stock split to ambitious expansion and modernization plans, mark a change in the company’s strategy to redefine the retail sector.

    Democratizing share ownership through stock split

    Walmart’s recent declaration of a 3-for-1 stock split represents a strategic maneuver designed to redefine share ownership within the corporation. This initiative is poised to triple the quantity of shares in circulation, which maintains the company’s overall market capitalization while reducing Walmart’s price per share. The underlying objective of this decision is to enhance the accessibility of stock shares, particularly for its associates, thereby facilitating a more inclusive approach to equity participation.

    The implementation of the stock split serves to augment the liquidity of Walmart shares. Increased liquidity is beneficial as it implies a higher volume of shares being bought and sold in the market, which typically results in a more favorable trading environment for investors. Furthermore, by broadening the investor base, Walmart diversifies its shareholder portfolio and integrates its employees deeper into the fabric of its corporate achievements. This strategic initiative is the company’s acknowledgment of the pivotal role that its workforce plays in Walmart’s sustainability and prosperity. By promoting a culture of ownership and active participation among its associates, Walmart is investing in a future where employees are contributors and stakeholders in the company’s success.

    Walmart’s blueprint for economic stability

    In its most recent financial report, Walmart has presented a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the challenges of an unpredictable economic environment. The retail giant’s projections acknowledge a scenario where profit margins are expected to compress while sales volumes are expected to rise. This situation exemplifies the intricate difficulties Walmart encounters, encompassing the pervasive influence of inflation and the persistent competitive pressures inherent in the retail industry.

    Central to Walmart’s tactical response is a dual focus on inventory management and strategic pricing, with a pronounced emphasis on the grocery segment. By optimizing inventory levels, Walmart ensures that capital is not tied up in excess stock, thereby improving cash flow and operational efficiency. This approach to inventory management is crucial in mitigating the risks associated with supply chain disruptions and fluctuating consumer demand. Simultaneously, Walmart’s strategic pricing initiatives are aimed at delivering value to customers, a critical factor in retaining consumer loyalty and driving sales in a price-sensitive market.

    Walmart’s compensation revolution

    Walmart’s recent strategic decisions demonstrate a profound commitment to enhancing its workforce’s financial well-being and sense of ownership within the company. Central to this approach is the pioneering introduction of annual stock grants for store managers, a move designed to intertwine its employees’ financial interests with the corporation’s overall success. This initiative represents a significant shift in Walmart’s compensation strategy, positioning it as a forerunner in employee-centric corporate practices.

    The decision to augment store manager wages is a further testament to Walmart’s acknowledgment of the indispensable role that its workforce plays in driving the company’s success. By elevating manager salaries, Walmart not only enhances its competitive positioning as an employer of choice but also underscores its recognition of the value and impact that these individuals bring to the company’s operational excellence. This increase in compensation goes beyond monetary benefits; it is an investment in the morale and engagement of a critical segment of Walmart’s employee base.

    Walmart’s expansion and innovation drive

    Walmart’s recently unveiled expansion and modernization plans represent a strategic thrust toward redefining the retail ecosystem. The decision to construct or remodel over 150 stores in the next five years clearly indicates Walmart’s unwavering commitment to growth, innovation, and customer-centricity. This ambitious project is an evolution of the retail model, blending physical and digital realms to create a seamless, omnichannel shopping experience.

    The transformation of these stores involves integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices. By incorporating advanced systems for inventory management, checkout processes, and customer engagement, Walmart is setting a new standard in operational efficiency and customer service. The use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs in these stores aligns with Walmart’s environmental commitments, demonstrating its role as a responsible corporate citizen.

    Furthermore, the modernization of Walmart’s retail spaces is intricately linked to its digital strategy. These revamped stores are envisioned to function as shopping destinations and vital nodes in Walmart’s online ecosystem. The integration with online platforms ensures a seamless transition for customers between online shopping and in-store experiences, catering to the evolving preferences of today’s consumers who seek convenience, flexibility, and a personalized shopping journey.

    From the democratizing effect of its stock split to its visionary expansion and modernization efforts, Walmart’s strategic initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to navigating the complexities of the modern retail environment. By investing in its employees, adapting to economic challenges, and reimagining the customer experience, Walmart is reinforcing its position as a leader in the retail sector and setting new standards for retail excellence. As Walmart continues to implement these strategies, it remains to be seen how these moves will shape the future of retail and the company’s journey toward sustainable growth and innovation.

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    Jeffrey Neal Johnson

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  • 8 Simple Ways to Keep Your Finances in Check This Year | Entrepreneur

    8 Simple Ways to Keep Your Finances in Check This Year | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    New Year’s is a time when people set unrealistic goals, ones that mostly have to do with dieting or fitness. But if you’re practical, a great way to start the year is by setting realistic goals that you can actually maintain.

    A great place to start is with your finances. Although financial resolutions may sound hard, they are easier than you think. Here are some tips and tricks to keep your banking and money in check this year.

    Related: 5 Personal-Finance Habits of Wealthy Entrepreneurs

    1. Credit score is #1

    Your credit score is your financial reputation, and this is the year to work on building it up. No matter what your score is, there is always room for improvement. So much goes into a credit score, including timeliness, usage, limit, inquiries, etc. So, focus more on minimizing your debts rather than on opening new accounts and spending up to your limit without paying back. By slowly adjusting your credit habits, you will start to see a positive change in your score.

    2. On-time payments

    This year is all about making your credit card or other loan payments on time. More often than not, people do not understand how important on-time payments are and what they can mean for their credit score. A huge part of credit is timeliness, and it becomes a large factor in raising or lowering your credit. Paying on time does not have to be a huge task either! Automatic payments can be your best friend. They make sure that your accounts are paid without having to think or do much.

    3. Organize and budget your spending

    Unlike last year, you should start writing down and accounting for every dollar in and out of your accounts. While this may sound redundant and boring, writing out the numbers can help you see where all your money is going. This will allow you to categorize your spending and see exactly where you can cut costs and budget. By keeping track, you won’t recklessly spend and will be aware of what is always coming in and out of your accounts.

    4. Save! Save! Save! …. in a savings account

    Everyone loves to discuss their savings and how they are always putting money away for the future. This does not have to be intimidating. After breaking down your spending, you’ll be able to easily see how much you can save. This amount does not have to be an extreme or high number, it can be something small that will build up over time. If you put $20 each week, you’ll have over $1,000 saved by the end of the year. With that, you can open a high-yield savings account that will earn you interest on the money you keep in the savings. This will not only help you save but also give you a return on saving.

    Related: How To Save Money: 10 Tips to Build Your Savings

    5. Think about investing

    If Covid taught us anything, it’s that investing in different things can help you in the long run. While you don’t need to be an expert in the stock market or a crypto specialist, looking into different ways you can invest your money and diversify your portfolio may help build up your finances. But beware, investing is not a guarantee — make sure to not put your entire savings and trust into the markets.

    6. Fewer inquiries in 2024

    Many people believe that the more credit cards they have, the better their financial situation will be. Well, that is not technically the truth. While having several lines of credit may be nice and useful, every time a credit card company makes an inquiry on your profile, they report it to the credit bureau. In turn, this can negatively impact your score by bringing it down. This year, we want to improve your score, not lower it! So, stop shopping for more cards and focus on using the card(s) you currently have.

    7. Improve your knowledge

    Start making yourself familiar with the world of finance. You should not have to depend on someone else to give you advice on the best ways to save or spend your money. Find time to read more about credit cards, banking, investing, etc. Although it may seem boring, it can actually be very interesting to learn more about what you can do with your money to set yourself up for success. Make this year about becoming financially independent and confident in your financial decisions.

    Related: Improve Your Money Skills in 8 Minutes a Day

    8. Side hustles are all the rage

    If you have learned anything from 2023, it’s that side hustles are the new normal. People everywhere have been finding new ways to bring in a new stream of income passively or actively. This can help you give yourself a little more breathing room if money is a little tight, or it can be a great way to contribute to a savings account. There are plenty of websites and articles with examples of different hustles that you can start doing to build up your income.

    By doing all of this, or even just one, you can drastically change your financial position in 2024. Whether it’s improving your spending habits or saving more money, any of these tips can help bring you closer to financial freedom and success this year. Small adjustments can result in the biggest changes.

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    Erica Dushey Sarway

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  • Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C) Shares Sold by Flputnam Investment Management Co.

    Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C) Shares Sold by Flputnam Investment Management Co.

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    Flputnam Investment Management Co. decreased its holdings in Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C – Free Report) by 12.9% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 7,939 shares of the company’s stock after selling 1,175 shares during the period. Flputnam Investment Management Co.’s holdings in Citigroup were worth $327,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

    Other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Snider Financial Group increased its holdings in shares of Citigroup by 96,645.9% during the 1st quarter. Snider Financial Group now owns 84,494,926 shares of the company’s stock worth $4,512,000 after buying an additional 84,407,589 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp increased its holdings in shares of Citigroup by 1.7% during the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 83,964,367 shares of the company’s stock worth $3,865,719,000 after buying an additional 1,442,952 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Citigroup by 2.4% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 36,038,176 shares of the company’s stock worth $1,655,333,000 after buying an additional 859,170 shares during the last quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Citigroup by 23.7% during the 2nd quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 27,068,272 shares of the company’s stock worth $1,246,223,000 after buying an additional 5,180,027 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Morgan Stanley increased its holdings in shares of Citigroup by 2.6% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 25,852,678 shares of the company’s stock worth $1,169,317,000 after buying an additional 666,560 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 69.26% of the company’s stock.

    Citigroup Price Performance

    Citigroup stock opened at $54.11 on Tuesday. The stock has a market cap of $103.56 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.56, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.46 and a beta of 1.57. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $50.28 and a 200-day simple moving average of $45.28. Citigroup Inc. has a 12-month low of $38.17 and a 12-month high of $54.75. The company has a current ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.52.

    Citigroup (NYSE:C – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, January 12th. The company reported ($1.16) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.73 by ($1.89). The firm had revenue of $17.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $18.71 billion. Citigroup had a return on equity of 6.49% and a net margin of 5.88%. Citigroup’s revenue for the quarter was down 3.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.10 earnings per share. Equities analysts expect that Citigroup Inc. will post 5.97 EPS for the current fiscal year.

    Citigroup Announces Dividend

    The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 23rd. Investors of record on Monday, February 5th will be paid a dividend of $0.53 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, February 2nd. This represents a $2.12 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.92%. Citigroup’s dividend payout ratio is currently 53.13%.

    Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

    Several research firms recently weighed in on C. HSBC upgraded shares of Citigroup from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating and lifted their target price for the company from $42.00 to $61.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 9th. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their target price on shares of Citigroup from $47.00 to $52.00 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a report on Tuesday, December 19th. Bank of America dropped their target price on shares of Citigroup from $60.00 to $50.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 10th. Societe Generale downgraded shares of Citigroup from a “hold” rating to a “sell” rating in a report on Monday, January 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on shares of Citigroup from $45.00 to $43.00 and set an “underweight” rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 3rd. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $55.21.

    View Our Latest Stock Report on C

    Citigroup Profile

    (Free Report)

    Citigroup Inc, a diversified financial services holding company, provides various financial products and services to consumers, corporations, governments, and institutions in North America, Latin America, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. It operates through three segments: Institutional Clients Group (ICG), Personal Banking and Wealth Management (PBWM), and Legacy Franchises.

    Recommended Stories

    Want to see what other hedge funds are holding C? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C – Free Report).

    Institutional Ownership by Quarter for Citigroup (NYSE:C)

    Receive News & Ratings for Citigroup Daily – Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts’ ratings for Citigroup and related companies with MarketBeat.com’s FREE daily email newsletter.

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  • 10 Must-try Innovation Games to Foster Creativity | Entrepreneur

    10 Must-try Innovation Games to Foster Creativity | Entrepreneur

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    Innovation games are potent tools to foster creative thinking and team synergy, all wrapped up in fun and excitement. Check out our list of 10 must-try innovation and creativity games to play with your friends, family, and students!

    Why innovation games?

    Innovation games are not merely a source of amusement or a break from routine. They’re strategic exercises designed to stimulate creativity, encourage problem-solving, and cultivate a collaborative spirit within teams. When deployed effectively, these games can catalyze groundbreaking ideas and innovative solutions that elevate your business.

    Looking for entrepreneurship games? See our list of some of the best entrepreneurship games to play.

    Top 10 innovations games to spark creativity in your team

    Embark on a journey of exploration and creativity with some of our favorite innovation games. Each one serves a unique purpose, from enhancing communication skills to fostering team synergy, all while injecting a dose of fun into the work environment.

    1. Products: The Card Game

    Products: The Card Game is a creative odyssey that unleashes your team’s imagination. Pretend you’re in a shark tank and sell your family on your big new idea!

    • How to Play:  Create genius or hilariously horrible products, then pitch your glorious inventions to friends and family. The game includes 180 Features (blue cards) and 70 Products (white cards) for infinite replayability.
    • Benefits: This game sparks innovation and inventiveness by challenging players to create unique and imaginative products. It fosters team synergy, making it perfect for a game night with friends, a class activity with students, an icebreaker to start a business meeting, and more. Includes rules with three unique ways to play, invent, and win.

    2. Reverse Charades

    Reverse Charades turns the classic game on its head, making teamwork the show’s star. In this entertaining twist, the team acts out a word or phrase while one enthusiastic individual takes the guessing stage.

    • How to Play: In a twist on the traditional game, the team acts out a word or phrase while a single person tries to guess it.
    • Benefits: This game promotes teamwork and allows everyone, even the quieter team members, to shine in the spotlight and express their creative instincts.

    See also: 7 Ways to Improve Your Creative Flow as a Business Owner 

    3. Word Association

    Word Association is the linguistic playground where creativity knows no bounds. Dive into a world of spontaneous connections and quick thinking as players link words in a rapid-fire exchange. It’s not just a game of vocabulary; it’s a mental sprint where wit and imagination reign supreme.

    • How to Play: Start with a random word. Each participant takes turns saying a word associated with the previous one. The game continues until only one participant remains.
    • Benefits: This game sharpens mental agility and enhances the ability to communicate succinctly, paving the way for effective collaboration.

    4. Improv Hero

    invention charades

    Improv Hero is where spontaneity takes the spotlight and creativity steals the show. Dive into the world of unscripted hilarity and quick thinking as players become the heroes of their own impromptu stories.

    • How to Play: Split the team into pairs or small groups and assign them a random scenario or prompt. The teams must improvise a scene based on the given scenario.
    • Benefits: This game encourages quick thinking and teamwork as participants build upon each other’s ideas to deliver an entertaining performance.

    5. Quick Fire-Debate

    Quick Fire-Debate is the intellectual battleground where opinions clash, and ideas ignite in a rapid-fire exchange of wit and wisdom. Engage in spirited debates on various topics, challenging your team to think on their feet and articulate their perspectives with finesse.

    • How to Play: Select a thought-provoking topic and divide the team into two groups: one supporting the topic and the other opposing it. Engage in a lively 1-minute debate, where participants use their creativity and persuasive skills to make their case.
    • Benefits: This game sharpens critical thinking skills and boosts confidence as team members express their arguments with creativity and flair.

    Looking for more activities with invention education? Check out PBS’s invention education classroom. 

    6. Creative Mime

    Step into the silent realm of expression with Creative Mime, where imagination takes center stage in a wordless performance. This unique game invites players to communicate and interpret ideas, scenarios, and emotions through mime.

    • How to Play: Divide the team into pairs. One person in each pair mimics an object or concept without using any words or sounds. The other person tries to guess what the mime represents.
    • Benefits: This game enhances nonverbal communication and fosters a positive team atmosphere.

    7. Twisted Charades

    Twisted Charades injects a dose of unpredictability and laughter into the classic game, turning your typical charades night upside down. Brace yourselves for unexpected challenges and hilarious twists

    • How to Play: Similar to traditional charades, participants must convey abstract concepts, emotions, or entire stories through gestures and expressions.
    • Benefits: This game promotes emotional intelligence development and enhances empathy, strengthening team bonds.

    8. Puzzle Bonanza

    Puzzle Bonanza is not your average mind-bender; it’s an exhilarating journey into the world of brain-teasing challenges and collaborative problem-solving. Dive into a treasure trove of puzzles, each more intricate than the last, and watch your team unravel the mysteries together.

    • How to Play: Provide teams with a variety of puzzles. The team that finishes first is the winner.
    • Benefits: This game stimulates out-of-the-box thinking and fosters collaborative problem-solving.

    9. Michelangelo

    Michelangelo is not just a name from art history; it’s a game that invites you to channel your inner artistic virtuoso. Step into the shoes of the legendary Renaissance master and unleash your creativity on a canvas of challenges.

    • How to Play: Provide teams with sculpting materials. Challenge them to create sculptures based on given themes or prompts.
    • Benefits: This game allows for the tangible manifestation of creativity and celebrates individuality.

    10. What’s in the Box?

    whats in the box

    What’s in the Box? Isn’t just a guessing game; it’s a suspenseful expedition into the unknown. The excitement builds as players use their senses and wits to decipher the mysterious contents of the box.

    • How to Play: Fill a box with random objects. One participant selects an item from the box and describes how it can be repurposed or used creatively in a different context.
    • Benefits: This game promotes creative problem-solving and divergent thinking, fostering resourcefulness and adaptability.

    Innovation activities that are not games but still inspire creativity

    While innovation games are a powerful tool for boosting creativity, they’re not the only method. Let’s delve into some creative activities that can inspire your team and foster a culture of innovation.

    There are plenty more invention education activities on MIT Lemelson’s website. 

    1. Creative Problem Solving

    creative problem solving

    How to Do It: Present a challenging problem or scenario to the team and ask them to generate as many creative solutions as possible within a given time.

    Benefits: Ignite the spark of innovation as your team collaborates to explore and present inventive solutions, fostering an environment of creative excellence.

    See also: Be a Better Business Owner By Boosting Creativity

    2. Collaborative Art

    How to Do It: Divide the team into small groups and ask them to create a collaborative artwork together.

    Benefits: Promote team synergy and cultivate a culture of creative collaboration as each brushstroke contributes to a masterpiece of collective imagination.

    3. Scavenger Hunt

    How to Do It: Create a list of unique items for teams to find within a designated area. Teams must present the items in the most creative way possible.

    Benefits: Spark inspiration and cultivate innovative thinking as teams showcase their finds in imaginative and unexpected ways.

    4. Writing Marathon

    How to Do It: Set a time limit and challenge team members to write a short story, poem, or piece of creative writing within that timeframe.

    Benefits: Strengthen team bonds through storytelling, fostering a shared sense of unity and unlocking the power of narrative creativity.

    5. Collaborative Music Jam

    How to Do It: Gather musical instruments or use online platforms for virtual collaboration. Allow each team member to contribute to a collaborative musical piece.

    Benefits: Celebrate diversity and cultivate an inclusive and creatively harmonious work environment through the symphony of collective creativity.

    6. Cooking Challenge

    How to Do It: Set up a cooking challenge where teams must create a dish using a specific set of ingredients.

    Benefits: Encourage innovative thinking and resourcefulness as teams whip up culinary creations in the spirit of delicious creativity.

    7. Design Your Dream Workspace

    How to Do It: Ask team members to envision and design their ideal workspace, creating visual representations of their dream work environment.

    Benefits: Inspire creative thinking and foster a shared purpose as each team member designs the blueprint for their imaginative work haven.

    8. Creative Journaling

    How to Do It: Provide each team member with a journal and encourage them to engage in creative journaling.

    Benefits: Encourage self-expression and provide a platform for exploring personal thoughts and emotions, fostering a culture of creativity and introspection.

    9. Mind Mapping

    mind mapping

    How to Do It: Choose a central theme or problem and ask teams to create mind maps to explore creative solutions and connections.

    Benefits: Promote visual brainstorming and idea generation, fostering a culture of innovation as teams map out pathways to creative solutions.

    10. Vision Board

    How to Do It: Encourage team members to create vision boards representing their aspirations and goals.

    Benefits: Encourage imagination and provide focus and inspiration for future work as team members craft visual representations of their collective dreams and ambitions.

    How to pick the best innovation game (Step-by-step)

    Step 1: Understand Your Team’s Dynamics

    Before selecting innovation games, assess your team’s dynamics, preferences, and communication styles. Consider factors such as team size, individual personalities, and the level of familiarity among team members.

    Step 2: Define Objectives and Learning Outcomes

    Clearly outline the objectives you aim to achieve through innovation games. Whether it’s enhancing communication, fostering creativity, or improving problem-solving skills, having specific goals will guide your game selection.

    Step 3: Consider Time Constraints

    Take into account the available time for the game session. Some innovation games may require more time for setup, explanation, and play. Ensure that the chosen games fit within the time constraints to maintain engagement.

    Step 4: Cater to Diverse Preferences

    Acknowledge the diversity within your team, including different learning styles and preferences. Opt for a mix of innovation games that cater to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners to ensure everyone can actively participate.

    Step 5: Rotate Games for Variety

    To prevent monotony, consider rotating innovation games regularly. Variety helps maintain interest and allows team members to experience different approaches to creativity and collaboration. Keep a repertoire of games and introduce new ones periodically.

    Step 6: Match Games to Team Goals

    Align the chosen games with your team’s overall goals and projects. Select games that mimic or directly relate to the real-world scenario your team is working on. This connection enhances the relevance of the games.

    Step 7: Adaptability and Scalability

    Choose innovative games easily adapted to different team sizes and settings. This adaptability ensures that the games remain effective in various contexts, whether you have a small team or are conducting a large-scale team-building event.

    See also: Two Big Lessons on Creativity Every Business Should Learn

    Step 8: Seek Feedback from Team Members

    Encourage open communication by seeking feedback on past innovation games. Understand which games resonated most with team members and why. Use this feedback to refine your selection process and tailor future game choices.

    Step 9: Embrace Technology

    Incorporate technology-based innovation games for virtual teams or to add a digital element to in-person sessions. Explore virtual collaboration tools, online platforms, and mobile apps that can enhance the gaming experience.

    Step 10: Monitor Engagement Levels

    During and after each game session, assess the engagement levels of team members. Pay attention to energy, enthusiasm, and collaboration. This feedback can guide adjustments to your game selection for future sessions.

    Frequently asked questions

    1. What are innovation games, and why are they important?

    Innovation games are strategic exercises designed to stimulate creativity, encourage problem-solving, and cultivate a collaborative spirit within teams. They go beyond amusement, acting as potent tools to catalyze groundbreaking ideas and innovative solutions.

    2. What’s the purpose of playing innovation games?

    The primary purpose of playing innovation games is to foster creative thinking, enhance communication skills, and promote teamwork within a fun and engaging context. These games serve as strategic exercises to inspire fresh ideas and solutions.

    See the recommended community innovation starter kits to build your area into an innovation community from MIT.

    3. Are innovation games only for entertainment, or do they have strategic benefits?

    Innovation games are not merely sources of entertainment; they offer strategic benefits. When deployed effectively, they can lead to the generation of inventive ideas, enhance problem-solving skills, and strengthen collaboration within teams.

    4. Can innovation games be used in entrepreneurship contexts?

    Absolutely. Innovation games are versatile and can be particularly beneficial in entrepreneurship settings. They encourage out-of-the-box thinking, enhance communication, and promote the development of creative solutions—all essential elements in entrepreneurship.

    5. What are some examples of innovation games to spark creativity?

    Some examples of innovation games include “Products: The Card Game,” “Reverse Charades,” “Word Association,” “Improv Hero,” and “Quick Fire-Debate.” Each game serves a unique purpose, from boosting communication skills to fostering team synergy.

    6. How do I play “Products: The Card Game”?

    In “Products: The Card Game,” players create genius or hilariously horrible products and pitch their inventions. The game includes 180 Features (blue cards) and 70 Products (white cards) for infinite replayability. The benefits include sparking innovation, inventiveness, and fostering team synergy.

    7. What is the objective of “Reverse Charades”?

    “Reverse Charades” turns the classic game on its head by making teamwork the star. In this twist, the team acts out a word or phrase while one person guesses. The game promotes teamwork and allows everyone, even quieter team members, to shine in the spotlight.

    8. How does “Word Association” contribute to creativity?

    “Word Association” is a linguistic playground where players link words in a rapid-fire exchange, promoting mental agility and enhancing the ability to communicate succinctly. It stimulates creativity through spontaneous connections and quick thinking.

    9. What is the role of “Improv Hero” in team dynamics?

    “Improv Hero” puts spontaneity in the spotlight as players become the heroes of their own impromptu stories. The game encourages quick thinking and teamwork as participants build upon each other’s ideas to deliver entertaining performances.

    10. Are there non-game activities that promote innovation and creativity?

    Activities like creative problem-solving, collaborative art, scavenger hunts, writing marathons, collaborative music jams, cooking challenges, designing dream workspaces, creative journaling, mind mapping, and vision boarding are excellent non-game methods to inspire creativity and innovation.

    11. How can these non-game activities contribute to team dynamics?

    Non-game activities contribute to team dynamics by promoting collaboration, sparking inspiration, and encouraging innovative thinking. These activities enhance communication, strengthen bonds, and foster a culture of creativity within teams.

    The post 10 Must-try Innovation Games to Foster Creativity appeared first on Due.

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    Deanna Ritchie

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