Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2025-06-30T14:01:00

(BPT) – Everyone loves a deal, but when something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. The same thing holds true when it comes to purchasing deeply discounted stamps. Scams involving counterfeit U.S. postage are costing the U.S. Postal Service millions and could cost you too. Customers using counterfeit postage risk having their items confiscated and could face stiff penalties. That’s not all. Now scammers are targeting job seekers with work-from-home scams that use counterfeit postage to reship packages.

How big of a concern are these scams? Since October 2024, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service has already seized more than 6.3 million counterfeit stamps and have issued 138 cease-and-desist orders to individuals and businesses using counterfeit postage.

Here’s how to avoid common scams.

Hefty discounts

Have you seen online offers for United States Forever^® stamps at 50% off? When you do, keep scrolling … stamps offered at such a steep discount are likely counterfeit. You may see offers on social media marketplaces, e-commerce sites via third-party vendors and other sites, often sold in bulk quantities at a significant discount — anywhere from 20% to 50% off the face value of the stamps.

• Why it matters: If you use counterfeit postage, even unknowingly, your mail, documents or other items likely won’t reach their destination. Items mailed with counterfeit postage will be considered abandoned and are subject to being opened and disposed of at the Postal Service’s discretion. Using counterfeit postage is not a victimless crime beyond defrauding the U.S. Postal Service, you’re also putting your own mail, property and personal information at risk.
• What to do: To ensure postage you use is legitimate and your mail arrives safely, always purchase stamps directly from the Postal Service or from an Approved Postal Provider™. Approved vendors can include legitimate “big box” or warehouse retailers who may offer small discounts on postage stamps through resale agreements with the Postal Service. Find approved vendors in your area here. To report counterfeit postage to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, visit USPIS/gov/report or call 1-877-876-2455.

Work-from-home scams

These scams often start with a job posting on social media. The job sounds so easy — you to work from home reshipping packages to their intended recipient.

Here’s how the scam works. The scammer sends items, usually purchased with stolen credit cards, and instructs the work-from-home employee to reship the package to the recipient using prepaid shipping labels they provide. Those labels are usually counterfeit and the employee has now, oftentimes unknowingly, committed a crime.

• Why it matters: When the scam is complete, you’ll find that you won’t be paid. On top of that, you’ve helped the scammers’ customers receive stolen goods, the Postal Service loses revenue, and you’ve become involved in a criminal scheme that could lead to time in prison.
• What to do: To protect yourself from these scams, remember: Legitimate companies and websites will have corporate contact information, a physical address, a phone number, terms and conditions, and privacy policies.

Still unsure if the business is legitimate? Contact the human resources department of the company offering work-from-home opportunities to verify the job or reach out to your state’s attorney general’s office or consumer affairs office, the Federal Trade Commission or Better Business Bureau.

Suspicious packages

What could be better than getting an unexpected package? But you didn’t order it, and it’s not from someone you know. You may get a package addressed to you with no return address or with a retailer’s name. Unfortunately, when seemingly harmless free items come from a company, they may come with a higher cost than you realize. Unsolicited merchandise can be part of a larger “brushing” scam, which is illegal in the U.S. In these scams the sender is usually an international third-party seller who found your address online, and sends you merchandise to designate you as a “verified buyer.” The retailer then writes a fake review in your name to fraudulently boost product ratings and sales numbers — which they hope results in more sales.

A new variation on brushing aims to steal your personal information — often to commit fraud or steal your identity. Called “quishing” or QR code phishing, this scam involves, packages containing cards with QR codes. The recipient is instructed to scan the code to get more information or discover who sent the gift.

• Why it matters: Since the merchandise is usually cheap, scammers consider losing the item an acceptable loss. But the fake review in your name may encourage people to purchase worthless stuff. Further, while you may like getting free items, scanning unfamiliar QR codes could compromise your device’s security, allowing scammers to steal personal information and use it for illicit activities. In some instances, bad actors may use your address and account information to receive merchandise, then steal it from your home before you can intercept it.
• What to do: Receive unsolicited merchandise? There are three things you can do: First, the merchandise is free, so you can keep it. But you didn’t order it, so don’t let senders convince you to pay for it. Second, if there’s a return address and it’s unopened, mark it “Return to Sender” and the Postal Service will return it. Finally, you can discard the item. Also, to protect yourself, change account passwords and monitor your credit reports and credit card bills regularly. And never scan an unfamiliar QR code included in a package you didn’t order.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service encourages you to share these tips with family and friends to avoid bogus stamps and scams. Learn more at Counterfeit Stamps — United States Postal Inspection Service, and report suspected scams at USPIS.gov/report.

2025-06-11T05:01:00

(BPT) – Life is full of changes — some that you can plan for and others that can’t be planned for. However, did you know you and your loved ones can be more prepared with life insurance?

Life insurance is an important part of good financial planning, and it can help provide you, and the ones you love, peace of mind. Beyond covering funeral costs, a life insurance policy can provide cash for other financial needs like bills or daily expenses after an unexpected loss, minimizing the stress for your family members.

If you’re not familiar with the different types of life insurance policies and how they work, a great place to start is to learn how the two most common types, whole life and term life insurance, can help you. They both offer different coverage options, depending on what you can afford and what you need.

What is whole life insurance?

Whole life insurance is also known as permanent life insurance. It provides protection for your entire life and offers financial support for your beneficiaries when you pass. It also builds cash value that you can use during your life. So, if you need to buy a vehicle, help pay your children’s college tuition or settle debts, a whole life insurance policy provides cash to deal with those needs, as long as you make your regular policy payments.

What is term life insurance?

Just like whole life insurance, you have protection and financial support with term life insurance. But unlike whole life insurance, a term life insurance policy does not build cash value and covers a set period of time. This also means that your term life insurance premiums may be lower than those of a whole life insurance policy.

The benefits of having both

Whole and term life insurance are actually better together. Bundling these two types of life insurance coverage helps you maximize your benefits and provides for different financial needs and goals throughout the different stages of life, including those that are planned (such as getting married) and unplanned (like a serious accident).

Here’s another way to think about it: As a young single adult, you purchase whole and term life insurance, especially since, in many cases, you may have a lower price at a younger age. Then, if you get married and have kids, because you have term life insurance you’d know they would have cash right away for bills and other financial needs after an unexpected loss. Meanwhile, your whole life insurance policy would be able to pay for unexpected costs or contribute to longer-term expenses such as saving for your kids’ college education.

As you get older, your term life insurance may end, but you’ll still retain your whole life insurance policy, providing a safety net for you and your family for a lifetime.

Rest easy knowing you’re covered

By layering whole and term life insurance, you and your family can rest easy and enjoy life with the knowledge that no matter what happens, there will be cash available to help cover bills and expenses.

Keep in mind that life insurance needs differ for everyone. What type you get and how much you need will depend on your age, family situation, budget and future plans. Thankfully, there are several flexible options that can help you tackle all of life’s changes. There are even whole and term life insurance bundles to make layering life insurance incredibly simple. To make an informed decision, talk with a local insurance professional.

To learn more about whole life and term life insurance, as well as other insurance products that may be a good fit for your budget and financial needs, visit BostonMutual.com.

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2025-06-06T10:59:00

(BPT) – By Song Si-yong, head of Smart Factory Business Division, Production Engineering Research Institute, LG Electronics

Manufacturing has been a cornerstone of global economic growth since the Industrial Revolution. Today, however, the landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Societal and structural shifts — including aging populations, shrinking labor forces, evolving trade policies and overhauled supply chains — are pushing the industry to rethink how products are made.

This isn’t merely a phase of incremental improvement. It’s a turning point, one where the traditional manufacturing model is being reimagined. Forward-thinking companies are embracing next-generation production systems such as gigafactories — vast, automated operations — and dark factories, which can function with minimal or no human intervention.

The momentum is already visible in the numbers. According to Precedence Research, the global smart factory market, valued at USD 155.6 billion in 2024, is expected to more than double to USD 386.4 billion by 2034. With a projected CAGR of 9.5 percent, the smart factory is fast becoming the new foundation of industrial competitiveness.

LG’s Vision for Smart Factories

With over 60 manufacturing sites across more than 40 countries, LG has a long and storied history in global production. Building on nearly 70 years of expertise, we launched our smart factory solution business in 2024 to lead this new industrial revolution.

Our approach is rooted in intelligent manufacturing optimization. We go beyond delivering machinery — we form strategic partnerships. Our solutions are built around the specific needs and goals of each client, ensuring a tailored, customer-first approach.

A Strategic Partner in Manufacturing Transformation

In today’s dynamic manufacturing environment, smart factory solutions are no longer optional — they’re essential. LG offers end-to-end support, from factory design and process audits to ROI analysis and phased implementation roadmaps.

We serve a diverse range of customers, from small manufacturers starting their digital journey to large enterprises modernizing complex operations. Every engagement begins with a deep analysis of industry requirements, production volumes and existing infrastructure — enabling us to craft highly customized solutions.

AI-Powered, Data-Driven Manufacturing

At the core of LG’s smart factory capabilities is a robust platform powered by approximately 770 terabytes of production data. Leveraging AI and big data analytics, our systems transform conventional operations into intelligent, adaptive ecosystems.

Through digital twin technology, we simulate factory layouts and processes before physical implementation, reducing risk and eliminating guesswork. Generative AI monitors equipment in real time, identifying issues like unusual vibrations and recommending corrective actions. Vision AI further enhances operational safety and product quality by detecting defects and safety hazards instantly.

Consider this scenario: a simple voice command — “7 AM: vibration detected on equipment A” — triggers an immediate system diagnosis, referencing historical data and suggesting next steps. Vision AI can then assist the operator in resolving the issue on-site. This real-time, data-driven decision-making is the hallmark of a true smart factory.

Proven Results, Real-World Impact

The results speak for themselves. At LG Smart Park in Changwon, South Korea, automation has reached 65 percent, resulting in a 22 percent increase in productivity and a 30 percent reduction in defects. In the United States, our Tennessee facility achieved a 17 percent boost in productivity and a 30 percent gain in energy efficiency.

Both sites have been recognized as “Lighthouse Factories” by the World Economic Forum — a prestigious acknowledgment of excellence in advanced manufacturing.

Scaling Success Across Industries

Building on these successes, we’re expanding our smart factory solutions into new sectors — from batteries and automotive components to semiconductors and heavy machinery. We’re also entering high-potential industries like pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Across the U.S. and Southeast Asia, LG is managing full-scale, turnkey projects designed to enhance efficiency, improve quality and increase competitiveness. We expect orders for our smart factory solutions to reach KRW 400 billion this year, with projections exceeding KRW 1 trillion by 2030.

Co-Creating the Future of Manufacturing

At LG, a smart factory isn’t just about high-tech tools — it’s about smart strategies built around our customers. We believe success isn’t defined by how automated a factory is, but by how agile, resilient and future-ready it becomes.

We’re proud to collaborate with our partners to build operations that are not only more efficient, but also more competitive and sustainable. As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve, LG is committed to leading the way — co-creating the future of intelligent production.

2025-05-15T08:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know that AI-powered technology is already being widely used to improve the healthcare journey for both patients and doctors? As a patient, you may not even be aware of how much this technology is impacting how doctors do their jobs and helping them focus on what matters most: spending focused time with the patients in front of them.

Healthcare software is getting smarter, which is making the experience for patients simpler and more seamless, from the moment you book your appointment to the time you get your test results and beyond.

“Healthcare technology has come a long way, but it hasn’t always worked in ways that support meaningful connection. AI has helped change that dynamic. By reducing administrative burdens for doctors and creating easier access for patients, AI-powered technology is fostering a care experience that feels more personal, intuitive, and connected,” said Sanjeev Kumar, Ph.D., NextGen Healthcare’s Chief Data and Analytics Officer and a global expert in artificial intelligence.

Here are some concrete examples of how AI-powered technology is helping to improve the patient experience, from start to finish:

Before your doctor’s appointment: AI-driven technology is able to review your medical history and previous notes to help summarize key details, generating and synthesizing a new patient summary so your provider has a better understanding of your needs.

During your visit: Your doctor can complete assessments, order tests or medications and document changes more efficiently — with support from AI-powered technology that keeps everything organized in real time.

After your appointment: You might notice that your test results arrive sooner, follow-up appointments are scheduled automatically, and patient education materials come directly to you, helping you stay on track with your health between visits. AI facilitates better communication between you and your healthcare team.

In the background: AI also supports accurate billing processes and “clean” documentation as required by health insurance providers, reducing potentially worrisome delays and errors. This can help you better prepare for and manage healthcare expenses.

Helping healthcare providers focus on what matters

How widely used is this advanced technology in healthcare practices? According to Statista, 35% of patient-provider encounters in the U.S. involved use of AI-driven technology in 2024, and that trend shows no signs of slowing down. This includes use of AI-driven ambient listening technology, which helps document patient-doctor interactions accurately in real time.

Companies like NextGen Healthcare are creating solutions that enhance the physician and patient experience with tools to improve electronic health recordkeeping and practice management systems. For example, NextGen^® Ambient Assist automatically transcribes doctor-patient conversations into structured notes — saving providers over two hours in administrative tasks per day. The AI-powered ambient listening solution also offers suggestions for coding for medical billing, plus medications, lab orders and more. NextGen Ambient Assist is already supporting over 1 million doctor-patient encounters per year, with more than 1,500 physician users monthly and counting.

Because doctors need to spend so much time on notetaking and record keeping, often after hours, they can be susceptible to burnout. By automating and enhancing the notetaking task, AI scribes reduce these administrative tasks so physicians can dedicate more of their time and energy to patient care.

Thanks to tools like these, today’s providers say they are feeling reinvigorated. And reinvigorated, refocused healthcare providers offer an enhanced experience for patients.

Managing your healthcare, and the healthcare of your loved ones, can be stressful. Thankfully, AI-powered tools are increasingly helping to reduce wait times, improve doctor visits and enhance communication between patients and their care teams — all of which can make your healthcare journey smoother and more successful.

Learn more about how the latest technology is improving patient care at NextGen.com/AI.

2025-05-14T07:01:00

(BPT) – The digital world is constantly changing, and with it, the threat landscape. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, and as a result, our online security needs to be more robust than ever.

Your home network does not just connect you to the internet; your WiFi router or mesh system is also a virtual gateway to your home, your family and your personal information. That means your router is also the first line of defense against cyberattacks. It’s not just about speed and performance — it’s about choosing a device that helps protect your security and privacy.

Here are five things to keep in mind to help secure your home router when threats are on the rise:

1. Start with the basics: Secure your router with strong passwords and frequent updates

One of the most fundamental steps to securing your network is setting a strong password for your router. Avoid using simple, easy-to-guess phrases or sequential numbers. Instead, create a long, complex password with a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. This is your first line of defense against unauthorized access.

In addition, ensuring your router’s firmware is up to date is crucial. Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix security vulnerabilities and improve functionality, so make sure your router is equipped with the latest patches. Some routers, including those from NETGEAR, come with automatic firmware updates to make this process even easier, helping protect your router from the latest threats.

2. Choose a trusted brand

When shopping for a router, it’s important to consider not only performance but also how the brand helps to keep your family and your data safe online. With cyber threats constantly evolving, you want a router from a trusted brand that’s committed to helping safeguard your network. Look for a company that offers security features out of the box and additional layers of protection to defend against both known and emerging threats.

Founded and based in the heart of Silicon Valley, NETGEAR has been pioneering WiFi innovation for nearly 30 years with an unrelenting focus on customer security and privacy. NETGEAR was among the first signatories of the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) initiative. This commitment ensures that products are built with security in mind. NETGEAR routers and mesh systems come with the latest security features such as advanced encryption, automatic firmware updates, firewall, VPN and NETGEAR’s Advanced Router Protection. This feature helps protect your router by recognizing and helping to block exploitation attempts. Additionally, it includes a rapid response mechanism to significantly reduce the time it takes to address security issues.

3. Consider extra protection with subscription-based security services

While basic security features are essential, additional layers of protection can give you added peace of mind. Subscription services like NETGEAR Armor™ Powered by Bitdefender provide online protection, blocking malware, viruses, spyware and phishing attempts before they can reach your devices. This service goes beyond traditional antivirus software, as it operates directly on your router, helping protect the devices connected to your network, including security cameras, baby monitors and other smart home devices.

NETGEAR Armor also includes advanced features like a VPN for encrypting your internet traffic. This level of protection extends even when you’re using your mobile devices on unfamiliar networks, helping protect your privacy and security whether you’re at home or on-the-go. For those who want even more robust protection, NETGEAR Armor Plus offers unlimited VPN access, ad-blocking and anti-tracking features, keeping your online activity, identity and location more private.

4. Ensure your privacy is protected

When purchasing a router, consider not only the features but also the company’s privacy practices. Many tech companies use personal data as a revenue stream, selling it to advertisers or other third parties. This is a practice you should keep an eye out for and avoid when selecting a router, as your privacy should be a top priority.

NETGEAR is committed to transparency and privacy. With products designed in the USA, the company adheres to strict privacy laws, ensuring that your personal data remains protected. NETGEAR’s privacy policy is clear and straightforward: they will never sell your personal information. If this is important to you, choosing a company with this level of commitment to privacy is essential in today’s data-driven world.

5. Look for a brand that innovates and upholds integrity

The world of connectivity is always evolving, and to stay ahead of cyber threats, you need a router from a brand that innovates and is guided by integrity.

Operating in the heart of Silicon Valley, NETGEAR is at the forefront of new technology, working with WiFi chipmakers and device manufacturers to help ensure smooth operation in your smart home and interoperability with the widest range of end point devices available. As a brand trusted by millions of households and named by Newsweek as one of the World’s Most Trustworthy Companies, NETGEAR considers integrity a key pillar of its business.

While cyber threats are abundant, you don’t have to be an IT expert to protect your home. By choosing a trusted brand like NETGEAR, which combines top-notch performance with powerful security features and a commitment to privacy, you can connect with confidence knowing you’re backed by a company that truly cares. Read more about why NETGEAR is a trusted brand for WiFi at NETGEAR.com.

2025-05-01T00:01:00

(BPT) – For many, nursing isn’t just a job — it’s a calling. According to the report “Beyond the Bedside: The State of Nursing in 2025,” 79% of nurses surveyed said they entered nursing to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. Similarly, 70% of nursing students said their top motivation for entering the profession was a passion for helping others.

That said, the report also found that only 60% say they would choose nursing again if given the choice. Many respondents expressed frustration with the stress, burnout, chronic short staffing and other challenges that make the job they love challenging.

What the numbers say

“Beyond the Bedside: The State of Nursing in 2025” is the fourth iteration of the annual report conducted by Cross Country Healthcare in partnership with Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. This year’s study goes beyond surface-level statistics and dives deep into the authentic voices of 2,600 nurses and nursing students.

The findings reveal several pain points that discourage current and future nurses.

“Nurses are the backbone of our health care system, yet they’re still being asked to carry an unsustainable load,” said John A. Martins, president and CEO of Cross Country Healthcare. “This year’s report is not just data — it’s another resounding cry for change. If we don’t act now, we risk losing an entire generation of dedicated professionals.”

“Our data reveals a troubling paradox,” added Dr. Cameron Duncan, Dean of the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing at Florida Atlantic University. “While students are hopeful and eager to begin practicing as a nurse, our experienced workforce is sending distress signals loud and clear. This moment requires bold, coordinated action at every level — from nurse educators to hospital executives to national policy makers.”

It’s not all bad news. The findings of the report offer leaders a roadmap to how they can transform the nursing landscape and build a resilient, empowered nursing workforce. Below are five priorities health care leaders can focus on to help stabilize the profession for current and future nurses.

1. Staffing and recruitment

When asked about their top concerns, 59% of nurses cited short staffing and high patient ratios as a major problem. Students are also concerned about staffing issues, with 67% saying they’re worried about managing workloads.

As it stands, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) projects that by 2030, there will be a shortage of 63,720 full-time registered nurses in the U.S. To help combat the shortage and alleviate the burden on current nurses, leaders should consider building strategies to improve staff levels and offer more flexible schedules. These strategies may also encourage nursing students, creating a stronger future workforce.

2. Competitive pay and benefits

Compensation is another challenge for nurses, with 52% saying they receive inadequate pay and benefits. Some even say they’re living paycheck to paycheck.

Nurses are asking leaders to offer salaries and benefits that reflect their value as health care providers. Doing so could address the long-term retention issues of nurses and draw more people to the profession.

3. Work-life balance initiatives

The majority (65%) of survey respondents said that they’re stressed and burned out in nursing. Offering mental health support can help, but 24% of nurses say that no such support is offered at their jobs.

Nursing students are also worried about workloads and stress. Although 82% of students are excited about their future in nursing, 58% are concerned about emotional stress during their transition.

Leaders can help protect the present and future of nursing by focusing on policies and initiatives to help nurses thrive at work and in their personal lives. For example, the top requests from surveyed nurses and students include:

• Flexible scheduling
• More time off
• Break/sleep rooms
• Recognition programs
• Stress management and wellness support

4. Leadership and communication

One of the top five stressors, according to nurses, is a lack of support from leadership. According to the report, 51% say they feel undervalued by management. Some examples from the report include instances of verbal abuse by staff, gossip and lack of teamwork, and degrading communication from physicians.

Creating a supportive environment from the top down can help nurses feel more supported at work. This could include training managers to lead with empathy, respect and open communication.

5. Simplified credentialing

According to the report, administrative tasks like credentialing and paperwork add to nursing fatigue. Streamlining the credential processes and reducing paperwork could be a way forward for the industry. Removing these bureaucratic hurdles that delay employment and add to the administrative load could free up more time and energy for nurses to focus on patient care.

Health care leaders must act now

The report isn’t just data. It provides real opinions from real nurses and students who offer valuable insight into what they need to be successful in their profession.

“This isn’t about adding perks — it’s about rebuilding trust,” said Dr. Hank Drummond, PhD RN, Enterprise Chief Nurse Executive, Divisional Senior Vice President at Cross Country Healthcare. “The future of health care depends on the well-being of our nurses. We must create a system where they feel heard, valued and empowered to thrive — not just survive.”

To download the full report and learn about the profession’s challenges from nurses and students alike, visit https://www.crosscountry.com/beyondthebedside.

2025-04-28T11:21:00

(BPT) – It’s never too early, or too late, to establish good money habits with children. Teaching kids about money, including saving, spending and budgeting, can develop financial literacy, which in turn develops responsibility and decision-making skills while establishing the foundation for financial success.

The benefits of understanding finances as a child can develop into future financial independence, reduced debt and higher savings as children grow into adults.

“It’s so important to start teaching kids about money while they are young. The more they have an understanding about budgeting, saving and wise spending habits the more likely they are to continue those strong financial behaviors into adulthood,” said Chief Marketing Officer Michael Watson from ICCU, one of the fastest-growing credit unions in the country. “Youth financial literacy can also help kids develop life skills like decision-making and problem-solving by teaching them how to manage their own money.”

In order to get your child started on the right financial path early in life, consider these saving and spending tips.

Save from the start!

From their first lucky penny to birthday money, you can teach your kids the importance of saving. Opening a youth savings account is a great way to engage your child with money. Look for an account that offers free automatic parent transfers. While this may be less important at the toddler stage, it becomes increasingly helpful as children gain independence and managing financial transfers becomes more necessary. From depositing birthday money or loose change they’ve collected, to watching their savings grow, opening a savings account where they can see and interact with their funds will help grow their understanding and their balance!

Take the taboo out of talking!

Talking about money can feel uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to. By starting young and using natural interactions to explain your spending decisions, you have the opportunity to teach your child while also encouraging them to ask questions as they form their understanding of financial literacy. Whether you’re pulling money out of an ATM, tapping your phone at the grocery store or writing a check to the PTA, leverage daily money moments to talk to your children about money. What is it? Where does it come from? How do various payment forms work? How do you decide what you do and do not spend your money on?

Start spending wisely

As children grow, it’s natural for conversations about money to shift to their interest in spending. One of the first steps toward financial success is creating a safe way to save, monitor and spend. Consider opening a youth checking account that is separate from their savings account. Look for accounts with free parent transfers, free mobile and online banking, and free credit score monitoring. This level of protection offers parents and young account holders reassurance, while offering young people the independence to learn. But, in the same way you wouldn’t simply hand over the car keys without lessons, coaching and regular reinforcement, stay close. Check in on balances, discuss deposits and the split between savings and spending, and talk about purchasing decisions too.

From toddler to teenager, it’s never too early to set your child on a path to financial literacy.

By creating opportunities for learning through both dialogue and actions, parents can help set their children on a path to financial literacy while also encouraging their children to ask questions. Whatever stage you and your child are in, start the conversation today or visit any ICCU (iccu.com) branch for resources on setting you and your children up for financial success.

2025-04-08T07:31:00

(BPT) – Consumers today expect seamless, personalized, convenient shopping experiences wherever they shop. How can retailers stay competitive while ensuring they meet these expectations and stay competitive? Global technology leader in supply chain and omnichannel commerce Manhattan Associates recently launched its 2025 Unified Commerce Benchmark for Specialty Retail, co-sponsored by Google Cloud and conducted by Incisiv, to evaluate how 220 North American retailers are demonstrating exceptional omnichannel commerce maturity and delivering highly personalized experiences to their customers, both in-store and online.

The biggest takeaway? Only 5% of retailers achieved “Leader” status, demonstrating the ability to consistently deliver the much desired personalized experiences.

Learn from the Leaders

The overall Leaders of the 2025 Unified Commerce Benchmark study were: Apple, Best Buy, Boss, Dick’s Sporting Goods, IKEA, Lululemon, Neiman Marcus, Nike, Ralph Lauren and Sephora. On average, these Leaders achieved 31% lower fulfillment costs and 24% higher customer satisfaction.

A key finding was that from 2023 to 2025, the bar for unified commerce has risen dramatically. One-third (33%) of the capabilities that differentiated Leaders in 2023 are considered basic requirements today, while an all new set of unique capabilities defines Leadership in 2025:

Shopping experience: Today’s consumers move seamlessly across channels and touchpoints. Multi-channel shoppers spend 15% more per order as they blend shopping across social media, online marketplace and brick-and-mortar stores. Leading stores understand this shift (which influences up to 34% of all digital discoveries) more than 1.5 times the industry average.

Checkout experience: Checkout must be reimagined to seamlessly blend operational efficiency with deeper engagement and personalization. 70% of Leaders offer intelligent cart experiences that sync and adapt across channels, compared to just 31% of others. Retailers treating checkout as a strategic touchpoint — optimized for today’s generation of tech-savvy shoppers — see 20% lower cart abandonment rates than the industry average.

Fulfillment experience: Today’s consumers — accustomed to same-day delivery, real-time tracking and flexible pickup options — are redefining fulfillment expectations. 50% of industry leaders empower customers to modify their orders and delivery preferences post-purchase, compared to just 13% of others, setting new standards for convenience and flexibility.

Service experience: Consumers don’t see channels, they see relationships. They expect every interaction to build seamlessly on the last without repeating themselves, no matter who they’re speaking to. 90% of Leaders have unified customer service touchpoints to ensure smooth transitions between store, digital and phone support. The result? They witness half as many support escalations, particularly related to orders, compared to their peers. Additionally, their rapid adoption of GenAI self-service agents should reduce support calls even further.

“Every aspect of unified commerce is a driver of business success, and true leadership requires unwavering focus on every stage of the customer journey — from shopping and checkout to fulfillment and service,” says Ann Ruckstuhl, SVP and CMO at Manhattan.

As the commerce ecosystem transforms at a blistering pace, retailers must continuously evolve their unified commerce capabilities to move forward. Unified commerce integrates all aspects of retail operation, from online and in-store sales to inventory management, order fulfillment and customer data, into a seamless, unified system capable of meeting consumer demand.

Factors making the difference

Businesses succeeding in this complex retail ecosystem are leveraging the latest technology to enhance shopper experiences. The conventional wisdom that operational excellence requires trading off efficiency for customer experience is being upended. When done right, customer-centric innovation actually drives operational advantages across every metric.

Optimizing GenAI: While 77% of retailers deploy chatbots for self-service, only 5% harness GenAI to elevate that experience. These technologies can scale personalization, streamline complex decisions and extend human expertise across channels with unprecedented efficiency.

For example, GenAI can use a customer’s purchase and preference history to fix problems — like missing items or returns — before they even complain. Agentic workflows can check inventory and process returns without staff intervention, helping streamline processes.

These technologies don’t simply connect channels; they solve complex challenges that previously limited unified commerce potential. As these capabilities improve, faster adoption will redefine what’s possible in connecting physical and digital retail.

Solving inventory challenges: Real-time inventory visibility drives revenue. Digital integration improves inventory visibility so retailers know exactly where their sellable inventory is — helping them overcome any disruptions and ensuring products they need are in the right place at the right time.

“The outsized impact of inventory on top-line revenue growth is evident. Inventory visibility, availability and seamless shipping have become critical levers for driving business performance in today’s competitive retail landscape,” explained Ruckstuhl.

Maximizing customer relationships: The 24% higher customer satisfaction rate among Leaders demonstrates that operational excellence results in loyalty. In fact, operational excellence and customer experience aren’t tradeoffs anymore — they amplify each other and are redefining loyalty. Today’s multi-channel shoppers don’t draw distinctions between channels. They blend discovery, purchase and service, including returns, across channels, demanding consistent expertise at every touchpoint.

Customers who witness consistently convenient, trouble-free experience are more likely to remain loyal to those brands, whenever and wherever they shop.

Learn more about the impact of unified commerce by downloading the 2025 Unified Commerce Benchmark for Specialty Retail or visiting manh.com.

2025-04-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – Great businesses thrive in great communities. But how can a fashion retailer make a difference? Ross Dress for Less^® and the Ross Stores Foundation found the answer by focusing on the future.

Ross takes pride in serving diverse communities around the country and has long known that investing in those communities benefits everyone — customers, employees and Ross as well. In 2009, Ross recognized an opportunity to help build better communities from the ground up by supporting the next generation of residents. They launched a partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which continues to grow to this day.

“Our entire Ross team has been proud to partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of America for the past 16 years, and we love being part of their ongoing efforts to help kids grow, learn, and develop in fun, safe spaces,” said Group Senior Vice President of Ross Stores, Matt Young. “Boys & Girls Clubs are at the heart of the communities where both our associates and our customers live and work, and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue to support their programs that help kids achieve their goals.”

Making a tangible impact for kids

For more than 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America has provided a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow, with clubs offering caring adult mentors, friendship, and youth development programs on a daily basis — especially during those crucial after-school hours.

To reach as many kids as possible, the Ross Stores Foundation serves as a national sponsor of the youth organization’s Power Hour homework help program, which addresses kids’ immediate academic needs and fosters long-term skills such as time management, critical thinking and problem-solving.

Ross has also teamed up with more than 39 Boys & Girls Club organizations in cities and communities, which in turn represent more than 100 individual Boys & Girls Clubs across the country.

Additionally, this year’s annual fundraiser at Ross Dress for Less stores, which took place from February 8 to March 2, raised a whopping $4.1 million for Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Over the past 10 years, this campaign has raised more than $32 million, thanks to the generosity of Ross Dress for Less associates and customers.

An ongoing commitment

Ross recently renewed its commitment to their partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, further showcasing their dedication to supporting and expanding programs for thousands of kids across the country, designed to help them achieve their dreams.

The ongoing partnership enables program improvements in Clubs nationwide, helping ensure young people will have access to the most relevant, updated tools to achieve academic success.

The partnership also includes Ross recognizing Boys & Girls Club teens for their achievements by offering a scholarship program for eligible high-achieving college-bound high school seniors at select Boys & Girls Clubs across the nation. These scholarships are intended to cover education-related expenses for undergraduate studies at accredited 2- or 4-year colleges or vocational technical schools.

“At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we strongly believe all young people deserve the opportunity to excel academically, develop new skills and reach their full potential,” said Lisa Anastasi, Executive Vice President and Chief Development & External Relations Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “We’re grateful for dedicated partners like Ross that continue to invest in our mission as we bring social support and learning resources to more kids and teens in communities across the country.”

Learn more about the partnership between Ross and Boys & Girls Clubs of America at RossStores.com and BGCA.org.

2025-04-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re looking for a career with stability, strong earning potential and opportunity across industries, becoming a certified public accountant (CPA) might be one of the smartest moves you can make.

CPAs are often stereotyped as number crunchers — but that’s only part of the story. These professionals use their financial expertise to solve problems, tell compelling financial stories and guide important decisions that help businesses and communities thrive. And the demand for CPAs is rising: these jobs are projected to grow by 22% by 2028. In Ohio alone, 65% of the state’s CPAs are approaching retirement, creating a critical need for new talent to step into these essential roles.

But what makes a CPA career so unique?

Beyond the numbers, what CPAs really do

Forget the outdated stereotype of accountants buried in spreadsheets. CPAs work across a wide range of industries, using data, technology and financial insights to drive business forward.

“Top-performing accountants excel at making sense out of data and turning it into a compelling story,” said Dr. Tiffany Crosby, Ph.D., CPA, CGMA, MBA and senior vice president at the Ohio Society of CPAs (OSCPAs). “They simplify complex concepts to support better decision-making. They also use technology strategically, steering clear of fads while identifying innovations and analyzing their potential impact.”

With these skills, CPA credentials can open doors to opportunities you’ve only imagined, such as:

• Forensic accounting/fraud investigation: Solve financial crimes and bring integrity to high-stakes investigations. This field is growing by 5%, with a median salary of $83,610 in Ohio.
• Entertainment accounting: Guide movie studios and production companies in managing budgets and royalty distribution behind the scenes.
• International business: Travel the world while helping global companies navigate international tax laws and exchange rates.
• IT/data analytics: Lead in financial tech innovations, using AI and cloud computing to drive efficiency.
• Auditing: Verify financial accuracy across industries, from local businesses to global corporations.
• Sports team accounting: Combine your love of sports with financial leadership, managing payrolls and budgets for professional teams.
• Corporate finance (treasurers/controllers): Oversee financial planning, investments and risk management. These roles are projected to grow by 16% by 2030, with median salaries in Ohio at $131,610.

Whether you want to work for a Fortune 500 company, a nonprofit or even start your own business, CPA credentials can open doors to a career that fits your interests and lifestyle.

High demand, high earning potential

Beyond career flexibility, CPAs enjoy strong job security and financial benefits.

Competitive starting salaries: Entry-level CPAs can earn around $65,000 per year.

Higher lifetime earnings: CPAs typically earn 15% more than similar professionals without the credential.

Executive-level potential: Those who advance to senior leadership roles, like Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or Controller can earn six or seven figures.

In a world where job markets fluctuate, CPAs remain in demand, providing financial expertise that businesses need in every economic climate.

How to build a successful CPA career

For students or career-changers considering this path, education and networking are key.

• Start early: Courses in public speaking, economics, algebra and business set a strong foundation. Advanced topics in accounting, auditing and taxation prepare you for CPA certification.
• Find mentors: Mentors can provide guidance and insights to help you grow.
• Develop a specialty: Whether it’s sustainability accounting, fraud investigation or corporate finance, honing a niche can set you apart.
• Embrace lifelong learning: The CPA profession evolves with new technology and financial regulations — staying current ensures continued career growth.
• Build your network: Connecting with professionals can open doors to career opportunities and internships.

Free resources to get started

For those interested in exploring a CPA career, OSCPA offers valuable resources:

• CPA Camp: A free, immersive experience where high school students explore the world of accounting, learn directly from CPAs and earn scholarships.
• College Scholarship Program: Helps students cover tuition costs so they can focus on career growth.
• Young Professionals Network: Leadership workshops, social events and community engagement opportunities.
• LAUNCH!: A career accelerator connecting aspiring CPAs with top employers.
• OSCPA Career Planning Portal: Offers resume writing tips, career coaching and internship/job opportunities.

Wherever you are on your journey, OSCPA provides tools and connections to help you succeed. Learn more at OHCPA.com/look-beyond.