Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2026-06-22T08:01:01

(BPT) – The conversation surrounding American manufacturing has shifted as industries focus on strengthening domestic production, improving supply chain resilience and addressing persistent labor shortages. Overcoming those challenges requires more than just investment in infrastructure or technology; the solution requires investing in people.

While workforce participation has increased since the pandemic, it hasn’t recovered to pre-pandemic levels, with 1.7 million fewer Americans in the workforce than in February 2020, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Employers continue to search for dependable workers to help sustain production and meet growing demand. However, they’re not leveraging an underutilized talent pool: people with disabilities. Expanding employment opportunities for people with disabilities is an effective, proven way to help close the employment gap and bolster the American economy.

Through the AbilityOne^® Program and SourceAmerica^®‘s nationwide network of nonprofit agencies, people with disabilities are already contributing essential manufacturing and service operations that support federal agencies and military installations across the country. AbilityOne federal contractors manufacture and deliver products essential to government operations, including military uniforms, medical supplies, personal protective equipment, food products and American flags, supporting nearly 150 military bases nationwide.

These efforts also reinforce broader federal priorities around domestic sourcing and supply chain stability. As of 2026, 94% of products produced through SourceAmerica’s network are either Made in America or compliant with the Trade Agreements Act, while 88% of Procurement List items are made in the United States.

The strength of SourceAmerica’s network goes beyond what it produces. Where and how the work is done is also significant. There are more than 300 nonprofit agencies with AbilityOne contracts located across all 50 states, Guam and Puerto Rico. Together, the network employs more than 37,400 people with disabilities, including more than 2,700 veterans with disabilities.

It’s a broad, community-based footprint that helps create reliable domestic production capacity, reduces dependence on overseas suppliers and delivers necessary services. These flexible services provide continuity across government operations, helping agencies respond to current and unforeseen needs. Typically, that means providing essential services that help day-to-day operations for federal customers. Sometimes, that means stepping up during an emergency. For example, people with disabilities working at a Peckham call center placed and answered more than 60,000 calls to support the Department of State’s work to help Americans in the Middle East get out of harm’s way.

The AbilityOne Program also delivers significant public value. For every dollar spent on administering it, the Program generates an average return of $2.66, with returns reaching as high as $4.40 per dollar spent. Employees with disabilities on AbilityOne contracts contribute an estimated $200 million annually in federal tax revenue, while helping reduce reliance on federal benefits programs by an estimated $191 million annually.

The network’s impact goes deeper than operational success and increased production capacity — it can be seen on an individual level, positively impacting communities around the country. Take Valentino Corbett, who, after serving in the military and struggling with service-related disabilities, found stability and purpose at PRIDE Industries. In his civilian work, he supports the safety and security of a military base as a licensed locksmith. In his personal life, he organizes community initiatives: Toys for Tots drives, bike giveaways, highway cleanups and charity walks — demonstrating how employment opportunities can strengthen both individuals and their communities.

Despite workforce shortages nationwide, people with disabilities remain an underutilized talent pool. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is 8.3%, more than double the 4.1% rate for people without disabilities. Additionally, 62% of working-age adults with disabilities are currently not employed.

Since these initiatives align with bipartisan priorities such as domestic manufacturing and supply chain security, policymakers have a unique opportunity to expand procurement pathways to enable domestic production by leveraging disability employment programs like AbilityOne.

America’s modern workforce is skilled and collaborative, with people of all abilities working together to contribute meaningfully across advanced manufacturing, logistics, technology-enabled roles and skilled services. The nation’s future is determined by utilizing the full strength of its workforce, with programs like AbilityOne demonstrating what is possible when opportunity, capability and national priorities come together.

Learn more about SourceAmerica’s impact at www.sourceamerica.org/MadeHere.

2026-06-18T07:01:01

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

• A 529 college savings plan can be a great gift for all occasions.
• A college savings account plan can help defray the cost of higher education.
• Gifting a child in your life a college savings account teaches them financial responsibility, is simple to give, can be used for various education expenses and appreciates over time.

Deciding what gift to give a child for graduations, birthdays, holidays and other gift-giving occasions can be challenging. Traditional gifts like computers, phones, gift cards and clothing may be appreciated in the moment, but they don’t have the potential to appreciate in value over time.

This year, instead of giving a traditional gift, consider starting or contributing to a student’s 529 college savings plan account to help save for future education.

The higher cost of education

The cost of college has risen substantially over the past 20 years.

According to the College Board Trends in College Pricing, the cost of a four-year undergraduate education — which includes tuition, room and board — increased by 68% at private colleges and universities between 1994 and 2024. For public colleges and universities, the cost increased by 78% during the same period.¹

Given the rise in college costs, it’s no surprise that helping a student save for college has become more popular. In fact, 79% of parents would welcome a contribution to their child’s college savings account in lieu of traditional gifts, according to Fidelity’s 2025 College Gifting Study.

Beyond the monetary value, there are other benefits of gifting to a college savings plan account. Below are just a few of the many reasons why a 529 plan may be one of the best gifts you can give a child of any age in 2026.

1. A 529 plan teaches financial values

Opening or contributing money to a college savings account can be a great opportunity to teach a child or teen financial literacy.

Start by showing them the account and discussing how much you and other family members can contribute toward their college costs. For those with older children who are working part-time, encourage them to contribute part of their paycheck to their college savings account, so they can feel ownership over their plan.

2. A 529 plan is easy to give

In many cases, setting up a 529 savings plan account is simple and can be done online. For example, when you visit the Fidelity website, you can choose a plan, select the investments and set up automatic fund payments.

On your plan page, you can make it easy for other family members to contribute, too. Grandparents are especially keen to contribute to their grandchildren’s education.

According to Fidelity’s study, 35% of grandparents have contributed to a savings account for a child’s education instead of a traditional gift. However, for those who haven’t contributed, many said they want to but don’t know how.

If you have a 529 plan account managed by Fidelity, you can make it simple for anyone who wants to contribute to your student’s savings plan to do so year-round.

Log in to your account and visit your gifting dashboard, or set one up here. Once you’re done, you can share a link to your personalized college gifting page. Anyone with the link can click the “Give a gift” button and make a contribution to the savings plan using their checking account.

3. 529 plans are flexible

One of the benefits of a 529 college savings plan is that a student can use it for more than just traditional college tuition. In fact, they can use it not just for college, but to pay for vocational and trade school expenses.

Some 529 qualified education expenses include:

• College tuition and fees
• Room and board
• Books and supplies
• Technology
• Special needs expenses
• K-12 qualified expenses up to $20,000 in 2026

Under certain conditions, you can transfer funds tax- and penalty-free up to a lifetime limit of $35,000 in a 529 to a Roth IRA opened by the 529 beneficiary, which offers some flexibility in the event the student doesn’t use all the funds.²

4. A 529 plan is a gift that means a lot today and more tomorrow

When you give or contribute to a college savings plan, you’re demonstrating your own investment in a child’s educational future.

Starting an account early is recommended, but don’t be deterred if you feel you’re too late. Any earnings grow federal income tax–deferred. Plus, they’ll get tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses. It’s a meaningful gift, and even a little today can grow to more tomorrow.

Bonus: Contributing to a 529 savings account can be a gift for you, too! If you want to contribute to a friend or family member’s 529 plan, individual contributions up to $19,000 annually and up to $38,000 per married couple are not subject to the federal gift tax, and some states may even offer tax incentives for contributions by state residents.

To learn more about how to gift to a 529 plan account this year, visit Fidelity.com/529-Plans/College-Gifting.

1. The College Board Trends in College Pricing 2024; Table CP-2 https://research.collegeboard.org/trends/college-pricing

2. Beginning January 2024, the Secure 2.0 Act of 2022 (the “Act”) provides that you may transfer assets from your 529 account to a Roth IRA established for the Designated Beneficiary of a 529 account under the following conditions: (i) the 529 account must be maintained for the Designated Beneficiary for at least 15 years, (ii) the transfer amount must come from contributions made to the 529 account at least five years prior to the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer date, (iii) the Roth IRA must be established in the name of the Designated Beneficiary of the 529 account, (iv) the amount transferred to a Roth IRA is limited to the annual Roth IRA contribution limit, and (v) the aggregate amount transferred from a 529 account to a Roth IRA may not exceed $35,000 per individual. It is your responsibility to maintain adequate records and documentation on your accounts to ensure you comply with the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer requirements set forth in the Internal Revenue Code. The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has not issued guidance on the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer provision in the Act but is anticipated to do so in the future. Based on forthcoming guidance, it may be necessary to change or modify some 529-to-Roth IRA transfer requirements. Please consult a financial or tax professional regarding your specific circumstances before making any investment decision.

529 distributions for qualified education expenses are generally federal income tax free. 529 assets may be used to pay for (i) qualified higher education expenses, (ii) qualified expenses for registered apprenticeship programs, (iii) up to $10,000 per taxable year per beneficiary for tuition expenses ($20,000 for expenses beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) in connection with enrollment at a public, private, and religious elementary and secondary educational institution. Although such assets may come from multiple 529 accounts, the $10,000 qualified withdrawal ($20,000 beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) limit will be aggregated on a per beneficiary basis. The IRS has not provided guidance to date on the methodology of allocating the $10,000 annual maximum ($20,000 beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) among withdrawals from different 529 accounts, (iv) amounts paid as principal or interest on any qualified education loan of a 529 plan designated beneficiary or a sibling of the designated beneficiary. The amount treated as a qualified expense is subject to a lifetime limit of $10,000 per individual. Although the assets may come from multiple 529 accounts, the $10,000 withdrawal limit for qualified educational loans payments will be aggregated on a per individual basis. The IRS has not provided guidance to date on the methodology of allocating the $10,000 annual maximum among withdrawals from different 529 accounts, and (v) tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for the enrollment or attendance in a recognized postsecondary credential program as defined under Section 529 of the Code and identified by the Secretary of the Treasury as being such a reputable program. Any earnings on distributions not used for qualified higher educational expenses or that exceed distribution limits may be taxed as ordinary income and may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty. Some states do not conform with federal tax law. Please check with your home state to determine if it recognizes the expanded 529 benefits afforded under federal tax law, including distributions for elementary and secondary education expenses, apprenticeship programs, postsecondary credentialing programs, and student loan repayments. You may want to consult with a tax professional before investing or making distributions.

Fidelity does not provide legal or tax advice. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change, which can materially impact investment results. Fidelity cannot guarantee that the information herein is accurate, complete, or timely. Fidelity makes no warranties with regard to such information or results obtained by its use, and disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or any tax position taken in reliance on, such information. Consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation.

Views expressed are as of the date indicated and may change based on market and other conditions. Unless otherwise noted, the opinions provided are those of the speaker or author, as applicable, and not necessarily those of Fidelity Investments.

Recently enacted legislation made a number of changes to the rules regarding defined contribution, defined benefit, and/or individual retirement plans and 529 plans. Information herein may refer to or be based on certain rules in effect prior to this legislation and current rules may differ. As always, before making any decisions about your retirement planning or withdrawals, you should consult with your personal tax advisor.

Units of the portfolios are municipal securities and may be subject to market volatility and fluctuation.

Please carefully consider the plan’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. For this and other information on any 529 college savings plan managed by Fidelity, contact Fidelity for a free Fact Kit, or view one online. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917

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2026-06-16T08:01:00

(BPT) – The life sciences are all about delivering real-world solutions to global health challenges. With access to renewable energy and some of the world’s cleanest marine resources, Iceland’s life sciences sector is meeting that challenge and making an outsize impact despite the country’s small population through rapid growth and advancing innovation that improves lives responsibly in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, digital health, and medtech.

In Iceland, science and nature work hand in hand. Driven by clean energy and renewable resources, strong public trust, and a collaborative R&D ecosystem, Iceland’s life sciences sector has grown by 23% in the last five years. Over 80% of the country’s life sciences companies are clustered around Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík, with close proximity to world-class universities, labs, and medical facilities. Researchers, entrepreneurs, and global partners work side by side to accelerate ideas and create one of the most sustainable innovation environments in the world.

Here are eight Icelandic companies that are defining the country’s success in the life sciences industry:

1. Alvotech

Alvotech began with just an idea: what if quality biologics could be affordable to anyone, anywhere? The company is answering this question through their development of biosimilars — medicines that work just like the original biologics but cost far less. Alvotech handles end-to-end development from early cell lines to large-scale manufacturing, enabling rapid expansion and commercial partnerships to reach patients in over 90 countries across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Today, Alvotech’s biosimilars are already reaching patients who might have otherwise gone without them.

2. deCODE Genetics

Amgen deCODE Genetics is utilizing population-scale genetics to turn human diversity into insights that advance disease risk discovery and precision medicine. The company collected DNA data from more than half of Iceland’s population and linked it to centuries of family records and health information. These DNA discoveries are already revealing protective genes against obesity, bipolar disorder, and cancer — insights shaping the medicines of tomorrow.

3. Genís

Every year, millions of people face slow, painful bone healing after joint replacements, fractures, or regenerative surgery. Genis is pioneering new ways to turn chitin, a natural material found in shrimp shells, into biomaterials that support bone healing after surgery. Following over two decades of cutting-edge research and development, Genis transforms marine byproducts into ChitoBiomer™, a proprietary technology designed to improve patient recovery and support natural healing.

4. Kerecis

Kerecis is solving the global health crisis of chronic wounds with a surprising solution — fish skin. Its structure is almost identical to human skin, and, unlike synthetic grafts, it contains natural proteins and omega-3 fatty acids that help the body regenerate tissue. By combining Iceland’s access to some of the world’s cleanest marine resources with medical research, Kerecis transformed what was once fish waste into FDA-cleared products now used in hospitals across the U.S. and beyond. Today, Kerecis products are used in over 1,500 U.S. healthcare facilities and are treating over 65,000 patients worldwide.

5. ORF Genetics

Cultivated meat could reduce animal farming and cut emissions, but not without cutting costs for growth factors, special proteins that tell cells how to grow. ORF Genetics has cracked this code by using bioengineered barley to produce growth factors — making them more affordable and easier to mass produce. Iceland’s clean environment and biotech talent have turned a humble grain into the foundation for a new food future.

6. Nox Medical

Nox Medical is helping modernize the practice of sleep medicine. The company develops advanced home- and hospital-based diagnostic technology, helping clinicians diagnose sleep disorders more efficiently while expanding access to testing for the hundreds of millions of patients who suffer from sleep disorders like sleep apnea that can raise the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even depression.

7. Prescriby Health

Medications like opioids can save lives, but they can also ruin them. Prescriby Health is a breakthrough solution to this challenge. The company offers a healthcare service enhanced with a digital tool that provides step-by-step tapering plans to help patients to reduce medication usage safely. Instead of being left alone, patients are supported from the first prescription to the last pill so they can reduce dependence on addictive medications.

8. Embla Medical

Named for the first woman on Earth in Nordic mythology, Embla Medical is a leading global provider of innovative mobility solutions, including its flagship Össur prosthetics, which help people live life without limitations. The company designs and manufactures high-performance prosthetics that cater to the needs of both elite athletes and everyday patients. For most of history, losing a limb meant losing the chance to run, jump, or compete at the highest level, but Embla Medical shows how innovation and determination can turn loss into world-changing performance.

Whether it’s developing new, life-changing medical treatments or redefining the future of food, these Icelandic companies are leading the way in the global life sciences sector and demonstrating Iceland’s unique culture of innovation.

Whether you’re an investor seeking growth, a researcher looking for collaboration, or a student ready to make an impact, Iceland offers the perfect environment to connect, learn, and grow. Learn more about Life Sciences in Iceland.

2026-06-16T04:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• In today’s economic climate, customers need financing options to help them patronize small businesses.
• Small business owners can offer a variety of financing options to help boost customer loyalty, avoiding costly discounting practices.
• Synchrony helps small businesses offer private label credit cards with promotional financing and installment loans, such as buy now pay later, to help retain customers and compete with larger companies.
• Synchrony partners with over 500,000 business locations nationwide, providing services designed to help small businesses thrive.

When a customer hesitates at the register, there’s a good chance the problem isn’t the product or service. It’s the payment method. In a year when affordability tops the priority list for many consumers, demand hasn’t disappeared; consumers are just waiting for a better path to purchase. Offering flexible financing options can help small businesses capture that demand and win customers that bigger competitors might otherwise scoop up.

For years, it seemed that only the big chains were able to offer financing. Not anymore. Synchrony partners with more than 500,000 merchant locations across the U.S., including independent auto shops, dental practices, furniture stores, powersports dealers, home improvement contractors and more, giving them the digital tools, training and financing infrastructure to help them compete with brands that have entire teams dedicated to those functions.

In the wake of Small Business Month, it’s worth asking: Are you giving every customer the best possible chance to say yes? No matter your line of business, the right financing tools can help protect your margins, reduce cart abandonment and build the kind of loyalty that keeps customers coming back and helps your business grow.

Here’s what you need to know about giving your customers more financing options.

Help drive sales with smart customer financing solutions

Has your small business been resorting to tactics like offering discounts to entice customers? You could be losing out. Not only are you tightening your margins, which hurts your bottom line, but you’re also setting the expectation that if customers wait long enough, you’ll offer another discount.

When you’re ready to launch a customer financing program for your business, Synchrony provides the digital tools, training, marketing support and account management that helps small business owners compete with brands that have dedicated teams for those functions.

Small and medium-sized businesses can use multi-source financing and tools like Synchrony PRISM to offer credit access to customers:

• Multisource financing (MSF) is how Synchrony connects applicants who might otherwise have been declined with expanded financing solutions offered through our secondary financing partners. With a single application, Synchrony is able to reduce friction at the point of sale by facilitating more approvals and driving conversion. And merchants benefit from significantly higher approval rates for their customers, which can drive more sales and customer satisfaction.
• Synchrony PRISM is a credit decisioning platform that goes beyond the traditional credit score. In determining whether to extend credit, many of Synchrony’s competitors only use credit bureau data, while Synchrony PRISM incorporates up to 20,000 data attributes, including cash flow, rent payment history and other behavioral signals, to identify creditworthy customers that a conventional model might miss. By offering a more holistic view of consumers, Synchrony PRISM increases approval rates for a similar level of risk while reducing fraud. For small business partners, that can translate to fewer lost sales and more customers walking out the door satisfied.

To make these financing tools even easier to offer at the point of sale, Synchrony can integrate financing directly into the systems your team already uses every day.

Independent software vendor (ISV) integrations embed Synchrony’s financing options directly into your company’s practice management systems, point-of-sale platforms and field service tools your team uses every day. This makes financing a natural part of the conversation rather than a separate step your staff has to introduce and manage.

2026-06-15T09:01:00

(BPT) – While fraud is nothing new, today’s scams are constantly evolving. The latest advances in technology, like artificial intelligence (AI), make these schemes even harder to spot. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) tracks the staggering cost of fraud for consumers, such as $15.9 billion in reported losses in 2025 alone. While scams take many forms, most share one trait: imposters. Fraudsters pretend to be a person, company or government agency that they are not. Imposter scams are the top-reported type of fraud in the country.

Today’s scams can be easily AI-enhanced, using tools like generative AI, voice cloning and deepfake technology to create highly convincing, personalized content that can even help imposters build relationships with victims over time. AI fakes are used in many types of scams, from romance and investment scams to fraudsters claiming to be a grandchild or a romantic interest.

To help keep your hard-earned money safe, the United States Postal Inspection Service^® provides tips to help you spot and stop common types of fraud.

‘Get-rich-quick’ cryptocurrency investments

Everyone loves the dream of easy money. Unfortunately, so do fraudsters. Common schemes involve everything from securities and commodities to oil wells and gold coins. Today’s trending scam uses fake investments in cryptocurrency, which even smart investors can fall for. Cryptocurrency investment scammers might post investment sites that look real, but you’ll find you can’t withdraw money you’ve “invested.”

If you receive a phone call or email using high-pressure tactics and promising high profits, those are red flags. Someone may reach out claiming they made a lot of money and want to show you how. But legitimate investments never guarantee results. If it sounds too good to be true, it is.

Protect yourself: Don’t make hasty decisions about money, even if the salesperson calls it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” with a deadline. Do research to independently verify promises of profitability, and never invest solely on what you read in one source of information. Check the reputation of any company with your local consumer affairs office or your state’s Office of the Attorney General.

Scams targeting grandparents

One of the most troubling scams enhanced by AI uses fake photos and voice cloning to make you think a relative, like a grandchild, is really contacting you, making urgent requests for things like bail money, legal fees or hospital bills. To make the story plausible, scammers add details about how or where this “emergency” happened, or tell you that a lawyer, doctor or police officer will “explain everything” if you call them. Once the money is sent, scammers bolt, and the grandparent loses hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Protect yourself: Think before acting. These calls or emails may arrive late at night, when you aren’t thinking clearly. This is on purpose. Contact your relative (or their parent) the way you usually reach them to verify the story. Urgent requests for money are always red flags, as are the ways scammers want the money sent. Scammers’ preferred methods of payment are wire transfers or reloadable prepaid credit cards, which make it impossible to get your money back.

Romance scams

Social media and dating websites are perfect platforms for tricking susceptible consumers into romantic relationships. Anyone who is socially isolated could fall for a romance scam. Fraudsters pretend to be interested in you, and after building a rapport, may ask you to send money or to cash a check or money order. Scammers create urgency by claiming to have a medical emergency. Or they may promise to come to the U.S. to be with you, but they need a check or money order to cover expenses. None of their stories are true.

Protect yourself: With any internet-based relationship, keep your personal details to yourself. Do an online search of the person’s name and town they claim to live in. Proceed slowly, noting inconsistencies in the person’s profile and information. Keep conversations on the official dating site’s platform. Red flags include: showing romantic interest in you very quickly, pushing to take your conversation to private email, and asking for money to visit you or for an emergency.

Fake tech support

You might get a bogus warning about a problem with your computer, like a pop-up warning or email that looks like it’s from a well-known company. The notice will urge you to call a phone number to get help or to click on a link. Other tech support scams might start with a call or text from a scammer who pretends they’re a computer technician. They may ask for remote access to your computer and pretend to scan for viruses. Then they’ll claim to find a malicious program and offer to remove it for a fee.

A big red flag is if they insist you pay with gift cards, a wire transfer, bank transfer, cryptocurrency or via a payment app. They want you to pay in one of these ways because it’s like using cash: Once you pay, it’s hard to get your money back.

Protect yourself: If you receive a tech support call you didn’t initiate, simply hang up. If you get an email or text, ignore and delete it. Don’t give out personally identifiable information (PII), like your Social Security number, birthdate, bank account numbers or home address, to a stranger. Don’t click on links or reply to this type of email. Block spam messages, and delete the email or text message. Review your cellphone bill for suspicious charges, and keep the security software on all your devices updated.

For more information on fraud prevention, visit uspis.gov/imposter-scams. If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud or any crime related to the U.S. Mail, report it at uspis.gov/report or call 877-876-2455.

2026-06-15T20:01:00

(BPT) – By Ronald Ro, vice president and head of AI Home Solution Business Development Division, Home Appliance Solutions at LG Electronics

For decades, residential construction was judged by a simple standard: build well, deliver on time and control costs. At LG Electronics (LG), we know that quality craftsmanship matters, but it is no longer enough. Now, as housing portfolios grow and operating costs rise, our competitive advantage depends less on project completion and more on how a property performs over its full lifecycle.

Recent industry research increasingly links value creation to post-completion performance. Deloitte’s real estate outlook identifies long-term asset performance and operational efficiency as key priorities for developers and institutional investors.¹ Morgan Stanley likewise highlights lifecycle cost management and technology-enabled operations as central to asset resilience and valuation stability.² Green Builder Media is redefining the home buyer’s narrative as “Value Per Square Foot” (reflecting total cost of ownership, sustainability, resilience, wellness and efficiency) versus the traditional “Price Per Square Foot” metric used in the homebuilder and residential real estate industries.³ In this environment, we need to look at how installation, operation, maintenance, warranty and asset management shape market competitiveness.

Redefining Home Appliances as Operational Platforms

Traditionally, appliances were selected for style, cost and brand preference, with little expectation of extended value beyond their basic function. Today, appliances are part of a connected operating ecosystem that can provide data on usage patterns, energy consumption, performance and maintenance needs. In large-scale residential communities, this data can support asset value, risk management and long-term operating efficiency.

This shift is reshaping the smart home concept. What began as a way to make everyday living more intuitive is becoming part of a broader operational infrastructure. Now that ecosystem is expanding beyond convenience. Through third-party sensors and open API integrations, the connected home is developing into a broader operational infrastructure. What was once marketed primarily as a “smart home” is evolving into something more strategic. The focus is evolving from connectivity as a lifestyle convenience to connectivity as a foundation for asset performance, risk management and long-term efficiency.

From Appliance Supplier to Lifecycle Partner

At LG, we recognized early that leadership in the global B2C appliance market would offer only part of what the builder market requires. Our broad portfolio and trusted brand reputation created a strong base, but the B2B builder market demands a higher level of accountability.

We developed LG Pro Builder around that need, providing a model focused on the entire lifecycle rather than a supply-only offering. We aim to establish an end-to-end responsibility structure that spans early-stage planning, installation, post-occupancy management, service and warranty integration. LG Pro Builder was designed with this shift in mind — to move from transactional supply to partnership.

This approach is strengthening our foundation in North America, where we have partnered with top-tier builders to support residential developments, from mid-range and luxury single-family homes to multi-family properties. Rather than stepping away at delivery, we remain engaged across the lifecycle. Instead of spreading responsibility across multiple parties, a more connected approach can help address delays, rising costs and operational inefficiency over time.

ThinQ Pro: “Smart Home” Becomes “Smart Operation”

ThinQ Pro sits at the center of this shift as a B2B platform designed for builders, installers, property managers and operational teams. It unifies installation, operation, maintenance and warranty management into one system, providing real-time visibility into appliance performance across properties through dashboard-based remote monitoring.

This translates directly into measurable operational benefits:

• Reduced on-site visits through proactive issue detection
• Standardized installation and onboarding processes
• Accumulation of operational data for predictive maintenance
• Improved management efficiency through centralized oversight

The value of connectivity grows when paired with operational management efficiency and enhanced living experiences for residents. ThinQ Pro brings these elements together by connecting devices within a single ecosystem, enabling more effective management and supporting AI-driven solutions that improve everyday life for occupants.

As IoT capabilities develop further, the platform can extend to broader property management functions, from detecting water leaks to monitoring environmental conditions and improving oversight across entire buildings.

The Real Differentiator: Responsibility, Not Just Technology

Many platforms can connect devices, collect data and generate dashboards, but connectivity alone does not create accountability. When responsibility is divided between manufacturers, software providers, installers and service operators, issues can take longer to resolve and confidence can suffer.

In residential developments, long-term stability depends not only on technology, but on a clear operating foundation. By embedding lifecycle thinking into both our ThinQ Pro platform and our organizational model, we are turning operational design into accountability.

A New Role in the Global Builder Market

The builder market is evolving, and expectations of partnership are changing with it. Builders are not only constructing homes, but managing long-term assets in more complex regulatory, financial and operational environments.

We at LG are responding to this market shift by redefining our position from appliance manufacturer to lifecycle partner. Through LG Pro Builder and ThinQ Pro, we are becoming an operational platform leader, shaping the future of the builder market by sharing responsibility for the entire lifecycle of residential assets.

¹ Deloitte Center for Financial Services, 2024 Commercial Real Estate Outlook.

Deloitte Center for Financial Services, 2023 Commercial Real Estate Outlook.

² Morgan Stanley Institute for Sustainable Investing, Sustainable Signals: Understanding Corporates’ Sustainability Priorities and Challenges (2024).

³ Green Builder Media – Value Per Square Foot: The New Housing Metric.

2026-06-11T11:31:00

(BPT) – Cybercriminals are keeping pace with the latest technology. By harnessing AI, they are developing increasingly sophisticated techniques to commit their crimes, posing a growing threat to businesses, institutions and individuals worldwide. In a 2026 World Economic Forum survey of business executives, academics, civil society and public-sector cybersecurity leaders, 77% reported an increase in cyber-enabled fraud, with 73% saying they or someone in their network had been impacted.

The threat hit close to home earlier this year when the hacking group ShinyHunters executed a major multi-wave breach on Instructure’s Canvas Learning Management System, compromising the data of up to 275 million users across nearly 9,000 institutions worldwide, including DeVry University. The attack is a reminder of just how fast the threat landscape is evolving.

AI is accelerating that evolution. Ransomware cyberattacks are predicted to occur every two seconds by 2031. And the financial toll is staggering: the global cost of cybercrime is expected to reach $13.82 trillion per year by 2028.

To fight the ongoing war against cybercrime, many more highly skilled cybersecurity experts are needed throughout the business sector, government agencies, in healthcare and educational institutions. Although approximately 1.34 million cybersecurity professionals are currently working in the U.S., the demand is very high — with over 514,000 job openings nationally in the field, according to CyberSeek.

Despite this rising demand for cybersecurity professionals, early-career talent is often shut out due to their lack of experience, making the shortage worse.

“The cyber workforce gap is real, and AI is changing what entry-level jobs look like,” said Dr. Jingdi “Rebecca” Zeng, senior professor and curriculum chair, DeVry University. “That means part of the learning that used to happen on the job now needs to happen earlier, in the classroom.”

Addressing the cybersecurity skills gap

To prepare the next generation of cyber leaders, DeVry University’s Cybersecurity Center of Excellence is tackling the challenge head-on. By partnering with industry leaders, the university has designed a curriculum that aims to help close the skills gap by equipping early-career professionals with the knowledge and experiences they need to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving cyber landscape.

DeVry’s robust cybersecurity programs are built on skills-based, hands-on learning models and real-world exposure that provide students with opportunities not just to learn about cybersecurity, but to actually practice it.

“Our programs are designed around a clear learning pathway with strong focus on practical cyber skills and emerging technologies, including AI,” said Zeng. “Three of our programs are NSA CAE designated for meeting a structured set of cyber education criteria established by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).”

To enhance students’ hands-on experience in the field, DeVry launched its cutting-edge cyber range platform, which offers realistic, immersive simulations that mimic real-world cyber threats. It provides students the opportunity to practice and master analytics, investigation, repulsion, remediation and other cybersecurity techniques to better prepare them for careers in this much-needed field.

DeVry students can also participate in the Future Cyber Defenders Scholars Program, which offers resources and support to help students pursuing cybersecurity programs and technology careers. The program includes opportunities to join DeVry’s National Chapter of Computing Technology Industry Association (COMPTIA) and their National Cyber League competition team.

Competition with a purpose

This year, DeVry’s team earned the No. 12 power rank in the National Cyber League (NCL). The biannual event, powered by Cyber Skyline, is one of the country’s premier cybersecurity competitions. Students test their skills through real-world challenges including digital forensics, penetration testing, cryptography, vulnerability auditing and ransomware recovery.

DeVry students delivered strong results this season, competing against more than 7,000 students from colleges and universities nationwide, with student Matthew McCloskey ranking no. 12 individually.

“Cybersecurity is interesting because it’s not just one narrow area of IT. It touches every domain, and the National Cyber League competition exposed me to the full range in practical ways,” said McCloskey. “DeVry pushed me in ways I didn’t expect, because they gave me more hands-on exposure than I was anticipating. These experiences helped me move beyond just reading about the tools and actually using them in context.”

The strong performance of DeVry students in the NCL competition highlights the school’s commitment to effective, hands-on learning in cybersecurity skills that will have application in the real world.

“Results like these show that our cyber programs are keeping pace with the needs of the field. Beyond the classroom, our curriculum team organizes co-curricular activities that introduce students to additional, inspiring content that complements and expands on what they learn in class,” added Zeng. “DeVry’s NCL performance is a powerful indicator that these efforts are working. Our students are building the skills and confidence needed to enter today’s cyber workforce.”

Learn more about the opportunities to expand your skills and knowledge in the growing field of cybersecurity by visiting DeVry University’s Cybersecurity Center of Excellence.

2026-06-08T10:01:00

(BPT) – On Sunday, June 7, more than 2,000 graduates crossed the stage at the Rosemont Theater in Rosemont, Illinois. The celebration marked a milestone that represents far more than knowledge, it stands as powerful proof that resilience and sacrifice are at the heart of every achievement.

“Every one of our graduates has a unique story,” said Elise Awwad, president and CEO of DeVry University. “But one thing they have in common is their dedication to their education and doing whatever it takes to make it a reality.”

As they waited to receive their degrees, graduates heard from two inspiring classmates whose stories served as a powerful reminder that resilience and determination can overcome even the toughest obstacles.

A marathon, not a sprint

For Cosme Rios II, his Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology represents more than a decade of perseverance.

“My journey at DeVry actually started in 2013,” noted Rios, DeVry University Class of 2026 undergraduate student speaker. As a father of seven and a Latino small-business owner, Rios has performed quite the balancing act to cross the finish line. “I completed my freshman year but chose to leave to focus on my kids. I came back to DeVry three years ago to finish my degree. Earning my bachelor’s has been, by far, one of the most rewarding projects I’ve ever done.”

Rios isn’t the only one who faced speed bumps in their educational pursuits. Graduate commencement speaker Artisha L. Richey shared the personal trials that made earning her Master of Human Resources and a Certificate of Leadership all the more meaningful.

“During my educational journey, I had to contend with the death of my father and my own health issues,” added Richey. “But these experiences also fueled my determination. Losing my father, it reminded me of the importance of pushing forward. Similarly, the challenges with my health tested my resilience, but proved to me that I’m stronger than I realized.”

Sacrifices that mark a milestone

Pursuing a degree when you’re also balancing work and a family requires not just resilience, but sacrifice and the determination to keep going.

“There were nights when I didn’t feel like I had anything left to give,” said Rios. “After a long day of work and responsibilities, I would stay up until midnight to do schoolwork, just to wake back up 5:30 a.m. to do it all again. It was all worth it to achieve my degree, but there’s no way I could have done this alone. Whether they realize it or not, my family made those sacrifices with me. This degree may have my name on it, but it represents all the people who helped me achieve it.”

Similarly, Richey had to give up personal moments to make her education a reality, a testament to her unwavering commitment.

“During the long periods I spent balancing work, school and personal responsibilities, I had to give up time with my family and turn down social events,” Richey said. “But those sacrifices are also what drove me forward. I had to keep going, not just for myself, but also to honor those who supported me and inspired me.”

Carrying the accomplishments forward

Through it all, Rios and Richey’s sacrifices and resilience proved to them and their classmates what’s possible.

“Just like parenting, pursuing my degree stretched my capacity,” said Rios. “What felt impossible at the beginning became normal. Now, I’m thinking bigger about how I can keep growing, help others, and create more of an impact in my community through my business.”

“It’s truly an honor to stand before you, my fellow graduates, during such a pivotal moment in our lives,” added Richey. “Just thinking about the journey we’ve all been on to reach this milestone fills me with excitement about what’s possible when you don’t stop.”

To learn more about what’s possible, visit DeVry.edu.

2026-06-04T08:01:00

(BPT) – Are you getting everything your body needs to feel and function at its best? Many Americans assume their diet covers the basics, but research shows that more than 80% aren’t getting enough omega-3s — vital nutrients that play a critical role in whole-body health.^† Now, it’s easy for everyone to get high-quality omega-3 support with premium Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Minis available at Costco stores nationwide.

What are omega-3s and why do they matter so much? Here’s what to know, and a new, simple, value-add way to get more of them in your daily routine to support your health and wellness goals.*

What are omega-3s and why are they so important?

Omega-3 fatty acids are key nutrients that support overall health. The omega-3s EPA and DHA are among the few nutrients that support every single cell in the body. And, essentially, whatever your body does or doesn’t do well greatly depends on the health of your cells, making omega-3s critical to your heart health, brain function, immune system and overall everyday well-being.* Basically, they show up everywhere in your body, doing important work.

Unfortunately, current research shows that more than 80% of Americans aren’t getting enough omega-3s through their diet.^† Americans simply aren’t consuming enough omega-3-rich foods. For example, you would need to eat at least 3 ounces of salmon every single day or 76,000 chia seeds each day to get a common daily serving of 1,000 mg of EPA and DHA, which are the most critical omega-3s bodies need. But you have to rely on your diet because the human body can’t efficiently make EPA and DHA on its own. Omega-3s EPA and DHA are primarily found in cold-water fatty fish (e.g., salmon, sardines, mackerel) and algae — foods that typically aren’t an abundant part of the everyday American diet.

How can you get more omega-3s?

Meeting your daily omega-3 needs is vital to reaping the full benefits of your other healthy lifestyle efforts. Eating foods rich in the omega-3s EPA and DHA is a great place to start. This can include cold-water fatty fish like salmon, anchovies and sardines. But, as studies have shown, it’s incredibly difficult to get enough omega-3s through food sources alone.

This is why adding a high-quality omega-3 supplement to your daily routine can help ensure you’re meeting your omega-3 needs to get all of those whole-body benefits.

For shoppers looking for both quality and value, there’s good news. For the first time, Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega^® Minis are available in Costco stores nationwide. To learn more, visit https://www.costco.com/p/-/nordic-naturals-ultimate-omega-fish-oil-110-mini-softgels-lemon-flavor/4201002165?langId=-1.

What should you look for in an omega-3 supplement?

Not all omega-3 supplements are created equal. Quality, freshness and absorption are all important factors to consider. A trusted brand like Nordic Naturals — the No. 1 selling omega-3 company in the U.S.^‡ — sets high standards for purity, strength and freshness.

“Every Nordic Naturals fish oil product is rigorously tested for purity, strength and freshness to confirm virtually undetectable levels of environmental contaminants such as PCBs and heavy metals; that active ingredient amounts always match what’s shown on the label; and that oxidation values are well below international standards to ensure great taste with no fishy aftertaste,” said Kate Turner, MA, RD, CPT, nutrition specialist at Nordic Naturals.

As part of Nordic Naturals’ commitment to transparency, the brand offers a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for every product, which you can access by scanning a QR code on the box, so you can see exactly what you’re getting.

If you’ve avoided fish oil in the past due to a fishy taste, smell or “fishy burps,” it simply means the fish oil you took was exposed to oxygen, making it go rancid and creating that awful experience. Nordic Naturals addresses this by carefully purifying and concentrating its fish oils in an oxygen-controlled environment, helping ensure exceptional freshness and a clean taste.

As with starting any new supplement, it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider first.

A new way to get omega-3s

With more accessible options, closing the omega-3 gap doesn’t have to be complicated. Check out Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega^® Minis now in Costco stores nationwide, giving consumers access to a premium omega-3 product at a great value. To learn more, visit https://www.costco.com/p/-/nordic-naturals-ultimate-omega-fish-oil-110-mini-softgels-lemon-flavor/4201002165?langId=-1.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

†Murphy RA, et al. BMJ Open. 2021.11

‡Based on Stackline, Nielsen and SPINS annual sales data in the U.S.

2026-06-04T08:01:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

• A 529 college savings plan is a great gift for all occasions.
• A college savings account plan is a valuable tool that can help defray the cost of higher education.
• Gifting a child in your life a college savings account teaches them financial responsibility, is simple to give, can be used for various education expenses and appreciates over time.

Deciding what gift to give a child for graduations, birthdays, holidays and other gift-giving occasions can be challenging. Traditional gifts like computers, phones, gift cards and clothing may be appreciated in the moment, but they don’t have the potential to appreciate in value over time.

This year, instead of giving a traditional gift, consider starting or contributing to a student’s 529 college savings plan account to help save for future education.

The rising cost of education

The cost of college has risen substantially over the past 20 years.

According to the College Board Trends in College Pricing, the cost of a four-year undergraduate education — which includes tuition, room and board — increased by 68% at private colleges and universities between 1994 and 2024. For public colleges and universities, the cost increased by 78% during the same period.¹

Given the rise in college costs, it’s no surprise that helping a student save for college has become more popular. In fact, 79% of parents would welcome a contribution to their child’s college savings account in lieu of traditional gifts, according to Fidelity’s 2025 College Gifting Study.

Beyond the monetary value, there are other benefits of gifting to a college savings plan account. Below are just a few of the many reasons why a 529 plan may be one of the best gifts you can give a child of any age in 2026.

It teaches financial values

Opening or contributing money to a college savings account can be a great opportunity to teach a child or teen financial literacy.

Start by showing them the account and discussing how much you and other family members can contribute toward their college costs. For those with older children who are working part-time, encourage them to contribute part of their paycheck to their college savings account, so they can feel ownership over their plan.

It’s easy to give

In many cases, setting up a 529 savings plan account is simple and can be done online. For example, when you visit the Fidelity website, you can choose a plan, select the investments and set up automatic fund payments.

On your plan page, you can make it easy for other family members to contribute, too. Grandparents are especially keen to contribute to their grandchildren’s education.

According to Fidelity’s study, 35% of grandparents have contributed to a savings account for a child’s education instead of a traditional gift. However, for those who haven’t contributed, many said they want to but don’t know how.

If you have a 529 plan account managed by Fidelity, you can make it simple for anyone who wants to contribute to your student’s savings plan to do so year-round.

Log in to your account and visit your gifting dashboard, or set one up here. Once you’re done, you can share a link to your personalized college gifting page. Anyone with the link can click the “Give a gift” button and make a contribution to the savings plan using their checking account.

They’re flexible

One of the benefits of a 529 college savings plan is that a student can use it for more than just traditional college tuition. In fact, they can use it not just for college, but to pay for vocational and trade school expenses.

Some 529 qualified education expenses include:

• College tuition and fees
• Room and board
• Books and supplies
• Technology
• Special needs expenses
• K-12 qualified expenses up to $20,000 in 2026

Under certain conditions, you can transfer funds tax- and penalty-free up to a lifetime limit of $35,000 in a 529 to a Roth IRA opened by the 529 beneficiary, which offers some flexibility in the event the student doesn’t use all the funds.²

It’s a gift that means a lot today and more tomorrow

When you give or contribute to a college savings plan, you’re demonstrating your own investment in a child’s educational future.

Starting an account early is recommended, but don’t be deterred if you feel you’re too late. Any earnings grow federal income tax–deferred. Plus, they’ll get tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses. It’s a meaningful gift, and even a little today can grow to more tomorrow.

Bonus: Contributing to a 529 savings account can be a gift for you, too! If you want to contribute to a friend or family member’s 529 plan, individual contributions up to $19,000 annually and up to $38,000 per married couple are not subject to the federal gift tax, and some states may even offer tax incentives for contributions by state residents.

To learn more about how to gift to a 529 plan account this year, visit Fidelity.com/529-Plans/College-Gifting.

1. The College Board Trends in College Pricing 2024; Table CP-2 https://research.collegeboard.org/trends/college-pricing

2. Beginning January 2024, the Secure 2.0 Act of 2022 (the “Act”) provides that you may transfer assets from your 529 account to a Roth IRA established for the Designated Beneficiary of a 529 account under the following conditions: (i) the 529 account must be maintained for the Designated Beneficiary for at least 15 years, (ii) the transfer amount must come from contributions made to the 529 account at least five years prior to the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer date, (iii) the Roth IRA must be established in the name of the Designated Beneficiary of the 529 account, (iv) the amount transferred to a Roth IRA is limited to the annual Roth IRA contribution limit, and (v) the aggregate amount transferred from a 529 account to a Roth IRA may not exceed $35,000 per individual. It is your responsibility to maintain adequate records and documentation on your accounts to ensure you comply with the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer requirements set forth in the Internal Revenue Code. The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has not issued guidance on the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer provision in the Act but is anticipated to do so in the future. Based on forthcoming guidance, it may be necessary to change or modify some 529-to-Roth IRA transfer requirements. Please consult a financial or tax professional regarding your specific circumstances before making any investment decision.

529 distributions for qualified education expenses are generally federal income tax free. 529 assets may be used to pay for (i) qualified higher education expenses, (ii) qualified expenses for registered apprenticeship programs, (iii) up to $10,000 per taxable year per beneficiary for tuition expenses ($20,000 for expenses beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) in connection with enrollment at a public, private, and religious elementary and secondary educational institution. Although such assets may come from multiple 529 accounts, the $10,000 qualified withdrawal ($20,000 beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) limit will be aggregated on a per beneficiary basis. The IRS has not provided guidance to date on the methodology of allocating the $10,000 annual maximum ($20,000 beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) among withdrawals from different 529 accounts, (iv) amounts paid as principal or interest on any qualified education loan of a 529 plan designated beneficiary or a sibling of the designated beneficiary. The amount treated as a qualified expense is subject to a lifetime limit of $10,000 per individual. Although the assets may come from multiple 529 accounts, the $10,000 withdrawal limit for qualified educational loans payments will be aggregated on a per individual basis. The IRS has not provided guidance to date on the methodology of allocating the $10,000 annual maximum among withdrawals from different 529 accounts, and (v) tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for the enrollment or attendance in a recognized postsecondary credential program as defined under Section 529 of the Code and identified by the Secretary of the Treasury as being such a reputable program. Any earnings on distributions not used for qualified higher educational expenses or that exceed distribution limits may be taxed as ordinary income and may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty. Some states do not conform with federal tax law. Please check with your home state to determine if it recognizes the expanded 529 benefits afforded under federal tax law, including distributions for elementary and secondary education expenses, apprenticeship programs, postsecondary credentialing programs, and student loan repayments. You may want to consult with a tax professional before investing or making distributions.

Fidelity does not provide legal or tax advice. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change, which can materially impact investment results. Fidelity cannot guarantee that the information herein is accurate, complete, or timely. Fidelity makes no warranties with regard to such information or results obtained by its use, and disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or any tax position taken in reliance on, such information. Consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation.

Views expressed are as of the date indicated and may change based on market and other conditions. Unless otherwise noted, the opinions provided are those of the speaker or author, as applicable, and not necessarily those of Fidelity Investments.

Recently enacted legislation made a number of changes to the rules regarding defined contribution, defined benefit, and/or individual retirement plans and 529 plans. Information herein may refer to or be based on certain rules in effect prior to this legislation and current rules may differ. As always, before making any decisions about your retirement planning or withdrawals, you should consult with your personal tax advisor.

Units of the portfolios are municipal securities and may be subject to market volatility and fluctuation.

Please carefully consider the plan’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. For this and other information on any 529 college savings plan managed by Fidelity, contact Fidelity for a free Fact Kit, or view one online. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917

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