Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2020-05-23T08:01:00

(BPT) – The global coronavirus pandemic has caused emotional distress and financial upheaval for people around the world. Many Americans are dealing with daunting issues that could jeopardize their financial future, whether it’s unexpected health care costs, unemployment and loss of income, the market’s impact on 401(k)s and other investments, or the need to postpone retirement plans. With these COVID-19 disruptions come financial anxiety and increased emotional concern that can become all-consuming and greatly impact your mental health.

With new challenges daily, it’s important to consider the mental toll of these financial stresses. Mental Health Awareness Month is a time for global awareness to advocate and provide support for those who are overcome with physical and mental angst. It’s a good reminder to use this month as a time to reflect and tackle new methods to deal with the anxiety and stress you’re facing. Amanda Clayman, financial therapist and Prudential’s financial wellness advocate, can help you to tackle these issues head on and cope with these feelings to find your way through this challenging time.

Clayman offers these tips on how to ease your mind and overcome the emotional distress caused by the various financial changes and uncertainties experienced during the pandemic.

1. Pause and reflect on delayed plans: Many are feeling an overwhelming sense of disappointment and despair in numerous aspects of life. From missing milestones for children and grandchildren to job loss or postponed retirement plans, these are moments that we attach to emotionally. Feelings of loss and sadness are tangible but it’s important to take a step back and appreciate that many things are outside of your control right now. Instead of reacting emotionally, ground yourself with the understanding that what may be out of reach at the moment will be back within your control and reach at the right time. Taking time to get fresh air, exercise and have some alone time are things that can keep your body in a more regulated state to reduce your stress levels. This way you can approach these financial struggles and decisions with a more open and relaxed mind.

2. Re-evaluate your budget and household needs: Unnerving life disruptions, such as unemployment, often affect the whole family and cause a shift in dynamics. Many of us could be experiencing a role reversal, whether you were an empty nester that has since welcomed your adult children back under your roof, or if you are now relying on your children for financial support due to loss of income. We all feel the weight of the pandemic, but we need to do our best to adapt to these changes both emotionally and financially. Use this time to track your spending habits and re-evaluate your budget to see what you need for day-to-day expenses to keep your family fed, connected and safe. Don’t make any drastic changes to your budget, but make sure your basic needs are going to be met for as long as possible. This will put you in a more grounded place and ease some of the financial weight you are bearing.

3. Stay centered and connected: The pandemic has created a sense of isolation and loneliness for many around the world. With technology, we have the opportunity to continue connecting with friends, family and your community. It’s essential to be open and honest with others about the emotional and financial stress we are feeling, as the new dynamics of balancing work and home life are a new challenge for us all. In these uncertain times, encourage discussion and create an open dialogue with your loved ones about needs and financial responsibilities. Adapting to a new routine, inclusive of compromise and conversation in and out of your household, creates a safe space for your family unit.

As we all navigate this emotionally challenging time, remember to stay present and grounded in the facts, and try to avoid focusing on worst-case scenarios. These reminders are key for your mental health and emotional stability, Clayman says. We could all use some extra time and reflection to ensure we are prioritizing how our financial lives impact our emotional health. Remember to be purposeful in your decisions, not impulsive; and be deliberate with your approach, yet hopeful for the future.

For more information on how to deal with financial anxiety, visit Prudential’s Newsroom.

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2020-05-21T06:01:00

(BPT) – One of the longest economic expansions in American history may have come to an end in the face of a global pandemic. The economy today brings to mind for many the lessons of 2008-2009, during the Great Recession when millions of Americans on the doorstep of retirement watched helplessly as a lifetime of savings vanished, leaving them to wonder how they would be able to buy food, let alone take vacations or pursue leisure activities.

Meanwhile, Americans are living longer, which is a wonderful thing. Yet, it comes with challenges. The Great Recession and the current coronavirus pandemic uncovered the risk inherent in historical reliance on accumulating savings and “safe” withdrawal rates for meeting expenses in retirement without the backstop of a guaranteed retirement income base beyond Social Security. The risk is even greater when you consider that life expectancies are near record highs according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. The average millennial has more than a 2-in-5 chance to live to age 90.

Research from Prudential shows, however, that while having enough savings to last through retirement is individuals’ top financial goal, only 60% are confident they will achieve that goal — possibly because less than half of individuals even know how much money they’ll need to cover expenses in retirement.

Against this backdrop, the ensuing impact of coronavirus once again leaves Americans concerned about whether they’ll have enough to get by in retirement, or ever be able to retire at all.

“Facing a low interest rate environment, volatile markets and almost surely a new recessionary period, investors are considering the lessons learned in 2008 to avoid putting their retirement plans in jeopardy and running the risk of outliving their savings,” notes Dylan Tyson, president of Prudential Annuities. “In any environment, annuities can be a critical tool for many Americans to help protect their assets and secure a protected income stream in retirement.”

Annuities come in different forms, including variable, fixed, hybrid and even investment-only versions. Most provide guaranteed income in retirement that can be insulated from stock market fluctuations and interest rates — areas that have been increasingly hard to predict for those entering or in retirement.

The most straightforward annuity is a fixed annuity, which is typically invested in a fixed account so the principal value is protected. Because the income rate is guaranteed, the rate of return can be lower with these types of annuities, but many individuals prefer the stability these products provide.

Variable annuities typically allow purchasers to invest their principle in an investment portfolio, and account values vary — as the name implies — based on market fluctuations. This type of annuity carries more exposure to equity markets, which can mean more risk, but also higher returns.

Another option growing in popularity in the current market climate is indexed variable annuities, which allow investors the opportunity to capture some of the market upside if that does occur, and can offer some protection against a downturn. Also called registered index-linked annuities, hybrid, structured or buffered variable annuities, indexed variable annuities are typically tied to the performance of an index such as the S&P 500. These annuities provide a measure of protection if the index underperforms, while also providing investors the ability to grow their assets on the upside.

“Although there are plenty of annuities that provide forms of guaranteed income, individuals have traditionally been faced with a choice of choosing between downside protection or growth potential when they purchase an annuity,” adds Tyson. “Hybrid solutions offer the best of both worlds, providing the opportunity to lock in a protective ‘buffer’ against market losses and options to capture gains as markets rebound.”

Shoring up retirement finances has taken on new urgency in light of the coronavirus pandemic, as the market moves toward recession, job losses mount and health issues compound financial challenges for many Americans. Planning for greater longevity and an extended retirement will take decisive action on the part of individuals, before they lose the benefit of time to bolster their financial readiness. Annuities are one tool that can provide stable income in retirement, allowing more Americans to enjoy their golden years.

2020-05-19T06:03:00

(BPT) – As a parent, you would do almost anything to give your child the best opportunities for a bright future. In fact, a recent study by College Ave Student Loans conducted by Barnes & Noble College Insights shows that 83% of parents plan on paying for their child’s college education and 37% of those expect to pay $100K or more.

But funding your child’s education may look different nowadays, and despite the unique financial challenges ahead, you don’t want to sacrifice your own future. These days, paying for college and saving for retirement may seem like a steep hill to climb, but with a few key steps, you can make sure you’re marching ahead toward both investment goals.

Start with your employee retirement account

Through student loans, scholarships, work-study programs and more, kids will always have other options to help them pay for school. But once you’re retired, your options aren’t so abundant – there are no unsecured loans to help cover retirement costs. Make sure you’re saving as much as possible for your future by funding your employee savings plan enough to get the full employer match. And as your income increases and you are able, put extra money toward your retirement.

Weigh all sources of funding to pay for college

With the costs of college tuition and housing, you may find you need to supplement your income and savings to pay for college. One option — after your child has exhausted scholarships and grants — is student loans. Federal loans in the student’s name should be considered first, as they often come with unique benefits, such as income-driven repayment plans. However, there is a limit on the amount you can borrow in federal loans. If you need to borrow more, College Ave Student Loans offers private student loans that can cover the full cost of college and are customized to fit your budget and goals. With competitive interest rates and flexible repayment plans offered on undergraduate, graduate and parent loans, and so many useful tools, they can help make your education-funding experience as painless as possible.

Consider the goals and cost of college

There’s no way around it — college is expensive. But there are many ways to manage that cost. Help your child carefully evaluate their goals and budget. Help them create a list of schools at different price points to compare financial aid awards and find a school that fits best. For example, starting out at a community college can significantly reduce the higher education price tag. Make sure your kids are involved in the financial decisions that go into paying for college.

Ask your kids to chip in

As your children get older, teach them about the responsibility of saving and paying for their education. According to the same College Ave survey, 68% of parents expect their college student to help pay for some part of their education expenses. Include them in the conversation by communicating your expectations and letting them know how much you can afford to contribute. Create a plan that’s right for your family by considering all your options, including financial aid, grants and scholarships. One easy scholarship to encourage your child to try for is the College Ave Student Loans $1,000 Scholarship Monthly Sweepstakes. They can enter each month for a chance to win.

Saving for retirement and your child’s education may involve some tough choices, but with a little planning and strategic thinking, you can get it done. To learn more about saving and borrowing for college, visit collegeavestudentloans.com.

2020-05-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – As the world seeks a “new normal” following the advent of COVID-19, many Americans are looking forward to taking trips again — albeit safer, carefully chosen vacations.

A mid-May survey by research firm Destination Analysts found nearly seven in 10 Americans greatly miss vacationing, while more than half miss the planning itself. Forty-five percent predict they’ll take at least one road trip between now and the end of August, and 20% anticipate engaging in air travel during that time.

“Everyone has a touch of cabin fever after the worldwide coronavirus lockdowns,” writes Christopher Elliott in USA Today. “So it’s no surprise people want to travel soon. Whether it’s a cabin in the woods or a cruise ship cabin, Americans are dreaming of their next trip — and not just dreaming but booking.”

Many Americans are also closely watching their budgets right now in reaction to economic changes caused by COVID. But with a little extra planning, we should still be able to enjoy fun, relaxing getaways without having to break the bank. In that spirit, here are a few money-saving tips for your next trip.

• Consider a nature-focused vacation. Hiking or sightseeing amidst America’s natural beauty can be a cost-effective alternative to the hefty admission fees attached to theme parks, museums, cultural centers, entertainment venues and other key attractions. You may also find it easier to maintain social distancing guidelines in the great outdoors.
• Pre-book your lodging via Hotels.com™. The one-stop shop for hotel pricing and availability is offering major rewards on future travel. Hotels.com Rewards members who book at eligible properties by May 24, 2020, and stay between June 1, 2020, and Aug. 31, 2021, will collect double stamps. For every 10 stamps you collect, you receive a free night. This promotion will get you to that free night twice as fast, at the same cost. To participate, log in to your Hotels.com Rewards account and enter coupon code RWD2X2020 at checkout.
• Seek out mid-week airfares. Not only are you likely to find attractive airfares as America eases back into more extensive air travel, but you may find even less-expensive (and less-congested) flights on the slowest travel days of the week — Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
• Spend your food dollars wisely. Your dining plans (or lack thereof) can easily make or break your vacation budget. You may wish to make great food a major highlight of your trip, but if you’d rather use your money elsewhere you can use strategies like self-packed lunches, the free continental breakfasts at your hotel, restaurants where kids eat free and water instead of pricey drinks. When you do dine out, make lunch your biggest meal of the day and avoid higher-priced dinner menus.
• Optimize credit cards that offer travel rewards. Options include general purpose cards that pay rewards on all travel purchases or brand-specific cards that reward only for spending money on specific airlines or hotels. Look for cards that offer unlimited cash back on your greatest expenditures and seek generous expiration dates for redeeming rewards. Other available perks may include sign-up bonuses, waived baggage fees or foreign transaction fees, complimentary companion tickets or bonus rewards for booking with travel partners. Do expect annual fees and do pay monthly balances in full to avoid interest charges, forfeited rewards and/or negative impacts to your credit rating.

Your next vacation need not take a big bite out of your budget if you plan ahead. Wherever you choose to go, travel safely and travel wisely this season.

2020-05-13T06:01:00

(BPT) – There may be times when you are less likely to have your car on the road, whether that means it is sitting in your garage or stored in a facility. Even if you aren’t using your vehicle for an extended period of time, there are still financial and physical aspects to taking care of your car. With a little bit of maintenance, you’ll be able to save on costly repair bills while also boosting your vehicle’s resale value.

2020-05-13T07:01:00

Having children is a great joy, but it also can be stressful. Pressures are plentiful, from making sure your child has the right gear to needing to help manage their school and social schedules. To intensify matters, COVID-19 has brought quarantines and social distancing around the world, and parents are now tasked with educating and entertaining their kids more than ever before.

Financial stress is growing dramatically. A whopping 71% of parents are worried about their personal finances right now, and 81% describe their level of parenting stress as medium or high, according to the OfferUp 2020 Parents and Kids Recommerce Report.

In addition to financial concerns, there is a multitude of challenges for parents during these unique times. Keeping kids entertained at home is the No. 1 cause of stress for parents during the pandemic, followed by educating their children at home, the study found.

Keeping kids on top of their studies as well as happily entertained doesn’t require spending a lot of money. Consider these low- and no-cost ways to keep your children occupied at home:

Seek free educational resources

Go online to discover a variety of high-quality educational websites. Many museums are now offering virtual tours and online educational classes to engage kids of all ages. Educational websites such as Khan Academy and Sesame Street offer no-cost learning materials. Remember to sign up for newsletters from parenting organizations as well to get free activity ideas sent right to your email.

It’s also smart to reach out to your children’s school or local community center to explore options. Some offer memberships to websites that they can share so you can access material at no cost. Additionally, you can call and ask your local library about digital storytimes and virtual classes they might be holding, which can be a fun way to connect kids with others while they learn.

Find what you need through local resale opportunities

Have your kids played with all their toys and need some new supplies? Parents are turning to online resale marketplaces such as OfferUp to buy baby and kids items during the coronavirus pandemic with the goal to save money, make more sustainable purchasing decisions and support their local communities. Whether it’s a new toy or a necessary supply, you can find just what you need for less.

You can also consider selling what you no longer use and make some money as a family. OfferUp is the largest mobile marketplace in the nation for local buyers and sellers and it’s as easy as taking a picture with your phone to sell items and then meet with local people in a safe, secure manner. Millions of people buy and sell on OfferUp every year, and billions of dollars’ worth of items are exchanged. Why not make it a family effort to clean out rooms, sell unused items and save toward a group goal?

Don’t forget traditional fun and acts of kindness

Old-fashioned fun is low cost and keeps kids entertained. Have family game nights and bust out the board games, work on puzzles together or start a crafting project. Go outside to play yard games, catch or kick around a soccer ball. Work on a time capsule, scrapbook or teach your children a hobby. Think about all the things older generations did to stay busy when people spent less time online and find your inspiration.

To help spread positivity when so many people are stressed, consider simple things you can do from afar to spread cheer. Kids will enjoy brainstorming acts of kindness, and most don’t cost anything. For example, write inspiring messages on the sidewalk for people to see as they walk by, or color pictures to send to a local nursing home for residents who may not be able to receive visitors.

Keeping kids educated and entertained while at home shouldn’t cause financial stress. Follow these tips to save money and keep kids happy.

2020-05-12T14:01:00

(BPT) – Mobile banking helps you manage your finances without having to leave home. Many mobile banking apps can help you do everything from depositing checks, to paying bills or sending money, all without visiting a branch or ATM.

2020-04-29T02:01:00

(BPT) – Though most office employees are working remotely during this unprecedented time, there will be a time when the world re-emerges from COVID-19. What will office space look like then?

Despite concerns regarding more companies shifting completely to remote working, workspaces play an essential role and impact companies in numerous ways. According to a recent Bloomberg article, people are overworked, stressed and eager to get back to the office. It’s much more than simply an address where people report for their job. An office can help define a company brand, promote safe employee engagement, underscore efficiency and even help boost retention and recruitment efforts, giving an organization an edge over competitors.

Workspaces are also constantly evolving. Just think about where and how your parents worked compared to where and how you work today. What’s interesting is we were in the midst of a dramatic shift in the types of amenities that companies desire for their workplaces, largely driven by the millennial workforce and preparing for Gen Z, which is just now entering the workforce. This shift is now experiencing its own shift as companies work to comply with social-distancing mandates and create safer workplaces that limit the transmission of COVID-19.

KBS, one of the nation’s largest owners of office properties across the U.S., provides key insight into these demands and what the workspaces of the future may look and feel like as tenants go back to work.

Here are five potential ways office spaces of the future may evolve:

Reconfigured Use of Space

We will begin to see interior office designs evolve to incorporate more space between workstations, as well as unique ways to break down density throughout a building.

Office owners will be challenged to deliver environments that are safe, aesthetically pleasing and still provide that collaboration and camaraderie that tenants want. We will likely see significant innovation within office space designs over the next year as office owners reconfigure spaces to inspire collaborative environments, as well as maintain a safe distance.

Smart Tech and Touchless Amenities

Office owners will likely begin implementing touchless amenities into many office properties across the U.S. This includes items such as touchless elevators, automatic doors, faucets and possibly incorporating voice command for frequently used items within a building in order to limit the transmission of illness.

These features will be important in our current environment; however, they will likely become commonplace as we move further into the future. Companies and their employees want environments that put their health top of mind. Smart tech and touchless features are an easy way to do this.

Integration of Health Focused Materials

Beyond touchless features, we will also see office spaces incorporate more antibacterial materials into office designs. Office property owners will be more selective in the materials used in order to further limit the spread of illness in the future. Office spaces may also incorporate antibacterial coatings on surfaces, as well as more sanitation stations throughout a building.

Additionally, electrostatic cleaning is gaining popularity. This method uses an electrostatic machine to spray all surfaces including chairs, keyboards, telephones, carpet, kitchen appliances, counter tops, file cabinets and door handles; covering all surfaces and in a quicker fashion. This method is compliant with CDC guidelines for COVID-19 cleaning.

Increase in Concierge Services

While concierge services and service-based amenities were a growing trend in office space prior to COVID-19, we will likely see an increase in concierge services, especially those that incorporate contactless options such as food delivery, dry cleaning lockers and other services that make everyday life easier.

In fact, for the KBS office property in Chicago, Accenture Tower, we created a customized app that easily connects tenants and their employees with surrounding amenities. The app includes the ability to order food directly through the app, limiting contact and the need for employees to leave the building.

More Customized Space

The shift to remote working for all employees and processes has allowed them to identify what is working and what’s not. This renewed understanding of their business operations will result in more demand for customized office spaces that fit companies’ specific needs, and they will be looking to landlords to provide it.

KBS, as a forward-looking office owner, truly understands how to deliver these customized spaces, even when tenants aren’t able to visualize it themselves. In fact, prior to COVID-19, KBS consistently built spec space without a committed tenant.

At District 237, a KBS client portfolio property in San Jose, California, we repositioned an entire building, 100,000 square feet of spec space. It was an extremely progressive strategy that was successful and something we would definitely consider doing again if it was the right fit for the property. The reason we were able to do this is because we look at every property on an individual basis and what that specific property’s needs are, as well as the surrounding community, demographics, tenants, etc. We would apply these same principles in customized space today, also taking into account shifts in needs based on COVID-19, ultimately delivering an in-demand space that tenants want. For more information and to see other office properties from KBS visit kbs.com.

2020-04-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – While most of the world has hit pause on daily life, kindness and giving can be considered essential services. Socio-economic consequences of the COVID-19 health pandemic are challenging families across the globe, as schools have closed, after-school meal programs have paused, businesses have shut down, and families are feeling greater strain on finances. Children living in poverty are especially vulnerable, needing the support of nonprofit organizations and community assistance now more than ever. Providing this support has always been the mission of Red Nose Day — the annual fundraising campaign encouraging Americans to aid organizations working to end child poverty through the purchase of Red Noses at Walgreens. This year the campaign is back, but instead of selling the iconic Red Nose in Walgreens stores, the retailer created a way to engage in kindness and giving from the safety of your home to support children in need and those affected by COVID-19.

Due to public health concerns and the need for social distancing because of the COVID-19 outbreak, Walgreens is bringing Red Nose Day digital. The online shift offers a way for everyone to rally around the Red Nose in support of those in need during a critical time, even while remaining physically distant.

Get your digital Red Nose on

Now through May 30, when you donate a minimum of $1 at Walgreens.com/RedNoseDay, your donation will unlock a digital Red Nose filter to share proudly on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. Invite your friends and family to join you, sparking a wave of online donations and keeping the Red Nose spirit alive by spreading virtual joy. You can feel good knowing that 100% of funds raised will benefit Red Nose Day partner organizations that help keep kids safe, healthy and educated.

How it helps

The efforts of the Red Nose Day campaign are especially crucial during this year of economic upheaval and health crisis. Your donations provide funds for nutritious meals, essential medicine, clean water, education-based services and other vital aid to help children in America and around the world.

Grantee partner recipients of the Red Nose Day Fund include:

• Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which provide safe places for children to learn and play after school
• Children’s Health Fund, which brings essential medical services to underserved children
• Feeding America, the hunger relief organization
• Save the Children, which provides critical early childhood programs
• City Year, which provides the social, emotional and academic skills to young adults in low-income households to succeed in school and life
• Covenant House, which provides housing and support to youth facing homelessness
• International Rescue Committee, a global humanitarian aid organization
• Laureus Sport for Good, which uses the power of sport to end violence, discrimination and disadvantage for young people
• UnidosUS, which advocates for Latinos in civic engagement, education, health and housing
• The Global Fund, a partnership to accelerate the end of AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria

Join the cause

You can join the celebration when stars unite for a world of good during the Red Nose Day TV Special, Thursday, May 21, at 8/7c on NBC.

Want to get your own Red Nose on and get involved? Visit walgreens.com/RedNoseDay to learn more.

2020-04-23T07:01:00

(BPT) – The coronavirus pandemic has altered life dramatically across the world. For millions of Americans, their new quarantine routine includes working remotely 100% of the time. Telecommuting makes work possible, but it’s not without challenges. Fortunately, there are some simple solutions you can use to work effectively from home now and in the future.

Problem: Fuzzy conference calls with annoying delays

Solution: Anker PowerConf speaker for clear conference calls

Conference calls are now a daily essential. However, many people are quickly learning the speakerphone on their computer and cell phones are sub-par at best. The Anker PowerConf Bluetooth conference speaker makes those calls amazingly clear, with six microphones for 360 degrees of coverage. With its Smart Voice Enhancement feature, it makes your voice stand out, blocking background noises in the next room or outside (e.g., dogs barking, kids playing or a lawnmower next door). With its 24-hour playtime and charging port for your phone, you’ll feel like a boss at every meeting.

Problem: Limited MacBook ports

Solution: PowerExpand Direct 7-in-2 Hub helps you maximize your MacBook

So much to do, but not enough ports to do it with? Expand your MacBook’s two USB-C ports into one Thunderbolt USB-C port, one USB-C data port, two USB-A ports, one HDMI port, one SD card slot, and one microSD card slot — all from the ultra-compact PowerExpand Direct 7-in-2 Hub. The Thunderbolt 3-enabled USB-C port supports huge charging power up to 100W, data transfer up to an astounding 40 Gb/s, and media display at resolutions up to 5K. Plus, the HDMI port supports a resolution of 4K at 30Hz while the Thunderbolt 3 port supports 5K at 60Hz. Connect to two displays simultaneously, so you can stream content and work at maximum efficiency.

Problem: Annoying earbuds that drop audio

Solution: Soundcore Liberty Air 2 earphones with optimized audio

Earbuds are a work-from-home essential, but not all are created equal. Whether you’re listening to a work presentation or taking a call, you need the crystal-clear sound that you get with the Soundcore Liberty Air 2 earbuds. Each earbud is equipped with two microphones and noise-reduction technology that reduces outside noises by 60% to ensure that everyone on the other side of the call can clearly hear what is being said. The ultra-light, yet rigid driver maintains its structure, even when vibrating at high frequencies, to ensure you can effortlessly hear your colleagues as well. A single charge provides 7 hours of listening, while the charging case extends it to 28 hours of playtime. When the case is in need of a recharge, simply set it down on a wireless charger or use the included USB-C cable.

Problem: A dusty, dirty home office

Solution: The eufy RoboVac 15C MAX smart robot vacuum

You’re spending more time at home, which means there are probably crumbs, dust and more in your workspaces. Technology can help keep things clean so you can focus on your work. Enter the affordable eufy RoboVac 15C MAX smart robot vacuum with a super-slim design and impressive suction power of up to 2000 Pa that quietly cleans for up to 100 minutes. When this RoboVac encounters a mess, it activates BoostIQ Technology that increases suction power for the best clean possible. With Wi-Fi capabilities, use the EufyHome app, Alexa or Google Assistant voice control services to activate your vacuum for a clean floor with zero effort from you. You can keep working and get your floors clean simultaneously, making you a multitasking master.

Problem: Slow charging and not enough ports for devices

Solution: The Anker PowerPort Strip PD 2 mini with USB expansion

Using all your devices at home burns through battery life, so you need a solution with ultra-fast charging capabilities to keep everyone connected. With the compact PowerPort Strip PD 2 mini you get one USB-C port, two PowerIQ-enabled USB charging ports, and two AC outlets to power five devices simultaneously. What’s more, PowerIQ provides charging times that are 2.5 times faster than generic wall chargers. Rest assured, safety is top of mind with this charger thanks to a seven-point safety system, which includes a fire-retardant casing and child-friendly safety shutters. With 5 feet of cable and a worry-free 18-month warranty, it’s a smart choice for the whole family.

For inspiration and more solutions for flawless working from home, visit www.anker.com.