Home Blog Page 517

BSV Global Blockchain Convention Day 2 Highlights Fusion of IPv6, Scalable Peer-to-Peer Network

With IPv4 having completely been depleted of unique addresses, currently just recycling unused ones, it is imperative to implement a solution to meet the demands of increasing Internet users. Last year, a total of 4.66 Internet users were tallied, and this number is expected to grow in the coming years as people become more dependent on the Internet and mobile devices.

To resolve this, the world is slowly transitioning to IPv6, which can generate trillions of addresses. With IPv6, it would be 58,000 years before all of its addresses will run out, making it more than adequate to resolve the IPv4 issue. However, the transition to IPv6 should be faster, and both individuals and corporations should be made aware of this.

Technological expert Latif Ladid, founding president of the IPv6 Forum, co-founder and co-chair of the IEEE 5G World Forum, Emeritus Trustee of the Internet Society, Steering Committee member of IEEE Blockchain Initiative and member of the United Nations Strategy Council, explains why moving to IPv6 is necessary in his keynote presentation at Day 2 of the recently concluded BSV Global Blockchain Convention in Dubai. 

“We should not use network address translation because that’s what we are using today, so this is cutting basically the end-to-end concept. And in some places, you can find 2,000 people using the same IP address. So, if somebody’s a criminal, then most probably the police is going to pick up the wrong guy. Otherwise, they have to collect all these 2,000 guys to find the right guy. So it’s very, very important to have that single identity,” Ladid said.

This single identity means having a unique IP address assigned to each individual Internet user, which will allow for peer-to-peer communication to occur. This will be highly significant to usher in the Fifth Industrial Revolution predicted to be a period when artificial intelligence (AI), augmented and virtual realities (AR/VR), robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT) will flourish.

The rate of adoption of the fusion of IPv6 and a proper peer-to-peer network will determine whether this happens within years or decades. But there is no denying that the Fifth Industrial Revolution is coming, it is just a question of when.

IPv6 Leader Works with Bitcoin Creator

Why the sudden mention of Bitcoin? It seems that many people—most of them working within the digital currency space—have forgotten. The Bitcoin white paper written by Satoshi Nakamoto, who has been proven to be nChain Chief Scientist Craig Wright, is entitled “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System.”

However, when Wright uses the term “Bitcoin,” he is not actually pertaining to the BTC network, touted by the majority as the original Bitcoin; but he is instead, referring to Bitcoin SV (BSV). While BTC has continued to refuse to scale and became content with it being used as speculative investment by those who can afford to trade it, BSV has restored Bitcoin’s original protocol and design, unlocking its blockchain’s ability for limitless scaling.

This is because the truly peer-to-peer network designed by Wright is already prime for scaling. And BSV continues to stay true to Wright’s vision of Bitcoin scaling in order to have low transaction fees, so it can be used by everyone—not just the privileged few.

“So, we’re going to talk about Bitcoin. It’s not as complex as people make up. It’s a ledger. It records things. It should scale. It should be cheap. There’s a reason for this, because most of the world’s population can’t afford things when they’re expensive. We don’t need solutions to help the rich do banking. Really. We’ve had those for a long time,” Wright began.

“We need solutions to help people who aren’t included in the global economy. We need a way of making machines talk to machines cheaply, so that we can actually start implementing these globally. IoT is going to be taking off, and we don’t want a series of walled gardens owned by a few large corporations. We want interoperable systems… so people could talk to people,” Wright added.

IPv6 makes possible single identities, which in turn, enable peer-to-peer communication that creates the perfect setting for scaling. And this is why Ladid and Wright—both giants in their respective fields—are working together. And when great minds work together, the results are revolutionary.

A World of Good

The overarching theme of the BSV Global Blockchain Convention is how a scalable blockchain or peer-to-peer network can do the world a whole lot of good. And the possibilities are endless when it is combined with IPv6.

“If I want to be able to trace a source of meat from end to end, so that in the future, if something like the mad cow incident in Britain happens, rather than killing practically every cow in the country, I can monitor the individual farms, and pick and choose and have a surgical response—saving millions of farmers millions of farms. We can do that,” Wright revealed.

“To do this, we need direct communications, and the only way to do that is IPv6. IPv4 isn’t going to work. It isn’t going to allow all of us to communicate. It isn’t going to support mobile IP. It will never do it because it’s not going to scale,” Wright added.

Key to making this transition to IPv6 and peer-to-peer communication is educating both the general population and big businesses about the need for this technological fusion to be adopted. The sooner global adoption is achieved, the sooner people will get to experience its wonders.

“So, when you have the technology, at the beginning, it’s 80% work and 20% promotion. When the technology matures, it’s the other way around. It’s promotion, education, and so on—winning the regulators, getting the government to buy your solution. So, the promotion and the education are now very critical. So, this kind of conference here is really a very good example of how to get the right message [across],” Ladid concluded.

Get ahead and be educated. Watch the entire BSV Global Blockchain Convention here.

Five reasons why hiring a campervan might be good for your health

0

There’s a lot going on in the world right now, and it can be incredibly overwhelming to deal with. With summer holidays just around the corner, there’s pressure on everyone to make it a jam-packed, exciting experience, especially for children who have missed out on summer adventures the past couple of years. For many, one of the best ways to address mental health is to explore the great outdoors, take a big deep breath and enjoy some much needed fresh air.  The team at Chester campervan hire providers Calico Campers reckon there’s no better way to look after your own mental health than to enjoy a road trip adventure and UK staycation. They’ve suggested that there are five reasons why hiring a campervan is good for your health; as it enhances connection, provides memories, instills appreciation for nature, encourages physical activity and creates communities.

Connection

There’s no doubt that hiring a campervan on your own is an awesome soul-searching adventure waiting to happen, but it’s also one of the best ways possible to spend time together as partners, friends or as a family.  Whether you opt for a more compact, easy to drive two-berth campervan for hire, or a bigger, family-friendly four-berth campervan for hire, the feeling of being connected to your loved ones after sharing such an epic adventure together is unrivalled and will help to keep any feelings of isolation or loneliness at bay.

Memories

The beauty of being on the open road is that you don’t know where it will lead you. Sure, you might have a destination in mind, but hiring a campervan is also all about the journey.  Your SatNav will tell you how to get from A to B, but your intuition to venture down an attractive looking dirt track which all of a sudden opens up onto a secluded beach is what will create memories that will last a lifetime. Memories that once your holiday is over, and if you begin to struggle with difficult emotions or with difficulty sleeping, you can close your eyes and take yourself back to.

Nature

It’s been said many times that being in or surrounded by nature is good for a person’s mental health. Taking a big deep breath in such clean air really helps to clear the mind. If you didn’t have an appreciation for nature already, then hiring a campervan and exploring the great outdoors will help you achieve just that. You’ll not be able to get away from mother nature and the beauty this country has to offer its explorers.

Physical Activity

Although hiring a campervan and embarking on a road trip adventure means that you’re likely to be sat in the driver or passenger seat for a lot of the journey, that doesn’t mean to say that you’ll not want to work up a sweat.  Not everything worth seeing can be seen through the windscreen. In order to help your mental and physical health, you should incorporate into your holiday plenty of time for physical activities like walking, hiking, kayaking, cycling, paddle boarding or surfing, to name just a few.

Community

The camping community is second to none. Whether you enjoy camping in a tent, a caravan, a campervan or a motorhome, the camping community welcomes everyone with a love and respect for the outdoors with open arms.  Once you’ve enjoyed your own campervan adventure with a firm like Calico Campers, you’re instantly part of the community. You’re encouraged to share your photographs, hints and tips, places to see and things to do with others who might benefit.

TIPS TO HELP YOU AVOID PAYING FEES FOR DELAYED CAR LOAN PAYMENTS 

0

When you take a loan from a financial corporation, whether an auto loan or a broadcast subscription, you promise to make on-time repayments or face penalties. The implications of a late payment vary depending on the creditor and the kind of loan, but it’s better to prevent late payments than to deal with the consequences afterwards. One of the most important reasons to make your auto loan payments on time is maintaining your credit score.

The information in your credit report serves as the foundation for your credit scores, which are calculated by corporations employing complicated math algorithms known as credit scoring models. Payment history is ranked as the most crucial feature in the most generally used credit scoring models; thus, paying late car loan payments can significantly negatively influence those statistics.

Lenders utilise credit reports and credit scores to assess qualifying and establish interest rates, so taking precautions to avoid auto loan late payments can help keep your scores high, interest rates low, and car insurance alternatives open. Here’s how to prevent incurring late fees on your auto loan.

  • CONTINUOUSLY COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR LENDER:

Keep your lender informed of your status, capacity to make payments, and general financial situation. Document every discussion, such as the name and title of everyone you speak with and mail any papers via certified mail to have evidence of your actions.

Lenders would rather have their clients pay off their auto loans than have their vehicles repossessed. Plan to present documentation on your financial situation. And, if something changes, notify your lender immediately. When discussing the possibility of repossession, it is essential to be polite yet assertive. You would like to avoid it at all costs, so keep calling management until you discover someone who can assist you with your loan.

  • MAKE A CAR LOAN MODIFICATION REQUEST:

Car repossession is also a substantial risk for car credit finance companies. It will have to write off your loan, employ someone to recover the vehicle, park it someplace, and finally auction it off. As a result, it may be beneficial to request a lower payment from the lender. To assist you in keeping up with payments, your bank may be able to alter your loan to delay a few instalments or rearrange the term. Inform your lender about your position and negotiate when and how you will be able to pay back. Lenders are not required by law to alter your loan, but it may save you both a lot of trouble in the event of car repossession.

  • REFINANCE YOUR CAR MORTGAGE:

A vehicle loan can be made more affordable by extending the loan term or decreasing the interest rate. Regrettably, if you have delayed many payments or are in default, you are unlikely to be able to refinance. That isn’t to say you shouldn’t attempt. Credit unions, leasing companies, and a few small local banks have more lenient restrictions. Bear in mind that asking for financing might influence your credit score, so apply for a few loans at once to avoid numerous hits.

You may not be able to reduce your interest rate, but you may be able to prolong the duration of your loan. This might help to make your monthly payments more manageable. However, it does imply that you will pay higher interest altogether. It may be worthwhile the greater expense to avoid repossession, but only after all other options have been exhausted.

  • CONSIDER USING AUTOMATED PAYMENTS OR SELLING YOUR CAR:

Need assistance avoiding missed due dates and the associated late payment fees? You may arrange payments ahead of time, start setting up automatic payments or set a phone reminder. When you’re travelling or life, in general, gets hectic, your credit card provider may also provide solutions to assist you to pay on time.

Also, if your auto loan’s monthly payment is too high, you may sell it privately or swap it in at a car showroom. You may shift to a more economical ride if you’re not upside down on your loan – when you owe more than it’s worth. Ascertain that the proceeds from the sale of your vehicle will cover the balance of your loan and any penalties you owe. If you can’t, it’s advisable to speak with your creditor to see if you can deduct the costs.

FINAL THOUGHTS: 

Being regular with your car loan payments is crucial because if you keep delaying your repayments, you can face repossession of your car. And remember, Repossession will remain on your credit record for years, making it much more challenging to obtain a new vehicle loan. Keep track of every stage of the process, communicate with your bank, and do everything you can to avoid repossession. Although not every option will be open to you, they are worth considering if you are facing the loss of your vehicle.

EARNING INTEREST ON USDC

0

The term unpredictable has become a roar in the economic sector of societies around the world for all the obvious reasons. Even before the Covid-19 pandemic hit the world, different situations surfaced in the lives of people that instigated panic among them regarding the future. Still, this global pandemic did such a number on the economic aspect of a vast majority of countries that it pushed masses to be instilled with the fear of unforeseeable monetary turbulence that could clog them with further difficulties in their life.

This aligned mindset of a large crowd populating the world suddenly seeks solace by focusing on the investment that could provide them with good benefits in the days ahead.

Pushing the door open to the AQRU platform will enable exploring some of the essential benefits swinging by hand in hand with such a sort of future-focused investment.

AQRU Acting as a Needed Solution

Innovation has its own undeterred charm. Especially when it is offering so much in a silver plate. It necessarily does not mean that innovation is equally intriguing and required for everyone alike. Some are in desperate need of new spur of ideas and options, while others can survive well even with no sight of such brainstorming to cater to them.

When monetary difficulties swing at a set of individuals, some use the same shield to protect themselves and maintain sufficient stability, but others are shaken enough to realize that they need to upgrade their defence weapons. AQRU platform comes forward to provide an up-gradation on the defence used by such people. It basically offers investment plans to deal eloquently with the need for better savings that will definitely help in one way or another in the future.

AQRU platform has leverage over the regular sorts of saving accounts because while the saving accounts do not offer much in return, they provoke people to give up on the notion of investing in these accounts as a source of their financing and instead seek online digital currency as a target for their investment. AQRU takes this fragile point into consideration while laying out the plans for the ones in need of this crucial point as a core factor of their schemes.

The Usefulness of Focusing on USDC Interest

Like the meaning of an ideal situation varies from individual to individual, perfect planning of investment follows the same sort of functioning. Therefore, the pool of procedures for earning higher rates in the aspect of interests is not well-suited to everyone in the same manner. AQRU is the most suitable platform for individuals that are looking out for the highest rate of interests when it comes to the market that works with the USD coin.

It gives way for a conspicuous growth in savings through the provision of the highest interest rates. It is essential to shed light on the vital difference between crypto-currencies and AQRU interest planning. While the former is subjected to shifts on occasions due to the ever-changing conditions of the digital market, the latter platform keeps on providing the interest on a regular basis—daily, in this case, after the initial step of investment of the USD coin at the platform. This bestows it with a streak of uniqueness that is not found in other platforms, even though they offer similarly structured interests on investments of the USD Coin.

The Efficient Way of Earning Interest

Some things are able to catch attention momentarily because the attraction fades away instantly. However, other things have individuals captivated for a longer stretch of time because they possess elements that cannot easily be let go of. One such feature of this whole deal at the AQRU platform is the independent standing of the interest rate from the ongoing value of the USD coin. AQRU offers a 3% return on the investment in all the circumstances, which is likely to be an intriguing offer for many as it ensures that an individual earns high yields on USDC.

Conclusion

The financial future makes it on the list of the significant parts of life for everyone. It is bound to take that position at one point or another. Therefore, it settles the debate that the easiest and quickest route to having the best deals of interests on investments is deemed as the best one. AQRU aids in the navigation of the progress as well, which is an undeniably good feature to have to help through the hassle of an already busy life.

Types of Paper Bags and When to Use Them

0

If you’ve been wondering how to use paper bags, then you’ve come to the right place. You’ve probably heard of plastic bags, but did you know that paper bags are just as useful? Read on for more information. There are many benefits to using paper carrier bags, including the fact that they’re recyclable. Not to mention that they pose less of a risk for suffocation than plastic bags. There’s also a corresponding color: brown. The color of these bags comes from the natural fibers in wood.

Shopping bag

Paper shopping bags are available in two basic types: with or without handles. Handles are necessary if you’re planning to carry the goods you’ve bought home with you, so you can choose between the two. Handles are also important if you’re planning to use the bags for carryout or for other purposes. The handles on the bags are different and may be made of a variety of materials.

Brown Kraft Paper – The material is considered to be suitable for storing food and is typically made from natural wood pulp. These bags are durable, tear-resistant, and oil-resistant. Because they’re cheap, simple flip bags and capless varieties are frequently used. However, there are safety standards and requirements for printing, which must be followed. When using these bags, it’s a good idea to check the label first to make sure that it’s safe to carry food.

Handles are also important for restaurants and small delis. Heavy-duty paper grocery bags are necessary for grocery stores. Beer and wine bags are used in liquor stores. Merchandiser bags are great for boutiques and bookstores. Produce and market paper bags are also useful for food and produce stands. Recloseable cookie and coffee bags are excellent for cafes. The benefits and drawbacks of paper shopping bags are discussed in this infographic.

Food bag

There are various types of food bags you can use in your restaurant or business. These bags are perfect for storing bakery goods, bread, and cookies. You can also use them for gifting during a party or at an event. If you’re not sure which type to use, look for ones with glossy paper. They tend to be more sturdy and will hold your food items better than the others. Whether you’re serving a buffet or storing baked goods, you’ll want a bag that’s strong, sturdy, and attractive.

If you’re trying to make a statement about the environmental impact of your business, you should consider using paper bags instead of plastic bags. These bags look more sophisticated and are more environmentally friendly. You can even buy branded paper bags with bases for packaging plain plastic containers. These bags are more durable than plain ones and can be reused many times. They’re also much more comfortable to carry. They also look cooler when used as gift bags.

Eco-friendly bag

Paper bags are a recent trend and you may have noticed them everywhere. They are convenient to carry, easy to clean, and can hold a lot of items. They are made of sugarcane waste and are an excellent option for your business if you want to reduce your carbon footprint. And they are a good option for the environment too! Learn about the advantages of using Eco-friendly paper bags to carry your shopping.

Paper bags are available in brown and white colors. Brown paper bags are more popular, while white paper bags are better for highlighting your logo and presenting a clean appearance. They all feature a thick construction and are resistant to tears and rips. If you’re in the market for a new bag, consider purchasing an Eco-friendly paper bag to keep your products fresh. When you’re unsure of what type to buy, ask the retailer or store manager about the options available.

While plastic bags are a cheaper alternative to paper, they’re not as sustainable as paper. Plastic bags are made from fossil fuels, which contribute to global warming. Paper bags are made of unbleached, recycled brown kraft paper. They also save energy and natural resources. This means you’re doing your bit to save the planet. So, use paper bags when you can! Just make sure to reuse and recycle them regularly.

Medical bag

Regardless of the type of medical paper bag you choose, you should always follow the proper sterile packaging guidelines to avoid contaminating products. This includes the use of good-quality plastic bags that have passed the regulatory requirements of the state in which you live. It is also important to use only medical-grade paper bags, preferably made from recycled material. Here’s how to choose a suitable bag:

Firstly, you should choose a type that meets the requirements of the medical facility you work in. The medical sector is concerned with the safety of patients, and its packaging is highly regulated. That’s why it follows strict guidelines for recycling and disposing of plastic products. There are two main types of medical paper bags: sterile and non-sterile. Pharmacies use the non-printed adhesive closure type for medications and small medical equipment, while care centers use the sterile and disinfectant ones to transport patients.

Pharmaceuticals should be packaged with protective barriers, including tamper resistance and privacy. They need to be made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) material and often feature a tamper-evident seal closure. They should also be labeled with the purpose for which they are intended. Polybags can also be customized to meet the exact requirements of the application.

Recycled Bags

Recycled paper bags are a great way to reduce your business’s environmental impact. The majority of paper bags are composed of at least 35% recycled material. Unlike plastic bags, which take 500 to 1000 years to decompose, paper bags can be placed in a tree compost bin. Businesses can even promote the use of recycled paper bags to customers and increase the visibility of their brand. These bags are available at most grocery stores and grocery chains, as well as online.

The Mobius loop symbol on recycled paper bags indicates that they contain a significant percentage of recycled materials. This encourages consumers to recycle their bags. You can also look for the Green Dot symbol, which means the manufacturer has made a contribution to recycling. Another option is the FSC symbol, which guarantees the wood is certified and balances environmental protection values with social benefits. In this way, you can make the most of recycled paper bags.

Vogue kraft paper Bags

If you’ve been to the grocery store recently, you’ve probably seen the familiar kraft paper bags. Made from sturdy 65-pound virgin paper, they’re great for packaging purchases quickly and conveniently. They come with reinforced bottom gussets and sturdy twisted paper handles. However, unlike other bags, kraft paper bags don’t last forever – you can only reuse them a few times before they start to wear out. They’re reusable and eco-friendly.

When buying retail shopping bags, you may have noticed that some are more attractive than others. Vogue paper bags are typically larger than other bags, allowing you to carry more items without feeling constrained. They are ideal for gift-giving and branding, and they look good when filled with treats or handwritten cards. Handles on paper bags vary in style and color. You can choose between twisted paper handles or matching crinkled paper handles.

Euro Tote bag

When it comes to reusable bags, the Euro Tote bag is the best choice. These bags are available in white and kraft color options, and can also come with mirror-like shimmer or a super silky feel. Made of heavy 180gsm paper, these bags are not only sturdy but also feel luxurious to hold. While these bags aren’t as environmentally friendly as other options, they can provide a premium, upscale shopping experience.

There are many different types of paper bags, including the Euro Tote bag. Euro totes are usually made of heavyweight paper with a stringed handle and a cardboard insert for strength. They are widely used for a variety of purposes, including gift wrapping and merchandise packaging. They are also easy to wash and are recyclable. These bags are durable enough to handle many different types of merchandise, including food items.

If you’re looking for a reusable bag that’s durable and can withstand repeated use, Euro totes are the way to go. This bag is more functional and convenient than a plastic bag, and you can customize them with your brand’s logo and other details. Choose from personalized bags from Prime Line Packaging to promote your brand. This reusable storage option is a great way to build a loyal customer base.

Mailing paper Bags

Paper Bags are a popular choice for mailing small items, but not all products can be placed in them. Paper mailing bags can be strong enough to accommodate a few pounds of products, but their density and thickness will determine their capacity. This article will discuss how to choose the right kind of paper bag and how to use it properly. This article will cover three of the most common types of mailbags. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Mailing paper bags are available in a variety of sizes, and their tight tape-free seal makes them perfect for a variety of products. These eco-friendly packaging options are also perfect for branding and promotional purposes. However, if you want to avoid the extra cost of using a bag, you can use a reusable or recycled option. Paper bags are also great for takeout. Mailing bags made of kraft paper are usually more environmentally friendly than other packaging materials, so they are an environmentally-friendly choice for packaging your items.

Paper bags are a great way to carry your belongings. You can find them in many different shapes and sizes. In this post, we will discuss the different types of paper bags and when to use them. We will also provide some tips on how to shop for the right bag for you. So, let’s get started!

Analysts debating whether a new breed of remote first outsourcers like BruntWork (BW) can disrupt much larger incumbents – Cognizant (NASDAQ:CTSH) and Genpact (NYSE:G)

0

BPO companies’ growth rates are turbo charging due to the shift to remote work. Companies now find it easier to explain to their existing team the merits of shifting to an outsourcing model for certain tasks where staff no longer need to be in an office. 

And increasingly, developing countries are looking to lure international clients with promises of high quality remote candidates, internet connectivity and reliable telephony. 

The largest outsourcing companies like Cognizant, Genpact, Infosys and TaskUs globally make billions of dollars of revenue each year, but there are some interesting machinations occurring which might see some of the stalwarts get knocked off their golden chairs over the coming years. 

With over 700% growth during the pandemic, BruntWork is looking to take the fight to the largest outsourcing companies in the world. In typical “Techcrunch Disrupt” fashion, the question posed by analysts is whether BruntWork will be the outsourcing firm to knock the incumbents off their thrones with an operating model much more efficient than anyone has seen before. 

1. Cognizant (NASDAQ:CTSH)

Cognizant provides IT consulting and business process outsourcing services for industries including banking, health care, manufacturing, media, and entertainment. It has most of its workforce located in India, and due to time zone issues, some SMEs prefer other options. It’s popular because it has been witnessing the highest growth rate for past 7–8 years compared to the growth witnessed by its competitors based in India. It also generally gives incentives to its employees in the range of 100–200% of what is mentioned in their offer letters, but this cost is often passed through to clients. In the last 52 weeks, it’s share price has reduced from $93.47 to $66.19. Even after the recent sell-off, a slow-and-steady company like Cognizant isn’t exactly cheap at 16 times expected 2022 adjusted earnings.  

2. Genpact (NYSE:G)

Genpact is an American professional services firm legally domiciled in Bermuda with its headquarters in New York City, New York. The company currently employs more than 100,000 people and provides services to clients in over 30 countries worldwide. In the last 52 weeks, it’s share price has fallen from $54 to $37. Despite the share price contracting, it’s still trading at a 23x P/E ratio. Genpact has an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5, based on over 15,271 reviews left anonymously by employees.

3. BruntWork (BW)

BruntWork, a leading outsourcing firm helping small and medium-sized businesses set up remote workers overseas, reported 700% revenue growth during the pandemic, an incredible achievement while so many of it’s competitors reported only double digit growth. 

Unlike the competition, BruntWork is “remote only”, meaning its cost base is significantly lower than its competitors. It is popular across hundreds of industry verticals, however virtual assistants are a very popular category for the business.

Conclusion

Analysts are hotly debating whether a new outsourcing company like BruntWork can topple Genpact and Cognizant, let alone TaskUs or WiPro Ltd. This new breed of “remote-first” outsourcing firm have substantially less operating costs and pass on those savings to their clients, which is a win/win for the company and it’s clients alike. 

Now is the best time to explore up-and-coming promising outsourcing firms like BruntWork that have immense potential to weather the storm of rising interet rates, stagflation and possible recession. Whether or not it can match the success of top outsourcing companies like the ones analysed in this op-ed is a speculative question. However, a better understanding of fundamentals always helps in making smart decisions.

While they still have a substantial amount of ground to cover, BruntWork is positioning itself well to make a mark on global outsourcing, threatening some of the major listed companies that previously felt much safer.

San Diego CEO Jason Hughes Explains What Office Tenants Should Consider Right Now

0

With nearly three decades of experience working in tenant representation, Jason Hughes says office tenants face new challenges amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the overall shift in office needs. While San Diego is abuzz with expanded demand from the life science sector for more lab space, Jason Hughes acknowledges there are several new factors to consider when it comes to being a tenant in 2022.

“It’s a supply and demand [situation],” Jason Hughes says. “It’s an equilibrium issue. As there’s less supply and more demand, prices go up.”

Jason Hughes shares that commercial tenants can improve their chances of securing the right space. Jason Hughes advises it’s vital to leave enough time to renew a lease or move, and timing is everything.

Jason Hughes says there’s tremendous availability of space in most urban core markets

“In Downtown San Diego, landlords are finding it very difficult to lease space for a variety of reasons. We had a lot of overbuilding over the past decade,” Jason Hughes explains. “We had a lot of conversions from non-office to office. And at the same time, a lot of companies have been able to use this hybrid work model and say, ‘You know what? We just don’t need the same amount of space.’”

The San Diego business leader likens it to the “perfect storm.” San Diego’s rising homeless problem has also played a role. A recent CBS 8 news report states that about 1,300 homeless people have flooded Downtown San Diego and that population has nearly doubled since 2021.

Locals have reported tents expanding to San Diego curbs. Jason Hughes says the result is that many companies are now discovering they no longer want to be in Downtown San Diego. And despite new commercial office properties popping up on the market, Jason Hughes says there’s no real velocity of tenant interest.

“If you’re a Downtown San Diego landlord, I would be in panic mode right now, ,” he says.

“That being said, there are some unique dynamics that insulate downtown from the expected drop that you would see in a normal supply, demand equilibrium. There are a couple of very large landlords, with very deep pockets, who have no debt.

“And a tenant that just got a hundred million dollars of equity, like a tech company that just got infused a ton of money, and they’re just like, ‘We don’t care what the rents are, so we’ll pay it.’”

Downtown is the outlier

As inflated market rates have shifted the balance in San Diego, Jason Hughes says the UTC/Golden Triangle area, as well as Carmel Valley, has become the upscale office markets for those who don’t want to be downtown.

“They are much smaller markets than downtown, but it’s where a lot of higher-end-type professional users want to be,” he says. “And those markets have become very complicated because it’s also adjacent to Torrey Pines, which has become the epicenter for the life science biotech industry. It’s adjacent to the University of California San Diego, and that’s where the hub has been for decades for life science and that sector has exploded.”

Growing 4.5 million feet of life science in the last year, Jason Hughes says the landlords in The Golden Triangle, UTC, have started pushing out office tenants and converting their traditional office buildings to life science lab-type buildings.

“You are bringing in a whole different user that will pay much-inflated rates,” he says. “And at the same time, there are some of the big tech companies from Silicon Valley moving into town. Apple has come into town and taken a million and a half square feet, just in the last few years to compete with Qualcomm, for 5G chips.”

With the life science sector snapping up most of the space, Jason Hughes says competing with them is a tough bet. “You have some of these other very successful technology companies like ServiceNow. And now Amazon’s coming into town,” he says. “Then you also have Jeff Bezos and his longevity center for life wellness. There are some incredibly deep-pocketed companies that are coming in and just buying space; they don’t care what it costs.”

While Hughes says many companies are seeing office space as a liability, he advises viewing it as an opportunity to build company culture. As companies are moving workforces back into the office amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Jason Hughes affirms many corporate team members are excited to return to an office setting after working from home for two years.

“[People are saying,] ‘We miss each other, we want to be together,’” he declares. “I’m already seeing more and more articles talking about how working from home isn’t working.”

WeBuyBooks Boosts Charity Sector

0

Charities across the UK are earning vital income from an innovative platform that turns
unwanted books, CDs, DVDs, and games into cash.
WeBuyBooks is helping to steer vital money into charity coffers as record inflation bites into
contributions from the public.
Danaher Animal Shelter, based near Wethersfield in north Essex, is one such example.
The charity takes in and cares for around 500 animals every year, making every effort to find
them permanent new homes with loving owners.
Average running costs for the shelter are £800,000 a year. During the pandemic the charity
experienced a dramatic drop in income – losing around £300,000 due to the enforced closure of
its shops and cancellation of events such as its annual Summer Fun Day.
Danaher is currently experiencing a major influx of animals and has a long waiting list of
animals due to be brought in when kennel space becomes available.
At the same time, the charity itself is struggling with increased costs, including energy bills,
pet food bills, and a rise in staff wages to meet the new minimum wage. It is also facing a
fall-off in the number of volunteers.
However, in the 18 months since the head of retail for Danaher Animal Home, Julia Askham,
has been selling books via We Buy Books, nearly £7,000 has been raised.
It has been spent on kitting out the newly-built extra-large kennels, a project which has
recently been completed to cater for larger dogs which are increasingly coming into the home.
Samantha Garvey, general manager of the shelter, said:
“With continually rising costs we are having to be more inventive in the way we raise funds –
discovering that we could quadruple the amount of money raised by working with We Buy
Books has been a real gamechanger.
“Previously, we would be selling books in our charity shops for around 50p a time.
By contrast, for a little work with sorting and scanning the book donations, I can achieve an
average of £2 per book and sometimes even more – which makes a significant difference.
“Because the system is so quick and efficient, it also relieves space pressure in the shops, the
shelves are no longer stacked so full of books which means we can display more items and
tempt people through the doors to make other purchases.”
Julia says the We Buy Books team has been incredibly helpful.
As a regular seller with a high number of books, she now gains an extra percentage on each
sale and is also allowed to sell multiple copies of the same book.
“We often find after Christmas that several of our shops will receive donations of the same
‘must have’ book that people have been given as presents,” added Julia. “It might be a
cookbook, a biography, or the latest best-seller – previously we could only sell one at a time
online but the team arranged for us to be able to sell them more than one at a time, which is
super.”
“It really is the perfect storm for animal welfare charities so every penny counts.
“There are far fewer people now who are deciding to take on a pet, especially a rescue animal.
Instead, they are watching their own household budget and, after being on lockdown for so
long, they are taking time to enjoy life rather than take on a pet that will probably need extra
TLC
“We very much hope that will change in time, but there is a very difficult future ahead for
charities like ourselves and this is why any opportunity to boost our fundraising with ventures
such as this, is so important.”
WeBuyBooks has not only boosted the charity sector, so far this year the average site user
has pocketed an average of £29.10.
The simplicity of the platform is the secret to its success – users simply enter the barcode of
ISBN of their item, get an instant valuation, package and post their item for free, and receive
their money.
Ben Wadsworth, marketing manager at WeBuyBooks, said:
“It has been remarkable to see what people have achieved using our technology.
“We know the rising cost of living is presenting new challenges for everyone.
“But with the WeBuyBooks app now becoming a vital tool for fundraisers across the country,
we look forward to helping people and charities achieve their fundraising goals over the next
12 months.”

Smart Financial Management: a Checklist for Single Parents

0

Introduction

If you’re a single parent, keeping your household in the black and financially secure is probably a major concern. You might have gone through the grief of losing a partner or started a family without a partner. In either case,  you’ve found yourself supporting your family on a single income. As such, providing your dependents with a good quality of life requires smart financial planning. Luckily, you have a lot of things you can do to build a solid foundation for your future. Use this checklist to get started, stay organised, and minimise your financial stress.

1. Review your finances

Do a financial stocktake by reviewing all your accounts, documents, bank balances, mortgages and other debts, superannuation, and assets. Set aside an afternoon to review everything and work out where you stand financially. From this review, you can then start listing some realistic goals.

2. Define your financial goals

Write down your financial goals, from immediate ones such as paying all your bills on time to longer-term ones like putting away money for your kids’ university costs. You can also set goals to pay down debt, such as paying off the highest interest debt like credit cards first before paying off your mortgage as soon as possible. Other types of goals include personal and lifestyle ones like taking the kids on an overseas holiday and buying a new car.

3. Create a budget

Once you’ve listed your goals, set out a budget. For most, a budget is vital and forms the framework for achieving your financial goals. Work out your monthly income, expenses, and how much you have left over. Consider what you can put into savings or an emergency fund and what you can use on things like new clothes for the kids, entertainment, and eating out. Take the opportunity to consider new habits you can adopt; for example, shopping with a grocery list to prevent impulse buys and buying in bulk to save more.

4. Review your insurance coverage

If you don’t have insurance, consider taking out appropriate cover. Life insurance products, for example, can help you cover your medical bills and living expenses if you’re sick or injured and can’t work. It’s much easier not to think about worst-case scenarios, but as a single parent, managing these types of risks can put you at ease as you know your children will be taken care of no matter what. Moreover, it’s worth noting some types of insurance, such as income protection insurance, can be tax deductible. Insurance policies should reflect your goals and needs. As such, review it regularly to make sure it’s still adequate.

5. Build up your emergency fund

Your emergency fund is another way, in adding to insurance, to manage the uncertainties of life. Car breakdowns, emergency house repairs, and other unexpected things can blow out your budget. For this reason, open up a dedicated savings account for emergencies and start adding to it now. Aim to have enough in your emergency fund to cover you for at least three months. If you’re self-employed, you might want to put away more, such as six months’ worth of income or expenses.

6. Boost your income

Have you thought about additional ways to boost your income? Options include asking for a pay raise and upskilling and getting a higher-paying job. If you have some spare time, consider a side hustle. Even decluttering your house and selling some of your unwanted items could bring in some extra money that could be put to good use.

7. Grow your retirement nest egg

If you have money left over each month, put some of it towards your retirement. You can boost your super contributions or start investing in liquid assets like shares yourself. Thanks to the power of compounding, growing your savings over time by investing them and reinvesting your earnings can make a lot of difference by the time you retire.

8. Update your estate plan

An up-to-date estate plan is especially important if you’re a single parent as it lets you decide who looks after your children if the unthinkable were to happen. It can help you provide for your children, including how insurance payouts are to be used, and ensure they’re financially provided. Review your estate plan with your solicitor every year to make sure it’s current.

9. Explore government assistance

Depending on your situation, you could be eligible for certain types of government assistance as a single parent, and your children could also be able to access benefits. These could include child care subsidies, rent assistance, and parenting payments. Look into what you can claim. Every little bit can help make your life easier and life better for your kids.

10. Do a monthly financial check-in

Your finances and budget should closely reflect your life. Since your circumstances are constantly changing, it’s a good idea to do a monthly check-in with your budget to make sure it’s still relevant. These regular check-ins keep you financially on track and allow you to think clearly about what you are and where you’re going. If your income increases or your expenses and goals change, you’ll also want to do an update.

Conclusion

As a single parent, financial security for you and your dependents is likely high on your list of priorities. Do a thorough review of your current finances, set out goals, and work to a budget. Your goals help guide your behaviour and day-to-day decisions, and they can motivate you to stay on track. Review your insurance products; these are important for managing risk and unexpected events in life. Updating your estate planning, putting aside money for retirement, and doing regular financial check-ins are also vital. Don’t hesitate to see a qualified financial planner or other experts if you have any questions or doubts. By following this checklist, you can gain clarity into your financial goals and have specific steps to achieve them.

Who invented blockchain? Meet the technology of the moment

0

Blockchain emerged from the meeting of the tech and financial spheres, and first captured the world’s attention a few years ago. As a new and relatively complex phenomenon which involves money, blockchain inevitably leads to doubts. Guided by Sherlock Communications’ 2022 blockchain report, we will explain who invented blockchain, what it is, how it works and how safe it really is.

What is a blockchain?

The blockchain is a large shared database that records the transactions of its users, allowing the system to track the movement of certain types of information across the internet. These are pieces of code generated online that carry connected information – like blocks of data that form a chain. This technology represents a major disruption to the global economy.

The bitcoin network – the first on the market – stores information such as the amount of cryptocurrencies transferred between users, identification of who sent and who received the values, and the date and time of transactions.

As it evolves, this technology has demonstrated much more potential uses than just cryptocurrency transactions.

Other cryptocurrencies were created, and these networks can be programmed to track and record any type of value – not just financial transactions, but also property deeds, digital identities, stock exchanges, supply chain records, data management and much more.

Blockchain can reduce the costs of banking institutions and infrastructures, and can generate significant savings, mainly due to the technology’s operational efficiency.

Who invented blockchain?

In 1991, Stuart Haber and W. Scott Stornetta conceived what many people now know as blockchain. Initially, the first project involved creating a network of cryptographically protected blocks where no one could modify the data of the documents.

In 1992, they upgraded their system to increase efficiency, allowing them to collect more documents in a single block. However, it wasn’t until 2008 that the history of blockchain began to gain prominence, thanks to the work of Satoshi Nakamoto – a pseudonym which has come to be known as the name behind blockchain technology.

Nakamoto conceptualized the first blockchain in 2008, when the technology evolved and found its way into many applications beyond cryptocurrencies. He released the first article about the technology in 2009, explaining why it was so well equipped to improve digital trust.

How does blockchain work?

The blockchain periodically stores information about transactions in batches, called blocks. These blocks have a fingerprint called a hash – a unique mathematical code – and are linked together in chronological order, forming a continuous line of blocks – a chain.

If someone tries to make a change to one of the passed blocks, it won’t be rewritten, but a new transaction can be sent, which will be analyzed and included in a new block of information.

In other words, the process of recording information, changes and transactions is now 100% digital, has network consensus and is fully encrypted. This ensures greater trust, efficiency and security, as each transaction is verified at the same time by different computers.

The fact that the data is not centralized on a single server, but dispersed across a group of independent computers that are part of the network, makes it difficult for hackers to interfere.

Blockchain’s popularity

As explained above, blockchain was created to avoid so-called “double spending”. For example, if you send a file that is stored on your computer to a friend of yours, you will notice that this document has been “duplicated”. Blockchain prevents this from happening with bitcoins, by linking one block of information to another.

This is important because a hacker will never be able to duplicate or create bitcoins – the technology simply does not allow it.

Furthermore, this technology is popular because it allows the creation of revolutionary products – such as cryptocurrencies, digital currencies that are not backed by any country.

In addition to these cryptocurrencies, blockchain can also be used for document validation – such as contracts and stock exchanges –, financial transactions, the commercialization of music and movies, and even voting.

This technology has the potential to completely transform the business transaction model in the future, as the pseudonymous figure who invented blockchain has already noted. This is because the network’s security levels are much more advanced and solid than any other conventional system.

  • bitcoinBitcoin (BTC) $ 110,769.00 1.37%
  • ethereumEthereum (ETH) $ 4,551.75 0.53%
  • xrpXRP (XRP) $ 2.99 1.05%
  • tetherTether (USDT) $ 1.00 0.03%
  • bnbBNB (BNB) $ 855.90 1.05%
  • solanaSolana (SOL) $ 195.03 0.9%
  • usd-coinUSDC (USDC) $ 0.999802 0%
  • staked-etherLido Staked Ether (STETH) $ 4,537.65 0.58%
  • tronTRON (TRX) $ 0.350912 0.01%
  • cardanoCardano (ADA) $ 0.863503 0.89%
  • avalanche-2Avalanche (AVAX) $ 23.96 0.03%
  • the-open-networkToncoin (TON) $ 3.13 2.61%
Enable Notifications OK No thanks