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Pension Planning for the Self-Employed: Where to Start and What to Watch

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Being self-employed has its moments. You’re in charge. You choose the work. You call the shots. But there’s one thing that gets pushed aside more often than not — your pension.

You don’t get nudged into a company scheme. Nobody tops it up for you. Especially early on, it can feel unclear or even a bit much.

Putting it off, though? That can cost you more than you think.

Let’s keep it simple. No financial jargon. Just a clear path to get started.

It’s On You

No way around this part. You don’t have an employer handling your retirement savings, so it’s up to you. That means you choose how much to put aside, when to start, and how to grow it.

And look, the state pension in Ireland helps, but it’s not enough to carry you through retirement by itself. Think bills. Think inflation. Think wanting to enjoy the years ahead, not just scrape by.

Your Options

In Ireland for example, if you’re a sole trader or freelancer, one of the first things to look at is a Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA). It’s flexible. No pressure to pay in every month if cash flow gets tight. You can stop and start again when needed.

If you run your business through a limited company, there’s also the option of an executive pension. This allows the company to contribute on your behalf, which can come with its own tax advantages. Some find this route more efficient, depending on income.

If you’re not entirely sure which one fits, that’s no problem. A pension advisor who works with self-employed people can walk you through it. Sorting the details early can save a lot of bother later.

What About Tax?

One of the biggest reasons to start a pension is the tax relief. In Ireland, you can claim back income tax on your contributions, up to a certain percentage based on your age.

That means you could be putting money toward your future while reducing your current tax bill. It’s one of those rare win-win situations. Yet lots of people miss out simply because they never take the time to look into it.

Watch Out for These

  • Waiting too long

This one’s easy to fall into. You tell yourself you’ll start next year. But then next year becomes the year after that. The earlier you begin, the less you need to save each month to reach a decent pot.

  •  Relying too heavily on your business or property

Some self-employed people assume they’ll sell the business or cash in on property down the line. That might happen. Then again, it might not. A pension gives you more control and doesn’t depend on timing the market right.

  • Forgetting inflation

Retirement might span a few decades. If savings don’t grow over time, they lose ground. It helps to plan with growth in mind, not just caution.

  • Thinking it has to be perfect

You don’t need to know every fund or strategy from day one. Start simple. You can tweak it over time. Doing something beats doing nothing every time.

  • Failing to check in

Your income might change. So might your goals. Make sure to review your pension from time to time. A quick update now and then can make a big difference in the long run.

Don’t Overthink It, Just Begin

Sorting your pension as a self-employed person might not be the most thrilling task. But it’s one of the most important. You’ve built your own business, managed your own time, handled your own income. This is just the next thing to take charge of.

Try to keep at it whenever life allows. Looking back, there’s a fair chance you’ll be glad you didn’t drift away from it.

AI in Video Production for Marketing Strategies

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Imagine cutting your video production time in half—while doubling your creative output.

AI is transforming how marketing teams approach video. It takes raw ideas and turns them into polished content—fast.

We’ve seen firsthand how these tools streamline workflows, eliminate bottlenecks, and give creators more freedom to focus on ideas.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how AI is boosting ROI and reducing costs.

You’ll also learn how it makes high-quality video production more accessible—no matter your team size or budget.

If you want to stay ahead in a world driven by smart, scalable video, keep reading.

What is AI in Video Production?

Think of AI as your tireless creative partner—always on, endlessly efficient, and never stuck staring at a blank screen.

Whether you’re building a video from scratch or polishing something that just needs that final touch, AI tools like Runway, Synthesia, and Pictory are changing the game.

They can whip up scripts, generate storyboards, or even bring digital avatars to life in seconds.

In this section, we’ll dive into how these tools don’t just save time—they open creative doors you didn’t even know existed.

AI is completely reshaping how marketers produce video content.

It takes the most tedious parts of the process—like scriptwriting, editing, or voiceovers—and turns them into fast, automated workflows.

Tools like Jasper, Descript, and Lumen5 can turn a blog post into a fully narrated, visually engaging video in minutes.

That’s not just a time-saver—it’s a production revolution.

Even more impressive? AI can generate hundreds of personalized versions of the same video.

Each one can speak directly to different audiences, regions, or stages of the buyer journey.

It doesn’t stop there.

AI also learns from how your viewers interact—spotting the exact second they drop off or rewatch.

This means you can fine-tune future videos to hit harder, keep attention longer, and convert better.

The bottom line? AI is giving marketers superpowers.

How to use Ai in video production? 

Ready to turn hours of editing headaches into just minutes of smooth, AI-powered magic?

With the right tools, you can streamline your entire video production workflow—from the first idea to the final upload.

This frees you and your team to focus on what really matters: creating content that actually moves the needle.

In this section, I’ll walk you through real, hands-on ways to use AI to automate the grind without sacrificing quality.

It all starts with AI scriptwriters like Jasper or Copy.ai.

Feed them a few prompts or audience insights, and they’ll generate a solid first draft in seconds.

Then plug that into tools like Runway or Magisto.

These platforms use AI to cut the fluff, smooth the audio, and highlight the moments that actually hook viewers.

No more frame-by-frame tweaking.

Need a voiceover? ElevenLabs offers natural-sounding AI voices in almost any tone or language.

No time to hire an on-screen host?

Synthesia lets you create lifelike digital presenters—no studio, no camera crew, just click and go.

If you’re curious how professionals in the field are thinking about the rise of AI in video production, Blare Media’s website offers some great insights.

While they don’t currently use AI in their workflow, they explore how it’s reshaping the industry and what it could mean for the future of filmmaking.

But the real magic happens after you hit publish.

Machine learning doesn’t just sit there—it watches, learns, and adjusts.

It tracks when viewers pause, skip, or rewatch your video.

Then it feeds that data back into your process, helping you fine-tune your pacing, messaging, and calls to action.

The result? Smarter videos. Sharper storytelling. And content that actually converts.

This isn’t just automation—it’s a full-on creative evolution.

What are the different ways Ai is being used in Video Production? 

AI isn’t just working behind the curtain anymore—it’s running the whole show.

From brainstorming your first concept to exporting the final cut, AI is reshaping every step of the video production pipeline.

Whether you’re a solo creator trying to do more with less, or part of a busy marketing team juggling tight deadlines, today’s AI tools are unlocking creative and strategic possibilities.

These are the kinds of capabilities that used to be reserved for big studios with even bigger budgets.

In this section, I’ll show you how AI is being used in the wild—automating the grind, personalizing content, and helping marketers move faster without compromising quality.

Let’s start with editing.

Platforms like Wisecut and Magisto can scan your raw footage, pick out key moments, and cut the fluff.

They layer in transitions, background music, and subtitles—all automatically.

It’s like having a smart assistant editor who actually understands storytelling

When it comes to scripting, tools like ChatGPT and Jasper make it effortless.

Type in a few keywords or a product description, and you’ll get a ready-to-roll video script in seconds.

Need to map out visuals before the shoot?

AI storyboard tools like Boords make pre-production smoother, faster, and more collaborative.

Now let’s talk voiceovers.

Instead of spending hours recording or booking talent, you can generate natural-sounding narration in multiple languages using ElevenLabs or Murf.ai.

Want a human face on screen without a studio or crew?

Tools like Synthesia let you create lifelike virtual presenters that speak directly to your audience.

But here’s where it really gets exciting: personalization at scale.

AI can tailor video content for individual viewers by pulling in names, industries, or offers from your CRM.

That kind of detail creates a “wow” factor that grabs attention and drives conversions.

And it doesn’t stop there.

With emotion detection and behavioral analytics built in, AI tracks what works and what doesn’t.

It helps you fine-tune your video pacing, tone, and messaging for even better performance next time.

Bottom line?

AI isn’t just a helpful tool—it’s the secret weapon behind the most agile, data-driven, and impactful video strategies out there.

What are the benefits of using AI? 

Imagine cranking out more videos, in less time, with a bigger impact—and doing it without burning out your team or draining your budget.

Sounds like a dream, right? With AI, it’s already reality.

In this section, we’ll break down the real-world benefits of using AI in video production—from slashing turnaround times to creating smarter, data-driven content that actually moves the needle.

First up: speed.

AI takes care of the time-consuming stuff—like trimming footage, syncing audio, adding captions, and even picking out B-roll.

Tools like Runway and Adobe Premiere Pro’s AI features can automatically cut interviews, clean up audio, and enhance visuals in minutes.

That means you can go from raw footage to final cut faster than ever—freeing your team to focus on creative strategy, not manual edits.

Next: cost savings.

Instead of hiring voice actors, editors, or on-screen talent for every project, you can use tools like Synthesia.

With lifelike AI avatars and natural-sounding voiceovers, you can create entire videos without ever stepping in front of a camera.

It’s not just more affordable—it’s scalable and fast.

Perfect for internal training, product explainers, or global campaigns on a tight timeline.

Then there’s personalization—something marketers dream of but rarely scale.

AI makes it easy.

Platforms like Rephrase.ai and Vidyard let you create hundreds of video variations tailored to different audiences.

Each one can be personalized with names, industries, or custom offers pulled straight from your CRM.

This kind of relevance grabs attention and drives serious engagement.

And here’s the kicker: AI doesn’t just help you create—it helps you improve.

By analyzing viewer data like watch time, drop-off points, and click-through rates, AI gives you real insights.

You can refine your hook, adjust your pacing, or tweak your CTA based on what’s actually working.

The result?

Smarter videos, better performance, and a production process that gets sharper and more effective every time you hit publish.

Gold Prices Rally: Is it Time to Sell Your Gold?

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Gold has soared to record highs in 2025, fuelled by global instability, persistent inflation and strong central bank buying. With prices recently reaching over £2,700 per ounce, many private holders, as well as those having unused jewelry at home, are now wondering if this is the right time to cash in. Here we look at the factors behind the rise in gold prices, what the experts expect next and what practical steps you should take if you are thinking of selling your gold.

Why the Price of Gold has Risen

The sharp rise in the gold price in the first half of 2025 was the result of overlapping global pressures that steered both private and institutional buyers towards gold. Inflation has remained stubbornly high in many economies, causing people to seek safer places to preserve value. At the same time, increased geopolitical friction – particularly the flare-up in US-China trade relations – has fuelled market concerns and made gold an attractive investment.

“When global confidence falters, gold tends to shine”, says Robert Nyberg, CEO of gold-buying firm Kultapiste. “What we saw in the first half of 2025 was that more and more individuals wanted to capitalize on the prices, and decided to sell their gold”.

The turbulence has indeed led to an increase in demand, and gold has risen steeply as a result. Various central banks fuelled the trend, with China buying almost 17 tonnes of gold in the first five months alone. Combined with a weakening US dollar, these forces pushed gold up to over $3,400 an ounce (around £2,700) in April, a historic high.

Expert Forecasts for Second Half of 2025

Following the sharp rise in the price of gold in the first half of 2025, market analysts are broadly in agreement: prices are expected to stabilise rather than continue to rise at the same pace. Several major forecasts suggest that the price per ounce is likely to move within a relatively narrow range, barring any major new shocks.

HSBC has updated its outlook to a trading band between $3,100 and $3,600 per ounce (around £2,450-2,850), noting that a combination of softer inflation data and improving global sentiment could limit further gains. Similarly, Citi analysts revised their short-term target to a consolidation zone between $3,100 and $3,500, pointing to a cooling of the previous market panic as geopolitical tensions ease. In fact, prices have already shown signs of consolidating within this band.

Although most forecasts suggest a levelling off, there is still some potential for bullish scenarios. A renewed global crisis or a sudden change in monetary policy could push prices higher. Some estimates give a 30% probability of a breakout towards $4,000 per ounce (£3,150), although this is seen as an upper scenario rather than the base case. 

What This Means for Private Sellers

For people holding gold – whether in the form of jewellery, coins or investment bars – the current market conditions offer a unique opportunity. With prices still near record highs, many sellers are in a strong position to secure an attractive return. Even after retreating slightly from its April peak, the gold price is still above £2,550 per ounce ($3,250), which means selling now could be profitable.

But timing is important. Rather than trying to guess at the absolute top of the market, it is often better to sell during periods of relative stability or small gains. Short-term movements – prompted by news or changes in investor sentiment – can create favourable selling windows. If you follow price movements over several days or weeks, you can avoid selling in a temporary downturn.

Practical Tips Before You Sell

Before parting with your gold, it’s worth preparing properly to get the most out of the transaction. Start by identifying what you have: check the karat (e.g. 9ct, 14ct, 18ct) and weigh each item, if possible, using a kitchen or jewellery scale. Remember that most jewellery is not pure gold, so the payout will be based on the actual gold content.

Once you have an idea of the quality and weight of the gold, you can compare offers from different buyers – especially online. Prices can vary significantly between different platforms. It is also worth checking whether they are buying at a premium for gold items such as coins or bars, which are usually closer to full market value than scrap jewellery.

When selling online, always make sure the gold is sent with insured and traceable shipping. Reputable services provide pre-paid, insured packaging. Make sure the protection matches the potential value of the items.

Finally, you should check the tax rules in your area. In the UK, the sale of personal gold does not usually trigger tax, but exceptions may apply for large profits or high-value bullion. A little research beforehand can help you avoid surprises and secure a fair and safe deal.

How Swedish Players Can Bet Smart on the Champions League in 2025

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Swedish sports fans love the Champions League – and many of them love to bet on it. But with Sweden’s strict gambling regulation and Spelpaus restrictions, more players are now turning to international betting sites for better odds, bonuses, and fewer limitations.

👉 If you’re a Swedish bettor looking to place tax-free bets on the Champions League, check out these trusted options on bästabettingsidorna.se that operate under EU-licenses.

Let’s explore how savvy Swedish punters are approaching Champions League betting in 2025 – with insights into value, regulation, and strategy.

Who Are the Tournament Favorites?

Heading into the knockout stages of the 2025 Champions League, a few elite clubs are standing out with strong odds:

  • Barcelona – Backed at around 2/1 
  • PSG – Odds sit near 9/4 
  • Arsenal – Close behind at 11/4 
  • Inter Milan – Value bet at 4/1

These teams not only boast deep squads but have also performed consistently across European fixtures. Swedish bettors, especially those active on EU-licensed sites, often combine tournament winner bets with match-by-match accumulators.

Tax-Free Winnings: Why Swedish Bettors Use EU Sites

Swedes betting via international platforms must understand one critical rule:

  • EU-licensed sites like those under MGA or EMTA = tax-free winnings 
  • Non-EU licenses (Curacao, Anjouan) = taxed in Sweden 

This makes platforms with MGA or Estonia (EMTA) licenses incredibly popular, as they allow for legally untaxed profit – something many ABCMoney readers may appreciate.

How Swedish Players Analyze Betting Markets

Experienced Swedish bettors apply the following checklist before placing a Champions League wager:

  1. Team form and recent results – especially in European vs domestic matches 
  2. Injuries and suspensions – a key concern in knockout games 
  3. Historical matchups – relevant if teams have faced each other before 
  4. Market movement – sharp odds drops might signal inside information 

Bettors in Sweden are increasingly using professional odds comparison tools to get the best line – often between EU sites with no MitID-style login.

Strategic Betting Options Beyond 1X2

While the standard 1X2 betting remains popular, Swedish punters are increasingly drawn to more advanced markets, such as:

  • BTTS (Both Teams to Score) 
  • Over/Under 2.5 goals 
  • Correct Score or HT/FT combos 
  • Player to Score Anytime 

Combination bets (parlays) are also trending, particularly for high-profile matchdays. These provide higher potential returns but come with risk – something seasoned bettors manage with low stakes and smart bankroll division.

Timing: Market Movements & Late Bets

One trend among high-level Swedish bettors is waiting until the last 24 hours before kick-off. Why?

  • Lineups become public 
  • Weather reports are clearer 
  • Oddsmovements peak – signs of market manipulation or sharp money 

These late moves often offer value where bookmakers overcorrect due to media hype or betting volume.

Responsible Betting Is Growing

Sweden has a strong public discussion around gambling harm. Many Swedish players opting out of Spelpaus still maintain healthy betting habits:

  • Fixed monthly bankroll 
  • No chasing losses 
  • Using tracking tools and bet logs 
  • Avoiding tilt bets after big losses 

For ABCMoney readers, this reflects a more mature betting demographic – one that treats gambling as calculated entertainment rather than addiction.

Conclusion

The Swedish betting market has evolved beyond its local framework. Players are increasingly savvy, seeking:

  • Better odds 
  • Tax-free winnings 
  • Flexible platforms outside Spelpaus 

When it comes to the Champions League, Swedish bettors aren’t just betting with their hearts – they’re betting with data, timing, and smart regulation awareness.

Whether you’re placing your first bet or refining a sharp betting strategy, there’s never been a more informed way to engage with Europe’s biggest club competition.

How Does Remote Prescribing Work in the UK?

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Remote prescribing enables qualified healthcare professionals to prescribe medications through secure digital systems without face-to-face consultations. This modern approach combines clinical expertise with technology to deliver safe, efficient healthcare services across UK primary care settings.

What is Remote Prescribing?

Remote prescribing involves the assessment, review, and prescription of medications through electronic health record systems. Clinical pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, or GPs work remotely using NHS clinical systems to manage routine medication reviews, repeat prescriptions, and structured medication reviews (SMRs).

Unlike telephone consultations or online pharmacy services, remote prescribing operates through the same NHS systems used by GP practices, maintaining full clinical governance and professional oversight throughout the process.

Legal Framework and Professional Standards

Remote prescribing operates within strict regulatory frameworks governed by the General Medical Council (GMC) and General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Only qualified healthcare professionals with appropriate prescribing rights can participate.

Clinical pharmacists must hold independent prescribing qualifications to prescribe remotely, while pharmacy technicians work under supervision to support medication management. All remote prescribing must comply with professional standards, including appropriate patient assessment, clinical decision-making, and ongoing monitoring.

The regulatory framework ensures remote prescribing maintains the same clinical standards as traditional prescribing methods. Healthcare professionals must practice within their scope of competence, maintain professional indemnity insurance, and follow established clinical governance protocols.

Technology Infrastructure

Remote prescribing primarily operates through established NHS clinical systems, most commonly EMIS Web and SystmOne. These platforms provide secure, integrated environments where healthcare professionals can access patient records and issue prescriptions electronically.

Core technology components include:

  • Electronic Health Records: Comprehensive patient records accessible through secure NHS systems, providing clinical history, current medications, allergies, and relevant health information.
  • Electronic Prescription Service (EPS): Direct integration with pharmacy systems, enabling prescriptions to be sent electronically to patients’ chosen pharmacies without paper prescriptions.
  • Clinical Decision Support: Integrated systems that alert prescribers to potential drug interactions, contraindications, and safety concerns during prescribing.
  • Audit Trails: Complete documentation of all prescribing activities, ensuring accountability and supporting clinical governance requirements.

The Remote Prescribing Process

The remote prescribing process follows a structured approach that maintains clinical safety while improving efficiency:

  1. Initial Assessment: Healthcare professionals review patient records through NHS clinical systems, examining medical history, current medications, recent consultations, and relevant test results.
  2. Clinical Review: For medication reviews, professionals assess the appropriateness, effectiveness, and safety of current treatments. This may involve reviewing dosages, identifying potential interactions, and considering alternative therapies.
  3. Prescribing Decision: Based on clinical assessment, healthcare professionals make informed prescribing decisions, whether continuing existing medications, adjusting dosages, or recommending treatment changes.
  4. Electronic Prescribing: Prescriptions are issued electronically through NHS systems, automatically generating electronic prescriptions sent directly to patients’ chosen pharmacies.
  5. Documentation: All activities are documented within patient records, creating comprehensive audit trails and ensuring continuity of care.
  6. Follow-up Planning: Where appropriate, follow-up arrangements monitor treatment effectiveness and patient response to prescribed medications.

Safety Protocols and Clinical Governance

Remote prescribing incorporates multiple safety measures to protect patient wellbeing and maintain clinical effectiveness. Comprehensive clinical governance frameworks mirror traditional prescribing standards.

Patient safety protocols require thorough assessment of medical history, current medications, and potential contraindications before prescribing decisions. Healthcare professionals must access complete patient records and relevant clinical information to make informed decisions.

Professional oversight ensures all remote prescribing activities are supervised and monitored. Regular clinical audits, peer reviews, and performance monitoring maintain high care standards and identify improvement areas.

Information governance protocols protect patient data and ensure compliance with NHS data security standards. All remote prescribing activities operate within secure NHS systems with appropriate access controls and data protection measures.

Integration with Primary Care Services

Remote prescribing integrates seamlessly with existing primary care services, supporting GP practices, Primary Care Networks (PCNs), and healthcare federations. This integration extends clinical capacity without requiring additional physical infrastructure or significant operational changes.

The service supports various clinical activities including structured medication reviews, repeat prescription management, medicines optimisation, and chronic disease management. Healthcare professionals work collaboratively with existing practice teams, maintaining clear communication and shared care protocols.

Integration with Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) funding enables PCNs to access remote prescribing services as part of workforce development strategies. This alignment with NHS funding mechanisms makes remote prescribing accessible and cost-effective for primary care providers.

Benefits and Outcomes

Remote prescribing delivers measurable benefits for healthcare providers, patients, and the NHS system. For GP practices, it significantly reduces prescribing-related workload, enabling GPs to focus on complex clinical cases and direct patient care.

Patients benefit from improved access to medication reviews and faster processing of repeat prescriptions. The electronic prescription service eliminates paper prescriptions and reduces pharmacy waiting times.

Healthcare systems achieve improved efficiency through better resource utilisation and reduced administrative burden. Remote prescribing enables practices to manage larger patient populations while maintaining quality standards and clinical safety.

Implementation and Future Development

Successful implementation requires appropriate technology infrastructure, staff training, and clinical governance arrangements. Integration with existing workflows needs clear protocols and communication channels between remote prescribers and practice teams.

Remote prescribing continues evolving as technology advances and healthcare needs change. Future developments may include broader clinical services and integration with other digital health initiatives, always maintaining fundamental principles of patient safety, clinical governance, and professional standards.

Remote prescribing represents a significant advancement in UK healthcare delivery, combining clinical expertise with modern technology to improve access, efficiency, and patient outcomes while maintaining the highest standards of safety and professional care.

Unilever Shines in 2025 with Green Products and Smart Tech

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Unilever PLC, a large consumer goods corporation based in London, which is focused on British-Dutch, has entrenched its status as a global leader in 2025, having brought innovativeness and sustainability to the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry.

Unilever has its iconic brands such as Dove, Ben& Jerry, and Persil that contribute to its success, along with the strategic emphasis on the eco-friendly product, digital transformation, and emerging markets that have been put forth by the company, to be in the center of the business news in the UK. With more than 6,000 UK employees and a strong contribution to the economy, Unilever’s performance suggests the company is well-positioned to meet changing consumer needs and global challenges.

In the initial six months of 2025, Unilever achieved an underlying sales growth of 7 percent, setting a new record of 32.1 billion. Unilever recorded its strength in beauty, wellbeing, and nutrition categories. It was found that the price of the company’s shares increased by 9 percent compared to the monthly January levels, implying that men strongly believed in the firm’s growth strategy.

Through sustained payoff as Unilever has weathered the economic headwinds faced by the UK (primarily due to the US tariff and inflationary pressures) Unilever has emerged as one of the lighthouses in the consumer goods industry as it has shown its adaptability given sustainability.

The Center of Sustainability
Unilever has devoted itself to sustainability, which has been a success in its 2025 goals. It has met its goal of ensuring that all of its plastic packaging is either recyclable, reusable, or compostable by 2025, with the company celebrating the breakthrough at its annual general meeting in May.

Environmentally friendly consumers have warmed to initiatives such as producing branded goods such as Dove and Persil in biodegradable materials and refillable packaging, leading to a 12 percent rise in sales of sustainable products. The fact that Unilever invested its €1 billion in green supply chains and built a new environmentally friendly manufacturing plant at Port Sunlight, United Kingdom, has resulted in the provision of 300 jobs and a 15 percent decrease in carbon emissions within its European operations.

The company’s Climate Transition Action Plan, revised in 2025, commits to achieving net-zero emissions in its value chain by 2039. Also in July, Unilever teamed up with the UK government to establish a circular economy initiative for household products to support a move toward recycling by persuading consumers to send their used packaging back instead of having the packaging sent to landfill. This has been declared an exemplar of sustainable consumption, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer commending Unilever and its leadership in addressing the climate crisis.

E-Commerce Development Digital Innovation
Unilever has also adopted digital transformation to remain among the leaders in the competitive market. In 2025, the firm made a €800 million investment in AI / Data analysis to streamline its supply chain and promote consumer interaction.

Through its e-commerce platform Unilever Direct, the company experienced a 20 percent increase in sales through personalized marketing and adoption of subscription services to various products such as Hellmann’s and Lipton. June has seen the launch of an AI-driven virtual skincare adviser to Dove, which has increased online sales by a quarter as younger consumers embrace personalised beauty offers.

The company has adopted a digital strategy in its supply chain, resulting in a 10 percent reduction in waste and improved delivery times through the use of predictive analytics. Its partnership with UK-based technologically inclined emerging firms has also boosted its innovation funnel, which includes a new feature in an application that would enable customers to audit the carbon footprint of their purchases. This has increased brand loyalty, especially by Gen Z and millennial shoppers.

Emerging Markets and Portfolio Optimization
Top priority on emerging markets has been one of the growth factors of Unilever in 2025. The Asian and African sales increased by 10 percent, and India and Nigeria led the way. The nutritional business, such as Knorr and Magnum brands of the company, was in high demand in these regions due to the increasing level of disposable income and population as a result of urbanization. Unilever has entered the fast-growing consumer market of Africa by acquiring a majority stake in a Nigerian personal care brand in April.

It was reported that Unilever sold off its tea business, Ekaterra, to CVC Capital Partners in July 2022 for €4.5 billion, simplifying its portfolio to enable greater focus on areas of high growth, such as plant-based meals and luxury beauty.

The plant-based nutrition brand, The Vegetarian Butcher, has seen sales grow to 30 percent, which can be explained by the demand for sustainable alternatives both in the UK and Europe. This change of strategy has increased the profitability of Unilever and business precision on categories that are ready to respond to the future.

Survival in a Global World
Unilever has to deal with a tumultuous world. The producer must contend with inflation in raw materials like palm oil, resulting from US tariffs in 2025, which impact margins. The company has alleviated this by increasing the amount of materials locally in Europe and Asia by 20 percent.

Consumer spending has also been strangled by inflationary pressures in the UK, and Unilever has launched small sizes with low prices of some products, such as Persil and Domestos, to ensure that the products capture market share.

The rivalry with such competitors as Procter & Gamble and Nestle is also intense, especially when it comes to high-end beauty and nutrition. Nevertheless, that is offset by its good brand portfolio and Unilever’s sustainability credentials, and during an interview recently with The Guardian, Hein Schumacher, who joined the firm as chief executive officer, highlighted the capability of the company to balance purpose and profit to achieve long-term growth.

Economics and Social Impact
The activities of Unilever in the UK affect the UK economy to a considerable degree. It operates two factories in Port Sunlight and London, providing employment opportunities for thousands of people.

In 2025, the company’s decision to invest £50 million in local communities helped fund health and education programs in deprived areas. Its collaboration with UK schools with regard to teaching them how to lead their lives sustainably has even reached 100,000 students, underlining its intentions to be socially responsible.

Unilever’s global supply chain and export operations contribute significantly to the UK’s trade balance, amounting to 10 billion Euros. It’s an example of climate-friendly businesses that has also set the bar in the industry, with other firms following suit with recycling and net-zero targets.

Looking Ahead
Unilever will continue to grow in 2025. It has a pipeline of sustainable products, digital solutions, and a growing presence in emerging economies, which guarantees its survival in a tough economy. The skill with which the company maintains the balance between profitability and purpose makes it a leader in the market of consumer goods.

The 2025 journey of Unilever is evidence of how this organization continues with its attributes of innovation, sustainability, and consumer trust. Unilever remains a leading business story globally, continually transforming the FMCG world and inspiring the economy with its global standards of responsible business.

BNB’s Rise to $759.58 Highlights Binance’s Growing Crypto Influence

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The native token of the Binance world, Binance Coin (BNB), has established itself as one of the cryptocurrencies and today, it has achieved fifth place in the ranking with a capitalization of 105.8 billion dollars, as of June 20, 2025. The coin is sold at $759.58 and doubled by 0.26% in the last 24 hours, with a significant 24-hour trading volume of two billion dollars that represents 1.9 percent of its market cap.

Due to its circulation supply of 139.28 million BNB matched by the total supply, the fully diluted valuation of BNB is also at an equivalence of up to $ 105.8 billion. This current price surge on its token is the result of rising trust in the Binance ecosystem due to technological breakthroughs, institutional concern, and market-wide factors.

Initially created in 2017 as an ERC-20 token built on the Ethereum blockchain, BNB moved to its own Binance Chain and eventually the Binance Smart Chain (BSC), renamed since to BNB Chain. It has utility in the area of transaction fee discounts, staking, governance, and powering decentralized finance (DeFi) apps.

In this way, the deflationary bias of the token, accomplished by systematic burning, will lower the overall supply, which is initially 200 million to 100 million, thus increasing scarcity and ensuring the further growth of the price. Such a strategic structure, combined with the international presence of Binance, has made BNB one of the foundations of the cryptocurrency market.

Why BNB’s Price Is Up Today

Today, the means of raising the price of the BNB cryptocurrency in the market by 0.26 % could be associated with a variety of reasons. To start with, the Binance ecosystem is still growing, and new upgrades such as the Maxwell network offer scalability and efficiency of blockchain and transactions.

Such initiatives have enhanced the utility of BNB, especially on the BNB Chain, which boasts of more than 20,000 transactions per second (TPS) through its roadmap in the year 2025. It is this scalability that attracts developers and users who demand BNB to pay transaction fees or join DeFi protocols.

There has also been an institutional interest. A bullish sentiment is a result of recent corporate actions, e.g., CEA Industries unveiled a $500 million BNB treasury plan, and Windtree Therapeutics is committing to spend $520 million.

These investments are indicators of the faith that people place in the long-term value of BNBs, and as more open businesses incorporate cryptocurrencies into their treasuries, these investments are good indicators of the faith people place in those businesses. Besides, there was a 170 percent increase in volume on July 28, 2025, when BNB reached an all-time high of more than $ 858.34, which mirrors the ongoing potential in the market, with the current volume being $ 2.01 billion.

The direction of the market further supports the increases in BNB. The total market capitalization of the cryptocurrency market has increased by 1.66 per cent in the past 24 hours, and Bitcoin has exceeded 114,000 dollars. Ethereum has been trading above 3,600 dollars since yesterday.

Favourable positive changes in regulation, including the U.S. GENIUS Act becoming law on July 18, 2025, have also enhanced the climate for cryptocurrency, pushing BNB indirectly into favourability, as well. Additionally, BNB demand is experiencing surges due to the act’s focus on regulating stablecoins, given that BNB Chain is a hub for much stablecoin activity.

The Role of BNB in the Binance Ecosystem

The price of BNB is closely related to the Binance platform, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world, regarding the trading volume. The token offers up to 25 percent discounts on trading fees, making its use attractive to millions of users.

Outside the exchange, BNB is used to facilitate transactions on the BNB Chain, a high-throughput blockchain capable of powering decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and game apps. The chain’s low cost and high throughput also drive developers to favor it, which in turn creates utility and demand for BNB.

In July 2025, BNB Chain announced its recent moves towards improved privacy that will allow faster (close to instant) transactions and increased security in order to compete with centralized exchanges.

Such advancements make another commercial cryptocurrency like BNB a vital product in Web3 operating across decentralized applications (dApps), cross-border payments through Binance Pay, and much more. It also enhances its adoption as the token is implemented in real-life use cases, such as paying at merchants who accept it and booking flights using Travala.com.

Problems and Market Fluctuation

Nevertheless, BNB is not immune to these issues, despite its strength. On August 2, 2025, a general correction saw a 5.22 percent decline of the token, which wiped $40 billion of crypto market value. Volatility is always an issue as BNB has seen its price plummet to below $750.90 in the past 24 hours, only to regain momentum up to $759.58.

Future performance may be threatened by regulatory examination, especially where the price of BNB, which is equal to Indian rupees 69,399.79, is taking place in areas such as India. Also, the token is dependent on the ecosystem of Binance, which means it is vulnerable to platform-specific risks, including security incidents and regulatory measures against Binance.

The future of BNB: Potential Opportunities

The future of BNB is promising, thanks to the coin’s increasing usefulness and Binance’s consistent innovations. Analysts project that there could be a high price of over 1,000 dollars in 2025, and that is with continued token burning and augmenting use in DeFi and NFTs.

The BNB Chain also makes its competitiveness more pronounced because it is projected to achieve 20,000 TPS in 2026 and include native privacy capabilities in the process. With a large community, institutional support, and a deflationary model, BNB is well-positioned to continue its growth trend.

To sum up, it should be noted that today the fact of the increase in the cost of BNB assets is an echo of a complex of ecosystem growth and corporate interests, and a positive situation on the crypto market. As Binance continues to expand and the crypto market grows, BNB’s position as a multipurpose and valuable asset will be further reinforced, solidifying its role as a major figure in the digital economy.

Tether USDT Stays Strong as Top Stablecoin in Crypto

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Tether (USDT) is the most popular stablecoin in the world, and it is constantly strengthening its influence in the cryptocurrency market. At the time of writing (August 6, 2025), USDT ranks fourth among all cryptocurrencies, with a market capitalization of 163.9 billion dollars, showing a slight 0.01 percent increase over the last 30 days.

It boasts a superb trading volume, with a 24-hour volume of $95.11 billion, indicating that a significant portion, 58.01 percent, of its market value is traded. This trading volume signifies matchless liquidity and widespread application.

Tether is also the most traded stablecoin in the entire world, with the total supply amounting to 167.78 billion USDT, and the circulating supply being 163.89 billion. It enables a seamless transition to other blockchains, facilitating smooth transactions.

Introduced in 2014 by Tether Limited, USDT is designed to be pegged 1:1 with the U.S. dollar, ensuring stability in the unpredictable crypto market. Unlike other cryptocurrencies that experience significant price fluctuations, USDT maintains a stable value around 1.00, with a minimal volatility of 0.02 percent over the last 24 hours.

This stability renders it the choice of traders and investors looking to have a haven when the markets are turbulent. The reserves held by Tether include U.S. Treasuries and cash equivalents, and their assets are used to achieve their peg.

Tether also has reserves in other investments, and the company reports over $127 billion of its reserves invested in U.S. Government debt at the end of Q2 2025, making it one of the largest holders of U.S. government debt.

Unmatched Trading Volume and Market Reach

The superiority of Tether could be seen in its trade volume that tends to exceed that of Bitcoin. The USDT has a trading volume of 95.11 billion USDT in the past 24 hours alone, which is 2.33 times more than was observed the previous day.

This strong liquidity is seen as an essential part of the crypto ecosystem, especially on exchanges that have low amounts of fiat trading pairs. USDT is a suitable alternative to the U.S. dollar.

The dollar makes it viable to shift money easily between wallets and exchanges. Its availability across multiple blockchains, with the highest supply on Tron (exceeding 51.6 billion tokens) and Ethereum (approximately 35.4 billion tokens), enhances its overall availability and functionality.

The immense popularity of the stablecoin is also evident in the significant growth of its audience over the previous year, with a 51% increase and approximately 350 million users worldwide as of July 2024.

This sees Tether gaining prominence as a part of decentralized Finance (DeFi) platforms and cross-border payments, as well as in real-life use in money transactions, eg, at 24 ATMs across Brazil and now new stablecoin ATMs in South Korea.

Its flexibility has seen Tether become a commonplace investment tool among retail and institutional traders, and there are now more than 27,000 merchants worldwide accepting payments in USDT via crypto payment gateways such as BitPay and CoinGate by Q1 2025.

Regulatory Changes and Strategic Expansion

Tether is not only expanding its business in stablecoins. During Q2 2025, the organization announced a new issue of USDT worth $20 billion, which increased its overall circulating supply to more than $157 billion throughout the year.

The growth comes as Tether has made strategic investments in artificial intelligence, sustainable energy, and bi-products, including a 70 percent share in Latin American farming company Adecoagro as a route to insert USDT into commodities markets. Also, Tether created a gold-based stable coin, the Tether Gold (XAU ), which trades on exchanges such as Mobee in Indonesia, further diversifying its assets.

Tether has also been influenced by developments in the regulatory sphere. The 2025 enactment of the U.S. GENIUS Act has sparked debates about a possible re-entry of Tether to the U.S. market, specializing in providing services to institutions.

Although the firm reached an agreement with the New York Attorney General in 2021 and faced criticism over its reserves, Tether has since increased disclosure by updating the quarterly attestation report by BDO, which has confirmed a total of $118.4 billion in reserves as of August 2024. These actions have enhanced the assurance of the 1:1 backing of USDT, as real-time peg checking tools such as Curve.fi indicate that deviations are gauged under 0.1% of a dollar.

Troubles and Debates

Tether has had some problems, despite that. There has been criticism of the lack of transparency in its reserves and possible systemic threats in the case of large-scale redemptions in times of market falls.

Skepticism has been caused by historical events like a 2017 hack of 31 million USDT and a 2018 peg by almost 10 percent to 0.91. Nevertheless, the automated redemption mechanism and the reforms in the reserve have stabilized the peg of Tether, and in the last couple of years, there have been no big swings to be observed.

This is evident by the fact that the company worked in cooperation with TRM Labs and Tron in reducing illegal use of the company by freezing $12 million of USDT associated with fraud in 2024.

Tether’s Role in the Future of Crypto

As far as the future of the crypto industry is concerned, it seems that Tether is destined to strengthen its position. Its reliance on the stablecoin market (it controls 70 percent of the market) and its inclusion in DeFi as well as the real-life environment make it one of the players to close the gap between conventional finance and blockchain technology.

The Q2 2025 profit of the company $4.9 billion, and year-to-date $5.7 billion, speaks to the company’s financial strength and the capability to endure regulatory and market situations. With the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies in mainstream society, Tether will likely remain vital to traders, merchants, and institutions alike due to its stability and liquidity.

The resiliency of Tether can be highlighted by its successful preservation of the peg, increased use case, and regulatory changes. Whether it is in cross-border payments or powering up DeFi protocols, USDT is here to stay and is leading the changes in digital currency finance with a stable and secure one in the turbulent market.

رايد كلاس ClassRide: A Success Story Born in Africa, From Mauritania to the Continent

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The path taken by رايد كلاس ClassRide is a great test of this assertion. It’s a story of triumph that began in Mauritania, a West African nation, and has grown in stages to influence daily life across the African continent. Mauritania, with its seemingly endless Sahara Desert and its rich, distinct culture, might not be the first thought for a headquarters of a top tech company. But, as with most emerging regions, it is also plagued by desperate problems, primarily in transportation.

Imagine daily difficulties of commuting in large, sprawling cities such as the capital city of Nouakchott, or trying to connect communities severed by hard-to-traverse terrain. Low-cost, safe, and dependable transportation is generally a luxury, so making these kinds of trips to work, the doctor’s office, or, in particular, school a daily occurrence is a true ordeal. It was against this background of need and thwarted concern that ClassRide first came into being.

The Mauritanian Genesis: Meeting Real-World Needs

Essentially, ClassRide is a ride-sharing service, operating in much the same manner as global giants such as Uber or Bolt. It uses an easy-to-use smartphone app to connect people who need transport with available drivers. The straightforward service makes the transport process easier, making it generally safer, easier, and most commonly cheaper than standard local options.

 What is so fascinating about its history of origins is that its name is the answer. رايد كلاس “ClassRide” subtly proposes a more grounded mission than sheer generalized mobility. While most ride-sharing services consider facilitating generally urban travel, ClassRide’s origins suggest involvement in assisting the reach, even “classrooms” or centres of learning. In Mauritania, where geographical proximity and unreliable transport could prove major barriers to school attendance or access to centers of learning, an efficient ride-sharing system could really be a lifeline for students and teachers. This initial, profound connection with spanning core barriers likely instilled ClassRide with its unique sense of purpose and appeal.

It’s initial success back in its home country came straight from its ability to address the immediate, specific needs of Mauritanian society:

Spanning Physical Distances: To a country where communities might be extremely dispersed, ClassRide served as a lifeline, making burdensome journeys into reasonable ones. This connection was revolutionary for so many.

Meeting Transport Needs: It filled an immense void where safe, cheap, and dependable transport was lacking. People then had a reliable way of getting to employment, medical care, and school.

Enhancing Safety and Ease: The app-based system brought in necessary improvements from the ad-hoc mode of transport. GPS tracking of rides, recognition of drivers, and transparent, advance fare indicators brought added safety to drivers and passengers. The structured system brought in an aspect of ease and faith previously lacking.

Stimulating Local Economies: By enabling car owners to become drivers, رايد كلاس ClassRide generated immediate flexible income streams. It was a vital economic boost for many families in a region where youth unemployment can be a major hindrance.

From Mauritania to Africa: The Expansion Journey

 After having established itself successfully and proven its model in Mauritania, ClassRide رايد كلاس looked for opportunities elsewhere. Its challenges of concern in Mauritania, safe transportation, job creation, and access to the digital are not specific to a country but cut across much of the African continent. This made ClassRide رايد كلاس ‘s model highly exploitable for scaling.

Congested roads, underdeveloped public transport, and urbanizing demographics with needs for convenient, low-cost mobility solutions characterize the majority of African cities. Mauritanian exposure through ClassRide imparted to it a deep familiarity with such common problems.

The African continent has one of the highest rates of smartphone penetration globally. This presents a profitable marketplace for app-based services like it. Africa has the world’s youngest population, a population that is typically quicker to adopt new technology and often keen for flexible working.

While no direct information about the other African countries ClassRide رايد كلاس has managed to branch out to is readily available through normal public searches, the fact that it has branched out independently speaks volumes. It speaks volumes to the fact that its initial success in Mauritania did not occur randomly but was a sign of a robust business model well-suited to the wider African landscape. This expansion is more likely than not to involve adapting its product to meet local laws, payment methods, and customer preferences in each new country, a testament to its adaptability and foresight planning.

Conclusion

رايد كلاس ‘s ClassRide evolution from a nationwide solution in Mauritania into a company expanding all over Africa is truly momentous. Its success tale, starting in the backyard of Mauritania and extending to the rest of the continent of Africa, is a tribute to determination, ingenuity, and people power. It is a reassertion of the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit that is being witnessed across the whole continent and one that continues to demonstrate to the world that Africa is not just a technology market, but a giant reservoir of creative solutions.

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Most Secure Crypto Platform? CEX.IO Review

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In a world where digital threats lurk behind every corner and flashy platforms promise the moon, finding the best place to buy crypto is like choosing a sturdy lifeboat in a sea full of inflatable rafts. You want something that doesn’t just float but holds steady when the waves crash. CEX.IO, a name that’s been around the blockchain block for over a decade, often flies under the radar—but that might be its greatest strength. Let’s take a close look at whether this platform still holds the crown for safety and simplicity in 2025.

A Legacy Built on Stability

Launched in 2013, CEX.IO didn’t just jump on the crypto bandwagon—it helped build the road it travels on today. Unlike many newer platforms that ride trends and burn out fast, this one has stood the test of time, learning from market cycles and regulatory shifts along the way.

While other platforms have made headlines for all the wrong reasons—due to downtime, data leaks, and sudden shutdowns—CEX.IO has been quietly doing its job, focusing on user protection and infrastructure robustness. Sometimes, the quiet ones really are the most reliable.

Interface That Balances Power and Simplicity

No one wants to navigate a dashboard that resembles an airplane cockpit, especially newcomers. CEX.IO strikes a balance between clean aesthetics and serious tools. The interface is neat, the functions are intuitive, and navigating from deposit to transaction feels almost second nature.

Whether you’re logging in from a desktop or a mobile app, everything is built for fluidity. It’s like using a top-shelf coffee machine: you can enjoy a complex brew, but the buttons are labeled and the instructions are clear and understandable.

Mobile App That Works

In 2025, if your platform’s app is sluggish, clunky, or missing features, you’re already a few steps behind. CEX.IO’s mobile application is not just a mirror of the desktop—it’s a whole experience in itself. Users can perform everything from spot trading to tracking balance activity with a few taps.

The app is also fortified with biometric security, ensuring that only the right hands (or faces) gain access. For those always on the move, it’s like carrying a private, armored vault in your pocket.

Security That Never Sleeps

Let’s get to the meat of the matter—security. CEX.IO doesn’t just talk the talk here. Their infrastructure includes multiple layers of protection, including two-factor authentication, cold wallet storage for most digital assets, encryption protocols that meet banking standards, and continuous monitoring for unusual activity.

Beyond the technical measures, they’re fully compliant with a range of global financial regulations. That means KYC checks aren’t just box-ticking—they’re part of a broader commitment to safeguarding users against fraud, hacks, and misuse.

In a digital ecosystem where one wrong click can empty an account, this level of seriousness is not just a plus—it’s a necessity.

Fiat Compatibility for Seamless Transitions

One of the most practical benefits of CEX.IO is its ability to bridge the gap between traditional money and digital assets smoothly. Supporting a wide variety of local currencies and payment methods—including credit/debit cards, SEPA, SWIFT, and domestic transfers—CEX.IO makes getting started feel like buying a book online.

You don’t need to hop between platforms, convert through third parties, or hold your breath during the process. Everything happens under one roof, and you’re always kept in the loop.

Straightforward Costs, No Smoke and Mirrors

Let’s face it: many platforms dazzle users with low upfront rates only to surprise them with hidden fees tucked in the fine print. CEX.IO takes the opposite route. Their fee structure is transparent and available to view at any time. Each transaction shows precisely what you’re paying and why.

This clarity doesn’t just build trust—it makes planning easier. You won’t find yourself scratching your head at the end of a transaction, wondering where your balance went. It’s all upfront, like a fair taxi meter instead of a shady back-alley fare.

Support That Doesn’t Leave You Hanging

When it hits the fan, many users realize too late that the help section is little more than a chatbot and a dusty FAQ page. CEX.IO, in contrast, prides itself on responsive and multi-channel customer support. Whether you prefer chat, email, or reading through well-structured guides, help is within reach.

Even more impressive is the response time. You’re not left hanging for days—most queries receive timely and human replies. It’s the digital equivalent of having someone answer your SOS on the first call.

Features That Grow With You

One of the most underrated aspects of a good platform is scalability, not in terms of systems, but in terms of user experience. You might start with basic purchases but grow into someone who wants advanced tools and features. CEX.IO has that range. From simple buy/sell functions to margin trading, staking, and integrations, it supports every step of your evolution.

Better still, these features don’t clutter the beginner’s experience. They sit ready in the background, waiting to be explored when you’re ready, kind of like unlocking achievements in a game, without being overwhelmed on Day 1.

Education Built into the Experience

No one’s born knowing how to navigate digital finance, and CEX.IO knows this. That’s why the platform includes a suite of educational material, including: blogs, how-to guides, video content, and market analysis, designed to inform without confusing.

Rather than assuming users already speak crypto fluently, it teaches in bite-sized chunks, using plain language and relatable examples. It’s not about throwing technical terms around—it’s about giving people a map to the terrain.

Reputation That Isn’t Bought

In an era where marketing budgets often overshadow user reviews, CEX.IO’s reputation has grown through consistency rather than flash. Look through community forums, social media discussions, or even independent review sites, and a common thread appears: CEX.IO works. It’s steady. It’s dependable.

This grassroots credibility is worth more than any billboard. In crypto, where trust can be fleeting, a solid reputation is as good as gold—or in this case, Bitcoin.

Final Thoughts: A Fortress in the Wild West

If you’re looking for a digital asset platform that’s more than just good-looking bells and whistles, CEX.IO is worth your attention. Its focus on security, transparency, and user empowerment sets it apart in a space that’s often plagued by shortcuts and hype.

You won’t find gimmicks here. What you will find is a solid foundation, a thoughtful experience, and a commitment to keeping your digital journey safe and steady. Whether you’re dipping your toes or swimming in deeper waters, CEX.IO gives you a reliable vessel to navigate the tides.

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