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Here’s Some Expert Advice for Small Businesses Enduring the Pandemic

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The COVID-19 pandemic affected small businesses the most, disrupting the tax and retirement plans of its owners. Thankfully, there are many ways to bounce back before the year ends.

Most small business owners had to compromise planning their tax and retirement planning to keep their businesses afloat and survive the pandemic. The first half of the year was the toughest on SME’s because of the significant adjustments they had to make to adapt to the situation, considering they are not as liquid as large corporations. However, there are ways to get back on track before 2021 comes.

When their income dropped last spring, some entrepreneurs opted to skip on their paychecks for a couple of months. They also had to lower their withholding taxes and took a break from depositing to their retirement plans. These efforts were enforced to preserve cash to keep their stores operational. Thankfully, the situation eventually got better, and a lot of small businesses were able to recover in the last few months. Some of them are even bound to close the year with revenues higher than what they had initially projected. Now that they have enough cash, they will be able to make proactive adjustments to enjoy maximum benefits. 

If you find yourself in a similar situation, here are some steps you can take from now until the end of the year to get back on track with your finances.

Increase Tax Withholding and Retirement Contributions

Restore your wages, withholding taxes, and retirement contributions to their original state before the pandemic. If your business has fully recovered, prioritize catching up on your contributions since the time it was deferred. Meanwhile, if you are making employer contributions, cross-check the amounts you’ve contributed so far with your initial funding strategy for this year. Although this is due in early 2021, it is best to settle it by Q4 of 2020 to avoid falling further behind. Otherwise, you might find yourself in another cash drought as taxes and retirement contributions are payable within the same period.

Invest in the Stock Market

It is understandable how you had to hold on to your cash and had to stop investing during the peak of the pandemic. Naturally, having enough cash to sustain your business’ operations was the main priority. Sadly, the stock market recovered and soared over the roof just a few months ago, and business owners missed out on a great investment opportunity. 

Now that you have also rebounded from earlier losses, you may once again begin re-evaluating your cash needs. Consider setting aside a sufficient amount of cash or opening a home equity credit line which will serve as a safety net without compromising potential long-term benefits from your future investments.

Donate to Your Charities of Choice

While most small businesses suffered financial losses because of the pandemic, the majority of owners still sought to make donations to their selected non-profit organizations that aid communities highly affected by the coronavirus. Instead of selling your stock, you may donate a security to lessen fair market value and taxes. 

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Which Industries Are the Most Secure for Establishing Your First Business in 2023?

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What Are the Safest Industries to Start Your First Business in 2023?

The Top 10 Safest Industries to Start Your First Business in 2023

Starting a business can be an exciting venture, but it is essential to choose the right industry for your first business. When considering which industries are the safest to invest in, you want to look at factors like market demand, stability, and future growth potential. In this blog post, we have put together a list of the top 10 safest industries to start your first business in 2023.

The industries listed here have been selected based on their overall potential for success and long-term growth. These industries may offer lower risks for first-time entrepreneurs and a better chance of success due to established markets, stable customer bases, or growing trends. Keep in mind that while the industries featured here may be considered safer bets, no industry is entirely risk-free, and it’s crucial to conduct thorough research before committing to any business idea.

Let’s dive into our list of the 10 safest industries to start your first business in 2023, where we provide an overview of each industry along with some key points to consider.

1. Eco-friendly Products and Services

As people become more environmentally conscious, the demand for eco-friendly products and services continues to grow. This industry offers a wide range of opportunities for new businesses that focus on sustainability and reducing humanity’s impact on the planet. With increasing public awareness and support from both consumers and governments, starting your business in this field has never been a more attractive option.

For instance, you could design and produce sustainable clothing made from organic materials or create biodegradable packaging for food and beverages. The possibilities are vast, and the market potential is promising for those who can offer innovative solutions to environmental problems.

  • High consumer demand for sustainable products
  • Supported by government initiatives and regulations
  • Potential for social media outreach with eco-friendly messaging
  • Attractive to environmentally conscious investors
  • Different entry points depending on your business idea (e.g., products, services, consulting)
  • Opportunity to make a positive impact on the planet

2. Health and Wellness

With an increased focus on personal health and wellness in recent years, this industry presents a wealth of opportunities for new businesses. Consumers are seeking ways to live healthier lives through various means, such as nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, and holistic remedies. As a result, there is an increasing demand for innovative products and services that cater to these interests.

Consider creating a mobile app that promotes healthy habits or opening a fitness studio specializing in popular workout trends like yoga or HIIT. The opportunities are endless, and with the right approach and effective marketing strategy, you could build a successful business in this thriving industry.

  • Growing market with high consumer interest
  • Expanding range of possibilities, from apps to physical products
  • Increased importance due to global health concerns
  • Multiple niches to explore (nutrition, fitness, mental health)
  • Can be started online or in-person
  • Physical, mental, and emotional well-being will always be relevant

3. Educational Technology (EdTech)

The EdTech industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, thanks in part to the shift toward remote learning. This industry focuses on integrating technology into educational settings to improve overall learning experiences. There is a vast potential for growth here, especially as advancements in technology continue to shape how we learn and teach.

An example of a successful EdTech startup might be an online tutoring platform that connects students with qualified instructors in their chosen subject area. With online learning becoming more accessible and in-demand, this is an increasingly attractive market for entrepreneurs.

  • Rapid industry growth driven by technology advancements
  • Expanding range of products and services available
  • Increased demand due to remote learning adoption
  • Appeals to both individuals and institutions
  • Potential for global reach through online platforms
  • Relatively low barriers to entry, especially for digital products

… please limit your response to 2800 characters

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BigBusiness

Which Industries Are the Most Secure for Establishing Your First Business in 2023?

Published

on

What Are the Safest Industries to Start Your First Business in 2023?

The Top 10 Safest Industries to Start Your First Business in 2023

Starting a business can be an exciting venture, but it is essential to choose the right industry for your first business. When considering which industries are the safest to invest in, you want to look at factors like market demand, stability, and future growth potential. In this blog post, we have put together a list of the top 10 safest industries to start your first business in 2023.

The industries listed here have been selected based on their overall potential for success and long-term growth. These industries may offer lower risks for first-time entrepreneurs and a better chance of success due to established markets, stable customer bases, or growing trends. Keep in mind that while the industries featured here may be considered safer bets, no industry is entirely risk-free, and it’s crucial to conduct thorough research before committing to any business idea.

Let’s dive into our list of the 10 safest industries to start your first business in 2023, where we provide an overview of each industry along with some key points to consider.

1. Eco-friendly Products and Services

As people become more environmentally conscious, the demand for eco-friendly products and services continues to grow. This industry offers a wide range of opportunities for new businesses that focus on sustainability and reducing humanity’s impact on the planet. With increasing public awareness and support from both consumers and governments, starting your business in this field has never been a more attractive option.

For instance, you could design and produce sustainable clothing made from organic materials or create biodegradable packaging for food and beverages. The possibilities are vast, and the market potential is promising for those who can offer innovative solutions to environmental problems.

  • High consumer demand for sustainable products
  • Supported by government initiatives and regulations
  • Potential for social media outreach with eco-friendly messaging
  • Attractive to environmentally conscious investors
  • Different entry points depending on your business idea (e.g., products, services, consulting)
  • Opportunity to make a positive impact on the planet

2. Health and Wellness

With an increased focus on personal health and wellness in recent years, this industry presents a wealth of opportunities for new businesses. Consumers are seeking ways to live healthier lives through various means, such as nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, and holistic remedies. As a result, there is an increasing demand for innovative products and services that cater to these interests.

Consider creating a mobile app that promotes healthy habits or opening a fitness studio specializing in popular workout trends like yoga or HIIT. The opportunities are endless, and with the right approach and effective marketing strategy, you could build a successful business in this thriving industry.

  • Growing market with high consumer interest
  • Expanding range of possibilities, from apps to physical products
  • Increased importance due to global health concerns
  • Multiple niches to explore (nutrition, fitness, mental health)
  • Can be started online or in-person
  • Physical, mental, and emotional well-being will always be relevant

3. Educational Technology (EdTech)

The EdTech industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, thanks in part to the shift toward remote learning. This industry focuses on integrating technology into educational settings to improve overall learning experiences. There is a vast potential for growth here, especially as advancements in technology continue to shape how we learn and teach.

An example of a successful EdTech startup might be an online tutoring platform that connects students with qualified instructors in their chosen subject area. With online learning becoming more accessible and in-demand, this is an increasingly attractive market for entrepreneurs.

  • Rapid industry growth driven by technology advancements
  • Expanding range of products and services available
  • Increased demand due to remote learning adoption
  • Appeals to both individuals and institutions
  • Potential for global reach through online platforms
  • Relatively low barriers to entry, especially for digital products

… please limit your response to 2800 characters

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Business

Here are the top 7 business credit cards with no annual fee

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Here are the 7 best business credit cards with no annual fee

1. Chase Ink Business Cash Credit Card

The Chase Ink Business Cash Credit Card is an attractive option for small business owners looking for a card with no annual fee. This credit card comes with a range of benefits, including generous cash back rewards on various business-related purchases. With its flexible redemption options and competitive interest rates, the Chase Ink Business Cash Credit Card can help businesses save money while managing their expenses more efficiently. One of the main features of this card is the significant cash back rewards it offers on everyday business expenses. Cardholders can earn up to 5% cash back on office supplies, phone services, and internet purchases, as well as 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants. This makes the Chase Ink Business Cash Credit Card an ideal choice for companies that have substantial spending in these categories. Additionally, this card comes with numerous other perks and benefits, such as travel and purchase protection, making it an excellent all-around choice for a no-annual-fee business credit card. For a small business that spends $1,000 per month on office supplies and $500 on phone services, they could potentially earn $600 cash back annually with the Chase Ink Business Cash Credit Card.

  • No annual fee
  • Earn 5% cash back on office supplies, phone services, and internet purchases
  • Earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants
  • Zero liability protection against unauthorized charges
  • Travel and purchase protection benefits
  • Competitive interest rates

2. American Express Blue Business Plus Credit Card

The American Express Blue Business Plus Credit Card is another excellent no-annual-fee option for small business owners who want to maximize their rewards. With a straightforward rewards program, this card allows businesses to earn 2X Membership Rewards points on everyday business purchases, up to $50,000 per year. After that, cardholders will continue to earn 1X points for each dollar spent. One of the primary benefits of this card is its flexibility when it comes to redeeming rewards. Not only can you use your points for statement credits or gift cards, but you also have the option to transfer them to several partner loyalty programs. This versatility makes the American Express Blue Business Plus Credit Card ideal for businesses looking to maximize their travel or hotel rewards. Furthermore, this card offers a range of additional benefits like purchase protection, extended warranty, and access to exclusive experiences through American Express Experiences, adding even more value to your small business credit card experience. For instance, if your business spends $40,000 annually, you could earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points, which could be redeemed for various rewards, including flights, hotel stays, or merchandise.

  • No annual fee
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards points on every dollar spent, up to $50,000 per year
  • Transfer points to various partner loyalty programs
  • Purchase protection and extended warranty
  • Access to exclusive experiences with American Express Experiences
  • Flexible payment options for managing cash flow

3. Capital One Spark Cash Select for Business

The Capital One Spark Cash Select for Business is a reliable choice for businesses seeking an easy-to-understand cash back rewards program without the burden of an annual fee. With unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, this card offers simplicity and convenience for busy business owners who may not have time to track rewards for specific categories. A standout feature of this card is its uncomplicated structure, making it simple for business owners to understand and maximize their rewards. With unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, there’s no need to worry about maximizing specific spending categories or keeping track of rotating rewards. In addition to its straightforward cash back program, the Capital One Spark Cash Select for Business also provides helpful benefits such as free employee cards, fraud protection, and travel perks like car rental insurance and 24-hour travel assistance. Let’s say your business spends $60,000 annually on various purchases. In this case, you would earn $900 cash back each year with the Capital One Spark Cash Select for Business.

  • No annual fee
  • Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
  • Free employee cards
  • Fraud coverage and alerts
  • Car rental insurance and 24-hour travel assistance
  • No foreign transaction fees

4. Bank of America Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard

The Bank of America Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard offers small business owners attractive cash …

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