Veterinarians doctors conduct a routine examination of a dog listening to the heart with a stethoscope on a table in a modern office of a veterinary clinic

Trends &amp; Insights

Trends &amp; Insights Archives

Trends &amp; Insights | SUCCESS | What Achievers Read

<p>Global job portal Indeed has named veterinarian the best job for 2025, citing data from the latest employment trends based on job postings on its website. The profession’s designation among the most in-demand employment suggests a significant shift in what constitutes society’s basic unit.</p>



<p>Indeed’s annual rankings identify roles shaping the <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/predictions-for-the-future-of-work/">future of work</a> through their combination of high salaries, flexibility and room for growth. Jocelyne Gafner, the author of <a href="https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/news/best-jobs-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">this year’s best jobs report</a>, said the new list is data-driven with a focus on three main employment parameters: a minimum salary of $75,000, around 5% or more remote or hybrid work options and at least 20% growth in the number of job postings for over three years.</p>



<p>In terms of median annual salary, veterinarians rank decently with an estimated $139,999. The highest salary on the list is radiologist, with an average base rate of $385,116. When it comes to the percentage of job share between 2021 and 2024, animal doctors scored the highest with 124%—making it the fastest-growing profession on the list. Meanwhile, veterinarian only recorded a 7.30% for remote work options. For reference, the paralegal had a 92.30% rating for this parameter.</p>







<p>The skyrocketing demand for veterinarians is what made the profession secure the top spot on Indeed’s 2025 list. The <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinarians.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</a> also predicts a 19% growth for veterinary medicine careers between 2023 and 2033, significantly outpacing the average projected growth of 4% among other occupations.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-surge-in-demand-for-veterinarians">Understanding the surge in demand for veterinarians</h2>



<p>Generational shift or the gradual takeover of the younger generation in society is mostly credited for the high demand for veterinarians. <a href="https://www.kinship.com/pet-lifestyle/millennials-choosing-pets-over-kids" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research shows</a> that Gen Z and millennials are increasingly opting for pets over children, citing reasons such as financial constraints, global uncertainty and shifting lifestyle priorities. According to the <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2024/07/25/the-experiences-of-u-s-adults-who-dont-have-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pew Research Center</a>, the proportion of adults under age 50 unlikely to have children rose from 37% in 2018 to 47% by 2023, with affordability being a top concern among them.</p>



<p>For many, pets offer an accessible form of companionship and responsibility, filling a void left by the declining rates of traditional family building. Younger pet owners are also more willing to invest heavily in their pets’ care. A 2024 study by <a href="https://www.lemonade.com/pet/explained/pet-mishaps-2024-survey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lemonade</a>, a digital insurance company, found that <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/gen-z-saves-for-retirement/">Gen Z</a> spends an average of $178 per month on their pets—$88 more than baby boomers. Over a pet’s lifetime, this can amount to thousands of dollars spent on food, health care, grooming and accessories.</p>



<p>This cultural shift is reflected in the broader U.S. pet ownership landscape, where at least 70% of households now include pets. According to the <a href="https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/reports-statistics/us-pet-ownership-statistics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Veterinary Medical Association</a>, 45.5% of U.S. homes have at least one dog, while 32.1% have a cat. The average household spends $580 annually on dogs and $433 on cats, figures that are significantly higher for younger generations.</p>



<p>It is also worth noting that since the 2010s, there has been a surge in pet content and <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0278431923000270" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pet influencers</a> on social media platforms, including YouTube, TikTok and Instagram. Many owners flash their pet-centric lifestyle online to satisfy their subscribers’ and followers’ fondness for their pets. Others also bank on their pets to sell products and make money through affiliate marketing. This trend on social media reinforces the finding that <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0278431923000270" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pet ownership</a> has significantly taken over traditional family units in the present generation. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-trends-and-the-veterinary-profession-s-growth">Economic trends and the veterinary profession’s growth</h2>



<p>Economic factors have also amplified the demand for veterinarians. During the COVID-19 pandemic, stimulus packages and more downtime due to stay-at-home and remote work orders allowed more people to adopt pets and invest in their care. This spending surge displayed the sensitivity of the veterinary industry to economic trends, according to Gafner. </p>



<p>To meet this growing demand, universities are expanding their veterinary programs. However, an oversupply of veterinarians could emerge within a decade if all new programs gain accreditation. For now, the profession remains lucrative and in high demand, with veterinarians earning a median annual salary of $139,999—more than double the national average of $66,621, according to <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/oact/cola/AWI.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Social Security Administration</a> data from 2023.</p>



<p>Aside from veterinary medicine’s rise in the job market, this year’s Indeed report echoed the unwavering demand for occupations centering on health and <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/how-to-achieve-a-healthy-work-life-balance/">well-being</a>. Multiple health care-related roles for humans occupy the top rankings, including physicians (No. 3), clinical psychologists (No. 8), radiologists (No. 14) and registered nurses (No. 18). All these jobs, including veterinarians, occupy the top five of the rankings based only on salary, with radiologists ranking first and veterinarians placing fifth. </p>



<p>Overall, the health care sector grew by 8.2% between March 2022 and March 2024, more than double the growth rate of other industries, according to an <a href="https://altarum.org/news-and-insights/health-care-sector-has-added-one-million-workers-start-pandemic-demand-even" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Altarum analysis</a> of BLS data. As a branch of the health care sector, veterinary medicine could lead this growth should the trends continue beyond 2025.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Photo by ORION PRODUCTION/Shutterstock</em></p>

Discover why veterinarians top the list of best jobs for 2025 with high demand, $139K salaries, and growing Gen Z pet ownership trends.

Discover why veterinarians top the list of best jobs for 2025 with high demand, $139K salaries, and growing Gen Z pet ownership trends. | SUCCESS

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Why Veterinarian Is Ranked the Best Job for 2025 | SUCCESS

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Luigi Roguero Caler is a writer, editor and journalist. He has published news and other types of written content on numerous sites, including International Business Times, Medical Daily and Enstarz.

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Luigi Roguero Caler

Longevity &amp; Performance

Longevity &amp; Performance Archives

Longevity &amp; Performance | SUCCESS | What Achievers Read

<p>The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a nationwide <a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-revoke-authorization-use-red-no-3-food-and-ingested-drugs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ban on Red 3</a>, a synthetic dye that has been linked to cancer in animal studies. This decision marks a milestone for consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers who have long called for stricter regulations on food additives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-red-3"><strong>What is Red 3?</strong></h2>



<p>Red 3, also known as FD&amp;C Red No. 3 or erythrosine, is a petroleum-derived synthetic dye approved for use in food products since 1907. It is widely recognized for its vivid cherry-red hue and is found most commonly in items like candies and frostings. The dye has been a staple in the food and beverage industry for over a century, thanks to its ability to enhance the <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/10-marketing-rules-the-best-entrepreneurs-live-and-die-by/">visual appeal</a> of various products.</p>



<p>Despite its long-standing use in the industry, Red 3 has faced scrutiny since the 1980s, when researchers linked it to cancer in laboratory animals. In response to their findings, the dye has been banned or heavily restricted in several countries, including the European Union, Australia and Japan according to <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/fda-bans-red-no-3-artificial-coloring-beverages-candy-rcna185479" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>NBC News</em></a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-food-products-contain-red-3"><strong>What food products contain Red 3?</strong></h2>



<p>Red 3 has been a prevalent ingredient in thousands of consumer products in the U.S. The <a href="https://www.cspinet.org/page/where-red-3-legal-see-where-your-state-stands" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI)</a> petitioned the FDA in 2022 to ban the dye, which according to the <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USDA FoodData Central</a> is used in over 9,000 branded food items in the United States. These include some products from popular candy brands like Jelly Belly, Pez and Trolli to beverages such as <a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-products-have-red-dye-3-2d8b05b641a0c1f9af833de1c48cd55d" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hawaiian Punch and Kool-Aid</a>.</p>



<p>Other food products that reportedly contain the dye include desserts with certain red sprinkles, such as <a href="https://www.target.com/p/valentine-39-s-day-vanilla-mini-cupcakes-10oz-12ct-favorite-day-8482/-/A-86500001#lnk=sametab" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Target’s Favorite Day Valentine’s Day cupcakes</a>, and certain types of glaze, like <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Freshness-Guaranteed-Heart-Sugar-Cookies-18-4-oz-18-Count/119126458" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart’s Freshness Guaranteed heart sugar cookies</a>. Other examples include the casing of the beef sticks in Jack Link’s beef and cheddar snacks and Vigo yellow rice, among others. Additionally, the dye is used in some maraschino cherries and dairy-based treats like Yoo-hoo Strawberry Drink and frozen desserts like Nerds Bomb Pops. It also may be a component in some medications and dietary supplements, such as certain gummy vitamins and cough syrups.</p>







<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-did-the-fda-ban-the-dye"><strong>Why did the FDA ban the dye?</strong></h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-revoke-authorization-use-red-no-3-food-and-ingested-drugs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA’s decision to ban Red 3</a> stems from long-standing evidence of its potential health risks. Under the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/changes-science-law-and-regulatory-authorities/part-iii-drugs-and-foods-under-1938-act-and-its-amendments" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Delaney clause</a> of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the FDA is required to prohibit any additive found to cause cancer in humans or animals. At least one study found that high doses of the compound in Red 3 caused tumors in male lab rats, prompting its previous ban in the cosmetics industry in 1990.</p>



<p>Despite this, the dye remained legal in foods and medicines in the U.S., a regulatory inconsistency that has long drawn criticism from health advocates. Hence, the FDA’s recent move to ban the dye altogether is a big triumph for the food and <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/10-healthy-habits-why-not-now/">health</a> groups who advocated for its prohibition.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“At long last, the FDA is ending the regulatory paradox of Red 3 being illegal for use in lipstick but perfectly legal to feed to children in the form of candy,” CSPI President Peter Lurie, M.D., said via <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/fda-bans-red-no-3-artificial-coloring-beverages-candy-rcna185479" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>NBC News</em></a> following the FDA’s announcement.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-there-evidence-the-dye-causes-cancer-in-humans"><strong>Is there evidence the dye causes cancer in humans?</strong></h2>



<p>Although animal studies have shown a link between Red 3 and cancer, evidence of its carcinogenicity in humans is less definitive. The studies that informed the FDA’s decision involved exposing male lab rats to high doses of the dye, which led to the development of tumors. However, translating these findings to human risk is complex due to differences in metabolism and exposure levels.</p>



<p>This absence of concrete evidence in humans has fueled debate over the ban, with some industry groups questioning its necessity. Despite this, many health experts and advocacy groups view the ban as a precautionary step to protect public health.</p>



<p>While legal challenges from food manufacturers remain a possibility, the ban signals a growing shift toward safer and more transparent food practices in the U.S.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-will-the-fda-implement-the-ban"><strong>How will the FDA implement the ban?</strong></h2>



<p>The FDA has given food manufacturers until January 2027 to phase out the dye from their products. On the other hand, drug makers have an additional year to comply with the ban.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As of late, several companies have begun transitioning to natural alternatives. For instance, Abbott, the maker of PediaSure, has already removed the compound from its products, while Dole eliminated it from its fruit bowls in 2023. Instead of Red 3, manufacturers have turned to more natural substitutes like beet juice, red cabbage pigments and carmine—a coloring substance derived from insects.</p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><strong><em>Photo courtesy of Karynf/Shutterstock</em></strong></p>

Learn more about the FDA’s ban on red no. 3 food dye and when this new ruling will officially take effect.

FDA Bans Red No. 3 Food Dye | SUCCESS

FDA Bans the Use of Red 3 Dye in Food, Beverages and Medication

FDA Bans Red 3 Food Dye | SUCCESS

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Business &amp; Branding

Business &amp; Branding Archives

Stay ahead in business: strategies and insights for success

<p>Over the past several days, there’s been a significant shift in the popularity of a relatively small social media platform called Bluesky. Though this dramatic growth is likely consequential to the results of the U.S. presidential election, there’s reason to believe that Bluesky was already bulking up its user base way before that.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For one, ever since Twitter turned into X after <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/visionary-lessons-from-elon-musk/">Elon Musk</a> acquired the microblogging site in 2022, a growing number of people have been fleeing the platform to join alternative social networks. And it just so happened that Bluesky was among those alternatives to benefit from the user exodus from X.  </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-bluesky">What is Bluesky?</h2>



<p>Bluesky is a decentralized social media platform, which started as an internal project in 2019 by Jack Dorsey, Twitter’s then-CEO. The renowned programmer formed a small team of developers to work on potential new industry standards for social media. This could explain why Bluesky has a look and feel similar to Twitter before it became X.&nbsp;</p>







<p>In addition to its user interface and features, the name Bluesky is also inspired by the microblogging site, with <a href="https://www.cnet.com/tech/bluesky-explained-why-this-social-media-network-is-now-growing-by-1-million-users-daily/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNET</a> reporting that the developers came up with its moniker while thinking about the Twitter bird mascot flying "freely in an open blue sky." </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-the-unprecedented-growth-of-bluesky">Mapping the unprecedented growth of Bluesky</h2>



<p>Bluesky became an independent company in 2021 with Jay Graber as CEO, and the platform initially launched as invitation-only in 2023. Under his leadership, the social network was able to grow its user base to 3 million before it shifted to open registration in February 2024.</p>



<p>Interestingly, even without an aggressive marketing campaign, Bluesky continued to expand its number of users by simply being an <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/americans-trust-tiktok-more-than-x/">alternative to X</a>. When X was temporarily banned in Brazil near the end of August this year, Bluesky gained around 2.6 million users within a week. The company reported that <a href="https://apnews.com/article/brazil-musk-x-bluesky-moraes-threads-meta-social-media-01d4db0f1311e98f1385e544ea47fa36" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">85% of its new global users</a> were from Brazil.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, as Musk kept on making changes to X’s policies, the platform also kept losing users, who would then find their way to Bluesky. For instance, when X announced changes to how blocked accounts would now be able to view a user’s public posts in October, Bluesky recorded 500,000 new sign-ups by the next day.&nbsp;</p>



<p>During the week following the Nov. 5 presidential election, Bluesky gained 1 million new users, reaching over 15 million total users. The latest updates indicate that Bluesky has now surpassed 19 million registered users, a massive jump from the 10 million users in September, noted <a href="https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/what-is-bluesky-how-does-it-work-and-why-are-users-leaving-elon-musks-x-7045292" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NDTV</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-bluesky-is-coping-with-newfound-popularity">How Bluesky is coping with newfound popularity</h2>



<p>As a relatively small app, Bluesky still does not have the capability to handle such a sudden upsurge in its user base. On Thursday last week, the company experienced a global outage, with users from different parts of the world struggling to access their feeds or load notifications. According to the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c04l15lndrpo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BBC</a>, the issue was resolved the same day, but the company was not able to provide assurance it won’t happen again.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another problem that Bluesky has been dealing with ever since it became more popular is the growing number of trolls, spam and scam accounts on its platform. Just last week, it garnered 42,000 moderation reports in one day. In response, the company said it is hiring new monitoring members and implementing email verification for new sign-ups.&nbsp;</p>



<p>More than its similarities to defunct Twitter, Bluesky’s allure lies in the company’s more sensible approach to social networking. By having a decentralized system, users gain full control over their data and interactions—something X lost along the way with its policy changes. All things considered, Bluesky is on the right track to becoming the next big thing in the social media industry, provided it is able to keep up with the demand.</p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Photo by Yohan Marion/Unsplash.com</em></p>

Find out why over the past several days, there’s been a significant shift in the popularity of a relatively small social media platform called Bluesky.

Find out why over the past several days, there’s been a significant shift in the popularity of a relatively small social media platform called Bluesky. | SUCCESS

Millions of Social Media Users Flock to Bluesky During Massive Departure From X

Social Media Users Flock to Bluesky | SUCCESS

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an image of Apple's new Business Connect updates shown on three separate iPhones

<p><a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/apple-customer-loyalty-thrives-iphone-16/">Apple</a> has introduced new tools for enhancing business visibility across its digital ecosystem in an effort to help small and virtual enterprises establish their brand presence among over 1 billion people who use Apple. </p>



<p>On October 16, the Cupertino giant <a href="https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/10/apple-expands-tools-to-help-businesses-connect-with-customers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">announced an update</a> to its Business Connect initiative, introducing tools designed to help every business grow, including businesses that don’t have a physical location. The update makes it possible for companies of all sizes to manage how they appear across different Apple apps and engage with clients more effectively than ever before.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-features-that-will-help-businesses-showcase-their-brand">New features that will help businesses showcase their brand</h2>



<p>With the new update, businesses can now opt into Branded Mail, allowing them to display their brand name and logo in email communications sent via Apple’s Mail app. This tool makes it easier for customers to recognize whether they are communicating with legitimate organizations, significantly reducing the chances of being mistaken for suspicious businesses.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another tool that Apple introduced this week is the Business Caller ID, due out next year. What this does is allow businesses to display their name, logo and department on the inbound call screen of iPhone users. Not only will this help businesses maintain credibility and avoid being dismissed as spam callers, but it will also help users easily differentiate verified businesses from unknown callers.</p>



<p>Additionally, Apple shared an update coming soon to its Tap to Pay feature that will enable businesses to display their logo instead of generic category icons in payment transactions. Despite being a minor change, this could significantly contribute to <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/how-to-build-and-trust-a-foundation-you-cant-see/">building brand trust</a> and visibility as customers would be able to see the logo during the critical moment of their purchase.</p>







<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reaching-customers-through-apple-s-massive-ecosystem">Reaching customers through Apple’s massive ecosystem</h2>



<p>From the get-go, Apple has intended Business Connect to act as a self-service platform that would allow all registered businesses to establish and maintain their brand identity across different Apple apps and experiences, including Maps, Mail and Wallet. When it <a href="https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2023/01/introducing-apple-business-connect/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">debuted the platform</a> in January 2023, it empowered organizations by giving them the ability to claim business listings, manage location details and upload logos and photos. Sadly, only those with physical storefronts benefited from the features then.&nbsp;</p>



<p>But now, Apple is making Business Connect more useful to smaller brands, especially those that only operate online and without a brick-and-mortar presence. “We’re excited to offer all businesses—including those without a physical location—the ability to create a brand that appears across the Apple apps that over a billion people use every day," David Dorn, Apple’s senior director of internet software and services product, said in a <a href="https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/10/apple-expands-tools-to-help-businesses-connect-with-customers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">news release</a>.</p>



<p>Given today’s competitive marketplace, standing out, let alone gaining traction, can be quite challenging for small businesses, especially when going up against bigger and more established brands. By adding the new tools to Business Connect, Apple is presenting new opportunities for lesser-known brands to showcase their identity across various touch points and increase their chances of growing their customer base.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-utilize-apple-s-new-business-connect-update">How to utilize Apple’s new Business Connect update</h2>



<p>Small businesses can take full advantage of Apple’s newly introduced tools to build a strong, consistent presence that reaches millions of potential clients online. Business owners may use either an existing Apple account or a new account to register their business on the <a href="https://businessconnect.apple.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Business Connect designated website</a>. After signing up, they are free to customize their brand, logo and information cards using the different features and tools available.&nbsp;<br></p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><strong><em>Photo courtesy of Apple</em></strong></p>

Learn how Apple’s new updates to its Business Connect initiative help small businesses highlight their brand identity.

Learn how the new updates help small businesses highlight their brand identity.

Apple Introduces New Business Connect Updates | SUCCESS

Apple’s New Business Connect Updates Help Small Businesses Spotlight Brand Identity

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Learn how the tech giant’s new updates to its Business Connect initiative helps small businesses highlight their brand identity.

<p>Spotify prefers to keep its employees enjoying an ultra-flexible work setup, despite the recent shift at many other companies demanding their <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/9-ways-to-stay-productive-when-you-work-from-home/">work-from-home</a> employees head back to the office. The Swiss firm’s HR chief has even doubled down on why the streamer wants its staff to continue with their current work dynamic, even though we’re already in what most consider to be a post-pandemic world.</p>



<p>In an interview with <em><a href="https://www.raconteur.net/talent-culture/spotify-chro-office-return-layoffs-hr-role" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Raconteur</a></em>, Spotify’s chief human resources officer, Katarina Berg, explained why the music streaming giant is committed to its “work from anywhere” policy even though the COVID-19 restrictions have long been scrapped.</p>



<p>“You can’t spend a lot of time hiring grown-ups and then treat them like children,” Berg said. “We are a business that’s been digital from birth, so why shouldn’t we give our people flexibility and freedom? Work is not a place you come to, it’s something you do.”</p>



<p>Berg acknowledged that other companies have already made their return to the standard office setup, but she has yet to find a reason to enforce a similar “return to office” mandate for Spotify’s employees.&nbsp;</p>



<p>She’s also unbothered by the alleged <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/remote-work-gen-z-isolation/">negative effects of remote working</a> on collaboration and innovation among employees, telling Raconteur, “It is harder and we all struggle to collaborate in a virtual environment. But does that mean that we will start forcing people to come into the office as soon as there is a trend for it? No.”</p>







<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotify-implements-its-work-from-anywhere-policy-for-better-work-life-balance">Spotify implements its work-from-anywhere policy for better work-life balance</h2>



<p>Since February 2021, Spotify has been allowing its employees to “<a href="https://www.lifeatspotify.com/being-here/work-from-anywhere" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work from anywhere</a>” through its flexible working setup. The digital music service has given its workforce the blessing to work at any locale of their choosing, provided doing so doesn't compromise the quality of their work.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite giving employees the freedom to work at whatever location they want, the company has always been insistent that they contribute, communicate and collaborate with each other on equal terms. Spotify has also given everyone the liberty to change their work mode every 12 months, providing them with the option to work from anywhere, work at an office or have a hybrid work schedule. </p>



<p>When Spotify <a href="https://hrblog.spotify.com/2021/02/12/introducing-working-from-anywhere" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">introduced the program</a> three years ago, it claimed that having a flexible working environment would be beneficial for both the company and its employees. The deliberate use of communication and collaboration tools and processes could make the organization’s operations more efficient, and giving its workers more flexibility could promote better work-life balance and “help tap into new talent pools while keeping our existing band members,” the streamer noted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aside-from-spotify-many-tech-giants-demand-that-workers-return-to-the-office">Aside from Spotify, many tech giants demand that workers return to the office</h2>



<p>Major tech companies have been pushing for the return of their workforce to their offices in a bid to increase productivity and improve overall operations. On Sept. 16, <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/amazon-return-to-office-mandate/">Amazon announced a mandate</a> that would force its remote workers to head back to the office five days a week starting next year. At the time, CEO Andy Jassy cited a February 2023 document discussing the benefits of in-office work.</p>



<p>Among the points discussed were how employees become more “engaged” when attending in-person meetings, how easy it is for leaders to relay new information to staff in the meeting room and how simple it is to improve company culture when everyone is working in the office, especially for new hires.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Before Amazon’s announcement, Apple, Microsoft and SpaceX had initiated return-to-office mandates in a surprising move to eliminate fully remote work from their operations. However, a <a href="https://harris.uchicago.edu/sites/default/files/wright-return-to-office.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study released in May</a> found that this seemingly prompted top talent, including tenured workers, to jump ship and look for work elsewhere.</p>



<p>Clearly, companies are trying to find the sweet spot for employees to do their work, and Spotify believes the answer to that is: anywhere they want to.</p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><strong><em>Photo courtesy of Zamrznuti tonovi/Shutterstock</em></strong></p>

Spotify is sticking to a work-from-anywhere policy for its employees despite the rise of return-to-office mandates issued by other companies.

Learn how the streaming giant is sticking to a work-from-anywhere policy.

Spotify Keeps Its Work-From-Anywhere Policy | SUCCESS

Spotify Doubles Down on Work-From-Anywhere Policy, Says Employees Shouldn&#8217;t Be Treated Like &#8216;Children&#8217;

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Learn how the streaming giant is sticking to a work-from-anywhere policy for its employees.

Money

Money Archives

Achieve financial success and freedom

<p>Amid the unstable economic climate, Costco has diversified its product lineup, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase gold and platinum bars in addition to groceries and household items. And if the latest estimated sales figures are an accurate predictor, it seems the demand for these precious metals could soar even higher in the coming weeks. But what's causing shoppers to be so invested in obtaining gold and platinum bullion at this time? Should you be rushing to buy gold and platinum, too? </p>



<p>When Costco started selling <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/alexander-spellane-is-one-of-americas-youngest-gold-expert/">gold</a> bullion in June of last year, the big-box warehouse club retailer immediately saw an increase in its revenue. Costco does not disclose specific sales figures or figures for the gold and platinum bars, but <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/09/costco-selling-up-to-200-million-in-gold-bars-a-month-wells-fargo-estimates.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wells Fargo analysts estimated</a> earlier this year that the company could be generating between $100 and $200 million per month since debuting the 24-karat gold bars on its website and at select stores within the country. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precious-metals-for-sale-at-costco">Precious metals for sale at Costco</h2>



<p>In March 2024, Costco added silver coins to its precious metal offerings after stirring the renewed interest in valuable metals with its gold bar months prior. Debuting at around $675 for a 25-count tube of 1-ounce silver coins, the Royal Canadian Mint-produced coins, which featured a likeness of King Charles III on one side, sold out quickly. During an <a href="https://www.insidermonkey.com/blog/costco-wholesale-corporation-nasdaqcost-q2-2024-earnings-call-transcript-1271081/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earnings call</a> that same month, former CFO Richard Galanti recognized the sales of Costco's silver and gold products, saying, “E-commerce sales in Q2 ex-FX increased 18.2%. E-com showed strength in several areas, led by sales of gold and very recently silver.”</p>







<p>Last week, Costco expanded its precious metal inventory once more to include platinum bars. The Swiss-made 1-ounce platinum bars debuted on its website with a $1,089.99 price tag, which is more affordable than the 1-ounce gold bars Costco is selling for $2,699.99 each before tax. Despite the heftier price, gold bullion bars were sold out in around 77% of Costco stores, according to a <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-10-07/costco-gold-bars-sell-out-as-bullion-prices-hit-record-highs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg survey</a> that obtained sales information from 101 locations across 46 states in the first week of October. Meanwhile, estimates for platinum bar sales are still unavailable.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-people-are-scrambling-to-buy-bullion-right-now">Why people are scrambling to buy bullion right now</h2>



<p>There are various reasons why people are stocking up on <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/gsi-exchange-3-reasons-to-add-precious-metals-to-your-investment-portfolio/">precious metals</a> lately, with the most obvious being the desire to diversify an investment portfolio. Given today’s uncertain economy, diversification is key to having a bigger buffer when things suddenly go wrong. Securing somewhat less <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/when-considering-your-investment-strategy-keep-these-3-rules-in-mind/">volatile investments</a> is advantageous for investors when stocks, bonds and other assets unexpectedly falter.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another reason that makes platinum, gold and other precious metals attractive to investors is tangibility. While a healthy portfolio should be largely made up of stocks and bonds, <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/041615/why-should-you-invest-tangible-assets.asp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experts recommend</a> having tangible investments that can easily be bought, sold and bought again. Furthermore, in times of geopolitical instability, gold and platinum bars can be easily stored at home or traded for goods when the need arises.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Considering the instability of market economies, seeking investments that maintain their value or even appreciate in time is also a no-brainer for active investors. Bullion can hedge against <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/economist-friedrich-hayek-prophesied-a-solution-for-inflation-through-cryptocurrency/">inflation</a>, acting as a form of protection for wealth through difficult periods. Gold recently <a href="https://www.barrons.com/articles/gold-record-high-headed-for-3000-82b1d568" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hit a record high</a> while platinum prices rose modestly—more than enough reason for investors and collectors to target what Costco is offering.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-to-buy-or-not-to-buy-gold-and-platinum-bars-from-costco">To buy or not to buy gold and platinum bars from Costco?</h2>



<p>With all the hype over Costco’s precious metals inventory, it’s understandable if you’d find yourself jumping on the bandwagon and trying to get your hands on the retailer’s gold and platinum bars. But before you do, there are some things you should know about Costco’s marketing strategies for its bullion products.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For instance, Costco’s pricing is different from traditional precious metal dealers. Gold’s trading value was at $2,642.44 per ounce late last week, while Costco is selling its gold bullion for $2,699.99 pretax, as previously mentioned. Platinum’s market value was approximately $1,000, but Costco was selling it with a slight markup at $1,089.99.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It is also important to note that not everyone can purchase precious metals from Costco. The gold and platinum bars, as well as the silver coins, are only available to customers paying the warehouse giant’s membership fees. Casual customers cannot even view the prices of the yellow, white and silver metals on Costco’s website, as a membership is required to access pricing. Additionally, the number of metal units sold per customer is limited. Customers can buy a maximum of five platinum or gold bars per person with a limit of one transaction per membership.</p>



<p>But if you do decide to buy platinum or gold bars from Costco, you are guaranteed extra rewards as a paying member. The retailer offers 2% cash rewards for purchasing the items using an <a href="https://customerservice.costco.com/app/answers/answer_view/a_id/1008254/~/executive-2%25-reward-faqs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affiliated Citi credit card</a>. An additional 2% reward is given to executive members paying $130 for the annual membership. A regular annual membership costs $65.</p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Photo by Rdeka/Shutterstock.com</em></p>

Find out everything you need to know about buying precious metals from an unconventional source such as Costco Wholesale.

Find out everything you need to know about buying precious metals from an unconventional source such as Costco Wholesale. | SUCCESS

Should You Buy Gold and Platinum Bars From Costco?

Should You Buy Gold And Platinum Bars From Costco? | SUCCESS

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AI &amp; Technology

AI &amp; Technology Archives

AI &amp; Technology | SUCCESS | What Achievers Read

<p>If you’ve recently logged on to LinkedIn, chances are your user profile and other personal data have been accessed by the business and employment-focused social media platform’s new artificial intelligence (AI) feature. Upon launching LinkedIn’s website, you were likely greeted by the prompt: “Start a post, try writing with AI” on the homepage. Then, when you scrolled through the “Jobs” section, an AI prompt might have told you that it’s already scanned through the job posts and compiled the ones that best matched your <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/how-to-optimize-your-linkedin-profile/">LinkedIn profile</a>. Sounds convenient, right? But at what cost?</p>



<p>When LinkedIn first <a href="https://news.linkedin.com/2023/october/New_AI_Powered_Features_for_Businesses" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">introduced its AI-powered tools</a> in October 2023, the company said they were designed to help businesses and individuals connect and grow on its platform. For instance, Sales Navigator’s AI-assisted search and AccountIQ were intended to make lead prospecting and account research more effective. Other tools that the firm launched at the time were Recruiter 2024, LinkedIn Learning AI-powered Coaching Experience and Accelerate for Campaign Manager—all three were said to promote greater productivity and work prioritization.</p>



<p>However, the business-centric social network did not stop at just providing light AI-powered assistance to its patrons. Just a month after, LinkedIn <a href="https://news.linkedin.com/2023/november/linkedIn-introduces-new-aI-powered-premium-experience" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unveiled its AI-powered LinkedIn Premium experience</a> for paying members of the site. The idea behind this new product was to create some sort of a copilot for Premium subscribers whenever they access the platform, allowing them to stay ahead in their professional life by having exclusive assistance for when they are planning to change careers or learn and develop new skills. Basically, this AI-powered feature would be the one to meticulously analyze every user’s input, data and activity, and match results with the best opportunities available. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-early-praise-to-troubling-reality">From early praise to troubling reality</h2>



<p>The introduction of AI on LinkedIn’s platform was met with praise from users in the early stages of its implementation, especially when the company, led by CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanroslansky/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ryan Roslansky</a>, started rolling out supplementary tools, such as the AI-powered writing tool and its very own chatbot. The ingenious move to bank on AI for its platform’s overall improvement paid off, with Chief Operating Officer Daniel Shapero <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7171598997361422336/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proudly announcing in March</a> that <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/is-linkedin-premium-worth-it/">LinkedIn Premium</a> customers were up 25% year-over-year, augmenting the organization’s annual revenue to $1.7 billion. </p>



<p>However, tucked beneath the overwhelming success of LinkedIn’s new venture were rumblings of how its AI technology was compromising user data while training its AI model.&nbsp;</p>







<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-linkedin-s-use-of-user-data-in-ai-training-is-a-big-problem">Why LinkedIn’s use of user data in AI training is a big problem</h2>



<p>AI models thrive on data. These virtual brains acquire knowledge through data inputs, so they can identify patterns, make predictions and produce outputs that seem intelligent using what they learn. It goes without saying that the more data an AI system has, the better it can run such functions. LinkedIn, as the world’s largest professional network with over 1 billion members across the globe, possesses a massive trove of user data, making it an ideal source for training AI models. Considering that LinkedIn is a wholly owned subsidiary of Microsoft—the biggest backer of the AI research organization <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/reddit-openai-collaboration/">OpenAI</a>—incorporating AI into its system was never a matter of if, but when.</p>



<p>Since rolling out AI features on its platform last year, LinkedIn has seemingly shied away from admitting that it’s secretly collecting data from users’ posts, articles, preferences and other activities. But last week, the organization updated its website’s <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a5538339" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">generative AI FAQs</a> to indicate that its system collects user data and uses it to “improve or develop” its services. Not only that, the company took it upon itself to automatically enroll everyone in this feature, sparking backlash on social media from users who were not in favor of their personal data being harvested without their consent.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-invasion-of-user-privacy">An invasion of user privacy</h2>



<p>Among those not pleased by LinkedIn’s invasion of user privacy was Women in Security and Privacy chair Rachel Tobac, who <a href="https://x.com/RachelTobac/status/1836486017798512840" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explained on X</a> why people should opt out of the new AI feature. According to her, since generative AI tools come up with outputs based on inputs they are trained on, people may soon find their original content being “reused,” “rehashed” or completely plagiarized by AI. “It’s likely that elements of your writing, photos or videos will be melted together with other people’s content to build AI outputs,” Tobac wrote. </p>



<p>Meanwhile, LinkedIn spokesman Greg Snapper has said that using customer data to train the platform’s AI could actually prove beneficial in the long run. Not only can this “help people all over the world create economic opportunity,” it can also “help a lot of people at scale” when done right, according to him. LinkedIn chief privacy officer Kalinda Raina also addressed the issue in a <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7242203434504900609/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">video post shared on LinkedIn’s website</a> last week, saying the organization is only using its clients’ data to “improve both security and our products in the generative AI space and beyond.” Despite the clarifications, however, many still feel unsettled by the prospect of not being able to keep their user data private. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-opt-out-of-linkedin-s-ai-training-feature">How to opt out of LinkedIn’s AI training feature</h2>



<p>To appease its customers following the backlash, LinkedIn has vowed to make updates to its user agreement with changes going into effect on Nov. 20. It has also clarified practices covered by its privacy policy, as well as added an opt-out setting for its AI training feature. To turn off LinkedIn’s AI training, simply follow these steps using the desktop version of the platform:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Log into your LinkedIn account</li>



<li>Tap on the “Me” button/profile avatar</li>



<li>Head to “Settings &amp; Privacy”</li>



<li>Click on “Data privacy”</li>



<li>Locate and press “Data for Generative AI Improvement” </li>



<li>Flip the toggle switch for “Use my data for training content creation AI models” to opt out of the feature</li>
</ul>



<p>Once the feature is off, LinkedIn will no longer be able to collect your data and utilize it in AI training. Unfortunately, this opt-out setting is not retroactive, according to <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2024/09/23/linkedin-training-ai-setting-opt-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>The Washington Post</em></a>. This means data collected before the feature is deactivated would remain in the system. But while there’s no way to undo this, users can request that LinkedIn delete specific data or activity using the <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/ask/TS-DDF" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LinkedIn Data Deletion Form</a>.</p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Photo by Tada Images/Shutterstock.com</em></p>

The employment-focused social media platform is training its new AI on your data. Find out what this means for your privacy and how to opt out.

The employment-focused social media platform is training its new AI on your data. Find out what this means for your privacy and how to opt out. | SUCCESS

LinkedIn Is Using Your Data to Train AI: What This Means for Your Privacy and How to Opt Out

LinkedIn Is Using Your Data to Train AI | SUCCESS

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<p>Concerns about the security of business communication tools like Slack have surfaced following the massive data breach that hit The Walt Disney Company over the summer. The debacle prompted Disney to <a href="https://www.status.news/p/disney-slack-hack" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">announce in an email to staffers</a> last week that it would remove Slack from all of its business units by the end of its next fiscal quarter and move forward with new internal tools. </p>



<p>In response to Disney’s decision, Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, which acquired Slack in 2021, insisted in an interview with <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2024-09-19/benioff-on-new-salesforce-ai-tools-slack-s-security-video" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Bloomberg</em></a> that their security is “rock solid” because they do their due diligence to ensure their clients’ data remains safe and protected. He then added, “Companies have to also take the right measures to prevent phishing attacks and to lock down their employees’ social engineering. So, we can do our part, but our customers also have to do their part.”</p>



<p>Like many other <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/10-collaboration-tools-to-bring-your-next-great-idea-to-life/">collaboration tools</a>, Slack comes with benefits and risks. To better secure sensitive information and <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/cybersecurity-threats/">prevent potential cyberattacks</a> when using Slack, companies and individuals can take the following measures:</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-avoid-password-sharing-on-slack">1. Avoid password sharing on Slack</h2>



<p>As a cardinal rule, one should never share passwords on the platform, because once a message is sent, it is available for everyone to view. If employees need to exchange access details for accounts and programs, they should do so using more appropriate venues, like password management tools, which are more secure against unauthorized access. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-enable-two-factor-authentication-2fa">2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)</h2>



<p>Many people may hate this feature, but it’s actually helpful against bad actors trying to access private data. This adds another layer of security beyond the usual username-and-password combo. When Slack’s 2FA is enabled, a one-time code will be sent to the user’s phone each time they access their Slack account. So, if a hacker tries to access their Slack account, the hacker wouldn’t be able to move forward without the one-time code.</p>







<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-use-private-slack-channels-for-confidential-conversations">3. Use private Slack channels for confidential conversations</h2>



<p>There are two types of channels available on Slack: public and private. Messages sent via public channels will show up in search results for other users of the same workspace. On the other hand, messages and files sent via private channels can only be viewed by authorized members. Administrators are encouraged to use this feature to limit access to sensitive information, including news about upcoming projects, mergers, acquisitions and other critical business operations. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-implement-email-security-policies">4. Implement email security policies</h2>



<p>Since an email address is mandatory to join a Slack workspace, companies must have a defined email security policy in place. By laying out rules for the use of corporate email, employees can help contain the organization’s email security risks. In return, this helps companies maintain a higher level of data protection across all communication channels.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-administer-slack-security-training-in-employee-onboarding">5. Administer Slack security training in employee onboarding</h2>



<p>Having a security policy in place is never enough. It’s important for companies to take a proactive role in incorporating <a href="https://slack.com/marketplace/A01A35CS7TR-haekka-security-awareness-training" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Slack security training</a> into employee onboarding programs. From the get-go, new members should become aware that sharing anything via the communication tool has security risks. They should also be taught about specific risky behaviors to avoid when using Slack, such as creating public links to files that shouldn’t be shared publicly. Conducting regular refresher courses is also a good way to reinforce this measure.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-stay-updated-on-slack-vulnerabilities">6. Stay updated on Slack vulnerabilities</h2>



<p>Last, but not least, one important measure to follow when using Slack is to stay up-to-date with its updates and changes. The official Slack website releases regular security news and updates, including information on newly discovered bugs or vulnerabilities and upcoming fixes. Like what they say in the medical field, prevention is always better than cure. Staying informed can help companies address potential problems way before they escalate.</p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Photo by Sundry Photography/Shutterstock.com</em></p>

After Disney ditched Slack following a data breach, many are left wondering if the app is safe. Here are six ways to secure your info while using the platform.

After Disney ditched Slack following a data breach, many are left wondering if the app is safe. Here’s six ways to secure your info while using the platform. | SUCCESS

Disney Ditches Slack After Data Breach: Learn 6 Ways to Secure Your Info When Using the Platform

Disney Ditches Slack After Data Breach | SUCCESS

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<p>Expectations were high before Apple unveiled the latest iterations of its smartphone lineup. But now that the iPhone 16 series is finally here, preorders got off to a rather slow start, sparking discussions on what could have gone wrong for the Cupertino giant’s premium devices.</p>



<p>On Sept. 9, <a href="https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/09/apple-introduces-iphone-16-and-iphone-16-plus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple formally introduced</a> a slew of new devices or, technically speaking, yearly updates to its existing products. To much fanfare, the tech company announced the Apple Watch Series 10, new AirPods and the iPhone 16 series—comprising four models: the standard iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and the flagship model, the iPhone 16 Pro Max.</p>



<p>Compared to last year’s iPhones, the iPhone 16 lineup seems unchanged save for the new Camera Control button, upgraded camera performance, bigger screens on the Pro variants and better battery life overall. On top of this, Apple promised the innovative incorporation of artificial intelligence features into its latest smartphones, among other software enhancements.</p>



<p>Unfortunately for Apple, the prelaunch anticipation for its new iPhones did not necessarily translate to a strong demand post-announcement. After Apple opened preorders for its latest devices on Sept. 13, TF International Securities analyst and longtime Apple reporter Ming-Chi Kuo disclosed in a <a href="https://medium.com/@mingchikuo/iphone-16-first-weekend-pre-order-analysis-estimated-total-sales-of-about-37-million-units-pro-0a04869b147c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blog post</a> a weaker-than-expected demand for the new iPhones, particularly the iPhone Pro models.</p>



<p>After analyzing data for first-weekend preorder sales, Kuo noted that the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max were lagging by 27% and 16%, respectively, compared to their iPhone 15 counterparts from last year. With an expected first-weekend total of 37 million preordered units for the entire iPhone 16 lineup, the analyst said that the performance of Apple’s smartphones was down about 12.7% year-over-year.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overall-demand-and-customer-satisfaction-remain-high-for-apple">Overall demand and customer satisfaction remain high for Apple </h2>



<p>Considering the new iPhone series was not met with the same favorable figures as its predecessors, discussions on whether Apple’s grip on consumer loyalty is loosening have emerged. <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/breeding-customer-loyalty/">Customer loyalty</a> typically suffers when companies fail to fulfill expectations. While the iPhone 16’s supposed “upgrades” seemed not enough to secure strong sales for Apple, some market analysts have acknowledged that overall demand for the iPhones remains high.</p>



<p>For instance, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2024-09-22/apple-iphone-16-pro-max-review-new-model-reflects-slowing-pace-of-innovation-m1dkn8jv" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman</a> noted that there’s been a noticeable lag in the redesign of the iPhone series ever since former chief design officer Jony Ive and his team left the company in 2019. According to the analyst, the last major hardware overhaul for Apple’s smartphones was in 2020 when the company introduced the iPhone 12. Almost half a decade later, the iPhone has mostly stayed the same. But despite this, loyal customers continue to upgrade their devices every year or two, according to Gurman.</p>







<p>Last month, the customer satisfaction survey platform <a href="https://www.retently.com/blog/apple-nps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Retently</a> reported that Apple received a resounding Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 72 based on data collected in 2022—up from its 63 rating in 2018. NPS is a good metric for customer loyalty, as it indicates how many people are satisfied with a brand and how likely they are to promote it. For Apple to secure one of the highest NPS scores in the tech industry, it just goes to show that Apple still has a hold on its long-term clients.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-brand-loyalty-goes-beyond-sales">When brand loyalty goes beyond sales</h2>



<p>The smartphone market has dramatically shifted in recent years, as many consumers hold on to their devices longer and opt to delay upgrades as much as possible. Market saturation has also led to slowing smartphone sales. Additionally, consumers now face more economic pressures in the post-pandemic world. All of these factors might have already affected the demand for Apple’s new smartphones even before the unveiling of the iPhone 16.</p>



<p>In a broader context, a slowdown in the iPhone’s demand does not equate to a loss of <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/is-brand-loyalty-dead/">brand loyalty</a>. Looking at the company’s ability to keep its premium pricing structure for years, it’s easy to tell that its customers and target market value its products, even if they are in no rush to upgrade as frequently as possible. Per market intelligence data provider <a href="https://blogs.idc.com/2021/02/12/how-brand-trust-and-a-strong-product-portfolio-drives-apples-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IDC</a>, hundreds of millions of consumers <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/34-reasons-why-people-buy/">prefer to buy</a> more of Apple’s products and services because they have developed trust in the brand and not because there’s a lack of available options on the market.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-weak-start-for-iphone-16-likely-won-t-be-the-end-of-the-story">A weak start for iPhone 16 likely won't be the end of the story</h2>



<p>The iPhone 16 series may indeed be off to a weak start, but that does not mean it won’t have a chance to bounce back and generate better sales than last year’s models. Kuo noted that one of the “key factors” of the low demand for the iPhone 16 was the fact that its main selling point, Apple Intelligence, was not available at launch. Apple’s new AI software will be available for iPhone 16 owners in the U.S. in October via a beta update. Meanwhile, other regions will have to wait much longer.</p>



<p>Addressing how the slow rollout of Apple Intelligence could affect the iPhone 16’s performance, D.A. Davidson analyst Gil Luria told the <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/09/16/business/apple-shares-slump-as-iphone-16-seeing-weak-demand/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>New York Post</em></a>, “We are not concerned if preorders don’t show meaningful growth. The (AI) features will be rolling out gradually… which means the upgrade cycle will likely materialize over the next 12-18 months.”</p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Photo by TonyV3112/Shutterstock.com</em></p>

Despite sluggish demand for the iPhone 16, Apple’s customer loyalty continues to thrive. Find out how brand loyalty goes beyond sales.

Despite sluggish demand for the iPhone 16, Apple’s customer loyalty continues to thrive. Find out how brand loyalty goes beyond sales. | SUCCESS

Apple’s Customer Loyalty Continues to Thrive Despite Sluggish Demand for iPhone 16

Apple’s Customer Loyalty Continues to Thrive With iPhone 16 | SUCCESS

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<p>Plastic container-manufacturing company Tupperware has formally filed for bankruptcy, with its president and CEO Laurie Ann Goldman citing financial struggles brought about by the “challenging macroeconomic environment” in a statement.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The 78-year-old brand, founded by inventor Earl Tupper, who developed the first Tupperware products in 1946, has seen ups and downs throughout its existence—mostly ups between the 1950s and 1960s when “Tupperware parties” were a thing. Its direct sales business model made it a household name, and so it stuck to it for more than seven decades and only <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/were-reinventing-our-business-welcoming-more-people-party-fernandez/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">started selling products in retail settings in 2022</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Just a year after Tupperware's bold move to start selling its plastic food storage containers in Target stores, however, Tupperware disclosed in a regulatory filing that it had sought help from financial advisers as it was already struggling to stay afloat financially.&nbsp;</p>



<p>On Tuesday, <a href="https://document.epiq11.com/document/getdocumentbycode?docId=4380244&amp;projectCode=TLP&amp;source=DM" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tupperware officially filed for bankruptcy</a>. But despite the negative connotation of the term, filing for this legal process does not necessarily mean the end of the road for a business. Instead, it presents new opportunities that could lead bankrupt companies to flourish in the long run.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-bankruptcy-in-a-business-context">Understanding bankruptcy in a business context</h2>



<p>By definition, bankruptcy is a legal process businesses take when they can no longer realize their financial obligations. There are different types of bankruptcy filings, but all of them are designed to protect businesses from creditors as they figure out and reorganize their finances. In the corporate world, Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 bankruptcies are the most commonly used by struggling companies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Chapter 7 bankruptcy is when a company decides to cease all operations and liquidate assets to pay off debts in preparation for the closure of the business. On the other hand, Chapter 11 bankruptcy gives businesses the time to restructure their debts without stopping operations. When companies file for Chapter 11, they are holding out hope they will return to normal business operations in the future.</p>







<p>In Tupperware’s case, the Orlando, Florida-based company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, saying it would continue paying its employees and suppliers amid the proceedings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We plan to continue serving our valued customers with the high-quality products they love and trust throughout this process,” Goldman said in the <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tupperware-voluntarily-initiates-chapter-11-proceedings-302251267.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statement</a>. She added that the bankruptcy filing “is meant to provide us with essential flexibility as we pursue strategic alternatives to support our transformation into a digital-first, technology-led company.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-the-stigma-surrounding-bankruptcy">Breaking the stigma surrounding bankruptcy</h2>



<p>While many view the notion of filing for bankruptcy as a last resort, several successful conglomerates and businesses have actually resorted to this strategic move in the face of financial crisis. <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/4-truths-of-pivoting-your-business-during-hard-times-from-the-founder-of-exp-realty/">Pivoting during hard times</a> requires being prudent and tactical. Filing for bankruptcy—particularly the Chapter 11 type—gives businesses leeway to better manage their financial burdens and come out stronger.&nbsp;</p>



<p>American Airlines, Delta, General Motors and Marvel are just some of the companies that benefited from bankruptcy filings. After <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/empower-yourself-to-pay-off-debt/">reducing debts</a>, renegotiating labor agreements and refocusing on more profitable projects, these brands were able to exit bankruptcy, start anew and thrive.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>The idea of corporate bankruptcy being a mark of a firm’s imminent death has drastically changed through the years, after seeing how many corporations have been able to bounce back during the bankruptcy period. Today, more business owners, investors and creditors consider bankruptcy as either a restart button or a sign that a company is willing to take risks and carry out a long-term strategy for recovery.</p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Photo by Oleksiichik/Shutterstock.com</em></p>

Plastic container giant Tupperware has formally filed for bankruptcy. Find out what’s happening and learn why bankruptcy doesn’t mean the end of a business.

Plastic container giant Tupperware has formally filed for bankruptcy. Find out what’s happening and learn why bankruptcy doesn’t mean the end of a business. | SUCCESS

Tupperware Files for Bankruptcy: Why Bankruptcy Doesn’t Mean the End of a Business

Tupperware Files for Bankruptcy | SUCCESS

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