Beyond Stocks and Bonds: This Alternative Asset Could be Your Next $100k Investment

June 8, 2023

If you keep all of your retirement money in traditional assets like stocks and bonds, you could be leaving tons of money on the table, according to experts.

A recent study by the IMF showed the ultra rich have been able to grow their wealth three-times faster than the average investor because they have access to an exclusive group of alternative investments like private equity, venture capital and even blue chip art.

Investing in art is an exciting opportunity if you’re looking for solid returns outside of the shaky stock market.

Contemporary art has outpaced the S&P by 131% over the past 26 years. Plus, it has a low correlation to the stock market, which means it can help add stability to your portfolio in uncertain times.

Until recently, there’s been no way to invest in art unless you had millions to buy a single painting.

But one disruptive startup has changed that, by allowing anyone to invest in fractional shares of multimillion dollar masterpieces from artists like Banksy and Picasso.

Read on to learn more and find out how you can unlock an exclusive offer to skip this platform’s waitlist.

Allocating at least 5% to art can help stabilize your portfolio

The ultra rich have bought and sold blue chip art for centuries, creating a $1.7 trillion asset class in the process. And that number is only expected to grow – Deloitte predicts an additional $900 billion in capital will flow into the art market by 2026.

Thanks to Masterworks, you now have the opportunity to grab a slice of that pie.

The best part? You won’t need to spend your precious time becoming an art expert to cash in.

Masterworks handles the entire process from researching the artists, to negotiating the purchase price, and handling the shipping and logistics. Making it easy to add art to your portfolio.

Which is great, because their research shows allocating at least 5% of your portfolio to art can help boost your returns and increase the stability of your portfolio.

Masterworks is making art investing more predictable

Masterworks is based in New York and the platform is driven by their industry-leading research team, led by a Harvard data scientist and a former acquisitions expert from Christies.

Together, they’ve created a proprietary database designed to find “alpha” in the art market, which provides them with an unparalleled quantitative edge when it comes to investing.

So far, it’s been right on the money. While most asset classes lost value in 2022, Masterworks completed 9 exits, all of them profitable, including net annualized gains of 10%, 14% and 35% on the last few.

This year, they’ve already completed an exit that delivered a 4% net annualized return and a 15.4% net return in just 36 days, equivalent to a 325% net annualized return.

And while most exits don’t happen that fast, Masterworks has already sold a total of $45 million in artworks and distributed the returns to investors.

How it works

Getting started with Masterworks is simple. Click this link and it will take you to a short application page that should take you less than two minutes to complete.

As soon as you’re approved, you’ll get access to all their latest offerings, which can include paintings from iconic artists like Banksy and Picasso.

If you decide to invest, it can typically take 3-10 years for Masterworks to sell, making this a long-term passive investment. Or you can try to lock in faster returns by selling your shares on the secondary market.

What are you waiting for?

Masterworks is unlocking an asset class that was once only available to the ultra rich, and they’re inviting readers to open a free, no-obligation account today.

It only takes seconds to apply and readers of The World financial review can skip the waitlist with this exclusive link.

From there, you can see what artworks are available, and find the ones that fit your financial goals.

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How to Know if You Need a New Router for Your Mediacom Internet?

June 8, 2023

Are you still having connectivity issues despite upgrading your internet plan? Now that wireless routers are more prevalent in our lives, it is important to pay more attention to them. One of the things that we need to be the most mindful of is knowing when to replace them, whether it is because they are no longer working correctly or are not receiving security updates.

None of the data we transmit or receive should be vulnerable to hacking. So, if you have any questions about internet plans with top-notch security, contact the Mediacom Internet helpline right away. Many experts advise that you can probably get away with replacing your router every five years if you do not utilize that many smart home gadgets. But in the modern world, who does not own a connected smart device? The equipment in your kitchen might possibly be a smart device.

It makes sense to update your router every two to three years if you have a lot of devices linked to the internet. The capacity of your router and the speed of your internet connection are the two main factors that determine whether this rule applies to you or not.

In this article, we will walk you through some things that you need to take into account to see if you need to replace or upgrade your home WiFi router!

3 Important Signs to Look Out for to Know if You Need a New Router

Experts advise changing your router every two to three years, or at least every five years if you routinely buy the most recent Wi-Fi devices.

If you are not sure if it is time for an upgrade, here are a few telltale signs that your router needs to be replaced:

Slow or Lagging Connection

A good quality router ensures that you are able to access the internet at the speeds that you have opted for with Mediacom bundle deals. If you notice that Netflix suddenly pauses when your kids play online games or if large downloads take a long time to complete, an outdated router may be to cause. If, after troubleshooting, your internet connectivity is still slow, you might consider running a few speed tests.

Try investigating many wireless connection hotspots across your home using different gadgets, such as both your phone and laptop, to gain a better understanding of the problem. These results ought to make it possible for you to decide whether the wireless signal issue is caused by the use of a certain item or area in your home or if it affects your entire network.

However, perform a few speed tests to determine how quickly your internet connection is before you purchase a new router. Then you can assess if the router or your internet service provider is the underlying issue. Speed tests can be a little unreliable as their findings will change based on the time of day and other network activities, but they will give you a reasonable indication of the speed you’re getting.

Overheating Routers & Modems

Electronic devices typically feel warm when in operation, but if your router feels hot to the touch or if your internet connection drops, it is likely overheating. Your router may fail entirely if it runs at a high temperature for an extended period of time, causing a sluggish or interrupted internet connection.

You may reduce the possibility of it overheating by keeping it in a well-ventilated area, regularly blowing the dust away with pressured air, and upgrading its software. If your router keeps becoming hot, it could be time to upgrade.

Connected Without Internet

A router’s sole function is to give you access to the internet. If your present router isn’t working, buy a new one. Connectivity issues include things like losing your internet connection and having trouble connecting to the internet. Poor connectivity or a notification that says “Connected without Internet” indicates that a router is probably past its prime.

Now, not all issues with your internet connection are due to your router; other issues such as modem issues, frayed wires, provider network issues, and so on may also contribute. However, there are a few easy methods to identify the problem. Start by inspecting the lights on the router and modem. Everything should be in working order if they are all green. This shows that a router bug is probably what’s causing your disconnect.

Concluding Remarks

Modern routers provide quicker internet connections than ever before, especially when connected through an Ethernet cable. You will, however, notice slower overall internet access and poorer wireless signals as your router matures. Additionally, this will eventually affect gaming routers. Keeping a strong connection is now more crucial than ever because we need to use smart devices in our daily lives. So, rather than wasting your time and resources on a lagging internet, get in touch with BuyTVInternetPhone right away and get your connectivity issue sorted.

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Pay Your Credit Card Bill Easily and On Time

June 8, 2023

When used carelessly, credit cards are a one-way trip to financial trouble. However, the same card supports your financial requirements and gives you much-needed breathing room as you manage your money if it is used wisely.

You have many options for dealing with credit card debt if it’s weighing you down. There are numerous ways to pay off credit card debt quickly. Before paying the bills and knowing what error to avoid for your subsequent billing cycle, it is most necessary to take into account the interest rate on bills, fines and penalties, your ability to repay, and many other elements.

Have you heard about the new 5% Card co-branded by Fi.Money and Federal Bank? It’s a credit card that rewards you for every purchase you make! The rewards change monthly, so you can get accelerated rewards up to 5X when you spend on any of India’s top 21 brands.

Here are some typical yet crucial factors to think about when paying credit card bills on time:

Convert payment to EMIs

The majority of credit cards offer the ability to turn credit card balances into EMIs. You can speak with your bank about the possibility of having your balance converted to a series of monthly EMIs. However, some banks impose a monthly interest fee of 2–3% in exchange for providing the EMI facility.

Many banks also provide this service for no charge, enabling customers to use their credit cards to make simple purchases. However, you should consider the processing cost associated with the outstanding balance before choosing this option.

Find a payment plan

You need a thorough repayment strategy if you are willing to pay off the credit card debt. Consider the following tactics to hit your goal sooner:

Pay more than the minimum required

Banks allow you to choose to pay only the minimal amount specified on your credit card statement. You can pay the bare minimum if you can’t pay the entire credit bill. The longer it takes to completely pay the debt off, the more interest is accrued because banks add interest daily.

Paying off high-interest debt first

Many credit card users need to pay more attention to this and adopt the incorrect strategy when paying off high-interest debt first. Most people think about paying the credit card with a close due date first when they have debts on multiple credit cards. Users should prioritize paying off debts on cards with higher interest rates first because failing to do so could result in increased interest charges on past-due balances, which would raise the total amount owed. In order to lower your overall interest, pay off the credit cards with the higher interest rates.

Paying the card with the lowest balance first

Customers that use this technique of debt repayment focus on paying the credit cards with the lowest balances first. When concentrating on larger installments, you keep building up the accounts requiring minimum payments. Interest fees and late fees are two examples. List your accounts in order of highest to lowest balance, then settle smaller invoices first. Your debt payback is expected to move forward swiftly. You’ll be inspired to keep up your efforts to pay off your debt.

Utilize the grace period and be aware of your billing cycle

To benefit from their credit card billing cycle, cardholders should be aware of it. A period of no credit is offered by banks. It features a 30-day statement cycle and a 15-day grace period for paying past-due bills. This time period begins on the day of purchase and the first day of the billing cycle, as you should be aware. To make the most of this interest-free period, consider this before making your next purchase on credit.

Use personal loans to consolidate your bills.

Personal loans are a good substitute for making interest-only payments on a sizable debt. Consider a personal loan to combine all your obligations if you have several credit cards with outstanding balances. You may be able to obtain an instant personal loan from a bank at a reasonable interest rate depending on the overall credit score. The loan amount might be sufficient to pay off all of your credit card debt. Interest on credit card balances is higher than that of personal loans.

Think about a system for automatic bill payment

Credit card payments come with hefty interest rates and late payment penalties, which is a costly error. You should have your bank set up an automatic credit card bill payment option if you want to avoid such extra expenses. There won’t be any need for manual intervention or authorization. Your connected savings or current account will be used to deduct the credit card bill amount—no need to stress about meeting deadlines. Make sure there are adequate finances available to pay the bills.

Limit the number of credit cards

Customers may receive multiple offers for new cards in the cutthroat financial market. These offerings can appear alluring. As a result, you could apply for those cards and spend money on non-essentials. Credit cards are an excellent source of financial support for individuals. However, if you miss deadlines, you risk being yourself in a debt cycle involving several cards. Therefore, avoid being seduced by buy-now-pay-later schemes and continue making on-time payments on your existing cards.

Utilize the holiday season to your fullest potential

Making the most of this time off is the greatest approach to manage your credit cards. You may benefit from an interest-free period of up to 50 days on your card, depending on your billing cycle and the transaction date. If you are temporarily having financial difficulties, plan your purchases on your cards in order to enjoy your holidays to the most and avoid incurring interest.

Conclusion

Although getting rid of credit card debt may seem impossible, it is possible. Don’t let your bill pile up and come back to haunt you by strictly adhering to the fundamental guidelines for paying credit card bills. Open the credit card statement attachment in your inbox regularly and check to see if the purchases you made with your credit card are appropriately recorded.

With Fi.Money’s credit card, you get features like lounge access, low forex fee, instant issuance of the credit card, customized reminders, spending insights, and more. And if you sign up instantly, you can get exclusive vouchers from top brands worth ₹5,000! It’s definitely worth considering if you’re in the market looking for a new credit card.

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Beginner’s Guide to Malaysian Online Casinos

June 8, 2023

Online casinos have gained immense popularity in Malaysia, offering a convenient and exciting way to enjoy online casino Malaysia games from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience with online gambling, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to get started with Malaysian online casinos. From choosing a reputable casino to maximizing bonuses and promotions, we’ll cover it all.

Getting Started

Before diving into the world of online casinos, it’s important to follow a few key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Choosing a reputable online casino

When selecting an online casino, it’s crucial to choose a reputable and licensed platform. Look for casinos that are regulated by recognized authorities and have a solid track record of fair play and customer satisfaction. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from experienced players can also help you make an informed decision.

Creating an account

Once you’ve chosen a reputable online casino, the next step is to create an account. This usually involves providing basic personal information and choosing a username and password. Ensure that you use a strong and unique password to protect your account from unauthorized access

Depositing funds

After creating your account, you’ll need to deposit funds to start playing. Online casinos offer various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Choose a payment method that is convenient and secure for you. It’s important to set a budget and never gamble with more money than you can afford to lose.

Maximizing Bonuses and Promotions

One of the advantages of playing at online casinos is the availability of bonuses and promotions that can enhance your gaming experience. Here are some tips to make the most of these offers:

Understanding different types of bonuses

Online casinos offer a wide range of bonuses, including welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, free spins, and loyalty rewards. It’s essential to understand the terms and conditions associated with each type of bonus to maximize its benefits. Pay attention to factors such as wagering requirements, maximum bet limits, and eligible games.

Meeting wagering requirements

Most bonuses come with wagering requirements, which determine the number of times you need to wager the bonus amount before you can withdraw any winnings. It’s important to read and understand the wagering requirements before claiming a bonus. Look for bonuses with reasonable wagering requirements to increase your chances of cashing out.

Taking advantage of promotions

In addition to bonuses, online casinos often run special promotions and tournaments. These can include cashback offers, prize draws, and leaderboard competitions. Keep an eye on the casino’s promotions page and opt-in to receive notifications so that you don’t miss out on any exciting opportunities.

Staying Safe and Secure

When engaging in online gambling, safety and security should be a top priority. Here are some measures you can take to ensure a safe and secure gaming experience:

Researching the casino’s reputation

Before playing at an online casino, it’s crucial to research its reputation. Look for reviews, testimonials, and ratings from other players to get an idea of the casino’s reliability and trustworthiness. Avoid casinos with a history of unresolved complaints or negative feedback.

Ensuring secure transactions

To protect your financial information, choose online casinos that utilize secure and encrypted payment methods. Look for SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption, which ensures that your personal and financial data is transmitted securely. Trusted payment providers such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller are good options to consider.

Protecting personal information

Be cautious while sharing personal information online. Only provide your details to reputable online casinos that have a privacy policy in place to protect your data. Avoid sharing sensitive information such as your Social Security number or passport details unless it’s absolutely necessary for verification purposes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Malaysian online casinos provide a convenient and exciting platform for enjoying a wide range of casino games. By following the steps outlined in this beginner’s guide, you can confidently navigate the world of online gambling and make the most of your gaming experience. Remember to choose reputable casinos, take advantage of bonuses and promotions, and prioritize your safety and security. Now, it’s time to embark on your online casino adventure and enjoy the thrill of winning from the comfort of your own home.

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How to Make a Quick Survey Results Infographic

June 8, 2023

Thinking of creating a survey to gauge customer satisfaction and reactions to your business? If you are considering creating a survey results infographic, you have come to the right place.

Surveys simplify data analysis as the results are better understood among targeted audiences. It shouldn’t be surprising that businesses use surveys as an efficient customer relations tool.

Creating an infographic based on the survey data will help you understand the results better. Keep reading for all the inside information on initiating a survey infographic.

Gather and Organize Your Survey Data

Organizing your survey data is essential in making a quick survey infographic. This is usually done through online tools or by hand. Once collected, it is vital to organize this data in an effective and efficient way.

Think about how to display each survey result best. Know what trends should be highlighted and how to make the information easily understandable. After this, it is time to create the infographic in whatever program you feel comfortable using.

Design Your Infographic Using a Software or Template

This can save time by simplifying the infographic design process and allowing it to be easily customized. Start by loading the software or infographic template. You should add relevant information, such as the title, questions, and responses.

Think about what visual elements you want to include to highlight the main points of the survey. This could consist of a pie chart, bar graph, or other graphical data representation. Also, consider creating a color scheme that can be used to categorize data or to show the results of comparison questions.

Lastly, use the data visualization tools or layout tools to arrange the information in an appealing way. It would be great to know how to create an infographic for free. With these tips, you can quickly create an effective survey result.

Proofread the Content

Carefully proofread the content to make sure it’s accurate. Having a visual representation simplifies this task since it is easy to spot errors by scanning.

It is also important to double-check that the labels, visuals, and any text are spelled and in the infographic’s correct spot. After this is complete, the infographic is ready to share and use for analysis!

Post Your Infographic to Maximize Visibility

You can post the infographic online and include hashtags and links to other relevant sources. Share the infographic across the web and on all your social media platforms. With this, you can maximize visibility on image sites like Pinterest and Instagram.

Some companies specialize in soliciting online influencers to share your infographic and help spread the word. With a combination of digital marketing and visualization of interesting survey data, you can create the perfect package for the largest visibility.

Creating a Quick Survey Results Infographic Today

An infographic can show the data or information you want your customers or viewers to know. But, the survey infographic must also be nicely done. Surveys make it easy to gather meaningful feedback.

With a few steps, any survey can be transformed into an accurate and attractive infographic that shows results in a visual, eye-catching format. Following this guide, you can create a quick survey results infographic and gather vital customer insights.

Do you want to find more helpful info? Check out more of our guides on our blog today!

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85% of Wealth Managers Agree: This Alternative Asset Should Be a Part of Every Wealth Plan in 2023

June 8, 2023

According to Deloitte, 85% of the wealth managers believe that one alternative asset should be included in every portfolio in 2023 and beyond.

It’s not private equity, gold or commodities. It’s the $1.7 trillion asset class – ART.

Contemporary art can be a great asset if you want to add growth and stability to your portfolio. It outpaced the S&P 500 by more than 131% over the past 26 years, and outpaced real estate and gold by more than three to one.

Plus, it has almost zero correlation to stocks, which means art prices can still go up, even when the stock market is going down.

Which is probably why the majority of the world’s richest collectors are taking their wealth managers recommendations, and allocating 5-30% of their portfolios to art, according to UBS.

Like Jeff Bezos, who recently purchased more than $70 million worth of art in a single day. Or Ken Griffin, the CEO of Citadel, who invested close to $500 million of his personal money into fine art in just a few months.

Now, you can join them, thanks to a revolutionary investment platform called Masterworks.

Masterworks has cracked the code on the art market

This award-winning platform allows you to invest in fractional shares of paintings from artists like Banksy, Picasso and Basquiat.

Their team of data analysts, led by a Harvard data scientist, has built an industry leading database that helps them find “excess alpha” in the art market, and less than 3% of paintings pass their strict criteria.

So far, the results have been impressive. Every one of their 13 exits has been profitable, with recent exits delivering +10.4%, +13.9%, and +35.0% net annualized returns.

And as of today, they’ve sold over $45 million in art and delivered the returns to investors.

The best part, nine of those successful exits came in 2022, while nearly every other market was going down.

With over 750 million AUM and over 200 paintings already offered, Masterworks is revolutionizing the art investing world, by opening up this one private, secretive “billionaire’s market” to investors all around the globe.

Masterworks makes art investing easy

With Masterworks, there’s no need to scour galleries or learn the intricacies of the art market, because they handle the entire investing process for you.

They source iconic pieces, conduct due diligence, negotiate the purchase and store each piece carefully to preserve it in pristine condition.

If you decide to invest, it can typically take 3-10 years for Masterworks to sell, making this a solid, long-term passive investment. You can also try to lock in faster returns by selling your shares on the secondary market.

Either way, their research shows that allocating at least 5% of your portfolio to art offers the chance to improve the growth and stability of your portfolio.

Are you confident in this rally?

No one really knows what the future holds for the stock market. But persistently high inflation and trouble in the banking sector has many high profile analysts predicting a recession right around the corner.

Which means the next leg down in both the stock and bond markets could be right around the corner.

In fact, The Wall Street Journal is even warning we could be in for another “Lost Decade in Stocks.”

Which is why it’s important that you take steps to help protect your portfolio by diversifying into assets that are uncorrelated to the stock market.

Masterworks can help and getting started is simple. Simply click the link below and it will take you to a short application page that should take you less than two minutes to complete.

As soon as you’re approved, you’ll get access to all their latest offerings, which can include paintings from iconic artists like Banksy and Picasso.

Ready to invest like a Billionaire?

Right now we have over 650,000 members waiting for access to our next offerings, which means the most popular offerings can sell out in minutes.

But because you’re a reader of The World Financial Review, you’re invited to skip the waitlist with this exclusive link.

Membership is free and it only takes a few minutes to apply.

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Embracing Sustainability: Greening the Supply Chain in the United States

June 7, 2023

By Jerry Haar

The drive towards green supply chain management in the US is halfway towards achieving success. Industry leaders have made sustainability a priority, but there still exists a gap in the alignment of goals between smaller suppliers, who occasionally lack the resources make supply chains more eco-friendly.

On 28 May, the Biden administration announced it had reached an agreement with 13 other countries in the Indo-Pacific region to coordinate supply chains in an effort to lessen the countries’ dependence on China for critical products and allow them to better weather crises like wars, pandemics, and climate change.

The aim of green supply chain practices is to help industries reduce their carbon emissions and minimise waste while maximising profit.

The term “supply chains” itself rose to prominence in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially due to the severe production and distribution problems surrounding personal protection equipment, followed by shortages and shipping disruptions of consumer and industrial goods, most notably semiconductors.

Beyond operational issues surrounding supply chains, all supply chains are challenged by sustainability. Today, sustainability is usually understood as “green” supply chain management; and supply chains, recognisably, have a far greater impact on the environment than any other part of their operations.

The aim of green supply chain practices is to help industries reduce their carbon emissions and minimise waste while maximising profit. A good example is the use of paper instead of plastic (a petroleum-based product). Not only is rethinking input materials one way of utilising and implementing green supply chain practices, but so are reusing waste or by-products, curtailing packaging, redesigning processes, and optimising transport.

In addition, there are links between improved environmental performance and financial gains. General Motors, for example, reduced disposal costs by $12 million by establishing a reusable container programme with its suppliers.

Just what is the current status of the adoption of GSCM in the United States, in general?

Due to more environmental awareness among the general population, the public sentiment and pressure from activists is forcing many organisations to adopt green practices in various parts of their value chain¹. Organisations have realised the environmental impact of their practices and have become more conscious of their corporate and social responsibilities².

Indeed, major industry players have been taking significant steps towards sustainable supply chain management practices. To illustrate, Gartner, a technological research and consulting firm, released their annual report entitled “Global Supply Chain Top 25”, in which companies were scored on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives³. This report identified 19 companies (out of the top 25) that achieved the highest-possible ESG scores, and among them were industry leaders such as Cisco Systems, Schneider Electric, PepsiCo, Intel, and more.

Just what are are the primary forces and factors that are driving green supply chain adoption and implementation?

Since the late 2000s, the adoption of green supply chains has been propelled by a number of drivers. In a review of drivers of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM), German logistics researcher Muhammad Saeed and Wolfgang Kersten⁴ classified external and internal factors responsible, which can broadly be summarised as follows: (1) external drivers (market pressures, societal pressures, regulatory pressures) and (2) internal drivers (corporate strategy, organisational culture, organisational resources, organisational characteristics).

Recognisably, there are primary forces and factors impeding green supply chain adoption and implementation. In a recent literature review by Leffering and Trienekens for Business Management and Organisation Group (BMO)⁵, the authors identified three key barriers to green supply chain management adoption, namely: (1) implementation cost of sustainability in the supply chain; (2) supply-side obstacles; and (3) lack of governmental subsidies. A more comprehensive list of barriers compiled by Leffering and Trienekens is found in the chart below:

In 2021, the Biden administration signed Executive Order 14017 on America’s Supply Chains, ambitiously titled “Plan to Revitalize American Manufacturing and Secure Critical Supply Chains in 2022”. The plan intended to make American supply chains more sustainable and resilient, with a greater environmental impact.

In 2021, MIT’s Center for Transportation and Logistics (MIT CTL) and the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) published a “State of Supply Chain Sustainability”, research providing insight into the barriers that 20 enterprises face to the successful adoption of sustainable supply chains in the United States⁶. Most of the interviewees cited that developing partnerships and bringing suppliers on to the same page with regard to sustainability is the key challenge. This is because the expectations and enthusiasm related to GSCM between the supplier and manufacturer may vary widely. Often, these suppliers are small enterprises with a different set of priorities and concerns from the environment.

Next, industry leaders typically deal with large and complex supply chains, which complicates reviewing whether the standards set by policy and supplier codes of conduct for sustainability are followed to satisfaction or not. Additionally, any transgressions on the suppliers’ side do end up harming the corporate customers as well, creating further challenges to identifying and managing risks to the company.

For instance, Toyota has managed to create a sustainable global chain accounting for human rights, labour environments, and the natural environment in all regions from which they source materials⁷.

save the planet When it comes to greening of supply chains and the role of government, it is not surprising that, as with all major issues with broad implications for public policy, the federal government plays an important role.

While many state legislatures have regulations and policies in place affecting GSMC adoption, it is the regulatory authority of the federal government that has wide-ranging impact. The US General Services Administration (GSA) has recognised the need to reduce energy and environmental footprints and hence collaborates with industry partners to create best practices for supply chain management in the services provided to the federal government. This is a case of leading by example, whereby all government contractors are expected to abide by green supply chain management practices.

supply chain As an example, GSA has been a member of CDP Supply Chain, a third-party supply chain disclosure system, since 2015. Surprisingly, government contractors are not required to report their energy and environmental performance data through CDP. In fact, only a small proportion of these contracts report their sustainability impact performance.

On the other hand, in 2021, the Biden administration signed Executive Order 14017 on America’s Supply Chains, ambitiously titled “Plan to Revitalize American Manufacturing and Secure Critical Supply Chains in 2022”. Broadly, the plan intended to make American supply chains more sustainable and resilient, with a greater environmental impact. The 2022 report, based on four 100-day supply chain reviews, shows that while there are significant accomplishments in certain areas, much more needs to be done, particularly in the GSCM for mining and energy sectors.

We have yet to see a collaboration between the government, NGOs, and large and small private enterprises such that all parties operate harmoniously with the same goal of sustainable supply chains.

The administration’s plan promotes investments in sustainable domestic production and processing of rare minerals and carbon fibre, while ensuring that the US can rely on multiple sources. The administration has updated mining regulations and reformed mining laws to account for sustainable and responsible practices. The core responsibilities have been assigned to the Department of Energy (DOE), which is tasked with creating an integrated “mine waste”, critical element extraction, separation, and refinery plants. Additionally, in February of 2022, the Mining Innovations for Negative Emissions Resources (MINER) Program of DOE made available $44 million in funding for “commercial-ready technologies that give the United States a net-zero or net negative emissions pathway toward increased domestic supplies of copper, nickel, lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements, and other critical elements required for a clean energy transition”⁸. The impact that this plan would have on GSCM in the US remains to be evaluated.

Congress also plays a role in supply chain management as they, as well as the executive branch, are concerned with GSCM adoption, as it has taken steps to make US supply chains more sustainable. In June 2021, Representative Tim Ryan (D-Ohio) introduced the Critical Supply Chains Commission Act, in the wake of recent supply chain shortages and failures during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill proposes setting up a National Commission on Critical Supply Chains that can address the current gaps in US supply chains, exposed during the pandemic and consequences, to help make them more sustainable, robust, and resilient. Admittedly, the bill did not advance beyond the assigned sub-committee, but it clearly shows the interest of legislature in intervening in American supply chains and their long-term sustainability.

warehouse Overall, the state of GSCM in the US is halfway towards achieving success. From private corporations’ perspective, industry leaders have made sustainability a priority and are revamping their supply chains to make them greener. But there does indeed exist a gap in the alignment of goals between smaller suppliers, who occasionally lack the resources to institute changes in traditional supply chains to make them more eco-friendly, or small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) who have to maintain capital for day-to-day operations and need profits to fund growth, thereby being unable to prioritise sustainability ⁹.

On the administrative front, the US government has become more aware of the need for sustainable supply chains.. However, we have yet to see a collaboration between the government, NGOs, and large and small private enterprises such that all parties operate harmoniously with the same goal of sustainable supply chains. An alliance of this nature is essential to achieving further progress on GSCM.

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About the Author

Jerry Haar is a professor of international business and executive director for the Americas in Florida International University’s College of Business. He is also a global fellow of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, DC.

References

Staying Safe When Using Online Casinos

June 7, 2023

Every year sees a growing number of people sign up to gamble online, with the online casino industry making huge waves all over the world. Better technology has helped make online casinos more convenient and safer, with encryption and mobile gaming, in particular, providing a boost to the industry. A lot of people, including those that have never gambled before, are now getting involved and trying out lots of exciting new games.

Online gambling is undeniably exciting and more popular than ever. However, we mustn’t overlook the importance of playing responsibly and ensuring our safety throughout the experience. Before you dive in and start claiming bonuses and spinning the reels of your favorite slots, it’s highly recommended that you thoroughly investigate the website’s credibility and trustworthiness. Taking this step can provide you with peace of mind. Here’s where you’ll find our valuable advice to help you stay secure while enjoying your experience.

Choosing a Safe Online Casino

Making sure you sign up to a safe and trusted online casino is the most important step to take if you want to start playing online casino games. There are now thousands of online gambling platforms available, so knowing which one to choose can be difficult. Thankfully, you can look at a casino rank site, which lists the top casinos available in your location.

Casino sites typically review online casinos to help players learn more about the options available to them. This includes looking at what the casino has to offer and its safety and security. Before you start playing, it’s a good idea to check out a few reviews to learn what to expect. You can receive an unbiased opinion and learn whether or not the casino is safe to use.

Aside from reviews, it’s also important to look at the license that the casino holds. All online casinos need to be licensed in order to operate legally, and the type of license needed will depend on where you live. A licence shows that the gambling site has had to adhere to specific rules and regulations in order to keep players safe.

Making Casino Payments

If you’re playing for real money, you need to make deposits and withdrawals once you’ve signed into your casino account. All good casinos should support lots of different payment methods so it’s easy for you to add funds in a safe and secure way. Before you do so, it’s a good idea to always check that the connection is secure and that the page is encrypted.

To keep your money safe, the best thing you can do is use a payment method that’s designed around safety. For example, you probably should avoid payment methods where you need to enter your card or bank details. Instead, it’s best to use an eWallet, which prioritizes safety and is made for online payments. If you use PayPal for casino deposits, you simply need to log into your account and confirm the payment.

Playing Responsibly

Playing casino games is fun because of the risk and reward aspect. Our brains are naturally hardwired to derive pleasure from achieving rewards through taking risks. When you win big while playing a casino game, it produces chemicals in your brain which make you want to do it again.

However, it’s important to approach casino games logically. The casino always has an advantage, and no matter how much you play, there’s always the risk of losing money too. To carefully manage this risk and avoid getting into financial difficulty, be sure to play responsibly, never betting more than you can afford to lose.

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Masterworks CFO Nigel Glenday on Why Art Investments Are So Effective for Hedging Inflation

June 7, 2023

Inflation, the economic phenomenon that erodes the purchasing power of money, is a persistent concern for investors worldwide. It’s particularly pertinent in today’s economic climate, where inflation rates are on the rise in many parts of the world.

Traditionally, investors have sought refuge in assets like gold or real estate to hedge against inflation. However, one asset class that has remained largely inaccessible to the average investor is fine art.

This is where Masterworks, a groundbreaking platform, steps in. It allows individuals to buy shares in masterpieces, effectively democratizing the art investment market.

By doing so, the platform also provides a new avenue for hedging against inflation. Nigel Glenday, the Chief Financial Officer of Masterworks, recently appeared on The David Lin Report, to talk about why art valuations are largely immune to currency fluctuations.

Blue-Chip Art Has Limited Supply, and Demand Is Steady

In the interview with Lin, Glenday shed light on some of the unique dynamics of art investments.

“You’ve got an asset that has relative scarcity… and on the other side of that, you have a wave of demand that’s coming from capital accumulating among the ultra-high net worth globally,” he said.

This supply and demand dynamic, particularly for works of artists who are no longer alive, creates a pattern of appreciation over time. As grim (and as obvious) as it may sound, artists who have passed away cannot saturate the market with additional artwork.

The scarcity of these artworks, coupled with growing demand from wealthy investors, creates a rare investment opportunity. This dynamic is particularly relevant in the context of economic inflation, where tangible assets that can hold their value are highly sought after.

Art as a Tangible Asset Against Inflation

One of the key reasons why art investments are effective for hedging inflation is their tangible nature. Glenday emphasized, “We’re talking about a tangible asset that doesn’t have a coupon or cash flow associated with it, that can either be inflated away or be impacted by FX rates.”

This means that, unlike stocks or bonds, the value of art does not depend on the performance of a company or government, but on its inherent worth.

Furthermore, the value of art is not directly tied to the fluctuations of the economy, making it a resilient investment choice during inflationary periods. This is because the value of art is determined by factors such as its historical significance, the reputation of the artist, and its aesthetic appeal, none of which are affected by economic conditions.

As such, it can serve as a shield against the erosive effects of inflation, preserving the wealth of investors even in challenging economic times.

The Border-Crossing Resilience of the Art Market

The art market has shown remarkable resilience (particularly the $1m+ market), even during economic downturns and inflationary periods. “Art is a global asset,” Glenday noted, “…[so] we see that type of behavior in a variety of different regions where we see macroeconomic uncertainty.”

This global nature of the art market allows for the mitigation of macroeconomic pressures in any one region, making it a safe haven for investors during times of economic distress. Furthermore, the demand for art comes from a segment of the population who are especially resilient to GDP or inflation measures over time.

“Art is a global asset. You can buy your painting in New York, you can fly to Hong Kong, sell it there, sell it in London, you can sell it across currencies,” explained Glenday. “That creates a natural mitigation to macroeconomic pressures in any one region.” This international aspect of the art market provides additional layers of security and potential for profit for investors.”

In other words, the demand (and liquidity) of fine art is not correlated to the global stock market as much as some of the other safe-haven assets. Moreover, the appreciation of art is not just a phenomenon observed in the domestic market. It’s a global trend, with art markets around the world witnessing similar patterns.

Art Appreciation in High Inflationary Periods

According to the Masterworks All Art Index, contemporary art prices have appreciated by roughly 17.5% during recent periods of high inflation. This significantly outpaced the S&P 500, and the price appreciation of other assets such as gold, during the same period.

This strong performance of art during inflationary periods underscores its potential as an effective hedge against inflation. On top of this, Nigel Glenday and the rest of the Masterworks team encourage their customers to hold on to their investments for the long term.

As within many sectors, fluctuations can occur over the short term, but you drastically increase your odds of making a stronger profit the longer you hold your investment.

With that said, the Masterworks platform does offer a secondary market that allows peer-to-peer trading for easier access to liquidity. “We guide our investors to thinking about liquidity horizons in terms of the resale of the art at three to ten years,” said Glenday. “But you have two paths to liquidity: you have the resale of the art and then also secondary markets on top of that.”

Final Word

As Glenday pointed out during his recent interview, investing in art can be an effective hedge against inflation due to its scarcity, tangible nature, border-agnostic appeal, resilient demand, and appreciation potential.

However, it’s important to note that art is a long-term investment and should be considered as part of a diversified investment portfolio, and no asset class is completely devoid of risk. With platforms like Masterworks making art investment more accessible, it’s an exciting time for investors looking for innovative ways to hedge their bets and protect their investments.

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Why Economy Parking at MCI is the Smart Choice for Budget-Conscious Travelers?

June 7, 2023

Economy parking is a great option for budget-conscious travelers looking to save money on their travel plans. MCI Airport offers economy parking, which provides a convenient and cost-effective way to park at the airport. Economy parking is often the best choice for travelers on a budget. It offers travelers a convenient, inexpensive way to park their cars while away.

Economy parking lots usually offer a secure, well-lit environment, and many feature shuttle services to and from the airport. These lots are usually located close to the airport, as well as to other areas of the city, making them a great option for travelers who may have to take a cab or public transportation to their destination. Prices are often much lower than those of other parking options, and many lots offer discounts to customers who pay in advance. Economy parking is a great option for those looking for a reliable, cost-effective way to park their car. You can find different types of parking services by popping over here.

One of the main benefits of economy parking at MCI is its accessibility and convenience. Economy parking is located just a short distance from the airport terminal, making it easy to access. Additionally, the lot is well-lit and offers free shuttle service to and from the terminals. This makes it a great option for those who don’t want to walk long distances or take a taxi or other transportation to the airport.

The primary benefit of economy parking at MCI is its cost. The cost of economy parking is significantly lower than the cost of other parking options at the airport, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. The daily rate for economy parking is only $7, which is much less than the daily rate for other lots. Additionally, economy parking offers discounts for travelers who plan on parking for multiple days.

Another benefit of economy parking at MCI is the safety and security provided. The lot is regularly patrolled by airport security and is equipped with security cameras. Additionally, the lot is well-lit, making it easier to spot any suspicious activity. This makes it a great option for travelers who want to feel secure when leaving their vehicle at the airport.

The economy parking lot at MCI also offers great customer service. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they are always willing to answer any questions travelers may have. Additionally, the staff is very knowledgeable about the airport and the various parking options available, which makes it easy for travelers to make informed decisions.

Economy parking at MCI is the smart choice for budget-conscious travelers. The lot is easily accessible and offers excellent customer service. Additionally, the cost of economy parking is significantly lower than other parking options, and the lot is well-lit and secure. Overall, economy parking at MCI provides an affordable and convenient option for travelers who are looking to save money on their travel plans.

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