Latest news with #businesssolutions
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Service Excellence Propels Commonwealth to Twelfth Consecutive #1 Ranking from J.D. Power for Independent Advisor Satisfaction
Advisor feedback about what helps advance practices is the heart of the Commonwealth service model. WALTHAM, Mass., July 16, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Commonwealth Financial Network®, a national RIA dedicated to providing financial advisors with holistic, integrated business solutions, ranks "#1 in Independent Advisor Satisfaction Among Financial Investment Firms 12 Times in a Row" by J.D. Power. Commonwealth received an overall satisfaction score of 834 on a 1,000-point scale, outpacing the next-highest-ranked firm in the segment by 93 points, according to the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Financial Advisor Satisfaction Study℠. In addition to its overall #1 ranking, Commonwealth achieved the highest score in every reported key driver of advisor satisfaction—compensation, leadership and culture, professional development, products and marketing, operational support, and technology. In expressing his gratitude to Commonwealth advisors, Wayne Bloom, CEO of Commonwealth, said, "Thank you to the most productive Advisors in the industry for the decades of essential feedback that have helped build the foundational ethos of continuous improvement, which has driven us to a dozen consecutive #1 rankings. You have consistently shared how to make it easier for you to do business, how to enhance your client relationships, and how to elevate your practices—and it has been this feedback that has fueled each of our #1 rankings! And as gratifying as they are, nothing compares to the satisfaction of helping you grow your business and supporting you as you help your clients achieve their dreams and goals. This is the heart of the Commonwealth model." Commonwealth is embarking on an evolution as it prepares to join LPL Financial later this year. "We have succeeded because we've evolved to meet our Advisors' needs. That's never been truer than now, as we launch this community into our next chapter," said Bloom. "I've seen Advisors' questions about the future turn into excitement because they know they will gain access to LPL's scale, capital opportunities, robust solutions, and expert resources. Advisors will continue to benefit from the award-winning service model they've come to know and love, with all these additions to help them succeed." "We are now building the Commonwealth of the future with our partners at LPL—powered by the best of both firms and designed to innovate in a constantly changing industry," added Bloom. About Commonwealth Financial Network® Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser, provides financial advisors with holistic, integrated solutions that support business evolution, growth acceleration, and operational efficiency. J.D. Power ranks Commonwealth "#1 in Independent Advisor Satisfaction Among Financial Investment Firms, 12 Times in a Row."* Founded in 1979, the firm has headquarters in Waltham, Massachusetts, and San Diego, California, and an operations hub in Blue Ash, Ohio. Learn more about how Commonwealth partners with approximately 2,345 independent financial advisors overseeing more than $344 billion** in assets nationwide by visiting *Commonwealth received the highest score among independent advisors in the J.D. Power 2010, 2012–2014, and 2018‒2025 U.S. Financial Advisor Satisfaction Studies. Presented on July 16, 2025, for December 2024 to April of 2025, it is based on responses from 3,698 advisors employed by or affiliated with the firms included in the study. Not indicative of the firm's future performance. Your experience may vary. Study is independently conducted, and the participating firms do not pay to participate. Use of study results in promotional materials is subject to a license fee. Visit for more details. **As of 12/31/2024 View source version on Contacts For additional information, contact:Sarah Baun781.464.7138sbaun@ Public Relations ManagerCommonwealth Financial Sign in to access your portfolio
Zawya
16-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar: Al Baida Group, Elm sign deal to support digital transformation
DOHA: Al Baida Group, one of Qatar's leading multi-sector companies, has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Elm Company, a Saudi pioneer in delivering innovative digital solutions. The agreement aims to strengthen joint collaboration in executing digital transformation projects for both public and private entities in the State of Qatar. The MoU was signed during Elm's delegation visit to Qatar on July 14–15, which included a series of meetings with various ministries and government agencies. These engagements provided a platform to showcase Elm's capabilities and explore future collaboration opportunities that align with Qatar's vision for digital transformation, technological innovation, and the development of business solutions that enhance the quality of life in the country. The MoU aims to unify efforts and identify avenues for cooperation across several domains, including professional services (consulting, data analytics, and artificial intelligence), digital services, business support services, and training. This partnership leverages Elm's extensive expertise in the Saudi and regional markets, along with Al Baida Group's solid presence in the Qatari market for over five decades. Commenting on the occasion, Eng. Ali bin Abdul Latif Al Mesned, Chairman of Al Baida Group, stated: 'This memorandum represents a strategic step toward enhancing Gulf-wide collaboration in the field of digitalization, in line with the national vision of Qatar and the broader GCC region, and its pursuit of accelerating the adoption of modern technologies and integrated government services.' It is worth noting that Elm is a publicly listed Saudi joint-stock company on the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul), with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) as its majority shareholder. It is considered one of the region's most prominent companies in digital transformation. Al Baida Group, on the other hand, is one of Qatar's largest companies, operating across several vital sectors including consultancy, construction, education, and logistics, with a workforce of over 4,000 employees. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Geeky Gadgets
03-07-2025
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
MUNBYN RealWriter 402B Review: Compact Thermal Label Printing Excellence
In the increasingly complex world of e-commerce fulfillment and small business operations, thermal label printing has become essential infrastructure rather than luxury equipment. The MUNBYN RealWriter 402B positions itself as a compelling solution for businesses seeking professional-grade printing capabilities without enterprise-level complexity or cost. Currently available at £89.99 (47% off the £169.99 retail price) or $99.99 (41% off the $169.99 retail price) depending on your location. This compact thermal printer promises to deliver high-resolution output, wireless connectivity, and broad platform integration in a desktop-friendly form factor. Design and Build Quality The RealWriter 402B adopts a deliberately minimalist approach to thermal printer design. Available in black or white configurations, the unit maintains clean lines and a compact footprint that integrates seamlessly into modern workspace environments. The printer measures approximately 8.5 inches in length, making it suitable for crowded desks or shipping stations where space optimization is critical. Build quality reflects MUNBYN's focus on practical durability rather than premium materials. The housing uses robust plastic construction that feels solid without unnecessary weight. The top-loading design provides easy access to the label roll compartment, while the front-facing controls remain intuitive for daily operation. The overall aesthetic prioritizes function over form, which aligns perfectly with its intended use case in busy fulfillment environments. Performance and Printing Capabilities The technical specifications reveal where the RealWriter 402B establishes its competitive advantage. With a printing speed of 180 mm per second and 203 DPI resolution, the printer delivers output quality that rivals units costing significantly more. This combination ensures that shipping labels, product tags, and barcodes maintain crisp text and scannable codes even at high throughput rates. The automatic calibration system represents a significant operational advantage. Rather than requiring manual adjustments for different label types, the printer automatically detects label dimensions and adjusts positioning accordingly. This feature eliminates common printing errors and reduces setup time when switching between label formats. Intelligent self-test and paper return functions add another layer of reliability. The printer performs diagnostic checks upon startup and can automatically reposition labels if feeding issues occur. For businesses processing hundreds of labels daily, these automated features translate directly into reduced downtime and improved consistency. Wireless Connectivity and Platform Integration The Bluetooth wireless connection eliminates the cable management challenges that plague traditional thermal printers. The 'MUNBYN Print' app provides the primary interface for iOS and Android devices, enabling direct printing from mobile platforms. This capability proves particularly valuable for businesses managing inventory or fulfillment operations away from desktop computers. Windows laptop compatibility via Bluetooth extends the wireless functionality to laptop-based operations, while Mac users can connect using the included USB cable. The built-in driver architecture means the printer operates as a plug-and-play device without requiring additional software installation or USB drive dependencies. Platform compatibility spans the major e-commerce and shipping ecosystems including Amazon, eBay, Shopify, USPS, UPS, Etsy, PayPal, and Poshmark. The workflow involves downloading labels from these platforms and uploading them to the MUNBYN Print app, creating a unified printing interface regardless of the originating platform. Versatility and Label Format Support Beyond basic shipping label functionality, the RealWriter 402B functions as a comprehensive custom label maker. The printer accommodates label widths ranging from 1.57 inches to 4.3 inches, covering most common business labeling requirements. This flexibility enables creation of barcodes, product labels, thank you stickers, QR code stickers, business tags, and name tags directly through the mobile app. The thermal printing technology eliminates ink and toner costs, reducing ongoing operational expenses to label stock purchases only. This cost structure becomes particularly advantageous for high-volume operations where consumable costs can significantly impact margins. Software Experience and User Interface The MUNBYN Print app serves as the central control interface for the printer. The application provides template libraries for common label types, custom design tools for branded labels, and batch printing capabilities for large orders. The user interface prioritizes simplicity over advanced features, making it accessible for users without graphic design experience. Template customization options include text formatting, logo integration, and barcode generation. While not as comprehensive as dedicated design software, the app provides sufficient flexibility for most small business labeling requirements. The ability to save frequently used designs streamlines repetitive printing tasks. Real-World Application Scenarios The RealWriter 402B excels in several specific use cases. E-commerce sellers benefit from the seamless integration with major platforms and the ability to process shipping labels quickly during peak fulfillment periods. The wireless connectivity enables flexible positioning within shipping areas without cable constraints. Small retail operations can leverage the custom label creation capabilities for product pricing, inventory management, and promotional stickers. The high-resolution output ensures that barcodes remain scannable even on smaller label formats, maintaining operational efficiency. Event organizers and small businesses find value in the name tag and business card capabilities, while the QR code generation features support modern contactless interaction requirements. Cost Analysis and Value Proposition At the current sale price of £89.99 or $99.99, the RealWriter 402B delivers exceptional value relative to comparable thermal printers. The elimination of ink and toner costs creates ongoing savings that compound over time, particularly for businesses with consistent labeling requirements. The 47% to 41% discount from the £169.99 retail price makes this an opportune time for businesses to upgrade from inkjet or laser-based labeling solutions. The payback period for most small businesses ranges from 3-6 months based on consumable cost savings alone. Limitations and Considerations The RealWriter 402B does have certain limitations that potential buyers should consider. Mac compatibility requires USB connection rather than Bluetooth, which may limit placement flexibility for Mac-based operations. The label width maximum of 4.3 inches restricts use for larger format applications. The mobile app, while functional, lacks the advanced design capabilities found in professional label design software. Businesses requiring complex graphics or detailed branding may need to supplement with external design tools. Technical Support and Reliability MUNBYN provides comprehensive technical support with a 24-hour response commitment. The company's support infrastructure appears well-equipped to handle common setup and operational questions. The built-in driver architecture reduces compatibility issues that often plague thermal printer deployments. The thermal printing mechanism itself offers inherent reliability advantages over ink-based systems, with fewer mechanical components subject to failure or maintenance requirements. Final Verdict The MUNBYN RealWriter 402B represents a compelling solution for small to medium businesses requiring reliable, cost-effective thermal printing capabilities. The combination of wireless connectivity, broad platform compatibility, and high-resolution output addresses the core requirements of modern e-commerce and retail operations. The current pricing makes this printer an excellent entry point for businesses transitioning from manual labeling or expensive consumable-based printing solutions. While it may not satisfy every advanced use case, the RealWriter 402B delivers practical functionality that directly impacts operational efficiency and cost management. For businesses processing moderate to high volumes of shipping labels, product tags, or custom stickers, the RealWriter 402B offers professional capabilities at a consumer-friendly price point. The 47% discount presents an opportune moment to upgrade labeling infrastructure with minimal capital investment. The printer succeeds by focusing on core functionality rather than attempting to serve every possible use case. This targeted approach results in a reliable, efficient tool that integrates seamlessly into existing business workflows while providing the foundation for future growth and operational scaling. Filed Under: Gadgets News, Hardware, Reviews Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Fast Company
19-06-2025
- Business
- Fast Company
Why building bigger from the start is the smarter bet
For two decades, conventional startup wisdom followed a simple mantra: Build one killer feature, win a devoted audience, and expand later. Startup luminaries like Paul Graham and Sam Altman championed this approach. They argued it was better to start small, focus narrowly, and earn the right to grow. Many of today's most iconic companies followed this path, launching with a single tool that eventually evolved into a suite. But what if the problem you're solving doesn't fit neatly into one feature? What if starting small just means setting yourself up to rebuild everything later? In an increasingly complex world, customers no longer have patience for point solutions or disconnected workflows. They expect products to understand how their systems work and to match that reality with integrated, end-to-end experiences. That's why a new model is emerging. The rise of the compound startup The 'compound startup,' a term popularized by Rippling CEO Parker Conrad, describes a company that builds multiple, deeply integrated products from day one. In a January interview with Y Combinator CEO Garry Tan, Conrad explained that the goal of a compound startup is to address systems of problems, not just isolated pain points. It is a model built for how people and businesses actually operate. Most business functions don't exist in a vacuum. In Rippling's case, payroll connects to benefits, onboarding, compliance, IT provisioning, and more. Customers don't want to piece together tools to manage each of those functions. They want a system that works together out of the box. At april, we didn't just stitch together a few tax tools. We built an entire suite of products from the ground up. Filing, forecasting, planning, optimization—all designed to work in sync, and all tailored to distinct taxpayer segments like investors, small business owners, gig workers, and everyday banking customers. We chose to build in tax, one of the most complex, fragmented, and regulated categories in fintech, because the problem demanded a compound solution. Tax laws shift constantly. Each state and jurisdiction operates differently. We could have licensed a white-label provider and shipped faster. Instead, we built our own tax engine, became the first new nationally licensed e-file provider in more than 15 years, and now operate a full-stack platform with fewer external dependencies. That decision has given us speed, adaptability, and product depth our partners can't find elsewhere. Why compound startups make more sense today The shift toward compound startups isn't just philosophical. It's practical. Today's challenges rarely sit in one lane. Managing personal finances touches tax, payroll, planning, and compliance. Running a business involves HR, inventory, scheduling, payments, and reporting—all at once. Point solutions force users to become their own system integrators. They juggle multiple tools, manage disconnected data, and learn mismatched interfaces. Compound startups flip that script. They build coherence into the product architecture itself and unlock several key advantages: Unified data: Integrated platforms break down silos and allow smarter decision making across use cases. At april, data moves with consent across workflows, powering real-time tax insights, planning simulations, and filing automation. Shared UX patterns: A consistent interface builds user trust and reduces friction. Most april users complete their return in under 23 minutes—a far cry from the 13-hour average reported by the IRS. Durable switching costs: When workflows span multiple integrated tools, the platform becomes stickier and more valuable as a whole. Platform-wide network effects: When more users adopt more of the suite, value compounds across use cases. Compound startups don't just solve tasks. They solve workflows. And that makes them more durable, more useful, and more differentiated in crowded markets. The long-term payoff Of course, this approach comes with tradeoffs. Building multiple products in parallel strains focus and burns capital faster. It forces earlier decisions around architecture, compliance, and team structure. It's not the right move for every startup. But for founders tackling systems-level problems, the risk of starting too small is greater. You can't increment your way to coherence. We've seen the payoff at april. Our compound architecture has allowed us to respond faster, deliver richer experiences, and scale without compromise. The future is compound The startup playbook is evolving because the problems we're solving have evolved. Systems are messier. Users expect more. Point solutions can't keep up. Founders shouldn't be afraid to build big from the start. The world doesn't need more single-purpose tools. It needs products that actually solve the full problem. The future isn't just compound. It's integrated, full-stack, and built to scale from day one.
National Post
17-06-2025
- Business
- National Post
Paygasus Takes Flight: A New Era of Smart, Seamless Payments
Article content Sorry, your browser doesn't support embedded videos. Article content Industry Leader Evolves from PayZang to Paygasus, Delivering Cutting-Edge Technology and Personalized Solutions for Businesses Worldwide Article content Article content SALT LAKE CITY — Paygasus, the bold evolution of PayZang, has officially launched, marking a new chapter in payment processing. With a relentless focus on innovation and customer-centric solutions, Paygasus is set to transform how businesses handle transactions—whether unattended, digital, or in-person—making every interaction fast, secure, and effortlessly personalized. Article content Paygasus launches with innovative, customer-centric payment solutions. Transforming transactions—unattended, digital, or in-person—with fast, secure, personalized experiences for businesses worldwide. Article content Innovation That Moves You Forward Article content At the heart of Paygasus lies an intelligent, adaptable platform that powers a wide range of payment methods, from traditional cards to digital wallets and private loop cards. Real-time insights give businesses the edge to make smarter, faster decisions, fueling growth and efficiency. Whether you're in retail, public transit, vending, EV charging, or a nonprofit, Paygasus delivers fully customizable solutions that fit your business and satisfy your customers. Article content 'With Paygasus, we're not just rebranding; we're reimagining the future of payments,' said Dharmendra Kumar, CEO of Paygasus. 'Our platform is smart, adaptable, and built for the way businesses and customers connect today—ensuring growth, simplicity, and standout experiences in the digital economy.' Article content This launch brings a suite of game-changing services designed to streamline operations, embrace every payment type, and future-proof businesses with scalable, secure technology. Article content Services That Transform Success Article content Paygasus offers comprehensive and cutting-edge solutions, including: Article content 'Paygasus fuses our trusted legacy with the industry's sharpest innovations,' Kumar added. 'This is your launchpad to more revenue, lower costs, and a front-row seat to the digital economy.' Article content For our existing customers, this transition is seamless—same stellar service, now supercharged. For businesses everywhere, this is your chance to experience payments where innovation meets personalization. Visit to see how we can help your business soar. Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Contacts Article content Media Contact: Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content
