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Hallie Sam

Business

Innovation Under Pressure: Leen Kawas on Small Biotech Advantages in Global Trade Shifts

The rapidly evolving landscape of international trade policies has created distinct challenges for biotechnology companies, yet smaller firms are discovering unique pathways to success. Leen Kawas, Managing General Partner at Propel Bio Partners, reveals how emerging biotech organizations can leverage their inherent characteristics to thrive amid tariff uncertainties.

Small biotech companies face particular vulnerability in the current environment, with market analysis showing these firms are “particularly vulnerable to tariffs, as they rely on imported APIs” and often maintain leaner inventory levels. The implementation of tariffs ranging from 10% to 25% on imports from key regions has significantly disrupted established supply chains and increased operational costs.

However, Leen Kawas identifies specific advantages that set small biotechs apart. These organizations excel at making rapid decisions and implementing changes without the bureaucratic delays that hinder larger competitors. This agility allows them to adapt mitigation strategies within days rather than requiring months for organizational approval processes.

Research confirms the innovative capacity of smaller biotechs, with studies showing they originated 46% of first-in-class cancer drugs approved between 2010 and 2020, compared to just 14% from larger pharmaceutical companies. This innovative mindset extends beyond drug development to creative supply chain management approaches.

Strategic focus represents another critical advantage. Unlike diversified pharmaceutical corporations that manage impacts across numerous product lines, small biotechs can concentrate their resources on protecting core assets through targeted solutions. As Leen Kawas explains, “This focused approach can be advantageous when navigating supply chain disruptions.”

Technology adoption has emerged as an equalizer. Cloud-based supply chain visibility platforms, once exclusive to larger organizations, now enable small biotechs to model tariff scenarios and anticipate disruptions. These tools provide capabilities for proactive rather than reactive management strategies.

Collaborative networks have gained unprecedented significance. Strategic partnerships with contract research organizations and academic institutions create shared resilience against supply chain shocks. These alliances facilitate resource pooling and enhance negotiating power, which is typically unavailable to individual companies.

Foreign Trade Zones offer tactical advantages, allowing companies to defer, reduce, or eliminate tariffs on imported materials. Many emerging biotech companies now establish operations within these zones to maintain competitive cost structures.

Reshoring initiatives reflect long-term strategic thinking. Leen Kawas notes that companies are increasingly evaluating the benefits of domestic or regional manufacturing against the risks associated with vulnerable global supply chains.

Case studies demonstrate successful adaptation. One biotech company established a regional consortium for equipment sharing, effectively distributing tariff burdens; another developed proprietary supply chain analytics, gaining competitive advantages through its rapid response capabilities.

Investment patterns reflect evolving priorities. According to Leen Kawas, “Sophisticated investors now evaluate biotech companies based on their supply chain resilience and strategies for mitigating tariffs.” Demonstrating robust approaches to managing trade barriers has become essential for attracting capital.

Looking forward, Leen Kawas predicts structural changes in biotech development models. Regional innovation clusters are emerging as small biotech companies develop shared infrastructure while maintaining individual agility. These collaborative ecosystems strengthen collective resilience against future disruptions.

“The current trade environment demands adaptation, but adaptation has always been the defining characteristic of successful biotech innovators,” concludes Leen Kawas. Companies that embrace this principle position themselves not merely to survive, but to redefine industry standards in an era of global change.

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Business

Learn about TDS, which is an important part of Indian taxation

How does TDS work?

Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) is a way for the Indian government to receive taxes that makes sure they are paid on time and correctly and with this method, tax is taken out at the source of the income. This means that the person paying taxes takes out a certain portion of the money before sending it to the recipient. This tax is then sent to the government on the person’s account. Pay cheques, interest from banks, professional fees, rent, sales, and bonuses are all types of income that are subject to TDS. The idea behind TDS is to collect tax at the exact point where income is made. This makes it less likely that people will not pay their taxes and makes sure that the government always has money coming in.

Why is TDS important, and who is responsible?

TDS is a very important part of keeping India’s tax system running smoothly. It makes sure that taxes are paid in a responsible way and helps people avoid having to make big payments at the end of the year. By taking out taxes at the source, the government lowers the chance that people won’t pay them and makes it easier to get money.

Employers, banks, businesses and other groups that make payments that are subject to TDS rules must take TDS out of those payments and leave it with the government but following TDS rules incorrectly can result in big fines, such as interest charges for late payments and extra tax obligations.

Conclusion

Every person needs to know what is TDS is because it has a direct effect on their tax responsibilities and financial planning, TDS makes it easier to collect taxes and helps the Indian tax system work well by making sure that deductions and payments are made on time. Taxpayers need to keep track of their TDS payments to check them with Form 26AS and ask for returns if too much tax was taken out.

People and companies can stay in line with TDS rules and laws and minimise their tax obligations by staying up to date on them; for paid workers, making sure their boss correctly deducts TDS and sends Form 16 on time is very important for filing their taxes and in the same way, business owners, freelancers, and experts must make sure they reduce and send TDS on all funds that apply to stay out of trouble with the law.

TDS is an important part of paying taxes, so it helps stop people from not paying their fair share and keeps people financially responsible. When taxpayers understand how TDS works, they can better handle their money, pay less tax, and help make India’s tax system stronger and more clear.

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Finance

How to Earn ₹1 Lakh Per Month from Home – Top Online Money-Making Ideas

It may seem difficult at first to find a legitimate source of income that could draw in ₹1 Lakh a month from home, but with the right plan, achieving it is quite possible. Several people have begun earning well from online income streams without having to spend any money to initiate income feasibility.

Whether you want to monetise existing skills or explore new opportunities, several proven methods can help you achieve this goal. If you’re serious about building a high-earning career from home and want to know how to earn 1 lakh per month, read on to discover the best ways to get started.

Understanding What It Takes

Earn money working from home with fields that pay over ₹1 lakh monthly, but this does not happen overnight. It requires research, planning, honing your skills, working smart, tracking what works, and patience.

  • In-demand and monetisable skills
  • Consistent hard work
  • Marketing yourself cleverly
  • Tracking income streams to double down on what works
  • Patience and perseverance

Top Online Ideas to Earn ₹1 Lakh Per Month

Here are some of the most lucrative ideas on how to earn money online at home:

1. Referral Programs

Referral programs allow individuals to earn money working from home by connecting people with relevant services. Many businesses offer referral incentives, making it a viable way to generate income without investment. One such opportunity is the IDFC MyFIRST Partner Program, where individuals can refer personal loans and earn commissions on successful disbursals.

2. Freelancing

Freelancing simply means working independently and selling your skills or services to multiple clients. Depending on your area of expertise, you can offer services like:

  • Content Writing
  • Graphic Design
  • Digital Marketing
  • Video Editing
  • Web Development

With time and effort, you can build up high-paying international clients that help you earn money working from home. Top freelancing skills take time to build but can pay very well in the long run.

3. Become a Social Media Influencer

If you can create high-engagement content, you can leverage social media platforms to earn money. Ways to monetise include:

  • Sponsored Posts: Companies pay you to promote their products
  • Affiliate Marketing: Earn commission by selling other brands through links
  • YouTube Monetisation: Put ads on your videos to earn per view/click
  • Selling Your Own Products: Design merch, online courses, ebooks etc.

Building a large audience takes time. But once established, social media influencing can easily help you earn over ₹1 lakh monthly.

4. Dropshipping Business

In dropshipping, products are sold to the customer without the seller having to hold any inventory, as suppliers ship directly to the buyer. It can, however, become a passive income stream if marketed and branded appropriately to keep growing.

5. Stock Market Trading

If you have an appetite for risk and a knack for analysing market trends, stock trading can help you earn over ₹1 lakh monthly. However, you need to be strategic and disciplined to generate consistent profits. Having a solid risk management strategy is key.

Bottom Line

Now you know how to earn money from home without any investment, but building a work-from-home career that pays over ₹1 lakh per month requires diligence, smart work and patience. Depending on your skills and business model, reaching this level can take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years.

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Business

Breaking Down Silos: Jack Truong’s Formula for Building Cohesive Corporate Cultures

In today’s hypercompetitive business environment, the difference between thriving enterprises and stagnant organizations often comes down to one critical factor: corporate culture. Few executives understand this reality better than Jack Truong, whose three-decade career transforming underperforming businesses has been built on dismantling what he identifies as the greatest detriment to organizational success—siloed workplaces.

“Siloed workplaces may be the biggest detriment to building a culture of success,” Truong explains. “They are inefficient, deter collaboration, and prevent the company from understanding and then responding quickly to market changes and shifts in demand.”

Throughout his tenures at corporate giants including 3M, Electrolux, and James Hardie, Truong has developed a reputation for revitalizing corporate cultures by fostering environments where cross-functional teams collaborate rather than compete. His approach, which he calls “The foreman and Norman,” establishes open communication channels where all team members can voice their opinions before leadership makes final decisions.

“You want to create the environment at the beginning where all people voice their opinions and voice their questions, concerns, and then so that you get everything out,” Truong elaborates. “You’ve got to allow people to have the opportunity to voice their concerns, their opinions. But then at the end of that period, the CEO has to make the final decision.”

This philosophy has been instrumental in Truong’s success, as detailed in BOSS Magazine’s profile on his consensus-building approach. By creating an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives, Truong ensures that employees feel invested in the company’s vision and strategy.

Truong’s leadership methodology extends beyond simple consensus-building, however. As featured in CEO World, he consistently applies the 80/20 rule to identify and focus on the 20% of factors that drive 80% of a company’s value. This focused approach allows teams to align around clear priorities rather than becoming distracted by less impactful initiatives.

“As a CEO, you have got to make sure that you directly communicate with the leaders of each one of these critical functions and ensure they come together in saying: ‘This is our strategy, and this is how we are connected and how we are going to execute it together,'” Truong emphasizes.

The results of this approach speak for themselves. At James Hardie Industries, Truong’s cultural transformation contributed to a remarkable 370% increase in market capitalization and an 85% rise in net profits within just three years. His insights on business transformation have earned him recognition as one of the Elite Influencers to Watch in 2024.

Truong recently shared additional perspectives on corporate leadership in a podcast with The Street, demonstrating his continued influence on business thinking.

What distinguishes Truong’s approach is his emphasis on empowering employees while maintaining clear leadership. “Above all, it’s crucial to lead by example and empower employees to take ownership, as well as accountability. This will foster a positive company culture,” he notes. “It’s also equally important that leaders make the tough decisions at the right time to ensure the whole is always greater than the sum of the parts.”

As organizations continue to navigate increasingly complex market conditions, Truong’s insights offer valuable guidance for leaders seeking to break down silos and build unified, effective teams. His career demonstrates that when employees buy into a shared vision and understand how their roles connect to broader objectives, the potential for transformative growth becomes limitless.

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Finance

Types of Marine Insurance Policies: A Comprehensive Overview

Marine insurance is a type of transit insurance that can be referred to as an indemnity contract. It provides an assurance that those goods that are dispatched from the land of origin to the country of destination are protected through insurance.

This insurance provides coverage for the damage or loss of cargo, terminals, ships and includes other transportation means that are used for acquiring, transferring or holding goods between points of origin and destination.

If you are an entrepreneur who intends to make a global base for your business, you must learn about the types of marine insurance policies so that you know which one will work best for your business.

Different Types of Marine Insurance

The following are the marine insurance types based on the geographical area or the coverage area wherein the insurance policy benefits apply:

Marine Cargo Insurance

This is a property insurance type that provides coverage to the cargo owner from any damage or loss of their cargo at the time of transit. Although it comes with broad coverage, it has its own limitations, but it includes third-party liability coverage, which proves financially helpful to the insured.

Hull and Machinery Insurance

This insurance provides coverage for the damage or loss of the ship’s body or any equipment or machinery that is used for the ship’s functioning. It generally covers accidents that are caused by collisions or damages that result from explosions and earthquakes.

Freight Insurance

This insurance provides coverage for the liability of the logistics provider or shipping company for the loss or damage caused to the goods at  the time of transit because of events that are outside the company’s control.

Liability Insurance

This insurance type provides coverage for the financial liability of the insured. It primarily covers the liabilities that arise because of the injuries or damages caused to a third party, for example, the personal injury or death of any third party travelling in the ship.

Types of Marine Insurance Policy

A policy can be described as an embodiment of the insurance contract’s terms and conditions. It is typically a written agreement form between the insured and the insurer and contains various provisions, including policy limitations, coverage area, etc. Therefore, based on the contract structure, the following are the different marine insurance policy types:

  • Voyage Policy – It is a marine insurance policy type that is valid for a specific voyage.
  • Mixed Policy – This marine insurance policy type offers the insured the advantage of both voyage and time policies.
  • Time Policy – This type of marine insurance policy is valid for a specific time period – typically for a year – and is referred to as a time policy.
  • Valued Policy – In this marine insurance policy type, the consignment or cargo’s value is ascertained and mentioned beforehand in the policy document, thereby making the value of the reimbursement clear in case of loss of consignment or cargo.
  • Unvalued Policy – Unvalued or open policy is a marine insurance policy type in which the consignment or cargo’s value is not mentioned beforehand in the policy document. Consequently, the reimbursement is made once the loss of consignment or cargo is thoroughly investigated and valued.
  • Port Risk Policy – The purpose of this marine insurance policy is to ensure the ship’s safety when it is stationed at a port.
  • Floating Policy – This is a marine insurance policy type in which only the claim amount is specified while the rest of the details get omitted till such time the ship starts its journey.
  • Fleet Policy – Under this policy, multiple ships belonging to a single owner get insured under a single policy.
  • Single Vessel Policy – This policy covers the risk of a single vessel of the insured individual.
  • Blanket Policy – This insurance policy covers all shipments under one policy without providing specifications for each shipment. This marine insurance policy type is well-suited for those with a large variety and volume of shipments.

Conclusion

Marine insurance provides a vast range of policies and services, and uncomplicated and easy business transactions can be facilitated. Therefore, it makes sense to invest in the right marine insurance policy.

For example, TATA AIG Marine Insurance offers extensive coverage, and is available to any business that moves goods by sea, air, land or rail. Apart from protection against loss or damage, this policy also provides liability protection, customised coverage, and above all, peace of mind.

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Finance

Personal Loan vs. Other Types of Loans: Which One Is Right for You?

Loans have become a big part of our lives. Whether you want to buy a house, pay for education, or cover unexpected expenses, borrowing money can help. But with so many types of loans available, how do you choose the right one? One popular option is a personal loan, but it’s not the only choice.

Let’s explore the differences between an individual loan and other types of loans to help you decide which one suits your needs best.

What is a Personal Loan?

A personal loan is a type of loan that you can use for almost anything – from medical bills to home renovations, travel, or even debt consolidation. Unlike a home or car loan tied explicitly to a house or vehicle, a personal loan allows you to spend the money however you want. Personal loans are usually unsecured, meaning you don’t need to offer collateral, like your house or car, to borrow the money. This makes them accessible but also means the interest rates can be higher than loans.

Other Types of Loans

Many other types of loans are available, each designed for a specific purpose. Here are some of the most common ones:

  • Home Loan: Used to buy or build a house. Home loans are secured, meaning your house is collateral. They often have lower interest rates, but the loan term can be long – sometimes up to 30 years.
  • Car Loan: Specifically for buying a vehicle. The car acts as collateral; if you don’t repay, the lender can take your vehicle. Student loans help pay for education expenses. They often have lower interest rates and flexible repayment options, especially if they are government-backed.
  • Credit Card Loan: Borrowing through your credit card. While convenient, credit card loans usually have very high interest rates.
  • Business Loan: Used to start or expand a business. Depending on the lender and the amount you need, these can be secured or unsecured.

How is a Personal Loan Different?

The main difference between a personal loan and other types of loans is flexibility. With a personal loan, you decide how to use the money. There are no restrictions. Different loans are tied to a specific purpose – a home, car, or education. Another key difference is collateral. Most personal loans are unsecured, while many other loans require an asset as security.

This makes personal loans faster and easier to obtain, but often with slightly higher interest rates.

Which Loan is Right for You?

Choosing the right loan depends on your needs:

  • If you need money for a specific purpose, like buying a house or car, you should consider a home or car loan.
  • If you need quick cash for multiple reasons, a personal loan is your best bet.
  • If you’re paying for education, a student loan is more affordable in the long run.
  • If you need funds for your business, a business loan is designed for that purpose.

Conclusion

Loans are a great way to manage significant expenses, but choosing the right one is essential. A personal loan stands out because of its flexibility and ease, making it ideal for many situations. However, depending on your needs, other types of loans might be more suitable. Take time to evaluate your options, consider the interest rates, and choose a loan that fits your financial goals.

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Business

Rise of AI Receptionists: A Game-Changer for Small and Large Businesses

Artificial intelligence is changing numerous industries, and customer service is no exception. Today, more companies are considering a virtual AI agent to manage front desk operations, and the benefits are real for large and small businesses alike. Traditionally, businesses had to hire real people to attend to every call, and even with the investment, there was always a risk of missing a valuable call. Companies like Signpost are now offering AI receptionists, which have numerous advantages. In this guide, let’s talk in detail about the various aspects. 

How do AI receptionists work? 

Most AI models are based on advanced natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning. Companies are also deploying speech synthesis to ensure the overall response is as human and conversational as possible. AI is being trained on datasets, and an AI receptionist can process the input and analyze the intent and language. Based on the initial information, the agent can then access information from the knowledge base to offer accurate and precise responses. AI receptionists can do a wide range of things, from attending regular customer calls to taking appointments and bookings. If required, the system can automatically direct the user to the relevant customer care agent. 

Benefits of using AI receptionists

The most obvious advantage of using an AI receptionist is ensuring availability. No matter what time a customer calls, they will get a response, even when the real agents are out of the office. The cost of AI receptionists is also significantly lower, and service providers usually charge on a monthly basis. The package depends on whether you have a large call volume or if the calls are usually of a longer duration. With AI, it is also possible to scale your operations efficiently without spending on staffing. 

Are AI receptionists good for small businesses?

While large businesses with bigger call volumes are the first to use AI receptionists, small businesses can enjoy similar benefits. Firstly, smaller companies can benefit from reduced overheads and the extensive work that goes into hiring front desk receptionists. The core team can focus on more critical aspects, and if required, the AI voice agent can always transfer the call to someone who needs more help or is having a serious problem. 

Elevate your customer experience 

Another reason to use an AI receptionist is to improve the quality of the overall services you offer to customers. When someone calls your office, they will get an answer, and the prompt response of the AI receptionist ensures calls never go to voicemail. AI responses are also accurate and aligned, and there are fewer chances of human errors. 

Should you get away with your real front desk receptionists?

Probably that is not the best idea. Instead, consider blending the best of both options. Using an AI receptionist ensures you always have help and don’t have to bother about your staff leaving the desk. On the other hand, real receptionists can continue to handle more complex issues or matters that need human intervention. Today, more companies are choosing the model as it helps keep costs in check without compromising on customer service. 

More business, better competitive edge

Having an AI receptionist shows that your business cares and happy customers will bring more business and recommend the company further. A virtual front desk also gives you a competitive edge, where you can continue to receive calls and capture all leads instead of callers looking for alternatives when calls go unanswered. 

Check online to find top-rated AI receptionists, and before you choose one, always look at features, pricing, and uptime. You want to be sure the service provider allows you to control responses and scripts. 

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Business

TSMC Arizona Secures Historic $6.6B Investment to Revolutionize American Semiconductor Production

The United States semiconductor landscape is undergoing a monumental transformation as TSMC Arizona receives a groundbreaking $6.6 billion federal grant, announced by the Department of Commerce in November 2024. This substantial investment, part of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, signals a decisive move to reestablish America’s position as a global leader in advanced chip manufacturing.

The scope of this initiative extends far beyond the initial grant. TSMC Arizona has committed to a remarkable $65 billion investment in northern Phoenix. This commitment represents the most substantial foreign direct investment ever made in a U.S. greenfield project, complemented by an additional $5 billion in federal loans. The project’s economic impact promises to be transformative. Projections indicate the creation of 6,000 permanent positions across the three planned fabrication facilities and more than 20,000 construction jobs during development.

The first facility entered high-volume production in Q4 2024, marking a watershed moment for American technology manufacturing. This achievement will end decades of dependence on overseas production for the most sophisticated semiconductor components. The timing proves crucial, as the United States currently produces only 10% of the world’s semiconductors, dramatically declining from its previous 40% market share.

The three planned facilities will serve distinct technological needs in the semiconductor landscape. The initial plant will harness TSMC’s N4 process technology, primarily serving the smartphone industry’s demands. Following this, a second facility scheduled for 2028 will employ advanced N3 and N2 process technologies, focusing on chip production for data centers that power sophisticated computing applications. The third and most advanced facility, announced with the federal grant, will manufacture A16 chips and implement groundbreaking 2nm technology, pushing the boundaries of semiconductor capabilities by the decade’s conclusion.

The project has already demonstrated promising results, with early production metrics from the first facility surpassing those of TSMC’s Taiwan-based operations. This success has contributed to TSMC’s strong financial performance, with the company reporting a 14.3% sequential revenue increase and achieving a 59% gross margin in Q4 2024.

TSMC Arizona’s commitment extends beyond manufacturing excellence to environmental stewardship, as demonstrated by plans for an on-site industrial water reclamation facility. This initiative aligns with the company’s sustainability goals, targeting a minimum 90% water recycling rate across operations.

The project exemplifies the broader success of the CHIPS for America program, which has distributed over $10 billion across 20 states since its inception in August 2022. With total proposed funding exceeding $36 billion, the program focuses on strengthening American technology infrastructure through research, development, and workforce advancement investments, particularly in emerging fields such as quantum computing and nanotechnology.

TSMC chairman and CEO Dr. C.C. Wei characterizes the project as a testament to collaborative innovation, highlighting the strategic partnerships between the company and its network of customers, suppliers, and partners. Wei has emphasized that TSMC expects 2025 to be another strong growth year, forecasting revenue to increase by close to mid-20% in U.S. dollar terms.

The development timeline reflects steady progress, with significant milestones already achieved. The project has maintained forward momentum following the 2020 announcement and $12 billion commitment. In December 2022, crucial chipmaking equipment was installed, and the second facility was announced. By February 2024, the second fabrication plant reached its structural completion milestone, followed two months later by the announcement of the third facility.

This comprehensive initiative through TSMC Arizona represents more than just industrial expansion; it signifies a strategic realignment of American technological capabilities. As these facilities progress toward full operational status, they will help advance the nation’s position in global semiconductor production while supporting TSMC’s expanding advanced technology portfolio, which now accounts for 74% of wafer revenue.

The project is a testament to the potential of public-private partnerships in rebuilding critical manufacturing capabilities and ensuring America’s technological sovereignty in the decades ahead.

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Finance

How to Stay Safe While Using UPI Payment Apps

Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionised how we handle financial transactions in India. UPI offers unprecedented ease in making digital transactions. Despite easy access to financial transactions with UPI, staying vigilant still holds the key. This blog post explores staying safe while using a UPI payment app.

How to Stay Safe?

Here’s how one can stay safe while using  a UPI payment app:

1. Protect Your UPI Pin

Memorise and frequently change your UPI PIN. Never write it down or use predictable combinations. Bank statements should be regularly reviewed to identify unauthorised transactions, and your UPI apps should be updated with the latest versions for critical security patches.

2. Verify Payment Requests

Fraudsters can send fake UPI requests posing as refunds or relevant-looking payments to fool users. Always double-check the sender’s identity before approving transfers. Read the details carefully and decline suspicious or unfamiliar requests. Cautious habits can help you safeguard your hard-earned money from deception.

3. Use Official and Trusted Apps

Download a UPI payment app from official stores and check unnecessary permissions before installing. Also, regularly update the app to receive critical security patches safeguarding your money. Prudent habits can secure your financial data from exploitation on digital payment platforms such as UPI.

4. Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi for Transactions

Public Wi-Fi poses security risks for confidential UPI transactions. One should consider switching to safer mobile data whenever possible. If public Wi-Fi is the only option, one should consider installing a trusted Virtual Private Network (VPN). Networks offering encryption can shield financial data from suspicious elements.

5. Being Cautious With QR Codes

QR codes ease payments, but they can also invite misuse. Only scan QR codes from trusted sources after verification. Always decline random, unsolicited codes received via messages or displayed in public spaces.

This can help avoid fraud. To accept payments, share your QR codes generated within your bank’s UPI app for safety. IDFC FIRST Bank’s UPI app is regarded as one of the safest UPI apps.

6. Use App Security Features

UPI apps typically provide various security settings to fortify your money against unauthorised access. To access your UPI account, you should consider enabling an app lock with a PIN or fingerprint.

One can also turn on transaction alerts to monitor payment activity in real time. Additionally, secure your phone with strong passwords or biometric logins. These simple precautions can go a long way in reinforcing layers of defence around your finances and upholding the safety of payments.

7. Beware of Phishing Attempts

Phishing traps await mistakes from your side to steal your money. One should disregard suspicious links sent through various channels asking for personal or banking details. It would be better to verify with the customer support staff before engaging. Never ever share one-time passwords or OTPs with anyone; however, they present themselves genuinely. Caution is the key to safety.

Conclusion

UPI apps enable seamless financial transactions. They can, however, invite risks when one uses them negligently. You can expect to stay safe by making informed usage choices. It is crucial to remember that, though convenient, digital payments need caution. Prioritising safety precautions can help you preserve your money and data against fraud. Cautious decisions can deliver secure, beneficial UPI experiences.

Set up transaction limits, use complex UPI PINs, avoid clicking unknown links, update apps regularly, and monitor account statements to ensure your payments stay secure while enjoying the convenience of instant transfers that UPI enables.

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Business

Flavio Maluf direciona Eucatex para nova era de inovação e sustentabilidade no setor industrial

No cenário empresarial brasileiro, a Eucatex se consolida como um exemplo notável de evolução e adaptabilidade no setor industrial. Sob a gestão estratégica de Flavio Maluf, a empresa, que acumula 73 anos de trajetória, tem redefinido os padrões do mercado moveleiro e da construção civil, estabelecendo novos paradigmas de eficiência e responsabilidade ambiental.

A excelência operacional da empresa foi recentemente reconhecida com sua inclusão na respeitada lista Forbes Agro100 de 2023, ocupando a 81ª posição. Este reconhecimento se fundamenta em um crescimento significativo nas receitas, registrando uma média de 20,2% desde 2021, resultado que reforça a eficácia das estratégias implementadas pela atual gestão.

No âmbito da transformação digital, a empresa tem se destacado pela implementação de soluções inovadoras, incluindo um marketplace B2B pioneiro no segmento de pisos. Esta plataforma digital tem alcançado números expressivos, com aproximadamente um milhão de acessos anuais e 65 mil visitas mensais orgânicas, revolucionando a forma como a empresa se relaciona com seus parceiros comerciais.

A gestão de Flavio Maluf tem priorizado a expansão internacional da Eucatex, que hoje atende a 40 países com produtos customizados para diferentes mercados. A adaptabilidade da empresa é evidenciada pela personalização de cerca de 20% de seu portfólio para atender às especificidades de cada região, com destaque para o mercado norte-americano, principal destino das exportações.

O compromisso ambiental da empresa se materializa em uma operação florestal de grande escala, mantendo 50 milhões de árvores em 35 mil hectares, com produção sustentável de 1,8 milhão de metros cúbicos de madeira anualmente. A capacidade de produzir 13 milhões de mudas clonais por ano demonstra o investimento contínuo em tecnologia e pesquisa para garantir a sustentabilidade da produção.

Na área energética, a empresa estabeleceu uma parceria estratégica para participação no maior projeto de energia solar do Brasil, permitindo que suas unidades industriais obtenham 50% de seu consumo energético de fontes renováveis. Esta iniciativa reforça o compromisso da organização com a sustentabilidade em todas as etapas de sua operação.

O engajamento social da Eucatex se manifesta através de programas consistentes de conscientização ambiental e capacitação profissional, desenvolvidos há mais de vinte anos. A empresa mantém um programa ativo de visitas técnicas para instituições educacionais, promovendo a educação ambiental e o compartilhamento de práticas sustentáveis.

A distribuição equilibrada do faturamento entre os setores moveleiro (41%) e de construção (44%) demonstra a diversificação estratégica do negócio. Com seis unidades industriais no Brasil e presença comercial nos Estados Unidos, a empresa mantém uma estrutura operacional que permite atender com eficiência tanto o mercado interno quanto o externo.

O portfólio de produtos reflete uma profunda compreensão das tendências contemporâneas de consumo, com foco em soluções práticas alinhadas ao conceito “do it yourself”. Esta abordagem se materializa em produtos como portas padronizadas, kits de instalação e linhas de tintas desenvolvidas para facilitar a aplicação pelo próprio consumidor.

A empresa se destaca como pioneira na reciclagem de madeira em larga escala na América Latina, demonstrando seu compromisso com a economia circular. Esta iniciativa se soma a outras práticas sustentáveis que integram o DNA da empresa há mais de três décadas, incluindo programas de reflorestamento e gestão responsável de recursos naturais.

A visão de futuro apresentada por Flavio Maluf para o setor moveleiro brasileiro é marcada pelo otimismo e pela identificação de oportunidades significativas de crescimento. O executivo destaca o potencial do país para aumentar sua participação no mercado global de manufaturados, apoiado em vantagens competitivas naturais como condições climáticas favoráveis e abundância de matéria-prima.

A expectativa para o setor é de uma transformação expressiva no perfil das exportações brasileiras, com uma evolução do atual cenário, onde 70% são commodities, para um futuro em que 90% sejam produtos manufaturados. Esta transição representa uma oportunidade única para empresas com o perfil da Eucatex, que já possuem expertise em produtos de alto valor agregado.

O compromisso com práticas ESG, natural à empresa há mais de três décadas, continua orientando as decisões estratégicas e operacionais. Esta abordagem integrada de sustentabilidade, que engloba aspectos ambientais, sociais e de governança, posiciona a Eucatex como referência no setor e demonstra sua capacidade de criar valor de forma responsável e duradoura.

A modernização constante dos processos produtivos, aliada ao investimento em tecnologia e inovação, tem permitido à empresa manter sua posição de liderança no mercado, estabelecendo novos padrões de qualidade e eficiência para o setor industrial brasileiro. Este compromisso com a excelência operacional e a sustentabilidade continua a ser a marca registrada da gestão da Eucatex.

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