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March 2023

Business

Flutterwave’s success stems from the growing demand for quick payment services in Africa

Flutterwave’s Chief Executive Officer, Olugbenga Agboola, has led the fintech startup to a valuation of $3 billion as of February 2022, with the company rapidly expanding across Nigeria and San Francisco. According to Agboola, Flutterwave’s success stems from the growing demand for quick payment services in Africa, as the continent’s middle class continues to expand.

However, Agboola recognizes that Africa cannot adopt a one-size-fits-all approach to fintech, as unique solutions are required for the continent’s distinct environment. Historically, Africa has been recognized for skipping entire generations of technology to adopt the latest advancements, and this trend continues in the payments industry as the middle class drives demand for accessible and efficient payment solutions.

Flutterwave’s e-commerce product was a lifeline for over 30,000 African businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company diversified its offerings, creating a Shopify-like product tailored to small and medium-sized businesses, enabling them to maintain operations throughout lockdowns. This move was highly successful, with thousands of SMBs onboarded to the Flutterwave platform in a brief period.

In September, Flutterwave obtained the highest payment processing license granted by the Central Bank of Nigeria, allowing for autonomous movement of payments between banks, fintechs, and other outlets. This was a significant milestone for Flutterwave, aligning with the company’s aim of building a world-class and secure payment infrastructure for global merchants and payment service providers throughout Africa.

Despite the myriad challenges that beset the continent of Africa, ranging from subpar infrastructure to a relatively nascent population, entrepreneurs such as Olugbenga Agboola view these obstacles as fertile ground for innovation and enterprise. An example of the region’s unique difficulties lies in the fact that merely 40% of adults in Africa have access to banking services, in stark contrast to the 95% figure in Europe and North America. Such a situation presents an exceptional opportunity for fintech firms to create payment platforms tailored to the particular needs of Africa.

According to Agboola, the African market remains a vast and mostly untapped terrain, making it an auspicious destination for entrepreneurs seeking to establish their ventures in the coming decade or two. The objective for Flutterwave and other fintech enterprises is to exploit this opportunity and propel growth within the continent’s rapidly evolving fintech industry.

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Shopping

Building an Effective Corporate Gift Card Program: The Ultimate Guide

According to a survey, around 94% of employees feel satisfied with their jobs when regularly recognized for their hard work. Many companies build employee recognition programs to appreciate and reward employees for their contribution to the business. Employee recognition and incentive programs have witnessed a significant shift in the United States. These days, companies use gift cards and other tangible incentives to appreciate and motivate employees. This article will discuss how companies can build effective employee gift card programs to boost employee engagement and retention.

What is a Corporate Gift Card Program?

A corporate gift card program is implemented as a recognition strategy, incentive initiative, and a way to show gratitude in the workplace or celebrate employee milestones. Companies can tailor these plans to the industries, business models, or core values for engaging and retaining a productive and motivated workforce.

Implementing the right employee gift card programs can fuse employee incentives and recognition into a centralized hub. Moreover, the best gift cards are required to improve employee satisfaction.

What Goals or Behaviors Does a Company Want to Encourage?

A crucial step in planning a corporate gift card program is determining the company’s goals and how to meet them. For instance, if a company works based on specific values, employers can reward their employees for modeling those beliefs by giving them gift card rewards.

Determine Headcount and Finances

Preparing a budget for recognition and rewards initiatives should be a priority of companies in today’s culture. Moreover, the number of employees a company is planning to recognize makes a difference when finding the right gift cards. Cost varies with the program size, so ensure to get those numbers in a line to launch the program successfully.

When is the Ideal Time to Reward Employees?

The next step is determining when to organize corporate gift card programs and incentivize employees. New hires, work anniversaries, work accomplishments, birthdays, etc., are the most appropriate occasions to appreciate employee efforts and reward gift cards to them.

Commit and Communicate Details of the Program

Once designated employers have run the numbers, researched, and designed the ideal gift card program, it’s time to lock the program and roll it out. It will only be helpful to communicate the intentions and benefits of the program to the team.

Make the Gift card Rewards More Unique

Everyone, including employees, appreciates gift cards having a personal touch. Companies should select the right gift cards for the right individuals to get the most from rewarding gift card incentives during employee gift card programs. Another way is to offer employees the choice to select gift cards according to their taste.

Conclusion

Everyone finds universal brands appealing, and getting gift cards from popular brands can provide immense satisfaction to employees. Moreover, rewarding employees with gift cards in unique ways can make the recognition programs more effective. Companies should conduct surveys and determine their employees’ preferences and requirements to select the best gift cards for the recognition program. Following this guide can help organizations appreciate employees in the best way possible.

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Law

What to do if you’ve Been Falsely Accused of Child Abuse, Domestic Violence, or Sexual Assault

It can be nerve-wracking and stressful to be accused falsely of any crime. Especially being charged with a sexual offense can affect all areas of someone’s life. A false sexual crime accusation can affect your criminal status, future employment opportunities, employment status, and educational opportunities. It can also affect personal relationships, especially spending time with one’s family. In such scenarios, you can opt for the help of an attorney from a reputable law firm. One of the firms you can get an experienced lawyer to defend you is the Marshall Defense Law Firm. The firm defends the falsely accused of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.

Staying Calm

It can be devastating to be falsely accused of any crime. Most people get affected physically and emotionally after being accused of sexual harassment, heinous crime, or child abuse. The first response after being accused is mostly fighting back. People try to defend themselves by fighting back, which is a natural response. However, by doing so, you may end up ruining your case. Responding to a false accusation when angry and rash may end up hurting your case.

Even if you need to defend yourself, you will give the other side an upper hand to gather evidence against you. If you are falsely accused, it is important not to overreact and to remain calm. You should not accept to talk to the authority or answer questions without the presence of a defense attorney. You should also wait for the lawyer before talking to the police.

Find an Attorney to Help You with Your Case

It is essential to consult with an attorney if you’re facing a false accusation to protect yourself. You can try to clear your name alone, but seeking the help of an experienced attorney will make it easier. Hiring an attorney is one of the most crucial steps you can take when you face a false accusation. The attorney will use their knowledge of the law to your advantage. The attorney will first explain the law regarding the crimes you’ve been accused of.

In most false accusations, there are two steps to be followed. The first is going to court, and the other is getting compensation from the person who falsely accused you. In court, you try to clear your name or defend yourself against the charges. Your attorney will assist you through the entire process and help you understand. They will assist you in coming up with a strategy to deal with both stages of the case of false accusation.

Bottom Line

False accusations can lead to fines and imprisonment. It can also negatively impact your family relationships, immigration status, reputation, and career. It can be complicated in the legal world to navigate false statements. You’ll need to defend yourself if you are a victim of false accusations. Hiring a reputable defense attorney is the best defense strategy. The legal experts will protect you and prevent the tarnishing of your reputation. Marshall Defense Law Firm has reputable attorneys that will help you if you’ve been accused of rape, child abuse, sexual assault, or domestic violence.

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Business

Urban Advisors, founded by Patrick Lucchese

Urban Advisors, founded by Patrick Lucchese, is a novel startup that proffers consultation services to real estate investors in navigating intricate urban markets. His legacy of helping people stands out and he believes it is the best way to leave a lasting impact. In this article, we delve into Lucchese’s background, the genesis of Urban Advisors, and his philosophy of giving back.

Patrick Lucchese is an adept real estate professional who has garnered more than 15 years of experience in urban planning, development, and investment. Commencing his career in New York City, he served several firms on projects ranging from affordable housing to high-end condominiums. He later moved to Washington, D.C., where he was the Director of Planning and Development for a local economic development organization. There, he witnessed firsthand the challenges that real estate investors face when venturing into new markets.

Urban Advisors, a boutique consulting firm specializing in urban real estate markets, was founded by Lucchese in 2018. Its team of experts provides investors with market research, due diligence, and strategic planning services. The objective is to aid investors in making informed decisions while circumventing costly mistakes. Lucchese recognized the need for more personalized, hands-on consulting services, hence the establishment of Urban Advisors.

Urban Advisors distinguishes itself from other consulting firms due to its commitment to building long-lasting relationships with clients. According to Lucchese, the firm’s objective is not to aid investors in making quick profits but rather to help them create sustainable, long-term businesses. Consequently, the firm adopts a holistic approach to consulting, examining everything from market trends to community engagement.

Urban Advisors, founded by Patrick Lucchese, is a consulting enterprise that stands out for its commitment to improving people’s success in urban real estate markets. The founder’s belief is that success is not solely about financial gains, but also about serving the community. Lucchese has actively participated in various philanthropic efforts throughout his career, including serving on the board of a local affordable housing organization. Furthermore, he supports a number of charities and non-profit organizations through Urban Advisors. According to Lucchese, every business has a responsibility to make a positive impact.

Since its inception, Urban Advisors has been involved in various high-profile projects, including the redevelopment of a historic hotel in Washington, D.C. The company has also partnered with local governments and non-profits to promote fair development. Lucchese is of the opinion that Urban Advisors has had a significant positive influence on the real estate industry by advocating for transparency and cooperation. He believes in establishing win-win scenarios for everyone involved.

Looking forward, Lucchese plans to broaden Urban Advisors’ horizons by establishing new offices in other major cities. He also aims to concentrate on the development of new technologies that will assist investors in making better decisions. However, he emphasizes that the firm’s fundamental mission will always remain the same. According to Lucchese, the aim is to help individuals succeed, and this is what motivates the team on a daily basis.

In conclusion, Patrick Lucchese’s Urban Advisors is a consulting firm that differentiates itself by prioritizing the goal of helping individuals thrive in urban real estate markets. The company’s founder believes that success entails more than just profits but also entails serving the community. Since its establishment, Urban Advisors has made a constructive impact on the real estate sector by supporting transparency and collaboration. Lucchese intends to continue the firm’s mission of creating sustainable long-term businesses while expanding its reach.

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Shopping

Easy DIY Happy Birthday Gift Ideas

Birthday is the most special day in everyone’s life. Cutting a cake on that day is not enough for today’s youngsters. It’s now the era of theme parties. Therefore, everyone tries to make something unique at their birthday party. On the other hand, a large variety of gifts is also glimpsed. Significantly, the Do-It-Yourself skills become too impressive to give someone on their birthday. Or one can prefer a happy birthday wine to make the birthday with pomp and gaiety.

Why DIY or Homemade Gifts Are Better?

Handmade or homemade gifts or DIY gifts are the best pieces to indicate how much the birthday boy or girl is for the gift-givers. It’s an original token of love. Another best thing is that the person can save additional money. One can build up a long list of DIY birthday gifts in this article.

5 Easiest DIY Happy Birthday Gift Ideas

Whether the birthday person is a junior or a senior, a DIY gift can bring a broad smile to their face. The following are some trendy ideas for happy birthday gift ideas.

  1. Notebook: If one wishes to give a simple homemade gift to a birthday person, the notebook is the nest. For making a notebook, one will need some blank paper, cardboard, coloured paper, coloured glitter, and scissors. First, one has to cover many documents and create a notebook. They can paint some pictures on the cover page and use glitters.
  2. DIY Wine Bottle: Wine is one of the most popular gifts for adults. However, a happy birthday wine bottle can also be decorated at home. On the bottle, one can stick a personalized label. They can take up a photo of the birthday person on the title. One can use colorful ribbons on the upper portion of happy birthday wine bottles.
  3. Posters: Nowadays, people prefer to keep their walls full of wall paintings and posters. In that case, one can produce beautiful DIY signs as birthday gifts. One can stay little messages on the posters with previous memorable clicks of the birthday boy or girl. With the internet’s help, they can also download an essay for making posters.
  4. Handmade Bracelets: If the person is a maiden, a handmade bracelet can make her happy on her birthday. One can collect some colorful wool or ribbons from formulating a bracelet. One can use tiny beads in the bracelets to give a flawless less.
  5. Bookmark: Bookmarks can be a fascinating gift for book lovers. One can create unique hand-painted bookmarks to gift the nearest one on their birthday. They can write two lines of their favorite poem or portray a picture on the bookmark.

Conclusion

Apart from the DIY mentioned above, happy birthday gift items, one can also prefer to make handmade key rings, photo frames, cards, flower bouquets, etc. Whatever the thing is, DIY gifts always have a particular connotation. On that gifts, the makers’ love, care, and respect are submitted. So, these gifts can’t be compared with earthly possessions.

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Shopping

Did You Know The Constitutes Of A Baseball Uniform?

This is a form of uniform worn by baseball players, managers, and even coaches. The uniform in most instances has the names and uniform numbers of the team members on the back. The uniform comes in different colors and logos depending on one’s team. When shopping for a baseball uniform you need to be aware of the constitutes. The right uniform will make it easier for you to practice and present your team during competitions. The outfit creates the identity of the team when gaming.

Hereby are the constituents of baseball uniforms.

  1. Baseball cleats. Baseball cleats enhance the flexibility of the players making it easier for them to make quick movements. The cleats need to be durable enough to withstand wear and tear during gaming. They also have to be breathable to get rid of excess sweat while playing.
  2. Baseball pants. Players can decide to wear either pinstripe or knickers baseball pants. Make sure the pants are made of a durable material and have a protective layer to protect them against injuries.
  3. Baseball jersey. The baseball jersey will make the team remain more iconic. You need to get a jersey made of breathable materials. Getting the right size will make one feel more comfortable while playing. The team name and the logo are indicated on the jersey. The background of the jersey can be featured with solid colors or even pinstripes. The team can decide to select the button-style, zipper-styles, or even pull-over type of jersey. The vest style can be paired up with undershirts. The jersey should be made from a material that can easily stretch and it should be light. . This will help enhance flexibility in the field The ideal materials for making jerseys are cotton, synthetic, polyester, calico, and even micro fabric. This is because the materials can easily absorb excess sweat.
  4. Baseball socks. The players can either decide to buy the stirrups or the regular socks as part of the uniform. The stirrups need to be durable enough and comfortable to wear.
  5. Baseball hat. The baseball hat can be worn at the game or even one is going out. It helps establish one’s sense of fashion. The hat should fit you well to avoid falling off when gaming.
  6. Baseball helmet. The baseball helmets are designed with two ear protectors. The helmet is used to prevent head injuries when gaming.

You need to select a uniform that is within your budget to avoid overspending. You should also be aware of the rules of your league.

Wrapping up

In conclusion, there are many constituents of a baseball uniform. The uniform constitutes of a jersey, socks, helmet, hat, cleats, and even gloves. The gloves need to be durable enough because of their constant use. Many dealers deal with the uniform. One should visit them and get the customized uniform of their team. The uniform should be made of adsorbent materials to absorb the excess sweat when gaming. The material should also be durable enough since it will be used repetitively.

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