#CRS Financial Planning

[bookishscrolls]

Budget Planning and Funding Requirements for a Community Radio Station

Have you ever dreamed of launching a Community Radio Station (CRS) to give your community a voice? It’s an exciting and impactful venture, but it comes with its own set of financial challenges. Worry not! This guide will walk you through the essential budgeting and funding requirements for setting up and running a successful CRS in India. Running a CRS isn’t just about having a vision and a…

[mareastrorum]

These are just initial thoughts, and perhaps I’ll learn something that changes my mind on it, but I’m glad to see Critical Role making the leap to their own subscription service with Beacon.

As a lead in: I’m an attorney that has some background in IP law, though it isn’t what I practice currently. I’ve kept in contact with several active practitioners, particularly those that represent small-time creators either in their own independent practice or via nonprofits. I do not have an extensive Rolodex of IP peers, nor do I spend the money to keep up on IP CLEs. I’m just someone who used to know a ton because I did heavy research and work in that space, and that hasn’t been the case for years.

So here’s my thoughts a bit on the IP angle:

The primary reason I’m happy to see this leap is that CR is taking active steps to keep control over its IP. It’s a boring thing to most people, but when I start paying attention to a specific creator (authors, directors, companies, etc.), I tend to be very attentive to how they use their IP. How freely do they license their marks to partner with other creators to make merch? How often do they allow others to make adaptations or derivatives of their copyrights? What is the quality of those products? What is the supply chain like? Are those third parties objectionable in some way? Were the other parties faithful to the original works or marks? Was this a cash grab or an earnest effort to make something worth the price tag?

Honestly, I like how CR run their business. They have a history of tapping fans and fellow small businesses when making new merch or spinoffs. They embrace the culture of fan-made derivative works, both by featuring fanart/cosplay and by sharing their success. Do you know how rare it is for a company to pay fan artists for their already-made and freely posted work and then sell books of it? Let me be clear: CR bought a limited license from each artist so they could print and sell each work in a physical book, then paid the cost of publishing that book with no guarantee that CR would make that money back, let alone profit. I have a copy of the collector’s edition art books: they’re actually very well made and the packaging definitely cost a pretty penny. That’s not a rainmaker idea, that’s genuinely risking financial loss to sell something people could access for free if they wanted to.

The art books aren’t a one-off either. Darrington Press is CR’s separate LLC for tabletop games. (It’s good business practice to split off companies that handle products in different industries.) CR has also made shows based on those games, and the Candela Obscura series has quite a dedicated audience. Everything about Candela belongs to them: the game itself, the rule book, all the art in the book, the web series based on the game, and merch. It’s so successful that they invested in scheduling a live show for Candela later this month. That’s HUGE.

Contrast that with the distribution of Campaign 1 and the first 19 episodes of Campaign 2. CR cannot host those videos themselves; Geek & Sundry still exists and still holds what I presume to be distribution rights (but I don’t have the contract to review). So G&S gets to host those videos on YouTube and reaps the advertising. I can’t speak to whatever share CR gets from that, but considering that CR is locked out of hosting their own copies of those videos, I doubt it’s much, if any, revenue. (If you’re wondering why CR just didn’t buy those rights back, I ask: what incentive does G&S have to sell something that’s making them money for no cost?)

Knowing that background about G&S, I was wary of CR choosing Amazon to host and distribute The Legend of Vox Machina. Originally, TLOVM was not the plan; CR had a kickstarter for an animated special based on C1. It was only because they blew past the goal that CR was able to make an entire season. The reasonable assumption is that choosing Amazon had to have secured CR additional funding for future seasons of the show, which seems evident from how quickly season 2 was announced, Mighty Nein Animated is also going to be a thing, and that season 3 of TLVOM is scheduled for fall 2024. CR had the option of just doing 1 season and keeping it purely in their control, but going with Amazon meant they could animate more of their works. Animation is expensive. I cannot stress enough how doubtful I am that CR would have been able to afford this many episodes and both campaigns if they had not gone this route. As wary as I was in the start, it paid off, and it’s going well—so far. Hopefully CR doesn’t regret that decision if Amazon tries something sleazy. But, as before, we don’t have the contracts and can’t know how secure CR’s position is if any dispute came up.

CR also partnered with Dark Horse Comics to make Vox Machina comics and Might Nein Origins comics. What’s especially surprising is that each of the cast had a hand in writing the MNO comics for their characters, with Matt listed for multiple. That isn’t very common with comic adaptations. Often times, IP owners let comic companies go ham with minimal oversight. Being listed as one of the authors comes with IP rights that have to be negotiated. That means that Dark Horse had to talk with CR about whether that warrants more or less revenue going to which party in exchange for that—or, alternatively, whether the comic gets made at all. That’s a ballsy move. You think people can just demand to write the comics that a publishing company is going to pay to print? Pffft. CR wanted some creative control, and that is a big ask. However, Dark Horse still has the distribution rights, both digitally and for physical copies. You couldn’t buy the comics from CR until they came out with the library edition, a book bound compilation of 4/8 comics. But the publisher is still Dark Horse; CR is just allowed to sell the book directly from their own site as well.

Contrast that with the novels about CR characters. CR partnered with Penguin Random House to publish novels about Vex and Vax (Kith & Kin), Lucien (The Nine Eyes of Lucien), and Laudna (What Doesn’t Break). Liam and Laura were vocal about having some say in K&K, whereas Madeline Roux said in an interview that she had full control over TNEOL. Both of those novels were narrated with CR voices, but narrating a book doesn’t come with IP rights, it just brings in a paycheck. There’s a lot less IP control in there compared to the comics, but this isn’t abnormal for book publishing. To be blunt, I doubt PRH would have agreed to publish the novels if anyone from CR had been a co-author or had heavy oversight over the author or the editing. I don’t think PRH even considered that as an option. Either an author that has already managed to sell X number of copies or nothing. Creative control over a book a huge ask, asks come with reduced revenue, and switching to books from a web series is already a leap. The fact that Laura and Liam had any say is surprising, really.

That was a long meandering tour of what we’ve seen CR do with its IP. The reason I bring up each of these things is that navigating the way to protect an IP in this space is rife with challenges. Different types of IP warrant different strategies because of the cost involved in creating each medium and the challenges placed by industries that have already sprung up around them. Any time that a third party is tapped to create an IP, it’s usually because they already have the funds and resources to create the work, and CR has to negotiate for revenue, creative control, distribution, and—the big one—who gets to be the owner. These are not easy, quick, or fun conversations, and CR is always going to be the smaller company at the table.

Knowing that, I’m not surprised or worried that CR is creating its own independent subscription service with Beacon. It tells me that they’re being careful with their IP whenever they can. A subscription service means they don’t have to trade away distribution rights or give up ad revenue to a third party. They’re in this for a long term investment, and that requires solid income not tied to third parties that can definitely outspend them in litigation in the event of a dispute. A subscription for bonus content is one of many parts in a diverse revenue stream.

(All that said, this isn’t meant to criticize creators that cant afford to do this type of thing. It took 9 years for CR to get to the point where Beacon is financially feasible and a desirable business decision. They have enough ongoing, popular content to warrant paying for a subscription, and they’ve built sufficient trust with their audience that more will be added. That takes time and an awful lot of money.)

As a final note, I take this step as a sign that CR definitely intends to stick around. This isn’t a move people make when they plan on ending the business after the current campaign. I’m glad to see CR is taking steps to secure their foundation and keep making new content.

I’m sure people will chime in on other issues (cost, content exclusivity, etc.), but I hope my perspective gives an idea of why this sort of thing is good for business generally and why it would be good for CR.

[ironwoodprotectionsquad]

Do you think Kerry and other former showriters learned their lesson when it comes writing RWBY?

Also be prepared for stans once again lurker in rwde blogs now that rwby has been bought by viz media

I’ve been sent so many death threats by the Stan’s it’s not even funny lolz, I wouldn’t be surprised for it to start back up again. It is funny though that news dropped around when I started feeling up to being more active again lolz.

Honestly though no I don’t think they learned a thing. Because at the end of the day their poor decisions don’t have really any lasting consequences for them. They’re still employees (at least Kerry and Barb) and they’ll get to keep being involved in RW/BY. They don’t have anything to “learn” from. They should and most people would see this as a second chance to do better but I don’t see that happening. They had years to realize they needed to change and improve e and do better but they never could be bothered to.

Now maybe Viz media will have more say and will override anyone they brought on from CR/WBY and will do better, that is yet to be seen. A friend in a discord group I’m in (no not mine) said Viz produced a lot of stuff they like so they’re hopeful Viz will do better with RW/BY but again, it depends on how much creative control the original team has and how much they like what was done previously and what they decide to do with the IP moving forward.

From a business standpoint it financially makes more sense to do a full reboot to get the most they can out of it. But again I don’t know what agreements where made or what Viz feels about the writing and decisions of the show thus far. It’ll all stuff that’s hard to answer until we start hearing what the plans are. And given they didn’t immediately announce volume 10…I wonder if maybe they’re considering a reboot or something else.

[invisibleicewands]

Actor and debt campaigner Michael Sheen has joined calls for the government to pass legislation to help tackle the crisis of unaffordable credit and problem debt in the UK. In 2022- 2023, more than 9 million were declined for credit, with millions relying on pay-day-lenders and buy-now-pay-later schemes with high interest rates. At its worst, lack of access to affordable credit means hundreds of thousands of people find themselves turning to loan sharks, while viable businesses remain stuck, unable to develop and create jobs. Campaigners are calling for a Fair Banking Act to help ensure that everyone can access essential financial services and support. 

Speaking at an event in Parliament on Monday, Sheen said:

“Anyone can find themselves in a place where they need credit to make ends meet or to get through a difficult time. The lack of affordable credit for people on lower-incomes is harming individuals and families, but also businesses and communities. Whole regions are seeing their growth held back. We can’t keep waiting and hoping that things will get better. We need something to change now. The Fair Banking Act could be the thing which really makes the difference”.  

The event in parliament was organised by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Fair Banking, alongside the Fair Banking for All Campaign – a group including credit unions, Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs), fintechs, charities and policy experts who are calling for a Fair Banking Act to help increase access to affordable credit. MPs, peers and financial regulators were among the attendees. 

Lloyd Hatton MP, chair of the APPG, said:

“We need a Fair Banking Act to help increase affordable lending in every corner of the country, ensure small businesses have access to the financial support they need, and guarantee that nobody is financially excluded by the mainstream banks. Only then will we deliver sustained economic growth across the whole of the UK.”

Before the election, Labour announced that financial inclusion would be a priority for them in government, with plans being developed for a comprehensive national Financial Inclusion Strategy. The Fair Banking for All Campaign is calling for a Fair Banking Act to be a central pillar of this strategy, to help grow the responsible finance sector. The idea is based on a successful example from the US, where similar legislation has successfully increased access to financial services and support for people on low-incomes and from marginalised communities. 

As well as leading mainstream banks to improve their own provision of affordable credit for underserved communities, the proposed legislation would also incentivise partnerships between high-street banks and institutions such as credit unions and CDFIs, which are often best placed to provide tailored services that meet the needs of individuals and small businesses who have been turned down by larger institutions. 

Recently published research from the Fair Banking for All Campaign estimated that a Fair Banking Act in the UK could increase fair and affordable lending to individuals by £2bn a year – equivalent to the total amount owed to loan sharks. This would help to pull the rug out from under the illegal lending market, by providing people with a safe and affordable alternative when they’re in urgent need. Additional support to small businesses could create or maintain just under 10,000 jobs over five years, including in some of the most economically deprived parts of the country – where small businesses currently find it hardest to get loans from high street banks.

Robert Kelly, chief executive of the Association of British Credit Unions Ltd, was another of the speakers at the event. He said: 

“We need more humanity in our banking system. At a time when more and more people need access to affordable credit, their options are becoming more and more limited. People are being turned down by high-street banks because of their income level or credit score, and so they’re turning to high-cost credit or illegal lending. Credit unions give them an alternative. The sector continues to serve communities and employers across the country at record levels through the provision of ethical and responsible products and services. There’s so much demand out there for this kind of alternative – but we need a Fair Banking Act so we can grow to meet that demand, and help millions more people”

Theodora Hadjimichael, chief executive of Responsible Finance which represents CDFIs in the UK, said:

“Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs) invest into underserved places and people, unlocking potential for businesses, social enterprises and households. For economic growth to happen, we need lenders that get to know businesses and understand people’s lives, make fair lending decisions that take these into account, and offer affordable finance, and incentives to ensure that growing demand for affordable, ethical, credit can be met. That’s why Responsible Finance is part of the campaign calling for a Fair Banking Act”.

[querida]

sorry, i'm, like, spiralling and y'all are gonna witness it bc i need to vent to prevent a meltdown <3

i reeeeeeally don't want to leave but i'm also v happy to not have to 11th wheel anymore

[happy-mokka]

Happy birthday to me!!! 🎂

Yeah. Hi. It's me.

Middle-aged Aziraphale fangirl did his next big step in the direction of the big 50.

Wahooooo!

Not really…

I hate my birthdays.

Always did.

Even as a child.

Now as this middle-aged queerish-dude I am still having a hard time, standing in the middle of things and being cheered on by others.

I was born. Great. Get along, people, nothing to see here. Can you all just go home please?

"Well, what the f*ck are you doing here then, right now, with this post, in the middle of an internet platform in front of a bunch of strangers?!?"

some of you might ask.

And rightly so, I must add.

Way more than 12 hours before - it is now past 10 pm in Germany - so this morning after I woke up to be exact, I had seriously contemplated the possibility to call in sick on my birthday, and hide myself from the world, quietly sobbing on my couch.

For the first time in my working life of 24 years. I had always been to work on my birthdays. No exception.

But the past months had been hard. I never really felt in control of things, still don't.

Those who know me closer, know that I like to be in control.

Always a plan at hand. Always prepared…

Only that it didn't really work out…hasn't for quite a long time.

I just never admitted it to myself. Always kept on going.

My family was always good in repressing things.

Don't show weakness.

Keep on functioning.

What will the others think?

People depend on you!

My family also never really considered me being "a success story" by their standards.

I am unmarried. Don't have children. No big career.

Ok, I've put enough on the side to live a financial solid life in a nice appartment.

But the first part really nagged at them, and through them at me.

So I was already unhappy for quite some time.

Together with an ongoing above-average and ever growing work-load at the office, this feeling of unhappiness turned slowly into dread and then deep sadness, until I felt close to breaking with the beginning of today.

Now, almost 15 hours later, I am here, writing this sappy stuff and am genuinely happy for the first time in months.

"What changed?"

Well, I was thinking about this a lot in the past hour. While sitting in the bus and later while walking home.

Honestly? Nothing really changed.

I got my eyes opened and my perspective adjusted by someone very dear to me.

That's what friends are for, and she is the best of them. My bestie.

She is the one who got me addicted to Good Omens last year and pushed me onto this hellsite.

She brought me Doctor Who and the Tardis (yeah, I know, shame on me, coming so late to the game…).

She makes me constantly re-think my opinions and keeps opening new windows to look through on things I had missed or never noticed before.

She is challenging me on a daily basis to be more than I normally would go for or did for many years.

She became the closest friend I have ever had in my life.

Sure, I know lots of people a lot longer in years. Some since Kindergarten.

But none of them digged themselves so deep into the darkest corners of my soul.

Places not even my brother or my parents ever got to see.

She made me, a life long rather shy introvert, open up, despite the fact that she is even more introverted than I have ever been.

I still don't fully understand all of it, but here I am, writing all this to an unknown audience, as proof.

A year ago, this wouldn't have been possible, not even in my wildest dreams.

"So, you didn't realize this before?"

I did. It just got pushed aside by all the negative spiralling. Sometimes you don't see, what's right in front of you.

After work, I walked her home. I like doing that. Sometimes talking all the way. Sometimes just walking in silence side by side.

At her place she handed me 2 presents and just like that, it clicked.

Sometimes, it doesn't take much, if it comes from the heart…

People, meet my new Michael Sheen mug!!!

So, we basically bonded over Good Omens and as faith would have it, we are exactly Aziraphale (me) and Crowley (her) coded.

100%.

It makes me beyond happy, knowing that everytime I'll sip my coffee with my beloved Sheeny, on the other end of town she will sip her hot cocoa out of her corresponding new David Tennant mug.

Good Omens was not the only thing we found out to have in common.

The common ground sometimes is really breathtaking and we still regularly stumble over new things it contains.

So many things that we equally love. Books, movies, music, long walks, just sitting there in silence and taking in a beautiful view…

On the other hand, we are so different in so many aspects, but with the feeling of it rather complementing than dividing us.

She loves to chrochet, I can't even hammer a nail strait into a sponge.

Speaking of which, meet my 2nd gift: Audrey!!!!!!!!!

We watched "Little shop of Horrors" (the 1986 version with Rick Moranis) a few weeks ago. Both for the first time. Loved it.

I immediately fell for "Audrey", the flesh-eating alien plant. Didn't speak anything out loud, still it didn't go unnoticed…and, yes, it is hand-made!!!

*sigh*

"So, what am I trying to say here?"

Good qestion…

Life can be cruel.

Life will be hard at times.

It will make you cry, like, a lot.

Try to not go through all this alone.

Sometimes those that you least expect it from, turn out to become your anchor in the stormy sea or the lighthouse showing you the way.

Build your own little family of friends (even if its just one).

Hold them tight, once you found them.

Love them with all that's in you.

You will get it back ten fold.

Why?

L🥰ve!

@uncleadelheid-will-eat-your-soul , thanks for being all that for me, little introverted geeky metal edgelord office girl, and thanks for enduring my annoying love for bad jokes and even worse puns…

P.S.:

Sorry btw for the storm, lighthouse, anchor metaphors with you hating all that's related to the dark blue sea…I still didn't edit them out…maybe we'll be getting there. At least I left out fishy fish…

🐟🐠🐡🦈🌊🦑

[eretzyisrael]

Anti-Zionist students have moved to cripple university operations at the University of Michigan and The New School in New York City, leveraging recently gained majorities in student government to freeze funding to campus groups until administrators agree to boycott Israel.

A slew of anti-Zionist candidates at the University of Michigan secured their election to Central Student Government (CSG) last semester by running as the Shut It Down (SID) party, whose platform promised to sever the university’s ties to Israel, both financial and academic, according to The Detroit News.

The paper said that “nearly two dozen” of its members, including candidates for president and vice president, won office, “effectively taking control of student government.” Since assuming power, it continued, they have shredded the budget for summer term approved by the previous administration and refused to fund student clubs during the upcoming fall semester.

“The Shut It Down movement ran on a completely transparent platform,” Alifa Chowdhury, the government’s new president told The Detroit News. “This is really to send a message to regents that you can’t just give us, student government leaders, a lump sum on money and expect us to stay silent with that. The point of student government is to make our voices heard.”

Founded in the months after Hamas’ Oct. 7 massacre across southern Israel, Shut It Down (SID) allegedly committed multiple election code infractions to amass its newfound and unprecedented power. According to The Michigan Daily, students banded together to contest their election victory, citing multiple instances in which they campaigned in proscribed areas and violated other rules regulating the use of posters and email communications. SID ultimately overcame the challenge following a controversial hearing which the student government, breaking precedent, conducted in secret.

SID announced its plans to defund student clubs in July, with its chair, Shubh Agrawal, saying in remarks quoted by the Daily, “The university of Michigan is one of those institutions [whose] $6 billion of the endowment are implicated in the genocide or occupation of people of Palestine. And the University of Michigan does not deserve to function as normal while it continues to do those things.”

The Algemeiner has asked the University of Michigan to comment on this story. According to The Detroit News, the school’s Board of Regents has vowed not to divest from or boycott Israel.

[rillyfrilly]

45 lolita fashion questions…! ୨ৎ

cr. to the blog i don't remember finding these on

♡ ‧₊˚ ⋅ ౨ৎ ‧₊ .ᐟ

1. please tell us your handle name. (name that’s used ONLY in internet.)

rilly frilly, commonly known as riri. ❤︎ it’s my real name however~

2. about how long is your history as a lolita?

1 year, will be 2 next summer!

3. what first motivated you to do lolita fashion?

when i was younger, the need to look cute and feel like a princess, however these days its more so fulfilling that wish / finally having the financial standing to afford it as an adult.

4. after knowing lolita fashion, have you had any time-gap or resistance till you actually started to be lolita?

i knew of it as a younger teen thanks to anime and such, but obviously anime “lolita” can be very misconstrued and not realistic to the real fashion, so i’d say i came to know it as i matured into my later teen years considering i’ve always love japanese subcultures and fashion. the time gap of being into it versus starting it is unfortunately quite large.

5. please define your lolita style as much as possible. (eg. gothic lolita, sweet lolita, shiro lolita…. etc).

old school sweet or just sweet lolita in general. so, etc, yes i wear old school, but its very rare..! i enjoy black and pink color combinations the best, but can also be found in light baby pink coordinates sometimes. i cannot describe exactly the kind of prints i enjoy the most, but the commonality between most of them is having floral designs of some sort.

6. about how many lolita friends do you have?

i have handful of online lolita friends / mutuals, but unfortunately none in real life due to the area in which i live having no local comm. my wife is my only real life lolita friend, and she doesn’t wear lolita as her main fashion unfortunately. i dream of joining a comm and having events to attend :(

7. what is the best thing about doing lolita?

i feel stronger and more confident despite knowing i am an eyesore where i live. i have terrible social anxiety / trouble going out in general, but being out in lolita does help me feel like i'm wearing a sort of cute armor? i know even if i hate the attention that i am still 100% myself at the end of the day.

8. conversely, what's the worst thing?

this goes hand in hand with my positive answer. i hate the attention / weirdos lolita brings out in public. while i've had incredibly positive experiences, i've also had ones that have made me want to crawl out of my skin. specifically, when people treat me as an object and say they want to take pictures of me without even asking..

9. which lolita brands do you like?

like is too little of a word - I LOVEEE angelic pretty, baby the stars shine bright, and metamorphose temps de fille~! i do casually like emily temple, alice and the pirates, etc.

10. what was the first lolita item that you’ve owned?

with puji jsk! it's a beautiful chinese indie item and was a great jumpstart to my journey.

11. what is the “must have!” lolita item?

at the moment? mode girl series anything by angelic pretty or some berets and cardigans, with no brand specifics..! (˶˃ ᗜ ˂˶)

12. do you wear drawers?

no, but i plan to! they'd look so cute in my older sweet coordinates. recommendations are appreciated!

13. do you have any favourite japanese music?

yes, absolutely! i am into underground japanese pop, vkei, and city pop music. my favorites are higeki no heroine syndrome, nonfic!, twinpale, malice mizer, bucktick, etc.

14. where do you particularly visit as lolita?

anywhere i can as a lifestyler - but particularly tea rooms, museums, historical districts, and bigger cities as i feel treated less like a spectacle there! ( ⸝⸝´꒳`⸝⸝)

15. about how many times per week do you dress as lolita?

preferably everyday, but lately i've been indoors and haven't gone out but once in lolita the past couple of weeks. my last outing was to a tearoom last week for my university graduation!

16. please tell us about one embarrassing episode from the time when you were just beginning lolita.

when i paired an obviously sweet bunny bag / guro lolita bag with a gothic coordinate.. i think about it often and i get a little red in the face, because i was just so happy to have something so cute! (my sweet roots were trying to tell me something then) ദ്ദി(˵ •̀ ᴗ - ˵ ) ✧

17. what's hairstyle and color that you think lolita would suit the most?

well this question can only be answered with an opinion, so i'll answer according to what i love on myself..! right now i have black and purple hair, but honestly anything suits lolita as long as it's styled to match your coordinate. some simple curls for sweet to curly ringlets for gothic / old school always do the trick nicely!

18. have you ever thought of stopping lolita? the reason?

never ever at the present moment, but i thought about when i get older than my 20s and 30s. but i often sober up on this mindset and think of my idol misako aoki for inspiration and motivation to keep going in the future. (˶ˆᗜˆ˵)

19. please tell us your heart's bible as a lolita. (anything like a book, magazine, CD, idol...)

gothic lolita bible, misako aoki, and older lolita blogs! ( ˘͈ ᵕ ˘͈♡)

20. do you own a doll? tell us your feelings about her intensely!

i do not and it pains me so.. i want to own a doll and make them look just like me! its a plan for when i can afford it, however.

21. what kind of make-up do you wear when you wear lolita clothes?

i wear this misako make.

22. have you ever secretly changed clothes in a train station bathroom on lolita day-out?

no. that is all for this one.. haha

23. are you composed when doing lolita all by yourself?

i dress alone already and have no comm or twin to pair with me.. i am a lone lolita already, so yes.

24. how much do you spend in your lolita clothes & accessary monthly?

i save and spend my savings in sparse bursts, so i do not purchase anything lolita monthly / or reguarly enough. i can't afford to splurge monthly so saving is my best bet. (╥﹏╥) typically when i spend my savings, it's never too much! maybe about $135 usd at the max?

25. what is the most expensive lolita thing you've bought so far? how much was it?

my round and round jsk (meow meow bandage) from aatp! it was around $290, i believe and i coordinated a payment plan for it~. it's between that or my h.shirayuki OP i own!

26. so far about how much has the expense been for lolita goods?

i recently started trying to calculate this with my wife, and from what little math we started doing for the last 6 months.. i do not want to answer... haha. next question! (˶˃⤙˂˶)

27. lolita outfit really costs money. how do you raise money to cover the cost of lolita?

both working, selling old clothes, doing traditional art commissions, etc.! currently i am sort of on a buying hiatus from lolita as i'm in the process of looking for a new full time job. sometimes as well i'm gifted pieces or money to purchase articles of lolita from my wife..! i'm lucky in that aspect. (♡ˊ͈ ꒳ ˋ͈)

28. have you ever bought from an online store? if so, please tell us its good and bad points and some advice for the future. if not, please tell us why not.

most of my lolita comes from online secondhand, whether it be from lace market or mercari jp via proxy. i haven't had the funds to ever buy something completely new yet aside from NWT listings on lace market. when i was a beginner, i also shopped mainly on 42lolita, a taobao service agent! i still buy my blouses, otks, and accessories from there considering the decent prices, but i will be candid and say the shipping is killer. that is my only qualm with proxy or 42lolita!

29. even if you sort of want to keep it a secret, please clandestinely tell us about a private manufacturer that is the best.

there are a lot of great companies out there, but i recommend roji roji the most. they have the best accessories when it comes to quality, and i've seen TONS of other sweet lolitas use their socks or tights with their brand coordinates. another special one to me is modo muffin. their shoes are the best, i really should review them considering i already own two pairs of their shoes, and will soon own two more..! ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و

30. is there a brand and/or an item that you think, "i could never get it! but i unreasonably want it!"?

i can get any piece i want if i save for it, really. i always try to be positive that pieces i dream of will come back to me in time, but realistically, i want my dream early 2000s lolita wardrobe.. i will never see half of those items in my life i fear.

31. what do you think about people who only do lolita at music-lives or cosplay?

that is ok! some lolitas geniunely do treat it as a every once in a while hobby, rather than adopting it into their everyday lives. that is completely normal for all hobbies and styles!

32. from what age to what age is it acceptable to do lolita? do you think that there's a state in which someone must graduate from lolita? (you can answer as ‘never graduate’)

never graduate, as long as it makes you happy, always do your best to be your most authentic self. even if it means wearing it less as you grow up.. we have to make adjustments to our comfortability with many things in life, and if that is one of them, then do it! but never give up on it because society makes you feel as if you have to.

33. is there a lolita fashion or behavior that you think "i don't want lolitas to do this!" about?

i'll be candid.. i've known the lolita community, like any fashion community to have it's fair share of bullies. bullying anyone for the way they look, their age, their size, etc. is really low and honestly it goes to show the kind of person you are! i also wish i haven't seen some serious gatekeeping. i firmly believe anyone can wear lolita and be empowered by it as long as the fashion is respected, it's history taught, and it keeps true to what the style looks like.

34. is there something you think "lolita has to be this way!" about?

being overly conservative and pushing the "modesty" thing a bit too much onto others is uncomfortable. i think lolitas should be kind, warm, and open when helping others adjust to what being a lolita entails, not being judgmental, rude, or pushy.

35. while doing lolita, has something changed from earlier than you did lolita?

i've seen a huge rise in old school lolitas / punk lolita than when i first started. i'm really happy to see more of those styles online. (˶˃ ᵕ ˂˶)

36. do you go to school/work as lolita?

usually yes as i work from home, so it's easier to dress up. i also did university from home, so double yes..!

37. do you wear lolita clothes as casual wear?

yes!

38. do you have a boyfriend (or husband)? do you understand each other? (i think she meant “does he understand you (as lolita)?”)

*taps mic*.. i am a married lesbian. but, yes! my wife understands my love for lolita as she is the exact same way for vkei fashion. currently working on recruiting her into lolita as a punk lolita..! she really loves a lot of older brands like putumayo or black peace now.

39. what do the people around you think of your doing lolita? do they accept it?

fortunately, i am estranged with both of my parents. if they were to even see my fashion they'd most likely make fun of me due to me being an outsider, so no they wouldn't. this is because my family is very conservative and painfully southern. moving on! (ᵕ—ᴗ—)

40. what kind of lolita is who has impressed you the most up until now?

so many! my online friends / mutuals, older lolitas from back in the "golden days", and misako aoki.

41. have you ever made your own lolita clothing or /and accessories? if so, what was the best item that you’ve made?

i am a sewist in training..! nothing to show for my new adopted skills yet.

42. if you have an ideal lolita outfit or coordination, please tell us.

all i can say is i dream of having the perfect early 2010s sweet lolita coordinate.. i want to look just like i popped out of an older angelic pretty shoot! ദ്ദി ˉ͈̀꒳ˉ͈́ )✧ i aim for this with everyday i pour thought into my dream wardrobe.

43. is there a motif that you think “this is a sample of lolita”?

lolita has so many motifs it is nearly impossible for a single one of those to be even remotely considered "lolita specific" to me.

44. would you want to dress your children as lolita?

i don't want children, but if i did and they wanted to wear on their own accord then yes! i wouldn't have enjoyed wearing lolita as a child even though i dreamed of it due to bad sensory issues.

45. what's your image of the ideal lolita?

someone who embraces lolita for more than just the clothes. lolita is a way of life, and while you do not have to be a lifestyler or wear it often, having the mindset of a lolita is what i could call ideal! from being magical everyday, to being kind and authentic, is truly what an ideal lolita means to me.. (∩˃o˂∩)♡

♡ ‧₊˚ ⋅ ౨ৎ ‧₊ .ᐟ

[financeattips]

First Time Investing in Crypto: Tips for New Traders on the Digital Coin Market

This has changed the financial landscape for good; it is the first time in history that investors have a share of this type since cryptocurrency entered the market. But then again, getting into the crypto market to begin with can be incredibly intimidating for a novice. This includes some key tips that you must know for making trade-offs more intelligent and how to invest in cryptocurrencies.

1. Understand the Basics

Understand the basic principles of what Cryptocurrency is, how it works before you invest. If you're unfamiliar, cryptocurrencies are basically decentralized systems, operating with a peer-to-peer framework, that let users do all sorts of things like get rewards for paying on time or using an app. Because they are not organically produced like typical tender, these financial tools are meant to be circulated in a decentralized way via blockchain networks. Educate yourself onwards like blockchain, altcoins, wallets and exchanges.

2. Do Your Research

The value of cryptocurrencies is influenced by a number of factors, and this makes it an extremely volatile market. Learn about various cryptocurrencies and how they are used. Tools like CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko show trends, rankings other handy information regarding ranging and past data. Follow us on Twitter for more news and updates on the Bitcoin space.

3. Diversify Your Portfolio

Investors apply diversification in their investment strategies. Diversify by investing in multiple cryptocurrencies I mean, everyone knows Bitcoin and Ethereum — why not looking a little bit further down the line at some promising altcoins with real fundamentals. A healthy mix of investments can ensure you have a little exposure to any type of gain or loss that may arise.

4. Only Invest What You Can Afford to Lose

The world of crypto is such that even the prices can and do tend to rise or crash in a jiffy, thanks to high volatility. Gamble only with money you can afford to lose without impacting your finances. Never borrow to invest in crypto or use your emergency savings for crypto investing. This approach ensures that you still are able to stay financially safe in case there's a downtrend.

5. Choose a Reliable Exchange

It is important to be sure that you deal with reliable cryptocurrency exchanges for safe trading. Search for exchanges with strong security protocols, a simple UI, and broad coin support. Some of the most trusted exchanges that people have been using include Binance, Coinbase and Kraken. Are they regulated and insured for digital assets.

6. Secure Your Investments

In the world of crypto, security is vital. Keep your cryptocurrencies on hardware wallets or in cold storage solutions; simply turn on 2FA in your exchange accounts and do not publish or disclose the private keys. Keep your software up to date and watch out for phishing attacks and malware.

7. Stay Informed and Adapt

As we know the crypto market is alive and never takes a nap. Learn from the market, regulatory and tech changes. Engage in some of the crypto community forums on platforms like Reddit, Twitter and Telegram to get the benefits of inside knowledge from other investors. Change your investment plan based on new informational and market circumstances

8. Have a Long-Term Perspective

Although there is money in short-term trading, it often requires quite a bit of time and skill to excel what you do. Long term investment strategy If you are beginner, Long term is the best way for you to invest your money from beginning. Look at the long term growth potential of cryptocurrencies instead of trying to make a quick buck. I read many books and listend to a lot of podcasts about the stock market, nearly all these sources agreed that patience and discipline was key to becoming a successful long-term investor.

9. Seek Professional Advice

If you are uncertain about the investments, you can get help from financial advisors or even some crypto experts. They can offer some personalized advice, depending on your financial goals and comfort with risk. Expert help will make it easier for you to manage the particularly volatile world of crypto.

Conclusion

Investing in cryptocurrency can also be a lucrative endeavor as long the trader is well-versed when it comes to his or her craft. These basic principles, combined with extensive research, establishing a diversified portfolio, and security first will put you in good stead on your crypto investment journey. The key is to stay informed, adapt and think long-term in order for you to succeed.

[marta-bee]

As you might have guessed from the quotes, I’ve been reading Good Omens again. I was all prepared to be uncomfortable with this par. Crowley was about to turn paintball guns into gun-guns, and I was sure after all the mass shootings America has seen since the twelve or so years since I last read it, that part would just hit differently.

I wasn’t wrong, though I’d forgotten how funny and delightfully ‘90s-ish the corporate warfare was. Honestly I was laughing too hard at all the humor around the violence to notice. I can’t recommend it enough, if you’re old enough to remember why Dilbert was funny once upon a time, you really should give this bit a read. A sample:

The contingent from Financial Planning were lying flat on their faces in what had once been the haha, although they weren't very amused.

"I always said you couldn't trust those people from Purchasing," said the Deputy Financial Manager. "The bastards."

A shot pinged off the wall above him.

He crawled hurriedly over to the little group clustered around the fallen Wethered. "How does it look?" he said.

The assistant Head of Wages turned a haggard face toward him.

"Pretty bad," he said. "The bullet went through nearly all of them. Access, Barclaycard, Diners-the lot."

"It was only the American Express Gold that stopped it," said Wethered.

They looked in mute horror at the spectacle of a credit card wallet with a bullet hole nearly all the way through it.

"Why'd they do it?" said a wages officer.

What most struck me though was the bits woven between all the poking fun at white collar office culture and the human capacity to wish violence on each other. I’d almost call it a coincidence if it wasn’t actually relevant to everything else going on. Any of my fellow Sherlockians, you know what they say about coincidences.

Let’s start with Nigel Tompkins. Or a little before he shows up, for context. Aziraphale and Crowley are hunting for the antichrist so decide to go back to the hospital where Crowley left him. It’s been burned down, most of the sisters have left, but now Sr. Mary Loquacious (now Mary Hodges, no sister) has turned it into a rather unorthodox corporate events center. They’re doing paintball. Lots of stultified corporate types have been handed nonlethal guns and told to have at it, which has exactly the result you’d expect (humans being humans) even before Crowley miracles their dearest wishes into reality and turns their paintball guns into real guns.

This is the scene Az&Cr stumble into (the paintball version to start). Nigel Tompkins has the bad luck to shoot at them as they’re getting out of the car, and after much hemming and hawing over stained fabrics, Crowley scares him off:

Tompkins thumbed another paint pellet into the gun and muttered business mantras to himself. Do Unto Others Before They Do Unto You. Kill or Be Killed. Either Shit or Get Out of the Kitchen. Survival of the Fittest. Make My Day.

He crawled a little nearer to the figures by the statue. They didn't seem to have noticed him. When the available cover ran out, he took a deep breath and leapt to his feet.

"Okay, douchebags, grab some sk-ohnoooeeeeee . . ."

Where one of the figures had been there was something dreadful. He blacked out. Crowley restored himself to his favorite shape.

"I hate having to do that," he murmured. "I'm always afraid I'll forget how to change back. And it can ruin a good suit."

"I think the maggots were a bit over the top, myself," said Aziraphale, but without much rancor.

Then later:

Nigel Tompkins had come to with a mild headache and a vaguely empty space in his recent memory. He was not to know that the human brain, when faced with a sight too terrible to contemplate, is remarkably good at scabbing it over with forced forgetfulness, so he put it down to a pellet strike on the head.

He was vaguely aware that his gun was somewhat heavier, but in his mildly bemused state he did not realize why until some time after he'd pointed it at trainee manager Norman Wethered from Internal Audit and pulled the trigger.

It’s this “scabbed over” language that really interests me, because ti comes up again with Mary Hodges. Trying to get information out of her, Crowley puts her into a kind of trance to question her.

"Good"-Crowley glanced at his watch-"morning, ma'am," he said, in a sing-song voice. "We're just a couple of supernatural entities and we were just wondering if you might help us with the whereabouts of the notorious Son of Satan." He smiled coldly at the angel. "I'll wake her up again, shall I? And you can say it."

"Well. Since you put it like that . . ." said the angel slowly.

"Sometimes the old ways are best," said Crowley. He turned to the impassive woman. "Were you a nun here eleven years ago?" he said.

"Yes," said Mary.

"There!" said Crowley to Aziraphale. "See? I knew I wasn't wrong." "Luck of the devil," muttered the angel.

"Your name then was Sister Talkative. Or something." "Loquacious," said Mary Hodges in a hollow voice.

"And do you recall an incident involving the switching of newborn babies?" said Crowley.

Mary Hodges hesitated. When she did speak, it was as though memories that had been scabbed over were being disturbed for the first time in years.

"Yes," she said.

"Is there any possibility that the switch could have gone wrong in some way?" "I do not know."

Crowley thought for a bit. "You must have had records," he said. "There are always records.

Everyone has records these days." He glanced proudly at Aziraphale. "It was one of my better ideas." "Oh, yes," said Mary Hodges.

"And where are they?" said Aziraphale sweetly.

"There was a fire just after the birth."

Crowley groaned and threw his hands in the air. "That was Hastur, probably," he said. "It's his style. Can you believe those guys? I bet he thought he was being really clever." "Do you recall any details about the other child?" said Aziraphale. "Yes."

"Please tell me."

"He had lovely little toesie-wosies."

Neil and PTerry are not authors like me, they don’t just use the same word all helter-skelter because they cant remember what they wrote five lines earlier. They’re funny and most importantly clever people. Or at least they have good editors who will call them on it. So likening this hazy or lost memory to a scab seems intentional to me.

But it’s not that Mary was traumatized by her time with the order. She was young and a bit hemmed in, but they weren’t evil in anything more than being allied with Crowley’s side. There’s nothing about her time with them that would be particularly upsetting, certainly not so much she’d have blocked it out even from her subconscious. Crowley’s putting her under here feels vaguely akin to hypnosis, suppressing part of her mental defenses so she’ll share more information with less filtering. And even then, talking about that time brings on the same sensation Nigel had when exposed to something too scary and --more importantly-- weird to fit with how he normally saw the world.

I think it’s Crowley. Specifically, Crowley letting his human face slip a bit. With Nigel it was intentional, with the nuns, possibly because Crowley was more distressed than he normally was so was less in control of himself? He wasn’t transforming into things that go bump in the night, sure, but between being so upset about the Apocalypse happening and these being his people so he didn’t have to fight so hard to hide his essence, I wonder if he didn’t let a certain something just ... slip through? Something the human mind just isn’t equipped to deal with?

It calls to mind another scene where we talked about memory and the benefit of failing to leave an impression, from much earlier:

"Is that him?" said Sister Mary, staring at the baby. "Only I'd expected funny eyes. Red, or green. Or teensy-weensy little hoofikins. Or a widdle tail." She turned him around as she spoke. No horns either. The Devil's child looked ominously normal.

"Yes, that's him," said Crowley.

"Fancy me holding the Antichrist," said Sister Mary. "And bathing the Antichrist. And counting his little toesy-wosies . . ."

She was now addressing the child directly, lost in some world of her own. Crowley waved a hand in front of her wimple. "Hallo? Hallo? Sister Mary?"

"Sorry, sir. He is a little sweetheart, though. Does he look like his daddy? I bet he does. Does he look like his daddywaddykins . . ."

"No," said Crowley firmly. "And now I should get up to the delivery rooms, if I were you."

"Will he remember me when he grows up, do you think?" said Sister Mary wistfully, sidling slowly down the corridor.

"Pray that he doesn't," said Crowley, and fled.

I didn’t think anything of it at the time, but maybe it’s not Crowley, or just Crowley, that makes her memories of this event feel scabbed-over. “Lost in some world of her own” could just be getting a little absorbed in the new baby (lots of women particularly are conditioned to think we need to coo over infants, and I can’t imagine the type of women who become nuns-- satanic or otherwise-- are much different in that respect). But it doesn’t have to be just that, does it? Prolonged exposure to the supernatural, even the also-human antichrist in his veiled form, seems like the kind of thing that’s too weird for the human psyche to easily come to terms with.

It’s interesting, because that sort of inability to be noticed is really biting Crowley in the backside now.

"Of course, we might be able to get a human to find him," said Aziraphale thoughtfully. "What?" said Crowley, distractedly.

"Humans are good at finding other humans. They've been doing it for thousands of years. And the child is human. As well as . . . you know. He would be hidden from us, but other humans might be able to . . . oh, sense him, perhaps. Or spot things we wouldn't think of."

"It wouldn't work. He's the Antichrist! He's got this . . . sort of automatic defense, hasn't he? Even if he doesn't know it. It won't even let people suspect him. Not yet. Not till it's ready. Suspicion will slide off him like, like . . . whatever it is water slides off of," he finished lamely.

"Got any better ideas? Got one single better idea?" said Aziraphale.

"No."

I’m not saying this has to be the same sort of inability-to-be-perceived that affected Mary and Nigel above. It could be a sort of built-in defense mechanism specially for the antichrist. But it seems on theme at the very least. There seems something deeply sad to me, and probably very relevant to the queer experience of the ‘80s and ‘90s, around the time this book was written and published, to there being something about your true nature that’s just not allowed to be seen and remembered.

Now I’ve made myself a bit sad, and if you’ve read this long you deserve to end on a treat. Luckily, our favorite authors have us covered there as well.

"Ducks!" he shouted.

"What?"

"That's what water slides off!" Aziraphale took a deep breath.

"Just drive the car, please," he said wearily.

They drove back through the dawn, while the cassette player played J. S. Bach's Mass in B Minor, vocals by F. Mercury.

[pogoyarabelajane]

Addressing Response to Customer Difficulties: Starting Point

What are the common problems encountered by CMU students nowadays?

In this journal, you will learn about our journey of finding problems and how we were able to come up with this particular product in order to achieve a more efficient and productive academic life for college students.

The first thing we did during the first week was to create a plan on how we will conduct our interview and how many prospective people we need including the college they should be from. The team agreed on making interviews by pair; one person will do the asking while the other will do the documentation.

After some interviews, we gathered all the information and shared it together with other members.

After giving it some thought, we took notes of the problems raised and created possible solutions to each of them. The next day, we interviewed another group of people for further investigation. The following is the summarization of the data gathered from respondents.

Data Gathered:

2 males (Agriculture Students) — lack of trash bins in Agri benches.

1 male (from CAS) — lack of trash bins and CR (no water)

1 female (from CFES) — CMU market is too far for printing documents.

1 female (from CBM) — CMU market is too far for printing documents.

2 female (Graduate students) — Financial problem.

1 female (from CVM) — CMU market is too far.

1 female (from COEd) — Slow internet.

5 females (from CAS) — Lack of benches.

A total of 14 customers are interviewed.

And then we all gathered together to brainstorm and discuss our possible plans.

In consideration of the datas we have gathered while conducting interviews, we noticed that there was a diverse array of problems from our customers' answers. The group decided to formulate possible solutions to the problems while also considering the opportunity to profit. The most significant one was financial problems, our chosen solution for this was to construct or create a platform for a marketplace where we will play the role of a broker. It aims to give opportunities for students to:

Dispose of their old possessions through selling second-hand items(books, print-outs, yoga mats, swimsuits, etc.)

Allows them to buy items at a lesser price.

Easy access for available boarding houses in the area.

However, it requires a lot of estimations and assumptions and we found out that Central Mindanao University already has an online marketplace.

Another best alternative we are able to formulate was the solution to the distance of the University Market in regards to printing services. We came up with the decision to choose the printing problems to be addressed. After considering other variables, the team has made an idea of providing a self-service, coin-generated, vendo printing machine rather than using a regular printer which needs someone to operate and provide assistance for all the time. It is super convenient and can be less hassle since we only need to provide maintenance for it for once in a while. For that cause, we did research if this product is available in the market or is yet to be created.

To find out that it is currently unavailable in the local market, we are advised to manufacture the product ourselves, because formulating it on our own and managing its service function would dampen the fixed cost, causing us to hardly match the value of the product in the value the customers can afford to give which can dampen the possibility of profitability. With that in plan, we established steps to properly manufacture the product and as to where we will market it.

The group formulated the following measures:

Collaborate with people with expertise in the making of the product (IT technicians/ Engineers)

Interview experts as to the costs of manufacture, the processes and licenses needed to manufacture the product.

Have the estimation as to the possibility of profitability or determine the economic value of the product in a certain point of time.

Make a model or prototype of the product, as to the process of using it.

Devise a clear plan on whom to sell the product.

To conclude:

Team work and Cooperation with the team

Work with Unity, and Diverse Perspective

Adaptability

Constructive feedback

Having this kind of behavior and attitude makes the team create a unique and successful product and/or service, it also helps the students life easier in terms of printing their outputs. Moreover, the team should not waste time on thinking of innovative ideas that can be useful not only for students but also a product and/or services that we can still benefit in the future.

[onlinemarketingjuice]

How to Make Side Hustle Money on Etsy using Digital Product “Niches” Such as PDFs, Spreadsheets, and PowerPoint Templates

Are you looking for a lucrative side hustle that allows you to make money from the comfort of your own home? Selling digital products on Etsy, such as PDFs, spreadsheets, and PowerPoint templates can be an excellent way to earn some extra cash.

Here are a few potential niches you could consider:

Printable art: This is a popular niche on Etsy, and you can create and sell downloadable prints of your own artwork, designs, or photographs.

Wedding invitations: If you have a talent for graphic design, you can create beautiful wedding invitation templates that customers can customize themselves.

Digital planner pages: With the growing popularity of digital planners, you can design and sell digital planner pages that customers can use to plan and organize their lives.

Social media templates: As more and more people use social media for marketing and branding, you can create and sell templates for posts, stories, and ads that customers can use to elevate their online presence.

Resume templates: If you have experience in human resources or recruiting, you can design and sell resume templates that help job seekers stand out in a crowded job market.

While earnings can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of products you sell, their price point, and the amount of marketing you do, according to Etsy's 2020 Q2 financial report, the marketplace generated over $346 million in revenue from digital sales during that quarter alone. This indicates that there is a significant market for digital products on Etsy and the potential for sellers to make a substantial amount of money from their sales.

It’s important to note that there are costs associated with selling on Etsy, such as listing fees, transaction fees, and payment processing fees, which can impact your earnings. Additionally, you’ll need to invest time and effort into creating high-quality products, marketing your shop, SEO (creating searchable hashtags) and providing excellent customer service to increase your sales and grow your revenue.

Its crucial to set up and optimize an Etsy shop! If you’re looking for a platform to get your products online quickly, Etsy is a great place to start.

Creating an Etsy account is the first step toward launching your storefront. To open a shop online, you must first become a registered site member. Once you have an Etsy account, you can open a shop.

Next, you will need to choose a name for your Etsy store. Etsy requires each shop owner to use a unique name, so it’s common for sellers to find that their first choice is unavailable

Choose your products. You can sell almost anything like eBooks, PDF & PowerPoint templates in your Etsy shop, but it’s best to start by focusing on a few complementary products so customers will understand what your shop is all about.

Create your shop. When opening an Etsy shop, the site will direct you through the process of creating your online storefront and choosing your language and currency preferences.

A common question for first-time sellers is how to price items on Etsy. Correctly pricing your products ensures you get the best return on investment (ROI), but it will take some time and analysis.

Before opening your Etsy shop to customers, make sure you have enough products to sell. You don’t want to run out after your first few sales and have to scramble to produce more. You also don’t want to overstock any one item. Digital products such as “templates” are easier to stock as they live in the cloud (Etsy shop).

After Etsy approves your shop name and you have all of your inventory ready, you can start listing on Etsy. The key to solid Etsy sales is good product photos and a killer description that uses industry keywords.

Next, you’ll need to choose the type(s) of payments you’ll accept. Etsy Payments is the most popular route on Etsy as it allows you to accept credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, PayPal, Etsy gift cards, and some bank transfer services.

Receive orders: When a customer purchases an item from your shop, the payment is processed through Etsy Payments, and the funds are held by Etsy until the order is marked as shipped or the digital product has been downloaded.  Once you’ve shipped the physical item, you should mark the order as shipped on Etsy, which releases the payment to your account. The payment will be deposited into your bank account within a few business days, depending on your location and bank.

Learning to package your products safely and securely and ship them quickly helps build your reputation on Etsy. Buy proper shipping supplies, and use bubble wrap for delicate items.  On Etsy, you can use calculated shipping so the shipping is automatically calculated for you. Calculated shipping looks at your location, the buyer’s location, and the size and weight of the listing item to determine the shipping cost.  Again, selling “digital products” are MUCH easier than actual products such as art, clothes, etc., as you don’t have to worry about drop shipping.

As of 2023, here are the current fees for selling on Etsy:

Listing Fees: It costs $0.20 USD to list an item on Etsy, and the listing remains active for four months or until the item sells, whichever comes first.

Transaction Fees: When an item sells, Etsy charges a transaction fee of 5% of the item’s sale price, including the cost of shipping. This fee also applies to any applicable sales tax.

Payment Processing Fees: If you use Etsy Payments to process your sales, you’ll be charged a payment processing fee, which varies depending on your location and the currency you use. For sellers based in the United States, the payment processing fee is 3% + $0.25 USD per transaction.

Etsy Payments also handles any necessary refunds or disputes, and provides you with a record of all your transactions and payments. It’s important to note that there are fees associated with using Etsy Payments, as mentioned in my previous response.

Selling digital products on Etsy can be a great way to make money on the side, especially if you have a talent for creating unique and useful products such as PDFs, spreadsheets, and PowerPoint templates. By following the strategies and tips outlined in this article, you can create a successful side hustle that not only generates extra income but also allows you to express your creativity and passion. Remember to put in the time and effort to create high-quality products, optimize your listings, and promote your products to your target audience. With persistence and dedication, your Etsy side hustle can become a valuable source of income and a fulfilling hobby.

*If you are interested in selling handmade or unique items online, I have another great article on a beginner's guide to selling handmade or unique items online and making money here.

[newspatrolling]

Quicklend Secures Funding to Revolutionize Secured Lending, Launches ‘Loan Against Mutual Funds’

Quicklend secures funding from Inuka Capital, Eximius Ventures, Upsparks Capital and others to redefine the secured lending ecosystem in India.

Bangalore, India – February 5, 2025: Quicklend, India’s leading secured lending platform, has announced the launch of its Loan Against Mutual Funds (LAMF) product in collaboration with Bajaj and a consortium of prominent NBFCs. Alongside this announcement, Quicklend disclosed securing INR 6.75 Cr in a pre-seed funding round led by Inuka Capital, Eximius Ventures, Upsparks Capital, GrowX, and a group of strategic angel investors.

The newly raised capital will enable Quicklend to scale its operations, enhance its technological capabilities, and introduce innovative features that redefine the lending experience. The company is set to allocate significant resources towards research and development, ensuring that its platform remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the fintech sector.

“This funding reflects the confidence our investors have in Quicklend’s vision to transform the lending landscape in India,” said Raghuram Trikutam, CEO of Quicklend. “We remain dedicated to leveraging this capital to bridge the gap between financial institutions and credit-seekers, furthering our commitment to financial inclusion across the nation.”

Gautam Shewakramani, Co-Founder & Partner at Inuka Capital said, “With Indian consumer savings moving to the financial markets, Quicklend’s solution offers lenders, their demand partners, and consumers across India to quickly access liquidity in a completely automated fashion. We’re excited to back Raghuram and the team as they build the infrastructure to unlock secured credit in India.”

Pearl Agarwal, Founder and Managing Partner of Eximius Ventures said, “As vigilance around unsecured loans rises, secured loans are set to grow significantly. With mutual funds gaining traction in Tier 2 and 3 cities, this creates a lucrative opportunity. Quicklend is at the forefront, digitizing the loan journey with mutual funds and plans to expand into other secured assets. We’re excited to back Raghu and his team, whose 30+ years of collective FinTech experience bring a unique edge in crafting transformative solutions..”

Strategic Roadmap With the fresh infusion of funds, Quicklend plans to broaden its geographical footprint and expand its distribution network. Additionally, it will strengthen its data security infrastructure to maintain the highest levels of user trust and confidence.

source:newspatrolling.com

[invisibleicewands]

Actor and debt campaigner Michael Sheen has joined calls for the government to pass legislation to help tackle the crisis of unaffordable credit and problem debt in the UK.

In 2022-2023, more than nine million individuals were declined for credit, with millions relying on pay-day-lenders and buy-now-pay-later schemes with high interest rates. At its worst, lack of access to affordable credit means hundreds of thousands of people find themselves turning to loan sharks, while viable businesses remain stuck, unable to develop and create jobs.

Campaigners are calling for a Fair Banking Act to help ensure that everyone can access essential financial services and support.

Speaking at an event in Parliament on Monday, Mr Sheen said: “Anyone can find themselves in a place where they need credit to make ends meet or to get through a difficult time.

“The lack of affordable credit for people on lower-incomes is harming individuals and families, but also businesses and communities. Whole regions are seeing their growth held back. We can’t keep waiting and hoping that things will get better. We need something to change now. The Fair Banking Act could be the thing which really makes the difference.”

The event in parliament was organised by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Fair Banking, alongside the Fair Banking for All Campaign – a group including credit unions, Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs), fintechs, charities and policy experts who are calling for a Fair Banking Act to help increase access to affordable credit. MPs, peers and financial regulators were among the attendees.

Lloyd Hatton MP, chair of the APPG, said: “We need a Fair Banking Act to help increase affordable lending in every corner of the country, ensure small businesses have access to the financial support they need, and guarantee that nobody is financially excluded by the mainstream banks.

“Only then will we deliver sustained economic growth across the whole of the UK.”

Before the election, Labour announced that financial inclusion would be a priority for them in government, with plans being developed for a comprehensive national Financial Inclusion Strategy. The Fair Banking for All Campaign is calling for a Fair Banking Act to be a central pillar of this strategy, to help grow the responsible finance sector. The idea is based on a successful example from the US, where similar legislation has successfully increased access to financial services and support for people on low-incomes and from marginalised communities.

As well as leading mainstream banks to improve their own provision of affordable credit for underserved communities, the proposed legislation would also incentivise partnerships between high-street banks and institutions such as credit unions and CDFIs, which are often best placed to provide tailored services that meet the needs of individuals and small businesses who have been turned down by larger institutions.

Recently published research from the Fair Banking for All Campaign estimated that a Fair Banking Act in the UK could increase fair and affordable lending to individuals by £2bn a year – equivalent to the total amount owed to loan sharks. This would help to pull the rug out from under the illegal lending market, by providing people with a safe and affordable alternative when they’re in urgent need. Additional support to small businesses could create or maintain just under 10,000 jobs over five years, including in some of the most economically deprived parts of the country – where small businesses currently find it hardest to get loans from high street banks.

Robert Kelly, chief executive of the Association of British Credit Unions Ltd, was another of the speakers at the event. He said: “We need more humanity in our banking system.

“At a time when more and more people need access to affordable credit, their options are becoming more and more limited. People are being turned down by high-street banks because of their income level or credit score, and so they’re turning to high-cost credit or illegal lending.

“Credit unions give them an alternative. The sector continues to serve communities and employers across the country at record levels through the provision of ethical and responsible products and services.

“There’s so much demand out there for this kind of alternative – but we need a Fair Banking Act so we can grow to meet that demand, and help millions more people”

Theodora Hadjimichael, chief executive of Responsible Finance which represents CDFIs in the UK, said: “Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs) invest into underserved places and people, unlocking potential for businesses, social enterprises and households.

“For economic growth to happen, we need lenders that get to know businesses and understand people’s lives, make fair lending decisions that take these into account, and offer affordable finance, and incentives to ensure that growing demand for affordable, ethical, credit can be met.

“That’s why Responsible Finance is part of the campaign calling for a Fair Banking Act.”

[namantogwe]

Fantasy Sports vs. Traditional Sports Betting: Which One Should You Play?

Fantasy sports and traditional sports betting have both become major attractions for sports fans. Whether you're looking for strategic competition or quick wins, both options offer unique experiences. But which one is better? Should you play fantasy sports or try traditional betting?

In this blog, we'll compare fantasy sports and sports betting, breaking down their differences, benefits, and which one suits your style of play.

What Are Fantasy Sports? Fantasy sports allow fans to create their own teams using real athletes. Players earn points based on actual game performances, and the goal is to outscore other participants in a league or contest. How Fantasy Sports Work: Draft a team – Pick real players based on stats and performance. Score points – Earn points depending on player actions (goals, assists, touchdowns, etc.). Manage your team – Make trades, substitutions, and lineup changes. Compete and win – Outscore other players over a season or in daily contests. Fantasy sports are more about skill and strategy than luck, making them an exciting way to engage with your favorite sports.

What Is Traditional Sports Betting? Sports betting involves wagering money on the outcome of a game, player performance, or specific in-game events. How Sports Betting Works: Choose a sport – Pick a match or event to bet on. Place a bet – Wager money on a specific outcome (win, loss, score, etc.). Wait for results – If your prediction is correct, you win money. Sports betting is more dependent on luck and short-term analysis, while fantasy sports require deeper strategy and long-term planning.

Key Differences Between Fantasy Sports and Sports Betting Feature Fantasy Sports Sports Betting Skill vs. Luck Requires strategy, research, and team management. Primarily luck-based with some research needed. Time Commitment Season-long or daily contests. Instant bets with quick payouts. Control Over Outcome Players manage teams and make decisions. Once the bet is placed, no further control. Risk Factor Lower risk; even if one player underperforms, the team can recover. Higher risk; one wrong prediction means losing the bet. Engagement Level Players stay engaged throughout the season. Engagement is limited to match results. Monetary Rewards Consistent earnings based on skill and participation. High-risk, high-reward model.

Both options offer excitement, but fantasy sports provide a deeper level of engagement and strategic play.

Why You Should Play Fantasy Sports Over Betting Many sports fans prefer fantasy sports over betting because they provide more involvement and long-term enjoyment. Here’s why:

More Skill, Less Luck Fantasy sports require research, analysis, and decision-making, making them fairer for skilled players. In sports betting, luck plays a major role, as even the best predictions can fail due to unexpected game results.

Ongoing Engagement Unlike betting, where results are determined quickly, fantasy sports require weekly or daily roster management, keeping you engaged with the sport for longer periods.

Multiple Winning Opportunities In betting, you either win or lose your money. In fantasy sports, you can win in different ways: Weekly contests Season-long championships High-score bonuses

Less Financial Risk Betting can lead to significant financial losses if not managed properly. Fantasy sports often involve small entry fees with bigger rewards over time.

A Social and Competitive Experience Fantasy sports encourage friendly competition between friends, family, and coworkers, making it a more interactive experience compared to the solo nature of sports betting.

How to Get Started with Fantasy Sports Step 1: Choose a Fantasy Sports Platform Some of the most popular platforms include: ESPN Fantasy – Great for free leagues. Yahoo Fantasy Sports – User-friendly for beginners. DraftKings & FanDuel – Best for daily fantasy sports (DFS). Dream11 & My11Circle – Popular for cricket fantasy sports. Step 2: Select a Sport Fantasy sports cover a wide range of sports, including: Football (NFL, Soccer, etc.) Basketball (NBA, EuroLeague, etc.) Cricket (IPL, T20, etc.) Baseball (MLB, etc.) Esports (League of Legends, Dota 2, etc.) Choose a sport that you enjoy and follow closely. Step 3: Learn the Scoring System Each fantasy league has a unique scoring system. Make sure you understand how points are awarded before drafting your team. Step 4: Draft Your Team Use player stats, past performance, and expert analysis to pick a well-balanced team. Step 5: Manage Your Team Weekly Make lineup changes. Trade players if needed. Keep track of injuries and team form. Step 6: Compete and Win! Stay active in your league, apply smart strategies, and enjoy the thrill of competition!

When Is Sports Betting a Better Option? While fantasy sports are generally preferred for their strategy-based gameplay, sports betting might be a better choice if: You prefer short-term results rather than season-long competitions. You enjoy higher risk for higher potential rewards. You are confident in making game-by-game predictions. However, always bet responsibly and set limits to avoid financial risks.

Final Verdict: Fantasy Sports or Sports Betting? Category Best Choice For long-term engagement Fantasy Sports For short-term excitement Sports Betting For skill-based competition Fantasy Sports For high-risk, high-reward play Sports Betting For a social and interactive experience Fantasy Sports For casual, quick plays Sports Betting

If you want a fun, strategic, and engaging way to enjoy sports, then fantasy sports are the clear winner.

Start Playing Fantasy Sports Today! Ready to take your sports knowledge to the next level? Sign up for a fantasy sports platform, build your team, and start competing today! Whether you’re playing for fun or aiming for big prizes, fantasy sports offer an unbeatable mix of excitement and strategy. So, what are you waiting for? Play fantasy sports now and experience the thrill!

[realesatatedubai]

Upcoming New Launch Property Expo 2025 by Inchbrick Realty.

New Launch Property Expo in Hyderabad 2025

Are you ready to turn your dream of retaining property in Dubai into reality? The Grand New Launch Property Expo 2025 is here to give you an inconceivable occasion to explore Dubai’s most luxurious and profitable new launch properties. Hosted by Inch & Brick Realty, this prestigious event will take place at the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre on the 15th and 16th of February 2025.

This event is the perfect platform to discover exclusive deals, gain expert insight, and indeed win exciting prizes. From decoration real estate systems starting at just ₹ 1.5 Cr to luxury perks similar to a chance to win a brand-new Mercedes, this is a formerly-by-a-lifetime occasion you can not miss.

Event Details

Event Name Grand New launch Dubai Property Expo in Hyderabad

Dates 15th & 16th February 2025

Venue Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Hyderabad

Time 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Contact 91817865208 6

Why Attend the New Launch Property Expo 2025?

The Dubai real estate market has become a hub for global investors due to its high ROI potential, tax-free advantages, and premium lifestyle offerings. That’s why attending the New Launch Property Expo is a stylish way to step into this lucrative market.

1. Explore New Launch properties in Dubai

Gain exclusive access to brand-new residential and commercial projects in Dubai. These properties boast state-of-the-art architecture, prime locations, and unmatched luxury—all tailored to meet the needs of modern investors.

2. Win a Brand-New Mercedes

Imagine driving away in a luxury car simply by investing in your dream property. Stand a chance to win a Mercedes, BMW, or Audi when you make a qualifying investment during the expo.

3. Exclusive Deals and Offers

The expo is your chance to secure limited-time offers on Dubai’s most prestigious properties These deals aren't available away, making this event a must-attend for serious buyers.

4. Expert Guidance

Meet seasoned professionals from the Dubai real estate industry who will provide personalized advice. They’ll guide you through the investment process, from selecting the right property to understanding legal formalities.

5. Free transnational Trip Packages

Attendees can enjoy exclusive trip benefits, including free transnational passages with their property purchases. Experience Dubai’s luxury life firsthand!

What to Anticipate at the New Launch Property Expo 2025

Exclusive Property Show

The exhibit will feature an expansive range of Dubai’s most sought-after parcels, including

Luxurious apartments in iconic neighborhoods

commodious estates with ultramodern amenities

marketable spaces in Dubai’s business capitals

One- on- One Consultation

Get substantiated guidance from real estate experts who will

Explain the advantages of investing in Dubai’s real estate request

Help you identify parcels that match your requirements and budget

Live donations and Workshops

Provide insights into Dubai’s laws and regulations for foreign investors

Live Presentations and Workshops

Investment strategies for high ROI

forthcoming systems in Dubai’s decoration locales

Dubai’s real estate request trends and growth openings

Networking openings

Connect with other investors, inventors, and assiduity leaders to expand your knowledge and openings in Dubai’s real estate sector.

Top Benefits of Attending a New Launch Property Expo

1. Early Access to Projects

Gain precedence access to the newly launched property, pricing you get the stylish deals before they hit the broader request.

2. Exclusive Discounts and Offers

Take advantage of limited-time abatements, seductive payment plans, and exclusive impulses that are only available at the exhibit.

3. Expert Market Insights

Learn about Dubai’s booming real estate requests from seasoned professionals. Understand the rearmost trends, implicit pitfalls, and areas with the loftiest ROI.

4. Legal and Financial Assistance

Admit on-the-spot backing with legal processes and backing options, making it easier to secure your dream property.

5. Prize Giveaways and Rewards

From luxury auto comps to free transnational passages, the benefits of attending the exhibit go beyond just property investment.

How to Register for the New Launch Property Expo 2025

Step 1: Secure Your Free VIP Pass

Register online to claim your FREE personality Pass. Limited spots are available, so act presto!

Step 2 Plan Your Visit

Mark your timetable for 15th and 16th February 2025 and head to the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre. Parking and amenities will be available for your convenience & download your VIP pass now.

Step 3: Explore, Invest, and Win

Visit the exhibit, explore the showcased parcels, and take the first step towards retaining a piece of Dubai. Don’t forget to enter the draw for your chance to win a luxury auto!

Why Dubai Real Estate is a Smart Investment

Dubai’s real estate request offers unequaled benefits, including

High ROI Potential: Properties in Dubai deliver some of the highest returns on investment globally.

Tax-Free Investment: Enjoy the benefits of no property taxes or capital gains taxes.

World-Class Infrastructure: Dubai offers modern amenities, cutting-edge technology, and a premium lifestyle.

Strong Market Growth: The city’s continuous development ensures long-term value for real estate investments.

Visa Benefits: Investing in Dubai property can qualify you for a residency visa, making it easier to live and work in the UAE.

Don’t Miss Out – Join Us at the Grand Dubai Property Expo 2025

Turn your dream of owning a luxurious Dubai property into reality at the New Launch Property Expo in Hyderabad 2025. Whether you’re a first-time investor or an educated buyer, this event is tailored to meet all your real estate requirements.

📅 Event Details

Dates 15th & 16th February 2025

Venue Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre

Time 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Contact 91817865208 6

👉 Register Now Secure your spot moment and claim your FREE personality Pass. Don’t miss this exclusive occasion to explore Dubai’s top parcels, win inconceivable prizes, and take the first step toward your dream investment.

Join Inchbrick Realty at the Grand Dubai Property Expo 2025 to unlock a world of investment openings, luxury, and success. See you there!