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Online marketing has come to mean many things

Online marketing has come to mean many things

Online marketing

Online marketing Effortless Online Advertising

Online marketing is among the most efficient ways for anyone looking to build their business or get the most out of their marketing budget. Including online marketing in a well-thought-out strategy increases its effectiveness.

INTERNET MARKETING: WHAT IS IT?

“Internet marketing” now encompasses a wide range of practices. Many forms of internet promotion fall under the umbrella term “online marketing,” including banner ads, affiliate programs, search engine optimization (SEO), and search engine marketing. In the past ten years, it has also undergone several changes and evolutions. Online marketing has expanded well beyond 468 X 60 banners since the introduction of Google Adsense and other types of targeted pay-per-click advertising.

Your online marketing budget’s goals should guide your consideration of the several forms of internet advertising currently available. Do you intend to sell anything? Get people to visit your advertising or website? Raise brand recognition for your business?

Keep in mind that none of your online advertising, including placement, creativity, and offer, should differ from what you see on other websites or in your physical store. As a result, customers have an easier time making a purchase after clicking on your online marketing ads.

One kind of internet marketing is affiliate marketing, which involves promoting your goods and services through other websites. Offering content alongside a generous affiliate commission plan is a great way to build an affiliate network. Content and relevant information are sought for by other websites. Their likelihood of participating in your affiliate program increases if you can offer them valuable material while also giving them a chance to make money.

SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION (SEO)

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is an integral part of any internet marketing strategy. When it comes to internet marketing, SEO is frequently overlooked. Nonetheless, it’s a crucial part of any successful internet marketing strategy.

 

If you are promoting an existing product or releasing a new one, make sure that people can easily locate your website and offer page. People using web browsers may take some time to respond to your online adverts.

Customers are more likely to come back to your ad when they have a specific demand. Optimize your pages based on the keywords that prospects might use to find your offer. To further improve your site’s visibility in search engine results, you should connect to your promotional pages from the homepage.

INTERNET MARKETING: WHAT MAKES IT CRUCIAL?

You can usually get immediate feedback and see how well your campaign is doing with online marketing. You can quickly gauge the efficacy of your marketing efforts and test out different offers and creatives thanks to this immediacy. If you can see how your ads are doing in real time, you can adjust your budget or try something new to see if it works better.

The web has finally arrived, with over 68% of houses having internet access and over 2/3 of those homes having a high speed connection. Internet marketing must be a component of your total marketing strategy if you want to reach the vast majority of customers.

Segmenting your customers and offering very focused positioning is another benefit of online marketing. When advertising online, you have more control over which websites display your ads than with more conventional forms of marketing. Additionally, there are a plethora of firms that may assist you in placing adverts on relevant pages or themes.

Renown for its pay-per-click and contextual advertising, With Google, you may tailor the display of your ad to certain terms. Commercials will show up in people’s search results when they use the keywords you mentioned. The affiliate network that Google has built is its strength; it displays Google’s contextual adverts on hundreds of thousands of websites.

Even though Google has been accused of click fraud recently, it continues to offer one of the most focused solutions for internet advertising. Similar services give targeted web marketing through other Yahoo!-owned services, such as Overture.

WHO STANDS TO GAIN?ONLINE MARKETING

Consider including online marketing into your marketing mix if you want to see better marketing outcomes. Advertising, contextual adverts, pay-per-click advertising, affiliate networks, and countless more forms of online marketing make it a sure bet for anyone looking for a quantifiable ROI.

Set a spending limit for yourself and stick to it before launching any kind of internet marketing campaign. Determine your budget beforehand. How many conversions must you make before you turn a profit? How do you think the ratio of clicks to purchases will pan out? If you want to know how much money you can afford to spend on internet marketing, you need to know these basic financial criteria.

THE FIRST STEPS.ONLINE MARKETING

There are a variety of ways to launch an internet marketing campaign, from bidding on a handful of keywords to creating a sophisticated strategy that incorporates numerous buys throughout a network of websites. It is wise to begin with less complex marketing efforts and gradually increase their complexity, as is the case with any new marketing initiative.

 

To kick off your internet marketing campaign, I suggest concentrating on your own website (building promotional banners, buttons, and content), an affiliate program, and pay-per-click advertising. The first two strategies will get your campaign off the ground with minimal outlay of resources. Boost your marketing message’s chances of reaching its target audience with pay-per-click advertising.

ecosystem for entrepreneurs

Tim Moseley

ILP awards for all Entrepreneur Ones 2023 and the future

As we move into 2024

1. We have assigned all qualified Entrepreneur Ones the ONE ILP as we promised to each E1 account.

2. We are kicking up the same offer incentive plus 1000 Hivecoins for 2024.

3. We are now building an army of engineers, this depends on your E1 subscrptions. 

4. As our E1s increase the faster we get into revenue and officially get Markethive launched!

Bring your Hivecoin wallet address to our Sunday meeting and recieve a Hivecoin air drop and watch the power of our new wallet.

See you there
10 AM (Denver time)
January 14, 2024

Thomas Prendergast

Tim Moseley

Gold will be sensitive to USD strength 2000 might not hold – HSBC

Gold will be sensitive to USD strength, $ 2,000 might not hold – HSBC

Kitco News

The Leading News Source in Precious Metals

Kitco NEWS has a diverse team of journalists reporting on the economy, stock markets, commodities, cryptocurrencies, mining and metals with accuracy and objectivity. Our goal is to help people make informed market decisions through in-depth reporting, daily market roundups, interviews with prominent industry figures, comprehensive coverage (often exclusive) of important industry events and analyses of market-affecting developments.

Gold will be sensitive to USD strength, $ 2,000 might not hold – HSBC teaser image

(Kitco News) – Weakness in the U.S. dollar helped to propel gold prices to record highs in the final month of 2023. While gold remains above $2,000 an ounce, currency analysts at HSBC are warning investors that this level might not hold in the new year.

Although gold has managed to hold its own in the first two weeks of 2024, HSBC noted that its precious metals team sees the market as overstretched and is expected to decline as higher prices take their toll on physical demand, weighing on jewelry and bullion sales.

At the same time, the bank’s currency analysts expect to see renewed momentum in the U.S. dollar, which will also weigh on prices. The biggest driver for the greenback remains the Federal Reserve’s restrictive monetary policy.

The currency analysts said markets could be too aggressive in pricing in expected rate cuts this year. If the market proves to be too optimistic on easing, it could provide new bullish momentum for the U.S. dollar.

“Market expectations of Fed rate cuts amounting to 138bp are well above what the Fed’s dot plot implies, as well as our economists’ forecast for 75bp worth of cuts,” the analysts said. “Should the scale of these anticipated cuts not fully materialize, then the price of gold may backtrack.”

At the same time, HSBC analysts note that a few rate cuts this year will also support higher real interest rates, creating another headwind for the precious metal.

“Gold is historically sensitive to US real rates, and while there has been a significant disconnect in this relationship, our precious metals analyst thinks that positive real rates could be a headwind for gold this year,” HSBC said in the report.

So far, markets haven’t given up on the idea that the Federal Reserve will start to cut rates in March, even as inflation pressures remain stubbornly elevated. HSBC’s note was published ahead of December’s Consumer Price Index, which showed core consumer prices in the U.S. rising 3.9% in the last 12 months, coming in hotter than expected.

Despite stubborn inflation, markets still see a more than 68% chance of a rate cut at the March meeting.

While gold could be vulnerable to some selling pressure in the next few months, HSBC does see a limit to the downside.

“A number of bedrock factors will sustain the price of gold at what would still be a historically high level,” HSBC said. “For example, geopolitical and trade risks are elevated and may stay high in 2024, as 75 nations hold elections, lending underlying support to gold prices. And central bank demand remains historically strong, triggered by geopolitical risks and portfolio diversification needs, but may not be fully sustained at price levels above $2,000 per ounce.

Kitco Media

Neils Christensen

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

Gold silver tread water ahead of key US inflation data

Gold, silver tread water ahead of key U.S. inflation data

Kitco News

The Leading News Source in Precious Metals

Kitco NEWS has a diverse team of journalists reporting on the economy, stock markets, commodities, cryptocurrencies, mining and metals with accuracy and objectivity. Our goal is to help people make informed market decisions through in-depth reporting, daily market roundups, interviews with prominent industry figures, comprehensive coverage (often exclusive) of important industry events and analyses of market-affecting developments.

Gold, silver tread water ahead of key U.S. inflation data teaser image

(Kitco News) – Gold and silver prices are not trading too far from unchanged levels on the day in midday dealings Wednesday. Traders are awaiting the U.S. data points of the week: the December consumer price index report on Thursday and the December producer price index report on Friday. The CPI report is seen up 3.3%, year-on-year versus a rise of 3.1% in the November report. February gold was last down $1.80 at $2,031.00 and March silver was last down $0.056 at $23.04.

The Federal Reserve has been pleased with cooling U.S. inflation—to the point of hinting of no more interest rate increases and possibly interest rate cuts in 2024. The Fed would like to see annual U.S. inflation rates of around 2%.

Most of the marketplace expects the CPI and PPI numbers late this week to be tame on inflation. If the numbers are printed as expected look for the stock, financial and commodity markets to view that as friendly, as traders would reckon that would allow the Fed to ease its monetary policy sooner—meaning better demand for goods and services, and better consumer confidence. It’s my bias, too, that this week’s U.S. inflation numbers will not contain markets-moving surprises. There is presently an outlier group of markets watchers that believes deflationary price pressures could come into play later this year.

Importantly, inflation reports in the coming few months may be more worrisome for the marketplace and for central bankers. The heightened Middle East tensions include Iranian-backed Houthi attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea. The Red Sea is one of the world’s major shipping routes. Some shippers have opted to avoid the Red Sea altogether and instead traverse the much longer route all the way around the African continent. Of course, that means longer supply chain delivery times and higher shipping costs. Reads a Dow Jones Newswires headline today: “Importers face surging shipping costs, delays as Red Sea diversions pile up.”

The shipping delays and higher costs could push up producer price inflation in the coming months, and in turn raise costs to the consumer. You can bet the world’s central bankers are watching this situation closely.

Asian and European stock markets were mixed overnight. U.S. stock index futures are slightly up near midday.

The key outside markets today see the U.S. dollar index a bit weaker. Nymex crude oil prices are slightly down and trading around $72.00 a barrel. Meantime, the yield on the benchmark U.S. Treasury 10-year note is presently fetching 4.019%.

Technically, February gold futures bulls have the overall near-term technical advantage. Prices are in a three-month-old uptrend on the daily bar chart. Bulls’ next upside price objective is to produce a close above solid resistance at $2,100.00. Bears' next near-term downside price objective is pushing futures prices below solid technical support at $2,000.00. First resistance is seen at today’s high of $2,046.20 and then at this week’s high of $2,053.30. First support is seen at this week’s low of $2,022.70 and then at $2,015.00. Wyckoff's Market Rating: 6.5.

March silver futures bears have the overall near-term technical advantage. A six-week-old downtrend is in place on the daily bar chart. Silver bulls' next upside price objective is closing prices above solid technical resistance at $25.00. The next downside price objective for the bears is closing prices below solid support at the November low of $22.26. First resistance is seen at this week’s high of $23.565 and then at $23.715. Next support is seen at last week’s low of $22.88 and then at the December low of $22.785. Wyckoff's Market Rating: 4.0.

March N.Y. copper closed down 30 points at 375.55 cents today. Prices closed near the session low today and hit a three-week low. Prices also scored a bearish “outside day” down on the daily bar chart. The copper bears have the slight overall near-term technical advantage. A choppy, 2.5-month-old uptrend on the daily bar chart has been negated. Copper bulls' next upside price objective is pushing and closing prices above solid technical resistance at the December high of 397.40 cents. The next downside price objective for the bears is closing prices below solid technical support at 365.00 cents. First resistance is seen at today’s high of 379.30 cents and then at this week’s high of 384.05 cents. First support is seen at the December low of 372.90 cents and then at 370.00 cents. Wyckoff's Market Rating: 4.5.

Try out my “Markets Front Burner” email report. My next one is due out today and is going to be entitled, “When China sneezes…” Front Burner is my best writing and analysis, I think, because I get to look ahead at the marketplace and do some market price forecasting. And it’s free! Sign up to my new, free weekly Markets Front Burner newsletter, at https://www.kitco.com/services/markets-front-burner.html .

Kitco Media

Jim Wyckoff

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

How Do You Build Your Network?

How Do You Build Your Network?

network

Building a network is a process of connecting with other professionals who share your interests, goals, or expertise. A network can help you learn, grow, and advance in your career. Here are some steps to build your network effectively:

Online Press Release Service, White Label Press Release distribution, Press Release Distribution Service, Press Release.

  • Identify your purpose and goals for networking. Think about why you want to network and what you hope to achieve from it. For example, you may want to network to find a mentor, learn new skills, discover new opportunities, or expand your customer base.
  • Find and join relevant platforms and groups. Look for online and offline platforms and groups where you can meet and interact with people who have similar or complementary backgrounds, interests, or industries.
  • For example, you can use social media, professional networking sites, online forums, blogs, podcasts, webinars, or newsletters to find and follow people who inspire you or can help you with your goals. You can also join local or online groups, such as alumni associations, trade associations, clubs, or communities, that organize events, workshops, or discussions related to your field or niche.
  • Reach out and introduce yourself. Once you find people who you want to connect with, don’t be afraid to reach out and introduce yourself. You can send them a personalized message, email, or invitation, and briefly explain who you are, what you do, and why you want to connect with them.
  • You can also mention something that you have in common, such as a mutual contact, a shared interest, or a recent achievement. Be polite, respectful, and genuine, and avoid being too pushy or salesy.
  • Provide value and build trust. To build a strong and lasting relationship with your network, you need to provide value and build trust. You can do this by offering your help, advice, feedback, or referrals, or by sharing useful information, resources, or opportunities.
  • You can also show your appreciation, recognition, or support, or by giving compliments, testimonials, or endorsements. Be consistent, reliable, and responsive, and avoid making promises that you can’t keep or asking for favors that you can’t return.
  • Maintain and grow your network. To maintain and grow your network, you need to stay in touch and follow up with your contacts regularly. You can do this by sending them updates, greetings, or thank-you notes, or by commenting, liking, or sharing their posts or content. You can also invite them to chat, call, or meet, or to join you for an event, webinar, or workshop. You can also ask them for feedback, suggestions, or referrals, or introduce them to other people who can benefit them or vice versa.

These are some of the steps to build your network. If you want to learn more about this topic, you can check out some of the web search results1 that I found for you. I hope you find them useful and interesting. 😊

1https://www.bing.com/search?q=How+Do+You+Build+Your+Network%3F

 

Link Cloaking Software - LinkTrackr

Tim Moseley

Gold up a bit on still-friendly charts

Gold up a bit on still-friendly charts

Kitco News

The Leading News Source in Precious Metals

Kitco NEWS has a diverse team of journalists reporting on the economy, stock markets, commodities, cryptocurrencies, mining and metals with accuracy and objectivity. Our goal is to help people make informed market decisions through in-depth reporting, daily market roundups, interviews with prominent industry figures, comprehensive coverage (often exclusive) of important industry events and analyses of market-affecting developments.

Gold up a bit on still-friendly charts teaser image

(Gold prices are a bit higher and silver a bit weaker in midday U.S. trading Tuesday. Technical-based buying is featured in gold as the charts still firmly favor the bulls. Higher crude oil prices are also bullish for the metals today. However, gains in the metals are being limited by a firmer U.S. dollar index and a slight up-tick in U.S. Treasury yields on this day. February gold was last up $3.50 at $2,036.90. March silver was last down $0.12 at $23.19.

U.S. stock index futures are mixed at midday.

In overnight news, reports said China’s central bank has indicated it may lower its reserve requirement ratio to boost lending and support economic growth, the head of the central bank’s monetary policy department told a local news agency. The PBOC official’s remark does not suggest an imminent cut but may indicate such action is on the table in the coming months, Bloomberg reported. Similar comments were made last July before the central bank reduced the reserve requirement ratio for major banks in September of last year. The metals markets may also be getting some support from this news, which could promote better consumer and commercial demand for metals from China in the coming months.

The U.S. data points of the week will be the December consumer price index report on Thursday and the December producer price index report on Friday. U.S. inflation has cooled in recent months, which has allowed the Federal Reserve to back off on its tighter monetary policy. The CPI report is seen up 3.3%, year-on-year versus a rise of 3.1% in the November report.

The key outside markets today see the U.S. dollar index moderately higher. Nymex crude oil prices are solidly higher and trading around $72.75 a barrel. Meantime, the yield on the benchmark U.S. Treasury 10-year note is presently fetching 4.011%.

Technically, February gold futures bulls have the overall near-term technical advantage. Prices are in a three-month-old uptrend on the daily bar chart. Bulls’ next upside price objective is to produce a close above solid resistance at $2,100.00. Bears' next near-term downside price objective is pushing futures prices below solid technical support at $2,000.00. First resistance is seen at this week’s high of $2,053.30 and then at last Friday’s high of $2,071.10. First support is seen at this week’s low of $2,022.70 and then at $2,015.00. Wyckoff's Market Rating: 6.5.

March silver futures bears have the overall near-term technical advantage. A five-week-old downtrend is in place on the daily bar chart. Silver bulls' next upside price objective is closing prices above solid technical resistance at $25.00. The next downside price objective for the bears is closing prices below solid support at the November low of $22.26. First resistance is seen at today’s high of $23.565 and then at $23.715. Next support is seen $23.00 and then at the December low of $22.785. Wyckoff's Market Rating: 4.0.

March N.Y. copper closed down 320 points at 377.80 cents today. Prices closed nearer the session low today and hit a three-week low. Prices also scored a bearish “outside day” down on the daily bar chart. The copper bulls have lost their slight overall near-term technical advantage. A choppy, 2.5-month-old uptrend on the daily bar chart has been negated. Copper bulls' next upside price objective is pushing and closing prices above solid technical resistance at the December high of 397.40 cents. The next downside price objective for the bears is closing prices below solid technical support at 365.00 cents. First resistance is seen at today’s high of 384.05 cents and then at 386.60 cents. First support is seen at today’s low of 377.40 cents and then at 372.90 cents. Wyckoff's Market Rating: 5.0.

Try out my “Markets Front Burner” email report. My next one is due out today and is going to be entitled, “When China sneezes…” Front Burner is my best writing and analysis, I think, because I get to look ahead at the marketplace and do some market price forecasting. And it’s free! Sign up tomy new, free weekly Markets Front Burner newsletter, at https://www.kitco.com/services/markets-front-burner.html .

Kitco Media

Jim Wyckoff

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

Gold weaker as crude oil price slumps

Gold weaker as crude oil price slumps

Kitco News

The Leading News Source in Precious Metals

Kitco NEWS has a diverse team of journalists reporting on the economy, stock markets, commodities, cryptocurrencies, mining and metals with accuracy and objectivity. Our goal is to help people make informed market decisions through in-depth reporting, daily market roundups, interviews with prominent industry figures, comprehensive coverage (often exclusive) of important industry events and analyses of market-affecting developments.

Gold weaker as crude oil price slumps teaser image

(Kitco News) – Gold prices are down in midday U.S. trading Monday but well up from their session lows. The yellow metal hit a three-week low early on today. Amid a lack of major fresh, fundamental news to start the trading week, precious metals traders are focusing on the outside markets, and raw commodity sector leader crude sees its price sharply down. February gold was last down $10.90 at $2,038.70. March silver was last up $0.065 at $23.385.

 

Asian and European stock markets were mixed overnight. U.S. stock index futures are mixed at midday.

In weekend news, U.S. congressional leaders have agreed upon a bipartisan federal budget plan for the next year. The House and Senate now have about two weeks to pass the measure, which may not be easy.
 

The U.S. data points of the week will be the December consumer price index report on Thursday and the December producer price index report on Friday. U.S. inflation has cooled in recent months, which has allowed the Federal Reserve to back off on its tighter monetary policy. The CPI report is seen up 3.3%, year-on-year versus a rise of 3.1% in the November report.
 

The key outside markets today see the U.S. dollar index lower. Nymex crude oil prices are strongly lower and trading around $70.25 a barrel. Reports said Saudi Arabia has lowered the price of its oil to some of its customers, in a signal of a weaker demand outlook. Meantime, the yield on the benchmark U.S. Treasury 10-year note is presently fetching 3.974%.

Technically, February gold futures bulls have the overall near-term technical advantage but have faded a bit. Prices are still in a three-month-old uptrend on the daily bar chart. Bulls’ next upside price objective is to produce a close above solid resistance at $2,100.00. Bears' next near-term downside price objective is pushing futures prices below solid technical support at $2,000.00. First resistance is seen at today’s high of $2,053.30 and then at last Friday’s high of $2,071.10. First support is seen at today’s low of $2,022.70 and then at $2,015.00. Wyckoff's Market Rating: 6.5.

March silver futures bears have the overall near-term technical advantage. A five-week-old downtrend is in place on the daily bar chart. Silver bulls' next upside price objective is closing prices above solid technical resistance at $25.00. The next downside price objective for the bears is closing prices below solid support at the November low of $22.26. First resistance is seen at Friday’s high of $23.715 and then at $24.00. Next support is seen $23.00 and then at the December low of $22.785. Wyckoff's Market Rating: 4.0.

 

March N.Y. copper closed up 130 points at 381.90 cents today. Prices closed nearer the session high today and hit a three-week low early on. The copper bulls have the slight overall near-term technical advantage but have faded. Prices are still in a choppy, 2.5-month-old uptrend on the daily bar chart, but just barely. Copper bulls' next upside price objective is pushing and closing prices above solid technical resistance at the July high of 404.45 cents. The next downside price objective for the bears is closing prices below solid technical support at the December low of 372.90 cents. First resistance is seen at Friday’s high of 386.60 cents and then at last week’s high of 391.20 cents. First support is seen at today’s low of 378.95 cents and then at 372.90 cents. Wyckoff's Market Rating: 5.5.

 

Try out my “Markets Front Burner” email report. My next one is due out today and is going to be entitled, “When China sneezes…” Front Burner is my best writing and analysis, I think, because I get to look ahead at the marketplace and do some market price forecasting. And it’s free! Sign up to my new, free weekly Markets Front Burner newsletter, at https://www.kitco.com/services/markets-front-burner.html .

Kitco Media

Jim Wyckoff

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

Gold stuck around 2050 as markets look for guidance on Fed cuts next week

Gold stuck around $2,050 as markets look for guidance on Fed cuts next week

Kitco News

The Leading News Source in Precious Metals

Kitco NEWS has a diverse team of journalists reporting on the economy, stock markets, commodities, cryptocurrencies, mining and metals with accuracy and objectivity. Our goal is to help people make informed market decisions through in-depth reporting, daily market roundups, interviews with prominent industry figures, comprehensive coverage (often exclusive) of important industry events and analyses of market-affecting developments.

Gold stuck around $2,050 as markets look for guidance on Fed cuts next week teaser image

According to many analysts, the gold market is off to a decent start after the first trading week of 2024 even as the price lost some ground as it consolidated at elevated levels between $2,000 and $2,050 an ounce.

February gold futures are ending the week around $2,050 an ounce, down 1% from last week.

According to some analysts, the market remains caught in a tug-of-war as investors try to anticipate the Federal Reserve’s next move. Markets are currently pricing in a 68% chance of the first rate cut at the March monetary policy meeting.

However, some economists have said that after December’s employment numbers, it is unlikely that the U.S. central bank will be ready to cut rates that early in the new year. The latest employment data shows 216,000 jobs were created last month and wages grew by 0.4%.

“The jobs report lends credence to the view that the Fed is likely to continue pushing back against the early rate cuts being priced in by the market until the signal becomes clearer,” said fixed income analysts at TD Securities. “With that said, we do expect inflation to continue softening over the next few reports, which should keep the door open for rate cuts in Q2.”

At the same time, Philip Streible, chief market strategist at Blue Line Futures, said that rate cut expectations remain elevated because some analysts believe the latest jobs report shows cracks in the labor market are starting to appear. He noted that a high number of government jobs in the December report appear to be skewing the data.

Streible added that with a March rate cut on the table, gold should be well supported above $2,000 an ounce; however, he added that he doesn’t know if there is enough momentum to push prices solidly above $2,050 an ounce.

“Right now is a coin flip and that will keep gold in this consolidation range,” he said.

James Stanley, senior market strategist at Forex.com, said that the price action this week indicates that gold is capped at $2,050 in the near-term; however, he added that the gold bears will find a difficult path on the downside as the Federal Reserve is still expected to lower interest rates this year.

“Think this resistance will hold long enough to give a dip… but that may take a month or two,” Stanley said. “When the Fed does formally pivot this thing can take off. But real rates will need to get higher first before they can declare a ‘W’ on inflation, and with an election year I think they'd want to have that pivot a little closer to November. Ideally [gold] should push below 2k and wash out some longs first. Then, more money on the sidelines could further propel higher.”

Although markets are back to a full five-day week next week, investors are expected to continue to digest December’s employment numbers. The main highlight comes late next week with December’s Consumer Price Index report. According to some economists, inflation data could solidify the Federal Reserve’s move in March.

Some economists have pointed out that although consumer prices have dropped from their 2022 highs, the Federal Reserve still has work to do to bring inflation down to its target of 2%.

The expectations are that headline inflation will remain around 3%; however, core inflation is expected to remain around 4%, double the central bank’s target.
 

Economic data for next week:

Thursday: US CPI, weekly jobless claims

Friday: U.S. PPI
 

Kitco Media

Neils Christensen

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

Initial Coin Offerings: A Crypto Revolution Whatever happened to the ICO?

Initial Coin Offerings: A Crypto Revolution. Whatever happened to the ICO?

Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) gained immense popularity in 2017 and continued to thrive in 2018; however, they have become a bitter disappointment to many. Nowadays, alternative approaches for token offerings have become more favored due to various factors. A significant reason is that most ICOs have failed due to misdirection, hype, pump-and-dump manipulation, and even fraud. An ICO, which stands for Initial Coin Offering, is a method blockchain projects use to generate funds and introduce a new cryptocurrency. 

On the surface, ICOs may seem similar to Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), where companies sell shares to the public on the stock market. Many consider ICOs the cryptocurrency industry's equivalent to IPOs, although this perception is arguably not entirely accurate.

While IPOs are closely monitored by regulatory bodies, Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) enjoy relatively more freedom, with fewer formalities and documents required. This freedom, however, comes at a cost, as investors must conduct extensive due diligence to separate fact from fiction.   Additionally, investing in crypto tokens through ICOs does not necessarily grant ownership in the company, unlike IPOs. The lack of regulation surrounding ICOs has led to some instances of non-compliance with federal securities laws, resulting in legal issues for specific tokens.

Many in the crypto industry would argue that it’s misguided to begin with a securities framework to govern the introduction of crypto tokens. This approach is incompatible and hinders the development of new business models arising from these token use cases. 

Hence, it is essential to acknowledge that tokens can represent a unique category of assets, necessitating a dedicated legal and regulatory framework. Unlike the restrictive "security" label often applied by regulators, tokens do not always signify a personal financial stake or equity share in a larger entity. Instead, they serve as a novel proxy for our digital existence, which is constantly evolving.

ICOs Are Predominantly Speculation 

In a token sale or Initial Coin Offering (ICO), a crypto startup sells its newly created digital tokens to raise funds for its future ecosystem. The startup's success depends on convincing potential investors of its concept or blueprint, showcasing credible engineers and a sound executive team. A key element of most coin offerings is a company’s “white paper,” a document that outlines the project's goals, technical specifications, and team credentials. 

Hardly any ICOs, if at all, can claim to have a working product, service, or protocol in place when the token sale begins. The promise of delivering the intended utility or purpose for its token and future crypto-based ecosystem, coupled with exaggerated promises of profits to unsuspecting investors, has resulted in fraudulent schemes and even exit plans. 

With the rise in popularity of utility tokens in 2017, scammers took advantage of the situation by creating fake ICOs. Numerous so-called tech companies managed to raise millions of dollars in the highly enthusiastic cryptocurrency market, employing misleading or dishonest methods to attract investors.

ICO Scams Prevalent

The Wall Street Journal reviewed 1,450 documents related to Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) in 2018 and revealed several red flags in 271 instances. These red flags included plagiarized white papers, guarantees of returns, and absent or fabricated executive teams.

Investors have injected over $1 billion into 271 coin offerings that have raised red flags, per a review of company statements and online transaction records. Out of the 1,450 projects examined, which have primarily targeted English-speaking audiences since 2014, it’s claimed that they have collectively raised at least $5 billion. Research conducted by Satis Group, a firm specializing in data analysis, reveals that since 2017, cryptocurrency coin offerings have generated over $9 billion in overall proceeds worldwide.


Source: WSJ.com

A considerable number of projects, specifically 124, failed to provide any information regarding the personnel involved. Moreover, several projects listed team members who were either non-existent or real individuals unaware of their names being used. Additionally, 111 projects were found to have copied entire sections verbatim from other white papers, including descriptions of marketing strategies, security concerns, and technical details, such as database interaction methods for other developers.


Source: WSJ.com

Furthermore, it was discovered that several projects completed their white papers or websites by incorporating executive pictures taken directly from online stock photography or other platforms, such as LinkedIn. One of the most notable examples is Premium Trade, an investment startup. The images of its executive team, consisting of five members, were discovered to be used on almost 500 unrelated websites simultaneously. Interestingly, Premium's co-founder Andrew Ravitsky was also identified as "Dr. John Watsan" in an online cardiology course.


Source: WSJ.com

The Premium Trade website portrayed CEO Idan Cohen as an "experienced entrepreneur," but the depiction of Mr. Cohen is indeed Eduardo Carillo, a close acquaintance of the photographer. The images that supposedly depicted Premium Trade's executive team of five members were probably purchased from stock photography websites. In many instances, the photos used by Premium Trade are of individuals who have been seen on various other websites across the Internet.


Source: Wall Street Journal analysis of Google Image Search results
Photos: Designed by Freepik (stock images)
Premium Trade website (screenshot)

The United States has shown skepticism towards initial coin offerings (ICOs), regardless of their legitimacy. A primary concern is the lack of regulatory oversight, which makes it easy for inexperienced investors to get caught up in fraudulent schemes. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued warnings to investors, citing that many cryptocurrency deals in the private market may violate securities laws. To illustrate this point, the SEC created a fake coin offering website as an example of what to avoid.

As a result of this negative perception of ICOs, Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs) and Security Token Offerings (STOs) have recently gained popularity as alternatives—more about these in an upcoming article. 

Token Utility Is Of Utmost Importance To ICO Startups


Source:  William Mougayar

Apart from the outright scams, most ICOs fail because entrepreneurs and developers neglect the three fundamental aspects of a successful ICO: Tokenomics, Utility, and Security. For the purpose of this article, we will focus on Utility, as proposed by William Mougayar, a prominent blockchain theorist and strategist. Mougayar's token utility framework consists of three tenets: Role, Features, and Purpose. Each role serves a specific purpose, as depicted in the accompanying chart.


Source:  William Mougayar

When assessing a token-based company, it is advantageous to have as many criteria met regarding the token's purpose. The function of tokens can be likened to nails that secure your business model. Having multiple nails to firmly establish and maintain its defensibility and sustainability is preferable.

Entrepreneurs' resourcefulness is showcased in the various practical applications they devise for tokens, effectively bridging the gap between concept and implementation. It's a display of ingenuity at the token level, where creative ideas come to life.

If the way the token is used is unclear, poorly described, or can be defended, then that model has a flaw. Listed below are questions to determine if an organization can be categorized as ICO-based.

  1. Is the token tied to a product usage, i.e., does it give the user exclusive access to it or provide interaction rights to the product?
  2. Does the token grant a governance action, like voting on consensus-related or other decision-making factors?
  3. Does the token enable the user to contribute to a value-adding action for the network or market being built?
  4. Does the token grant an ownership of sorts, whether it is real or a proxy to a value?
  5. Does the token result in a monetizable reward based on an action by the user (active work)?
  6. Does the token grant the user a value based on sharing or disclosing some data about them (passive work)?
  7. Is buying something part of the business model?
  8. Is selling something part of the business model?
  9. Can users create a new product or service?
  10. Is the token required to run a smart contract or to fund an Oracle? (an oracle is a source of information or data that other than a smart contract can use)
  11. Is the token required as a security deposit to secure some aspect of the blockchain’s operation?
  12. Is the token (or a derivative of it, like a stablecoin or gas unit) used to pay for some usage?
  13. Is the token required to join a network or other related entity?
  14. Does the token enable a real connection between users?
  15. Is the token given away or offered at a discount as an incentive to encourage product trial or usage?
  16. Is the token your principal payment unit, essentially functioning as an internal currency?
  17. Is the token (or derivative of it) the principal accounting unit for all internal transactions?
  18. Does your blockchain autonomously distribute profits to token holders?
  19. Does your blockchain autonomously distribute other benefits to token holders?
  20. Is there a related benefit to your users resulting from built-in currency inflation?

A company's success is likely assured if it confirms and implements the procedures for most items listed above. The more usage scenarios they can confirm, the stronger their Token-to-Market fit will likely be.

Evolutionary and Successful ICO-based Projects

Most ICOs fail to meet the expectations they initially generated or encounter difficulties during their implementation, so it’s crucial for potential investors to thoroughly scrutinize and evaluate these ventures before committing their resources. However, it should be noted that a few ICOs have successfully delivered on their promises.

ICO-based projects that have evolved and succeeded have utilized Initial Coin Offerings to secure the necessary funding to create the groundwork for a decentralized and digital future. These projects range from establishing extensive data storage systems to implementing more equitable payment systems for artists and creating innovative financial products.

The influence of prominent blockchain ventures such as Ethereum, EOS, Telegram, Tezos, and Filecoin cannot be overstated, as they have garnered substantial financial support and yielded significant impact. Projects like Cardano, Solana, TRON, and Polkadot have also achieved remarkable success in their ICOs, etching their names in the annals of history as some of the most successful ICOs ever. 

These pioneering initiatives have not only blazed a trail for nascent projects but have also offered valuable lessons in crowdfunding and decentralized platform development, demonstrating the vast potential of decentralized platforms and the innovative ways in which they can be financed, showcasing the enormous potential of blockchain technology. 

At the heart of these successful ICOs is a dedicated and driven team of talented developers who put in long hours to ensure their success. Also, their transparency and a genuine desire to contribute to an emerging industry and technology parallel to the centralized bodies that the broader community is now recognizing as corrupt and oppressive.

In Closing…

As previously stated, the majority of ICO startups merely possess an idea, a concept. They haven't even developed an alpha version of their final product; it is all founded on speculation and the project's potential. What if an emerging crypto industry project already had a working beta version? A platform and protocol that were already constructed, along with a robust community, and then decided to launch an ICO-like campaign for iterations, further development, and marketing strategies?

Markethive is gearing up to accomplish precisely that. This is a big deal as it’s never been done before, and it will propel Markethive and its Hivecoin token to unprecedented heights, making them a pioneering force in the industry. Introducing a cutting-edge crypto ecosystem and blockchain technology to the marketing, social networking, and broadcasting sectors is a trailblazer in this uncharted territory, revolutionizing how entrepreneurs approach marketing and communication.

I will provide more comprehensive information in my upcoming article. In the meantime, join us for the Markethive webinar on Sunday at 10 am MST, where we discuss the history, current status, and future developments of everything pertaining to Markethive.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. Furthermore, however plausible, the contents of this article may include speculative opinions. Of course, there is nothing wrong with speculation as long as its premises are made clear. Speculation is the customary way to begin the exploration of uncharted territory as it stimulates a search for evidence that will support or refute it.

Resources: WSJ.com, William Mougaya, Doubloin.com.

 

Editor and Chief Markethive: Deb Williams. (Australia) I thrive on progress and champion freedom of speech.  I embrace "Change" with a passion, and my purpose in life is to enlighten people to accept and move forward with enthusiasm. Find me at my Markethive Profile Page | My Twitter Account | and my LinkedIn Profile.

 

 

 

 

Tim Moseley

The Truth and Lies About Making Money Online: Discerning Fact from Fiction

The Truth and Lies About Making Money Online: Discerning Fact from Fiction

The internet has opened up a vast array of opportunities to make money online, creating a landscape where the lines between truth and myth often blur. On one hand, stories of successful digital entrepreneurs and freelancers seem to promise endless potential for wealth and autonomy. Yet, on the other hand, the web is rife with misleading information and schemes that overpromise and underdeliver. Understanding this digital terrain requires a discerning eye and solid knowledge of what truly works in the realm of online income.

The Truth and Lies About Making Money Online: Discerning Fact from Fiction

The Truth and Lies About Making Money Online: Discerning Fact from Fiction To navigate the online money-making landscape effectively, it’s essential to identify realistic avenues and set oneself up for success. This means starting with legitimate freelancing platforms, exploring the ins and outs of blogging and content creation, tapping into the potential of ecommerce, and leveraging social media for influence. Additionally, online education and scalable ventures offer solid pathways for generating income. It’s crucial to recognize that while the internet is teeming with possibilities, not every opportunity is suitable for everyone, and success typically demands hard work, dedication, and a strategic approach.

KEY TAKEAWAYS THE TRUTH AND LIES ABOUT MAKING MONEY ONLINE:

  • Success in making money online requires careful navigation and understanding of the digital landscape.
  • There are diverse pathways to online income, including freelancing, content creation, and e-commerce.
  • A strategic approach and avoidance of scams are essential for sustained online financial growth.

UNDERSTANDING THE ONLINE MONEY-MAKING LANDSCAPE

The Truth and Lies About Making Money Online: Discerning Fact from Fiction

In examining the online money-making landscape, it’s crucial to recognize the diversity of income streams and distinguish the genuine opportunities from prevalent misconceptions. This section explores the various types of online income, the integral role of the internet in business, and the truth behind common myths about earning money online.

EXPLORING TYPES OF ONLINE INCOME

Online income can be classified into several categories, each with its unique characteristics and requirements. Freelancing has emerged as a dominant form because individuals leverage their skills directly to clients through platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Another form is affiliate marketing, where one earns commission by promoting products or services. Exhibit A of diverse income opportunities is a guide highlighting ways to make money, which includes a list of viable online activities.

THE ROLE OF THE INTERNET IN MODERN BUSINESS

In today’s digital age, the internet serves as an indispensable tool for business operations, marketing, and customer engagement. Companies use the internet to reach a global audience, refine their marketing strategies using data analytics, and operate e-commerce platforms. The internet has also made it possible for individuals to establish businesses with minimal overhead costs, as exemplified by a slew of successful online entrepreneurs who have embraced modern business strategies.

SEPARATING MYTHS FROM REALITY THE TRUTH AND LIES ABOUT MAKING MONEY ONLINE:

While many believe that making money online is effortless, the reality is far more nuanced. True, opportunities for passive income exist, such as dividend stocks or rental profits from real estate investments; however, these usually require substantial upfront investment or previous assets. Contrary to the myth that profits come easily, genuine online income strategies often require hard work, persistence, and a realistic approach to what can be achieved. It’s important to approach such endeavors with a discerning eye and realistic expectations.

SETTING UP FOR SUCCESS

The Truth and Lies About Making Money Online: Discerning Fact from Fiction

To effectively navigate the online money-making landscape, individuals must adopt proper strategies, deep dive into their intrinsic skills, and carve a distinct personal brand. This foundation is critical for long-term sustainability and true success in the digital realm.

DEVELOPING A BUSINESS MINDSET

  • Key Element: Strategy
  • Primary Goal: Foster Resilience and Adaptability

 

Success starts with the right mindset. This involves thinking strategically, much like a seasoned chess player anticipating moves ahead. It’s about understanding the value of patience and resilience. Developing a business mindset means learning from setbacks and constantly seeking new ways to improve one’s approach to online endeavors.

IDENTIFYING MARKETABLE SKILLS THE TRUTH AND LIES ABOUT MAKING MONEY ONLINE:

  • Core Assets: Skills & Unique Product Offerings
  • Marketing Relevance: High

One should meticulously assess their skills and experience to identify those that are most marketable online. It may involve:

  • Technical Skills: Web development, graphic design, data analysis.
  • Creative Skills: Writing, social media content creation, video production.

By aligning these skills with current market demands, individuals can create a unique product or service offering, setting the stage for a successful online income stream.

BUILDING A PERSONAL BRAND ONLINE

  • Focus: Recognition & Trust
  • Marketing Integration: Essential

Building a personal brand requires a strategic marketing approach. One should:

  • Craft a cohesive online presence across platforms.
  • Engage with their audience consistently to build trust.

This creates a reputation that acts as a badge of trust and authenticity, positioning them as a go-to authority in their niche.

STARTING WITH FREELANCING PLATFORMS

The Truth and Lies About Making Money Online: Discerning Fact from Fiction

Before venturing into the world of online freelance work, understanding the nuances of different platforms is crucial for success. Each offers unique opportunities, from securing gigs to building client relationships.

UTILIZING UPWORK FOR FREELANCE WORK

Upwork stands out as a leading platform where freelancers can connect with potential clients looking for diverse services. It operates on a bidding system, where freelancers submit proposals for jobs that match their skills. Clients peruse these proposals and select the freelancer they believe is most suited for their project. A robust profile and a compelling pitch are essential for catching the attention of clients on Upwork.

FINDING GIGS ON FIVERR

Fiverr offers a twist on the freelance marketplace model, allowing freelancers to create specific “gigs” that clients can purchase directly. This approach to freelance services streamlines the process for both parties. Freelancers can set their prices and package details, while clients can easily browse offerings to find what fits their needs. Standing out on Fiverr requires a focused presentation of one’s services and the savvy to market them effectively.

EXPLORING ADDITIONAL FREELANCING OPTIONS

Apart from Upwork and Fiverr, there are other platforms worth exploring. Freelancer.com is another popular site that caters to a global clientele and offers a wide array of job categories. For language professionals, Gengo is a platform specialized in translation work. Diversifying one’s presence across various platforms can increase the chances of finding freelance work and building a broad clientele. Freelancers should research each platform’s strengths and align them with their skills and goals.

BLOGGING AND CONTENT CREATION

In the realm of making money online, blogging and content creation stand out as versatile platforms for building a digital presence and generating income. They provide a means for individuals to share expertise, build communities, and monetize their content through various channels.

STARTING A NICHE BLOG

When initiating a blog, selecting a niche is critical. A focused niche allows a blogger to cater to a specific audience, enhancing the chances of attracting dedicated followers. For instance, blogs concentrating on personal finance or health often find more monetization opportunities than those with a broader subject matter. As seen in the narrative by Margaret Bourne, the complexity of making money from blogging is understated, yet attainable with the right strategy.

EXPANDING INFLUENCE WITH A YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Content creators who extend their digital footprint to a YouTube channel stand to increase their influence substantially. A channel serves as a visual extension of a blog, potentially capturing a larger audience with engaging multimedia content. It’s a platform where creators can share their expertise in a manner that appeals to those who prefer watching over reading.

MONETIZING THROUGH AFFILIATE MARKETING

Affiliate marketing is a prominent method for bloggers and YouTubers to earn revenue. By integrating affiliate links within blog posts or video descriptions, content creators receive a commission for products or services sold through those links. The credibility and relevance of the recommended products are crucial, as underscored by a guide from Ahrefs, which emphasizes the need for aligning affiliate products with the creator’s niche and audience interests.

ECOMMERCE AND ONLINE STORES

Ecommerce has revolutionized the way individuals sell products and services online. With a myriad of options available, one can embark on an online venture with varying levels of investment and technical expertise.

DEVELOPING AN ONLINE BUSINESS MODEL

The cornerstone of any successful ecommerce venture is a robust online business model. This involves identifying a target audience, setting up a user-friendly online store, and establishing a clear value proposition. It is imperative to align business operations with consumer needs and incorporate efficient logistics to streamline the purchasing process.

DROPSHIPPING: A LOW-INVESTMENT METHOD

Dropshipping stands out for its appeal to entrepreneurs looking to enter ecommerce with minimal upfront investment. In this model, one can run an online store without maintaining inventory. The store acts as an intermediary, taking orders from customers and passing them to suppliers who handle fulfillment. This method reduces risk but requires diligence in selecting reliable suppliers to ensure product quality and delivery standards.

SELLING UNIQUE PRODUCTS ON ETSY

For those with a creative flair, Etsy offers a platform to sell unique products to a global audience. Sellers on Etsy cater to consumers seeking handmade and vintage items, setting up storefronts to showcase their distinctive goods. Success on Etsy demands not just a unique product offering, but also an understanding of how to optimize product listings to attract and retain customers.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND INFLUENCING

In the fast-paced realm of social media, influencers have established lucrative careers through platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, harnessing the power of visual and interactive content. By partnering with companies, influencers generate substantial advertising revenue, shaping consumer behavior and driving online sales.

MAKING AN IMPACT WITH INSTAGRAM

Instagram stands out as a visual platform where influencers can reach millions with striking images and compelling stories. They curate their feeds to showcase a lifestyle or expertise, attracting followers and companies keen on tapping into their engaged audience. A well-crafted Instagram presence not only bolsters credibility but also opens doors to advertising revenue through sponsored posts and affiliate marketing.

CREATING VIRAL CONTENT ON TIKTOK

TikTok’s algorithm favors creativity and authenticity, making it an ideal platform for crafting viral content. With its short-form video format, influencers can rapidly gain visibility by generating content that resonates with the zeitgeist of the platform. This can rapidly amass a following eager to consume and interact with content, making TikTok a powerful tool for influencer marketing.

COLLABORATING WITH COMPANIES AS AN INFLUENCER

Influencers and companies often enter into collaborations to market products or services to a targeted audience. Successful influencers negotiate deals where they receive payment or commissions in exchange for featuring a product, thus creating a symbiotic relationship. This partnership is predicated on the influencer’s ability to authentically integrate the promoted items into their content to avoid alienating their audience.

ONLINE EDUCATION AND TUTORING

In the realm of digital earnings, online education and tutoring have emerged as leading methods for individuals to monetize their knowledge and marketable skills. They provide flexible avenues for educating others while also generating revenue.

TEACHING SKILLS THROUGH ONLINE COURSES

Creating and selling online courses can be a lucrative venture for experts in a particular field. Platforms like Udemy allow individuals to design their own coursework and reach a global audience eager to learn. Those looking to teach should aim to create comprehensive, high-quality courses that deliver value to their students. This often involves:

  • Structuring the course into digestible segments
  • Including interactive elements like quizzes
  • Providing additional resources like downloadable materials

 

Courses that offer practical, actionable skills tend to perform better as they cater to the learners’ desire to gain abilities that are immediately applicable.

BECOMING A TUTOR ON PLATFORMS LIKE TUTOR.COM

For one-on-one instruction, tutoring presents a personalized option. Websites such as Tutor.com serve as platforms where tutors can connect with students needing help in specific subject areas. Success in online tutoring is driven by:

  • Expertise: Tutors must have a strong command of the subject they wish to teach.
  • Communication: Tutors need to convey complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand.
  • Reliability: Consistency in scheduling and quality of teaching fosters trust and encourages recurring sessions.

Dedicated tutors often build a reputation that can lead to a steady stream of clients and, consequently, a stable online income.

INVESTMENTS AND SCALABLE VENTURES THE TRUTH AND LIES ABOUT MAKING MONEY ONLINE:

When it comes to making money online, investment often plays a crucial role in starting and scaling business ventures. Scalability and sound money management are fundamental to transitioning from a modest side hustle to generating six-figure revenues.

STARTING WITH A SIDE HUSTLE

Establishing a side hustle online requires both an initial investment and consistent hard work. One begins by identifying a niche market underpinned by a strong demand that they can cater to, often while managing other professional or personal responsibilities. Investment takes the form of both time and often, a modest amount of capital to set up the infrastructure necessary for the hustle to grow—be it a blog, an e-commerce platform, or a freelance service. Perseverance plays a key role as most side hustles do not turn profitable immediately; they require dedication and continuous improvement.

SCALING TO SIX FIGURES AND BEYOND

Scaling a side hustle into a six-figure business is a testament to one’s ability to strategize and execute effective money management tactics. It involves expanding one’s customer base, streamlining operations, and often injecting additional capital for marketing and product development. Achieving revenue in the six figures typically doesn’t happen overnight. It involves careful planning, the willingness to reinvest back into the business, and maintaining the perseverance to overcome challenges. Scalable ventures particularly benefit from automation, staff expansion, and data-driven decision making to ensure sustainable growth.

AVOIDING ONLINE SCAMS

Engaging in online money-making ventures requires vigilance to sidestep scams and verify legitimate opportunities. Effective strategies include scrutinizing the veracity of reviews, understanding the role of luck versus skill, and recognizing the competitive nature of digital entrepreneurship.

IDENTIFYING AND AVOIDING GET-RICH-QUICK SCHEMES

Get-rich-quick schemes often make extravagant promises of substantial profits with minimal effort or time. These fraudulent programs typically use high-pressure sales tactics and misleading testimonials.

  • Warning Signs:
    • Promises of high returns with little risk
    • Aggressive marketing and urgency claims
    • Lack of detailed company information

 

To protect oneself, individuals should:

  1. Research the company and offer thoroughly.
  2. Read reviews from multiple sources, looking for consistent patterns indicating potential problems.
  3. Beware of the role of luck; legitimate businesses are built on strategic planning and execution, not chance.

For further reading on avoiding these types of scams, visit FTC Consumer Advice.

ENSURING THE LEGITIMACY OF AN ONLINE BUSINESS

Determining an online business’s legitimacy is crucial before engaging in any financial transactions or investment of time.

  • Verification Steps:
    • Check for credible contact information and physical addresses.
    • Seek out authentic and balanced customer reviews.
    • Investigate the business on official consumer protection sites.

It’s advisable for individuals to:

  1. Understand the marketplace and competitive landscape; a legitimate business should have clear differentiators and value proposition.
  2. Document all transactions and communications for future reference.

An informative guide on safeguarding against internet scams can be found at Norton’s avoidance tips for 2024.

DIVERSIFYING INCOME STREAMS

Diversifying income streams is not just a strategy; it’s a necessary approach to maintain financial stability and growth. It involves expanding one’s earning potential beyond a single source, engaging in multiple ventures to secure a more robust and reliable income.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MULTIPLE REVENUE SOURCES

In the realm of online entrepreneurship, relying on a single source of income can be akin to walking a tightrope without a safety net. Multiple revenue sources not only provide a cushion against the unpredictability of the market but also open up opportunities for increased earnings. For instance, a blogger might not only rely on ad revenue, but also branch out to affiliate marketing, e-books sales, and online courses. This diversification helps mitigate risks and ensures that if one income stream falters, others can sustain their financial foundation.

BALANCING ACTIVE AND PASSIVE EARNING METHODS

Diversification should also strike a balance between active and passive earning methods. Active income requires one’s direct involvement, like providing services or selling goods. In contrast, passive income is the goal for many self-employed individuals because it generates revenue with minimal ongoing effort after the initial investment. Interest from savings, dividends from investments, or royalties from written works are examples of passive income which, while often requiring considerable upfront hard work and investment, can eventually lead to a more liberating financial life. Successful online entrepreneurs often combine both active and passive methods to build a comprehensive and resilient financial portfolio.

OPTIMIZING YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE TRUTH VS. MYTHS ABOUT MAKING MONEY ONLINE

Online businesses must prioritize their digital visibility to succeed. The process of making your website more attractive to search engines and users alike involves a strategic approach to SEO, site development, and community engagement.

LEVERAGING SEO AND ONLINE MARKETING THE TRUTH AND LIES ABOUT MAKING MONEY ONLINE:

Effective SEO ensures a website ranks well on search engines, increasing organic traffic. Businesses should focus on two aspects: on-site SEO which involves optimizing content and meta tags, and off-site SEO which includes building backlinks and online reputation. For online marketing, deploying targeted advertising campaigns on social media and search engines can significantly boost visibility and traffic.

BUILDING EFFECTIVE WEBSITES AND HOSTING

A website is the cornerstone of an online business. It should be user-friendly, fast, and mobile-responsive. Securing reliable hosting is crucial, as uptime and load time directly impact user experience and SEO ranking. Regular maintenance and securing a memorable domain name enhance website efficacy and brand recognition.

ENGAGING WITH CUSTOMERS AND BUILDING A COMMUNITY

An engaged community can transform the reach of an online business. This involves consistently interacting with customers through social media, forums, and email. It is essential to create content that resonates with the audience to encourage shares, comments, and engagement. Businesses should foster trust and loyalty, potentially turning each customer into a brand ambassador.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS TRUTH VS. MYTHS ABOUT MAKING MONEY ONLINE

This section addresses common inquiries about the reality of earning money online, including the success rates, legitimate methods, and how to sidestep usual pitfalls.

WHAT ARE LEGITIMATE METHODS FOR EARNING MONEY ONLINE?

Earning money online can be achieved through various reputable avenues such as freelancing, running an e-commerce store, blogging, affiliate marketing, or providing digital services like graphic design or writing.

CAN BEGINNERS GENUINELY MAKE A PROFIT THROUGH ONLINE VENTURES, AND HOW?

Yes, beginners can indeed make a profit online by choosing a method that aligns with their skills and learning how to effectively market those skills or products. Starting with a blog or an online shop, creating valuable content, and utilizing SEO can welcome success.

HOW MANY INDIVIDUALS SUCCESSFULLY GENERATE INCOME ON THE INTERNET?

Countless individuals earn money online, but success varies widely. Many create supplemental income, while others build substantial livelihoods. The exact number is fluid due to the ever-changing internet landscape and the varying definitions of “success.”

WHAT ARE COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT EARNING MONEY ONLINE?

Misconceptions include believing that making money online is quick or easy, and that it requires no initial investment. The reality is that, like any business, it often requires time, effort, and perseverance.

WHY DO SOME PEOPLE FAIL TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE, AND HOW CAN THAT BE AVOIDED?

Failure can often be attributed to chasing quick-rich schemes or having unrealistic expectations about the effort required. Avoiding failure involves setting realistic goals, continuously learning and pivoting strategies based on results, and avoiding scams.

ARE THERE SECRET OR LESSER-KNOWN PLATFORMS THAT CAN BE LUCRATIVE FOR MAKING MONEY ONLINE?

While there are no secrets to success, emerging platforms or niche markets may offer opportunities for profit if recognized early. Staying informed about industry trends can lead to finding such lesser-known platforms before they become mainstream.

 

What is a legit way to make a $100 a day

Tim Moseley