#startup story of boat

[twnenglish]

The Success Story of boAt

According to the invention of headphones, moviegoers, music lovers, and other professionals may now watch their preferred shows, listen to their favourite music, and have private conversations with friends and coworkers without bothering others. Like everywhere else in the globe, headphones have been around for a long in India as well, although there aren't many Indian manufacturers to be found. The boAt firm is one of the important players, and the brand totally steals the show!

A huge variety of earphones, earbuds, headphones, and wireless speakers are available from the brand The boat, which stands out for its excellent quality, usability, and upscale design. In India, BoAt is widely recognized as the best earphone and audio brand. Due to the company, users may simultaneously feel spirit and vitality.

The company's history is not very noteworthy. 2016 saw the founding of the Delhi-based firm by Aman Gupta and Sameer Mehta. The business describes itself as a lifestyle retailer of cutting-edge consumer gadgets. Boat Lifestyle's mission was to give millennials access to affordable, high-quality audio accessories and gear. The success of boAt has been attributed to a number of factors. Now, let's have a look at them.

The Success Story of boAt

About Boat

Wireless speakers, earbuds (Airdopes), wireless speakers, earbuds (Airdopes), wired and wireless headphones and earphones, home audio equipment, premium tough cables, and a range of other technology accessories are all sold by an Indian firm by the name of boAt.

Startup Story of boAt

The creators wanted to create a lifestyle brand that would sell appealing audio gear and accessories to millennials. BoAt is where this idea first arose. Research from 2020 indicates that the business first focused on producing and supplying cables before soon branching out into other areas to service more than 800,000 customers. BoAt was founded as a bootstrapped business with a roughly Rs 30 lakhs initial investment from the founders.

Founders and Team of boat

The two men that founded boAt are Sameer Mehta and Aman Gupta.Co-founder of boAt and its Chief Product Office,owner of Redwood,

Sameer Mehta

Co-founder of boAt and its Chief Product Officer (CPO), Sameer Mehta. He holds the position of Executive Director for Kores (India). Sameer Mehta, the company's founder and owner of Redwood, got his start there. Before joining Narsee Monjee College of Commerce and Economics to earn his bachelor's in commerce, Mehta finished his schooling at Mumbai's St. Xavier School. Sameer also formed Imagine Marketing Pvt. Ltd., the company that is the parent company of boAt.

Aman Gupta

Aman Gupta, a co-founder of boAt and its chief marketing officer (CMO). He earned a bachelor's degree in business from Delhi University before joining The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. Gupta pursued an MBA in general management and marketing at the Indian School of Business in addition to an MBA in finance, strategy, and general business while studying abroad at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management.

He began working for Citibank as an assistant manager and rose to become the CEO and co-founder of the organisation. Then Aman joined KPMG as a Senior Management Consultant. He also served as the Sales Director for HARMAN International. Aman Gupta and Sameer founded boAt in 2016. He was also a founder member of Imagine Marketing India, which changed its name to boAt later on.

BoAt's Business Model

Boat sells a variety of products, such as speakers, headphones, headphones, smartwatches, trimmers, and wireless and wired earbuds. With a market share of 27.3%, BoAt lifestyle is the top brand in the earwear category.

It generated 1,531 crores in sales and around 127.1 crores in profit in FY2021. Its earnings climbed by 61% from 48.85 crores in FY20 to 78.6 crores in FY21.

Boat focuses on providing wired earphones at the lowest price possible. Their goods are priced between 350 and 550 since no company makes wired earphones in this price range.

The company doesn't need to sell its launched items because it has always created goods that generate demand. It has already grown in popularity as a result of its excellent quality and reasonable cost.

For instance, BoAt unveiled the "BoAt Stone," a mobile Bluetooth speaker that immediately gained popularity. While its competitors were demanding $5,000 for comparable products, BoAt was only charging around $2,000 for the speaker.

Read This Full ARTICLE, Click Here

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Canary Media:

Most ferries in the United States run on diesel fuel, with groaning engines that spew harmful emissions into waterfront communities. But in San Francisco, passengers on the city’s newest vessel will find the trip to be much quieter and cleaner as they zip around the bay.

On Friday, a hydrogen-powered ferry called Sea Change officially launched after more than six years in development. The vessel is the first commercial passenger ferry in the world to run entirely on hydrogen fuel cells — a technology that doesn’t directly emit carbon dioxide or toxic air pollution, just a little heat and water vapor.

On a breezy morning, city and state officials gathered at the downtown ferry terminal and climbed aboard the blue-and-white boat to celebrate its public debut. The ferry will begin a six-month pilot service on July 19, operating Friday to Sunday between the historic Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf and at no cost to passengers.

Sea Change is owned by the startup Switch Maritime and was developed with support from a $3 million grant from the California Air Resources Board. A group of private partners are sponsoring the ferry’s demonstration run, including Chevron New Energies, United Airlines, and the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway, and Transportation District.

Sea Change is launching as ferry operators in the U.S. and globally are facing rising public pressure to clean up their dirty fleets.

Many of America’s nearly 620 ferries rely on decades-old, inefficient diesel engines, making them some of the largest emitters among commercial harbor craft. They also typically operate around densely populated and marginalized communities, exposing people to health-harming pollutants such as particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

In California, where ferries represent only 2 percent of harbor craft, the vessels are responsible for 11 percent of total PM2.5 emissions and 15 percent of NOx emissions within the maritime category, according to the California Air Resources Board. In 2022, the regulatory agency adopted a rule requiring all short-run ferries in the state to be zero-emissions by the end of 2025.

A growing number of ferry operators are turning to battery power to address emissions and upgrade their fleets.

[sydmarch]

today i feel like recounting probably my favorite story from my first sales job back in the day so first some relevant background to set the scene: tech startup with a typical tech startup vibe so the party culture was insane. new sales reps were hired on in groups of about 10 at a time bcus they would be trained in a classroom setting all at once. every summer there was boat party where the whole company would get taken on this cruise around the hudson & at the time of my first one there was a new class who had only started at the beginning of the same week as the cruise so of course they're all like blown away going to this event the end of their first week.

so after the cruise we all head to a really popular rooftop bar to keep the party going & most of the higher ups dip out but a few of the ones who are real partiers stay including a couple sales managers & our director of sales. a bunch of us end up sitting around this table together including a bunch of longtime sales reps, our director, and one newbie. all of us who'd been there for a while knew that our director was a party animal & outside of work didn't give a shit about what we did (& by virtue of one of my work besties being a LONG time veteran at the company (insane sadomasochist friend from some of my other stories) i also knew that the two of them used to do coke together in the office bathrooms so yeah) but since the newbie had no idea one guy decided to tease him while everyone was passing around a weed pen & was like "yo who's brave enough to hit the pen in front of [director]?" & the guy really hesitantly hits the pen & our director with this obvious shit eating grin is like "steven? you're fucking fired!" & we all start laughing but the poor guy looks like he shit himself LMAO

[theauthorinblue]

You know, out of everything I want to do with my life the thing I want to do most is make Hotel Sunlight a reality.

Hotel Sunlight is, at least partially, a hotel. It’s themed off both real nature and typical fantasy forests. Branches make the edging between the walls and ceiling. The carpet is deep green. Real plants decorate the lobby and fake ones decorate the rooms. Rooms designed for kids have touch-sensitive glowing mushroom nightlights and “treehouse” loft areas with ceilings covered in glowing stars. Adults get vine-covered bedframes and lamps made of a small tree with fruits as orbs of light. Dining rooms have huge windows into open forests with chances to see real wildlife and skylights to the roof.

But the real fun comes with the other parts.

Hotel Sunlight also has a lot of grounds. Some of it are used for greenhouses for spices and stuff, and some of it is for power (because we can’t theme the whole place around nature and not use clean energy), but most of it is used for the adventure paths, which are also the main draw of the hotel.

The adventure paths are a series of walking paths that span around the hotel. They are filled with animatronic animals from reality and fiction that you fight with spells you cast with the wand you got at check-in (which can also function as a room key, though we do have keycards too for boring people). Each wand can use three spells, randomly picked, but you can change them out as you go at certain places. There are several different areas with various levels that are mainly differentiated by how much walking it takes, how long it takes to play, and which part of the overall plot it covers, as each area holds different secrets to the overall plot. Each area is also themed around a different biome, ranging anywhere from the Hotel Sunlight Botanical Gardens to boating down part of the river to a mushroom forest. You, your group, and your guide, all work together to unravel the mysteries the adventure paths hold, which are (supposedly) not even entirely understood by the Hotel Sunlight staff.

But I think the best part would be what we’d end up doing with the profits

Everyone gets full living wages from basically as soon as possible from construction. Maintenance and supplies and stuff are obviously going to come from the hotel profits too. But after that, there are startup grants to help small businesses get their footing, first around the hotel, then anywhere we can reach, until they can support themselves and keep in business against chains like Walmart and McDonald’s, especially since this hotel would probably be in a pretty remote area, so big companies would be the main stores there. We can also support green energy and other sustainability research. More transparent solar panels. Kelp-based biodegradable plastic. Alternatives to styrofoam. Anything to help the planet.

So yeah, long story short I wish I had the money to do this, I think it would be awesome

[globstarexhibition]

Exhibition Stand Builder Interboot 2024 Germany

In the picturesque setting of Friedrichshafen, Germany, lies a premier event that serves as a gateway to the world of water sports and leisure – INTERBOOT 2024. Renowned as one of the leading trade fairs for boating, water sports, and maritime recreation, INTERBOOT brings together exhibitors and enthusiasts from around the globe to explore the latest trends, unveil cutting-edge innovations, and embark on new adventures on the water. As a distinguished exhibitions stand builder and supplier, Globstar Exhibitions is proud to be a part of INTERBOOT 2024, empowering exhibitors to make a splash, stand out amidst the competition, and drive excellence in the maritime industry.

INTERBOOT 2024: Navigating the Waters of Innovation

INTERBOOT 2024 isn't just a trade fair; it's a celebration of everything related to water sports and maritime lifestyle. From sleek yachts and high-performance boats to innovative water sports equipment and accessories, INTERBOOT showcases the full spectrum of products and services that define the world of water recreation. Exhibitors ranging from leading boat manufacturers to niche accessory brands converge at INTERBOOT to showcase their latest offerings, connect with industry peers, and inspire enthusiasts to embark on new maritime adventures.

At the heart of this dynamic event lies the Exhibitions Stand Builder – the creative force behind the captivating booths that draw in attendees and set the stage for memorable experiences. As a trusted partner to many exhibitors at INTERBOOT 2024, Globstar Exhibitions plays a pivotal role in helping brands make a lasting impression, attract attention, and foster engagement.

Crafting Immersive Exhibition Stands: Where Maritime Dreams Set Sail

In the competitive landscape of maritime exhibitions, making a memorable impact is essential. This is where Globstar Exhibitions excels, leveraging its expertise as exhibitions stand builder to craft immersive experiences that captivate attendees and leave a lasting impression. From stunning boat displays to interactive water sports simulators, from innovative accessory showcases to hands-on demonstrations, we ensure that every exhibition stand reflects our clients' vision, values, and commitment to excellence in the maritime industry.

Our team of skilled designers, engineers, and project managers collaborates closely with our clients to bring their visions to life. Whether it's a luxury yacht manufacturer unveiling its latest flagship model or a startup showcasing its innovative water sports gear, we ensure that every exhibition stand tells a compelling story and captivates attendees' imagination.

Driving Collaboration and Innovation: Charting a Course for Success

INTERBOOT 2024 isn't just about showcasing products and services; it's also about driving collaboration, fostering innovation, and sharing knowledge. Throughout the event, attendees have the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops, and panel discussions covering a wide range of topics, from maritime trends to environmental sustainability. These sessions provide invaluable insights and networking opportunities for industry professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve.

As the exhibitions stand builder, Globstar Exhibitions plays a crucial role in facilitating these interactions. From inviting meeting areas to interactive networking zones, we provide the infrastructure and support needed to foster meaningful connections and drive collaboration. Whether it's a chance encounter with a potential collaborator or a strategic discussion with a key industry player, INTERBOOT 2024 is where opportunities come to life.

Embracing Sustainability and Adventure: Preserving the Seas for Future Generations

In an era defined by environmental consciousness and adventure-seeking, the maritime industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards sustainability and responsible recreation. At Globstar Exhibitions, we are committed to helping our clients showcase their commitment to sustainability and adventure through innovative exhibition stand designs and practices.

From incorporating eco-friendly materials to highlighting responsible boating practices and marine conservation efforts, we work tirelessly to create exhibition stands that reflect the pulse of the industry. By embracing sustainability and adventure in our work, we not only enhance the attendee experience but also inspire others in the industry to prioritize environmental stewardship and responsible recreation.

Conclusion: Sailing Towards Success with Globstar Exhibitions

As INTERBOOT 2024 continues to set the course for maritime adventure and innovation, Globstar Exhibitions remains dedicated to supporting the success of our clients and driving excellence in the maritime industry. Through our expertise in exhibition stand design and our passion for creating immersive experiences, we help brands from around the world showcase their vision, forge connections, and inspire enthusiasts to embark on new maritime adventures.

As we look ahead to the next edition of INTERBOOT, we are excited to continue our partnership with this esteemed event and to play our part in shaping the future of water sports and maritime leisure. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of creativity, collaboration, and sustainability, creating unforgettable experiences that set the standard for excellence in the maritime industry.

[cruises-trips-news]

Alma Cruceros Reveals First Details of its New Cruise Line

Alma Cruceros has revealed the first details of its new cruise operation. The startup brand is set to operate SunStone’s Ocean Victory during summer seasons starting in 2025. According to its website, Alma is based in Málaga and plans to become the first luxury cruise line based in Spain. Full story Alma Cruceros Reveals First […] The post Alma Cruceros Reveals First Details of its New Cruise Line appeared first on BOAT CRUISES TRIPS NEWS. https://boat-cruises-trips.news-6.com/alma-cruceros-reveals-first-details-of-its-new-cruise-line/

[graphicpolicy]

Zack Kaplan, John J. Pearson, and Vault's Mindset is being adapted for television

Zack Kaplan, John J. Pearson, and Vault's Mindset is being adapted for television #comics #comicbooks

Boat Rocker has announced it has partnered with Don Cheadle’s production company This Radicle Act to develop a scripted television adaptation of Mindset, an acclaimed science fiction mystery from Vault Comics.   Created by writer Zack Kaplan and artist John J. Pearson, Mindset is a near-future science fiction story of a Silicon Valley startup that accidentally invents a mind control app, and…

[equitylogistic]

Who Can Benefit from Solar Energy in Transportation

Imagine a future where vehicles glide effortlessly along the road, powered not by traditional fuels, but by the energy of the sun. This vision is becoming increasingly tangible as solar energy makes its way into the transportation sector, revolutionizing how we move from place to place. In this blog post, we will explore the exciting world of solar energy in transportation and discover who stands to benefit from this innovative technology. Let's dive in!

Benefits of using solar energy in transportation

Solar energy in transportation offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for individuals and businesses alike. One key advantage is the significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, helping to combat climate change and improve air quality. By harnessing the power of the sun, vehicles can operate more sustainably, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels.

Additionally, solar-powered transportation can lead to lower operating costs over time. With fewer fuel expenses and maintenance requirements, businesses can save money while also promoting environmental sustainability. This cost-effectiveness makes solar energy an appealing choice for fleet owners looking to reduce their carbon footprint and overhead expenses simultaneously.

Moreover, utilizing solar energy in transportation promotes energy independence by relying on a renewable resource that will never run out. This not only contributes to a cleaner environment but also enhances overall resilience against fluctuations in traditional fuel prices.

Types of vehicles that can be powered by solar energy

Solar energy is a versatile and sustainable power source that can be harnessed to fuel various types of vehicles. From cars and buses to boats and even planes, the possibilities are endless when it comes to integrating solar technology into transportation.

Electric cars equipped with solar panels on their roofs can capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, extending their range and reducing reliance on traditional charging methods. Solar-powered bicycles are gaining popularity as an eco-friendly alternative for short commutes, allowing riders to pedal with the assistance of renewable energy.

Public transportation systems like buses and trams can also benefit from solar energy by installing panels on their rooftops or at stations to offset operating costs. Additionally, solar-powered boats offer a quiet and emission-free way to navigate waterways while minimizing environmental impact.

Innovations in aviation have led to the development of solar-powered drones and experimental aircraft that rely solely on sunlight for propulsion. These advancements showcase the potential for solar energy to revolutionize not just land-based transportation but also air travel in the future.

Success stories of companies using solar energy in transportation

One success story in the realm of solar energy in transportation comes from China, where the Shenzhen Bus Group implemented a fleet of electric buses powered by solar panels on their roofs. These buses can travel up to 12 miles on a single charge and have significantly reduced carbon emissions!

Another notable company making strides in solar-powered transportation is Tesla, with their innovative electric cars equipped with solar roof options. These vehicles harness the power of the sun to extend driving range and lessen reliance on traditional charging methods.

Moreover, Dutch company Lightyear has developed a solar-powered car that can travel up to 450 miles per day using sunlight as its primary energy source. This breakthrough technology showcases the potential for long-distance travel without depleting fossil fuels.

Furthermore, Indian startup Euler Motors has introduced electric three-wheelers for last-mile delivery services powered by rooftop solar panels. These vehicles provide an eco-friendly solution for urban logistics while reducing operational costs.

These success stories highlight how companies worldwide are embracing solar energy in transportation to drive innovation and sustainability forward!

Potential cost savings with solar-powered transportation

Imagine being able to save money while also reducing your carbon footprint by using solar energy in transportation. Solar-powered vehicles offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for businesses and individuals alike.

By harnessing the power of the sun, transportation costs can be significantly reduced over time. With minimal operating expenses compared to traditional fuel-powered vehicles, the savings from utilizing solar energy can add up quickly.

In addition to lower fuel costs, maintenance expenses tend to be lower for solar-powered vehicles due to their simple design and fewer moving parts. This means less money spent on repairs and upkeep, leading to long-term cost savings for owners.

Furthermore, government incentives and rebates for adopting renewable energy sources like solar power can further offset initial investment costs. These financial benefits make transitioning to solar-powered transportation an attractive option for those looking to save money in the long run.

Environmental impact of solar-powered transportation

As we look towards a greener future, the environmental impact of solar-powered transportation cannot be understated. By utilizing clean and renewable energy sources like solar power, vehicles can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and decrease harmful emissions into the atmosphere.

Solar-powered transportation plays a crucial role in mitigating air pollution and combating climate change by reducing dependence on fossil fuels. This shift towards sustainable energy not only benefits the environment but also improves overall air quality, leading to healthier communities for everyone.

Additionally, solar energy in transportation helps to preserve natural resources by decreasing the demand for non-renewable fuels such as oil and gas. As more vehicles transition to solar power, we take a step closer towards creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly world for generations to come.

Embracing solar-powered transportation is not just about innovation; it's about making a conscious choice to protect our planet and preserve its beauty for future inhabitants. Together, we can drive positive change through environmentally responsible practices that support both present-day needs and tomorrow's possibilities.

Challenges and solutions for implementing solar energy in transportation

One of the main challenges in implementing solar energy in transportation is the initial cost involved. Converting vehicles to run on solar power can be expensive, deterring some companies and individuals from making the switch. However, solutions such as government incentives and subsidies can help offset these costs and make solar-powered transportation more accessible.

Another challenge is the limited range of electric vehicles powered by solar energy. While advancements are being made in battery technology to improve this issue, it remains a concern for long-haul transportation. Solutions like integrating solar panels into infrastructure or using hybrid systems can extend the range of these vehicles and address this limitation.

Additionally, lack of widespread charging infrastructure poses a challenge for solar-powered transportation. To overcome this hurdle, investment in building more charging stations powered by renewable energy sources like solar can ensure a reliable network for drivers relying on clean energy options.

Conclusion

Solar energy in transportation is a game-changer that benefits not only the environment but also individuals and businesses. By harnessing the power of the sun, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, decrease harmful emissions, and pave the way for a more sustainable future. As technology continues to advance and costs decrease, solar-powered transportation will likely become even more accessible and widespread.

Whether you are an individual looking to reduce your carbon footprint or a company aiming to cut operational costs and promote eco-friendly practices, solar energy in transportation offers a range of benefits. The success stories of companies already implementing solar solutions demonstrate that it is not just a concept but a practical reality with tangible results.

As we move towards cleaner and greener modes of transportation, embracing solar energy will play a crucial role in shaping a brighter tomorrow for generations to come. Let's continue to explore innovative ways to integrate renewable energy sources like solar into our daily lives and drive towards a more sustainable future together.

[klubworks]

How Strong D2C Branding Can Attract Potential Investors

Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) businesses have radically transformed the landscape of modern commerce. By eliminating the middleman and selling directly to consumers, these brands can offer personalized experiences and unique products. However, while product innovation is vital, branding plays an equally significant role in the success of a D2C venture. A robust brand presence attracts consumers and becomes an enticing proposition for potential investors. So, how does one get funding for a startup with a robust branding strategy?

Branding provides a clear market position

For a D2C brand, the market can be saturated with competitors, making differentiation crucial. Effective branding communicates the unique value proposition, resonates with the target audience, and sets a business apart from its competitors. When entrepreneurs seek funding for business start up endeavors, showcasing a distinct brand identity can be a game-changer. It indicates market research, understanding of consumer needs, and strategic thinking – all attractive qualities for investors.

Sugar Cosmetics. A brand that revolutionized the beauty industry in India, Sugar Cosmetics, with its trendy and affordable makeup range, created a distinct niche in an otherwise saturated market. Their brand identity resonated deeply with the urban young audience, providing a clear market positioning.

Trustworthiness and reliability through branding

Trust is currency in the business world. Brands building and maintaining consumer trust tend to have a competitive edge. This trustworthiness also translates into investor confidence. A D2C business with a well-established brand appears more reliable and less risky. As such, they're more likely to secure start up finance from skeptical investors who get dozens, if not hundreds, of pitches daily.

Boat: This homegrown audio brand has built trust by consistently delivering quality audio products. The boat has become synonymous with reliability, and its continuous emphasis on customer satisfaction has sealed its position as a trustworthy player in the market.

Demonstrated consumer engagement

A successful D2C brand does more than just sell products; it engages with its customers. From interactive social media campaigns to loyalty programs, consumer engagement strategies can significantly impact a brand's bottom line. When you can demonstrate that your brand not only attracts but retains customers, it becomes much easier to get fund for startup. Investors see the tangible benefits of a loyal consumer base, making them more inclined to invest.

Bewakoof: Beyond its quirky merchandise, Bewakoof has fostered a community spirit through engagement initiatives like crowd-sourced designs and interactive social campaigns. Their audience doesn't just buy; they actively participate, exemplifying true brand engagement.

Future scalability and market expansion

As the Indian e-commerce narrative unfolds, innovation becomes the cornerstone of retail practices and funding mechanisms. While traditional e-commerce startup funding avenues show signs of strain, Revenue-Based Financing (RBF), championed by platforms like Klub, emerges as the resilient backbone for the next growth phase. A strong brand presence shows promise in the current market and hints at the possibility of expanding into new markets or demographics. Thus, when aiming to get funding for startup, a robust branding strategy combined with innovative funding avenues can indicate that a business has the potential to grow, adapt, and thrive in varying market conditions.

Wakefit: A testament to envisioning and realizing scalability is Wakefit. In 2023, the brand targeted an impressive revenue milestone of INR 10,000 Cr. Their trajectory isn't just about ambitious numbers; it's about a brand consistently adapting, innovating, and growing at an accelerated pace in the home solutions space. Wakefit's success story is a blueprint for D2C brands looking to carve out significant market share and achieve substantial growth.

Conclusion A strong branding strategy can be a beacon in the bustling world of D2C businesses, where competition is fierce. Not only does it allure consumers, it also acts as a magnet for potential investors. Aspiring entrepreneurs should remember that while product quality and business acumen are essential, never underestimate the power of branding when they're out to get funding for a startup.

[twnenglish]

The Success Story of boAt

With the development of headphones, music enthusiasts, listeners, and other professionals may now watch their favorite movies, listen to their favourite songs, and converse with friends and coworkers in private without disturbing others. Even while headphones have been there for a while in India, just like they have elsewhere in the world, there aren't many Indian manufacturers to be found. One of the key participants among them is the boAt company, and the brand absolutely steals the show!

The company The boAt offers an incredible selection of earphones, earbuds, headphones, and wireless speakers that distinguishes out for its high level of quality, accessibility, and premium aesthetics. BoAt is regarded as the top earwear and audio brand in India. Users are able to simultaneously experience spirit and energy due to the company.

The company's track record isn't particularly impressive. The Delhi-based startup was launched in 2016 by Aman Gupta and Sameer Mehta. The company bills itself as a lifestyle brand that sells trendy consumer electronics. The goal of BoAt Lifestyle was to provide low-cost, long-lasting audio equipment and accessories to millennials. Several aspects have been credited with boAt's success. Let's have a look at them now.

The Success Story of boAt

About boAt

An Indian company called boAt sells electronic devices with a focus on music, including wireless speakers, earbuds (Airdopes), wired and wireless headphones and earphones, home audio equipment, premium tough cables, and a variety of other technological accessories.

Startup Story of boAt

The founders aimed to build a lifestyle brand that would offer millennials attractive audio equipment and accessories. This notion originated with boAt. According to research from 2020, the company started out as a cable manufacturer and supplier before quickly expanding into other markets to serve more than 800,000 clients. BoAt began as a bootstrapped startup with an initial investment from the founders of around Rs 30 lakhs.

To Read This Full ARTICLE, Click Here

[lebynd]

Level Up Your Brand with Leybnd: Your Go-To Digital Marketing Squad!

Hey there, savvy readers! 🚀 Ready to dive into the world of digital marketing? Well, you're in for a treat because we're about to spill the beans on the awesome sauce that is Leybnd – your ultimate partner in all things digital marketing. 🎉

Picture this: You're a brand with a fantastic product or service, but it's like having a killer dance move in an empty room – no one's watching! 🕺💃 That's where Leybnd struts in, ready to turn your online presence from 'meh' to 'OMG, they're everywhere!' 🌐

Leybnd Unwrapped: What's the Buzz All About?

First things first, what's the deal with Leybnd, and why should you care? Well, imagine having a crew of digital whizzes who know the online world like the back of their smartphones. From crafting eye-popping Instagram stories to writing website content that's juicier than a watermelon on a summer day – they've got it all covered!

You know how in superhero movies, there's always that mentor who guides the hero through challenges? That's Leybnd for your brand! They're like the Alfred to your Batman, the Hagrid to your Harry Potter, the… you get the drift! 🦸‍♂️🧙‍♂️

The Leybnd Magic: What They Bring to the Table

Let's break down the digital wizardry Leybnd brings to your brand's table:

🔮 Social Media Sorcery: From Facebook fiestas to TikTok trends, Leybnd knows how to make your brand shine. They'll conjure up posts that'll have your audience hitting that like button faster than you can say "viral."

🔮 Content Enchantment: Words are their playthings. Leybnd's content creators whip up blog posts, website copy, and emails that are so engaging, your readers won't want to close the tab – ever!

🔮 SEO Sorcery: Ever heard of this thing called SEO? Leybnd has it on their fingertips. They'll sprinkle those magical keywords that make Google do a happy dance and lead more curious souls to your virtual doorstep.

🔮 Email Enigma: Email marketing might sound as exciting as watching paint dry, but not when Leybnd takes the reins! They'll craft emails so irresistible, your subscribers will be clicking 'Open' faster than you can say "inbox zero."

Why Choose Leybnd? Because Results, Duh!

You might be thinking, "Okay, Leybnd sounds cool, but does their magic actually work?" Well, grab a seat, because here come the stats: Brands that hop on the Leybnd bandwagon often see a surge in website traffic, social media engagement, and – drumroll, please – sales! 📈💰

Leybnd doesn't believe in one-size-fits-all spells. Nope, they're all about tailoring their strategies to fit your brand's unique vibes. Whether you're a budding startup or a seasoned player, they've got the spells to level up your digital game.

Ready to Make Some Digital Waves?

If you're ready to take your brand from 'meh' to 'heck yeah!', it's time to give Leybnd a shout. Their crew of digital dynamos is always up for a challenge, armed with creativity, passion, and a sprinkle of that digital fairy dust. ✨

So, if you're tired of being the wallflower at the digital party, let Leybnd lead you to the center stage. Check out their website, shoot them an email, or just send a carrier pigeon – whatever floats your boat! 🚤 Let's make some digital magic happen with Leybnd. Your brand deserves it, and they're here to deliver!

Catch you on the digital flip side! 👋🌐

[impactfulpitch]

Stages of a Startup: From Idea to IPO

It's inspiring to hear how 18-year-old college dropouts are achieving their goals and sailing the success boat! Such stories are incredibly motivating and encourage many people to launch and expand their businesses. Getting up and starting is a big step, but the next query is, "What stage is the startup at?"

How far along is the startup? How do you know what stage you are at? is a question that most startup entrepreneurs are asked. Do you feel the same concern with regard to your startup? Do not worry. This blog will assist you in comprehending the various phases of a startup. You can determine where you stand by reading this.

1. The Pre-startup Stage

The discovery stage or identification stage is another name for this step. This stage is particularly crucial, especially for SaaS firms. At this point, you should be able to recognize an issue and comprehend how your solution will address it. At this stage, you undergo extensive research and attempt to comprehend many perspectives on the issue. In order to fully understand the issue you aim to resolve, you must participate in discussions.

The following events take place during this phase:

To learn more about the product, connect to potential customers.

Write out your mission and vision.

Establish financial plans for the new business.

Join forces with an incubator or startup accelerator

Start by developing a minimum viable product.

2. Startup

After you've finished the preliminary work, the following step is to put it all into motion. The problem/solution fit stage is another name for the startup stage. Since it marks the beginning of long-lasting partnerships, it is a noteworthy stage for the majority of startups. Your first customer acquisition would be your hardest challenge as a SaaS firm. 

One of the most crucial points to keep in mind in this situation is that your initial clients may also end up becoming brand ambassadors and devoted customers. Given this, you should concentrate more on giving customers the finest service than on making plans for the subsequent stage, i.e., scaling and expansion.

The following events take place during this phase:

Upgrading the fundamental aspects of the MVP to attain the proper product/market fit

Recruiting essential employees who comprehend the mission/vision

Receiving payment from customers

Getting the initial funding

3. Growth & Expansion

The scaling and growth stage comes next. This is the most crucial phase of your journey because it is the time when your company expands and transforms from a startup to an enterprise. Congratulations if you find yourself in this situation!

You have already developed a strategy and fixed the procedures that work best for you during the launch phase. You have also made a name for yourself in the industry. Your subsequent action will be to expand. During the scaling and expansion stage, you will do precisely that.

The scaling and expansion stage is about profit generation, whereas your priority in the startup stage is on generating revenue and maintaining the cash flow. Your SaaS company will simultaneously need to make room for rising cash needs in order to sustain aggressive scaling and client acquisition.

The following events take place during this phase:

Preparing for a series of financing

Recruiting senior executives

Aggressively gaining customers

Preparing activities for customer retention

Back-end scaling enhancements

Establishing procedures for analytics and testing (a/b testing and split-testing)

Creating a product sales process

Teams working together on products, sales, and marketing

4. Maturity

The mature stage comes next. At this point, your customers are aware of you and the goods or services they purchased. In the growth stage, when your numbers significantly grew, you might not notice the same dramatic change. Even if the progress is currently very gradual, you must continue. To keep growing, you'll need to come up with fresh ideas.

Apple is the finest example. When it reached the mature stage, the tech behemoth moved into newer markets and diversified its offerings of goods and services. By adopting a similar strategy, you should be able to enhance your product by including new features.

The following events take place during this phase:

Seeking to expand in new markets and find new opportunities

Preparing to upgrade present offerings, introduce new offerings, or both

Prepare for an IPO.

Plan your exit strategy

Final Thoughts

From the conception of an idea to the verification of the addition of new features to an established product, each stage of the startup lifecycle is important. There is no one way you must proceed. Just make sure you have the knowledge, enthusiasm, and resources necessary to proceed and you are good to go!

[americassteestore]

Official Isles gaming team faze islanders shirt

Buy this shirt:  Click here to buy this Official Isles gaming team faze islanders shirt

Americastee is a Startup Merchant that gives everyone the power to offer print-on-demand for their images on their own products. Our print-on-demand brand offers to print on apparel and sends them all over the world. We are specialized in short run printing, so it is possible for the customer of the platform to make an order easily and quickly. Our print facilities only print professional products and all of the high-quality products. We offer both screen and digital printing and have a good price for clients. Furthermore, we also own a professional design team to offer pretty designs for the customer with no worry.

Official Isles gaming team faze islanders shirt meaning:

Måneskin are waxing lyrical about Rome from Mexico City, where they have just held a rather epic concert. Alessandro Michele and I have got hold of them while they’re in this ancient city that sprinkles the Official Isles gaming team faze islanders shirt and by the same token and dust of the gods on your shoulders. Victoria De Angelis, Damiano David, Ethan Torchio, and Thomas Raggi tell us about a boat trip with mariachi bands playing and locals cooking onboard to celebrate the Day of the Dead. As I watch them—bodies still heavy with sleep, curled up in the bright morning sun—I think that Liliana Segre [a 92-year-old Italian politician and Holocaust survivor] is right when she says that she loves their music even though, at times, she has to look up the lyrics because “just by looking at them, I forget to follow the words.” Måneskin has this effect: When you look at them, you’re enchanted. Alessandro Michele once said, “Before communicating with words, communicate the body.” Måneskin’s bodies tell the story of sexual freedom, partly thanks to the harmony of intention that, with Michele, they have forged as a group, stitching together a union of powerful textures that Gucci’s creative director explains in this way:

Home:  https://americastee.com/

[simpleasyouplease]

Westsail notes from Mike

Westsail notes from mike

They are. The first building is the Placentia Ave location, the second is the old Columbia facility on Mc Cormick Place, and the third is the east coat, Wrightsville Beach, NC location. The rest jump around, most are Placentia, but there are some from the original Kendall Yachts company—you can tell by the flush deck, what Wm. Atkins called his “Thistle”, the balance are the Bill Crealock “Eric” deck. There are also some pics of a company called Crystaliner. This is where the Sam Morse Bristol Channel Cutter ended up being built. Sam started at the Dreadnaught yard up in Danta Barbara, but moved to Newport after the 2nd or 3rd Boat. Most of those photos were taken by S. Snyder Vick. I remember a lot of them being taken. I also recognize a familiar face or two. Even though the boat was outdated, there is something ‘Salty’ and romantic about the Colin Archer design.

This was, I think, the plug for the Crealock ‘Eric’ deck. I just finished all the little videos. I don’t know if the movie was ever completed. The other, with Bud Taplin was interesting, if not wholly accurate. Taplin is/was a complete ‘hand job’. He cried when we fired him. He was given dozens of ‘warnings’, but he refused to comply. Now he’s dressed himself up and poses as ‘Mr. Westsail’. Taplin couldn’t grasp the idea of production boats, and wanted to build each one as a custom. They claim over 1100 built, but I think that’s a little bit higher than the truth. I called Taplin a few years ago, and he pretended he didn’t know who I was. Even though he was banging his ugly wife, Paula, in the next berth on a trip down to Mexico, while I faked being asleep. It was pretty disgusting. I seemed to have faded out of the scenery after I left with most of the money. There is a picture or two of a much thinner me in the brochure with the green cover. I’m fine with being in the background. I’ll let someone else make the comments. Taplin knows all of what I said above. The ‘wood’ deck is a flush deck Kendall. There was no mold for that. There are about 5 flush deck Kendall/Westsail out there. People started calling their Kendall’s Westsail because the resale was better.

Google Mike Bradshaw Westsail, I think I should turn up there. I had to step in as National Sales Manager after a Jerry quit suddenly.

I think that particular flush deck was a boat named ‘Senta To’, that was built for Gene and Carol Soma in the SF Bay Area.

Somethings you just remember. I think I told you the story where Snyder and I went to SF on our last dime, and I got the buyers to pay more money than they owed ? And we had to wait until the next day to cash their check so we could fly home ? That was Gene and Carol, so that’s why I remember.

S. Snyder Vick was my ‘partner’ in Electro Controls. E.C. Bought Kendall at an I.R.S. Auction, but Snyder ended up with controlling interest because his wife’s company, Impact Advertising also bought a piece of it. We also had some investment from Tom Byers and Ron Kinsling. Ron went on to help me fund the startup of Flicka. Snyder was an heir to the Vick Chemical Company, (Vaporub), and Rexall Drug fortunes. But he refused any financial help from his family, although we later used some of his dads stocks, along with my house, as collateral for a bank loan. Lynn and Snyder were the big “front” people for Westsail.

Snyder and Lynn now live up in Washington near the Canadian border, and have a W42.

Kendall and his gigantic, fat wife, were semi-Hippies who lived in a Westfailia van. They had 4 or 5 friends who all wanted to go cruising in a Colin Archer. They all chipped in to build the first hull mold. They then all took their hulls to various vacant lots around Costa Mesa/Newport to build out their flush deck Kendall’s. Larry Kendall decided to start a company and build completed boats, which was a disaster because the VW van was also their office and house. And they were building in someone’s backyard. They built maybe 7/8 boats, and as many hills before the IRS seized them for not forwarding the employees withholding monies. The IRS has no sense of humor when it comes to that. We bought the assets at the auction, which included 3 boats in various stages of completion, along with all the patterns, tooling and the hull mold, which was in really bad shape because it had been sitting outside for a while. We soon built a new, better one, an moved it to Christaliner’s facility. The cost from IRS was $1,800 in 1970 dollars.

Linda was Kendall’s wife’s name. She was a really loathsome human being.

We made a hull, and used it as a plug. We added things like a flange to mount the deck to, we continued to use a split mold, but made changes to make it easier to form a proper seam.

I googled mb and found westsail.org. Just you name, but did see Chris Charly posted on the westsail face book

"Hans Weerman - replaced Bud Taplin as production manager."

Which I know you said you had to work hard to make happen....

Sorry

Chris Carley - 1972-~1978 Carpenter, rigger, foreman of 42/43 Westsail line, delivery/trouble shooter ex-owner of W43 Music (former Teresa J, ex Kalokagathia)...For the couple of years that I ran the 42/43 line we built boats for the manager of ZZ Top, Walter Cronkite, and one of the Kennedy clan.

The Kennedy guy was Perry Auchincloss, I don’t know how to spell it, he was Jackie Kennedy’s half brother.

Hans was a Dutchman that had worked for many years with Columbia Yachts. Very capable. He later through some of his family, bought the dying Westsail with the intention of reviving it and moving some production to the Netherlands. It was too late, and lacked the motivational zeal of two kids trying to stay alive. Taplin is a Putz.

We had 250 employees. 300 if you count the east coast. It was hard

The 32 has 1,300 man hours to build. One of our points of contention was that I felt the real hours should be 1/2 to 1/3 of that. My wife feels I’m not spending enough time with her tonight, so I’ll catch up to you tomorrow

Westsail notes from mike via text nov 12 2017

http://m.imdb.com/title/tt4960890 westsail

https://youtu.be/xB9xIAMBdEk

Me-Have you seen this?

Were these your photos?

Si strange to see boats being built outside!

Not the east coast or U.K. That's for sure.

Hi from sunny. And windy FLORIDA

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/westsail-the-world-documentary#/

They are. The first building is the Placentia Ave location, the second is the old Columbia facility on Mc Cormick Place, and the third is the east coat, Wrightsville Beach, NC location. The rest jump around, most are Placentia, but there are some from the original Kendall Yachts company—you can tell by the flush deck, what Wm. Atkins called his “Thistle”, the balance are the Bill Crealock “Eric” deck. There are also some pics of a company called Crystaliner. This is where the Sam Morse Bristol Channel Cutter ended up being built. Sam started at the Dreadnaught yard up in Danta Barbara, but moved to Newport after the 2nd or 3rd Boat. Most of those photos were taken by S. Snyder Vick. I remember a lot of them being taken. I also recognize a familiar face or two. Even though the boat was outdated, there is something ‘Salty’ and romantic about the Colin Archer design.



Here it is again. Wood deck fiberglass over. Was it a owner finish?

This was, I think, the plug for the Crealock ‘Eric’ deck. I just finished all the little videos. I don’t know if the movie was ever completed. The other, with Bud Taplin was interesting, if not wholly accurate. Taplin is/was a complete ‘hand job’. He cried when we fired him. He was given dozens of ‘warnings’, but he refused to comply. Now he’s dressed himself up and poses as ‘Mr. Westsail’. Taplin couldn’t grasp the idea of production boats, and wanted to build each one as a custom. They claim over 1100 built, but I think that’s a little bit higher than the truth. I called Taplin a few years ago, and he pretended he didn’t know who I was. Even though he was banging his ugly wife, Paula, in the next berth on a trip down to Mexico, while I faked being asleep. It was pretty disgusting. I seemed to have faded out of the scenery after I left with most of the money. There is a picture or two of a much thinner me in the brochure with the green cover. I’m fine with being in the background. I’ll let someone else make the comments. Taplin knows all of what I said above. The ‘wood’ deck is a flush deck Kendall. There was no mold for that. There are about 5 flush deck Kendall/Westsail out there. People started calling their Kendall’s Westsail because the resale was better.

Google Mike Bradshaw Westsail, I think I should turn up there. I had to step in as National Sales Manager after a Jerry quit suddenly.

I think that particular flush deck was a boat named ‘Senta To’, that was built for Gene and Carol Soma in the SF Bay Area.

Somethings you just remember. I think I told you the story where Snyder and I went to SF on our last dime, and I got the buyers to pay more money than they owed ? And we had to wait until the next day to cash their check so we could fly home ? That was Gene and Carol, so that’s why I remember.

S. Snyder Vick was my ‘partner’ in Electro Controls. E.C. Bought Kendall at an I.R.S. Auction, but Snyder ended up with controlling interest because his wife’s company, Impact Advertising also bought a piece of it. We also had some investment from Tom Byers and Ron Kinsling. Ron went on to help me fund the startup of Flicka. Snyder was an heir to the Vick Chemical Company, (Vaporub), and Rexall Drug fortunes. But he refused any financial help from his family, although we later used some of his dads stocks, along with my house, as collateral for a bank loan. Lynn and Snyder were the big “front” people for Westsail.

Kendall and his gigantic, fat wife, were semi-Hippies who lived in a Westfailia van. They had 4 or 5 friends who all wanted to go cruising in a Colin Archer. They all chipped in to build the first hull mold. They then all took their hulls to various vacant lots around Costa Mesa/Newport to build out their flush deck Kendall’s. Larry Kendall decided to start a company and build completed boats, which was a disaster because the VW van was also their office and house. And they were building in someone’s backyard. They built maybe 7/8 boats, and as many hills before the IRS seized them for not forwarding the employees withholding monies. The IRS has no sense of humor when it comes to that. We bought the assets at the auction, which included 3 boats in various stages of completion, along with all the patterns, tooling and the hull mold, which was in really bad shape because it had been sitting outside for a while. We soon built a new, better one, an moved it to Christaliner’s facility. The cost from IRS was $1,800 in 1970 dollars.

Snyder and Lynn now live up in Washington near the Canadian border, and have a W42.

Kendall and his gigantic, fat wife, were semi-Hippies who lived in a Westfailia van. They had 4 or 5 friends who all wanted to go cruising in a Colin Archer. They all chipped in to build the first hull mold. They then all took their hulls to various vacant lots around Costa Mesa/Newport to build out their flush deck Kendall’s. Larry Kendall decided to start a company and build completed boats, which was a disaster because the VW van was also their office and house. And they were building in someone’s backyard. They built maybe 7/8 boats, and as many hills before the IRS seized them for not forwarding the employees withholding monies. The IRS has no sense of humor when it comes to that. We bought the assets at the auction, which included 3 boats in various stages of completion, along with all the patterns, tooling and the hull mold, which was in really bad shape because it had been sitting outside for a while. We soon built a new, better one, an moved it to Christaliner’s facility. The cost from IRS was $1,800 in 1970 dollars.

Linda was Kendall’s wife’s name. She was a really loathsome human being.

Me-Did you use much from the Kendall? Was the hull just a copy or a new plug?

We made a hull, and used it as a plug. We added things like a flange to mount the deck to, we continued to use a split mold, but made changes to make it easier to form a proper seam.

Me-I googled mb and found westsail.org. Just you name, but did see Chris Charly posted on the westsail face book

"Hans Weerman - replaced Bud Taplin as production manager."

Which I know you said you had to work hard to make happen....

Me-Sorry Chris Carley - 1972-~1978 Carpenter, rigger, foreman of 42/43 Westsail line, delivery/trouble shooter ex-owner of W43 Music (former Teresa J, ex Kalokagathia)...For the couple of years that I ran the 42/43 line we built boats for the manager of ZZ Top, Walter Cronkite, and one of the Kennedy clan.

The Kennedy guy was Perry Auchincloss, I don’t know how to spell it, he was Jackie Kennedy’s half brother.

Hans was a Dutchman that had worked for many years with Columbia Yachts. Very capable. He later through some of his family, bought the dying Westsail with the intention of reviving it and moving some production to the Netherlands. It was too late, and lacked the motivational zeal of two kids trying to stay alive. Taplin is a Putz.

We had 250 employees. 300 if you count the east coast. It was hard

The 32 has 1,300 man hours to build. One of our points of contention was that I felt the real hours should be 1/2 to 1/3 of that. My wife feels I’m not spending enough time with her tonight, so I’ll catch up to you tomorrow

[shroudandsands]

Prompt #4, Extra Credit: Demeanor

“Well?” “Well what?” Nono peered down the chasm that yawned behind them. She felt that telltale tickle in the back of her thoughts and the slight push of the wind. She listened for the quiet crash of wood and rope and debris- It came moments later. “Well what are we going to do without a bridge, jackass?”

Her adventuring partner seemed almost offended that she’d asked the question. Then offended, again, when she stood there tapping her foot. Then even more offended when she folded her arms. No answer was forthcoming. It was all she could do to just throw her hands in the air and sigh. Aggressively. “Okay. Fine. We’ll figure it out. Maybe I’ll throw you down there to drag it all back up- Because I am not buying another damn rope bridge for you to secure it awfully and let it-.” She took in a deep breath. “Fine. But for now we keep going, okay? Might as well try to find whatever godforsaken ruins are supposed to be here. That you assured me were here.” A pointed stare. “And that I wasn’t crazy when I was looking at the flyover reports. Or that I hadn’t seen things. Or that there was totally no way this stupid place was cursed. Again.”

She stormed off along the non-existent path that she’d decided would take them further up the island. This was playing out dramatically like it was some horrible sequel to a story she’d wish had been a one-off. Hear some rumors, find some old sailing maps, find references to an island that satellite imaging had supposedly overlooked. Usually pretty easy to dismiss. Just look it up and there it’d be. Conspiracy theorists weren’t the brightest bunch. The issue with the last one? It actually wasn’t there. It really hadn’t been documented. And it... was a trip. Nono shuddered. Easy enough to write off anything that had been happening on that island as an insane delusion or sleep deprivation or some sort of mental break from not being able to leave the island. But here they were. On another island. With a freakishly similar startup and build to a point where she wasn’t entirely sure she was comfortable. As long as nobody started saying anything about divine will or the Bermuda-fucking-Triangle she would be happy. Okay? God? Could you hear her and please let that not happen?

“You know...” Came that delightfully annoying and smarmy tone from behind her. She’d hit him if she could reach his face. “This isn’t the act of a young woman who was so excited to document another lost location. Another potential place of historical importance or just untouched natural beauty...” She groaned. He laughed. She kicked a rock back towards him. “Call it being gun shy, now. The first time? Sure. Why not. I was excited right up until you crashed the boat.” “Hold on. I crashed the boat? It was a freak storm.” “A freak storm. On a cursed island.” “It wasn’t cursed!” “There were skulls! And mind control!” “It wasn’t mind control! He was just... really convincing.” The noise that left her echoed off towards the ocean in what could only be described as ‘idiot-companion-induced-agony.’

[mostlysignssomeportents]

How the IMF loan-sharks the global south

When you take out a loan or get a credit card, the headline figure is the “APR” — the annual percentage rate of interest. But anyone who’s ever borrowed because they were poor and needed money has learned the hard way that APRs are pure fiction.

To get the true APR (what economists politely call the “effective” APR) you have to factor in the fees, penalties and other gotchas that turn reasonable seeming interest rates into perennial, inescapable debt-traps.

Take student debt. During the 2020 presidential campaign, we had a debate about student debt forgiveness, whose opponents frequently cited the “unfairness” of allowing people to “escape their responsibilities.”

https://pluralistic.net/2020/12/04/kawaski-trawick/#strike-debt

In their telling, student debt forgiveness would reward fecklessness, allowing people who got the benefit of an expensive education to duck the costs.

Now, even if you ignore the farcical inflation in university tuition and expenses (for example, the 1000%+ hike in textbooks driven by ed-tech monopolists), that’s still a highly selective account of how student debt works.

Student debt is negotiated from a position of weakness and naiveté, which allows lenders to attack the poorest grads with incredible fees and penalties. “Chris” took out $79k in student loans in 1982. He’s paid back $190k. He still owes $236k.

https://taibbi.substack.com/p/student-loan-horror-stories-borrowed

That’s not the magic of compound interest. It’s the magic of loan-sharking. If you’ve ever used a payday lender (aka a “fintech startup” AKA a “loan shark”), none of this will be the least bit surprising. This form of usury is as old as Christ casting out the money-changers.

The payday lending industry didn’t invent these tactics, but they refined, automated and industrialized them, then they spent millions at Trump hotels and (in a stunning coincidence) all those tactics were blessed by the US finance regulators.

https://www.propublica.org/article/trump-inc-podcast-payday-lenders-spent-1-million-at-a-trump-resort-and-cashed-in

The normalization of loan-sharking sent the entire finance sector into a race to the bottom. America’s largest banks saw their profits soar during the pandemic due to record overdraft and other fees — in other words, collecting fines for being poor.

https://pluralistic.net/2021/04/22/ihor-kolomoisky/#usurers

The sums are jaw-dropping. In 2020, Jpmorganchase made $1.5b on overdraft fees, Bank of America made $1.1b and Wells Fargo made $1.3b. The biggest rake came from the worst months of the pandemic.

https://prospect.org/economy/big-banks-charged-billions-in-overdraft-fees-during-pandemic/

78.3% of all overdraft fees come from just 9.2% of bank customers. At $35 a pop, these fees turn the banks’ overdraft facilities into loans with an “effective APR” of 3,500%.

Three thousand.

Five hundred.

Percent.

These are the cold, bloodless numbers of the debt trap. They conceal a vicious cycle in which those with the least pay the most, a cycled that can’t even be outrun in death.

https://pluralistic.net/2021/05/19/zombie-debt/#damnation

Take a moment to (re)read Molly McGhee’s Paris Review essay from May 2021, “America’s Dead Souls,” about her mother’s death. McGhee’s mom made less than $10k/year and suffered “debilitating depression while caring for aging parents.”

https://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2021/05/17/americas-dead-souls/

Her mother was haunted by two warring clans of ghouls: debt collectors who harassed her through legal and illegal means, and con artists who located her through databases of struggling debtors and tried to sell her predatory consolidation loans.

48 hours after her mother’s death, these blood-suckers switched to harassing McGhee, as she grieved her loss. Unlike her mother, McGhee had the resiliency and wherewithal (a credit card) to hire a lawyer, whose boilerplate letter reduced the debt by 90%, over $250k, poof.

If you can afford a lawyer, your parents’ debts don’t become yours. If you can’t, you enter a cycle of intergenerational poverty, with each generation sinking deeper into debt.

When you have nothing and owe everything, debt collectors know that they have to terrorize you into putting their bills ahead of the others. The cruelty is literally the point — without it, you might pay your rent ahead of your mother’s old credit-card bills.

To quote Umair Haque, “America is the the world’s first poor rich country.” an “advanced economy” where a sizable portion of the population lives in conditions typical of the global south.

https://eand.co/the-worlds-first-poor-rich-country-c411afc68539

Not for nothing. The same tactics that impoverish the vast American underclass also work to keep the world’s poorest countries — rich in resources and talent — poor. The loan shark here is far more powerful than a payday lender or even JP Morgan — it’s the IMF.

A new report from the Center for Economic and Policy Research dissects the way the IMF uses fees and penalties to trap the poorest countries in the world in unbreakable cycles of debt — fees that drive up the IMF’s notional APR to dizzying, usurious heights.

https://cepr.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/IMF-Surcharge-Report-2.pdf

Like any predatory loan, these “surcharges” are levied against the countries that have the least ability to repay. They target countries whose debt:GDP ratio passes an arbitrary line. For the poorest IMF debtors, surcharges account for 45% of all non-principle repayment.

These numbers add up. In Egypt, surcharges gobbled up $1.8b between 2019–24 — triple the cost of fully vaccinating the whole country. Small wonder that the world’s 64 poorest countries spend more on external debt payment than they do on their own health care.

In its defense, the IMF offers the same tissue-thin responses that any arm-breaker offers. The claim that penalties and fees are a way to “incentivize” debtor nations not to overborrow, and to seek their credit from the private finance sector.

But these countries are borrowing to pay off their debts — often debts that date back to colonial times, in which the rich (white) world mercilessly looted their resources and fomented destabilizing political divisions.

This undermined domestic resistance to imperialism and allowed kleptocratic, corrupt leaders to thrive — leaders who borrowed heavily to finance vanity projects, corrupt enrichment of domestic elites, and militarized suppression of opposition movements.

All of that was funded by debts, often from the IMF, who tied lending to the dismantling and sell-off of state enterprises, from power to water to sanitation — which is how the world’s poorest get gouged by the world’s richest to drink their own water.

These countries don’t borrow because they want to live outside their means — they borrow because they want to live. They don’t borrow from the IMF because they’re too lazy to ask a multinational bank for credit — they borrow because they can’t get credit elsewhere.

But the IMF has another excuse for this: they claim that the fees they extract allow them to originate more loans, creating a virtuous cycle. But as the report makes clear, this is absurd on its face.

The IMF went into the pandemic boasting about $1 trillion in “firepower” (that’s creepy-cutesey IMFspeak for “cash reserves”). Meanwhile, the annual revenues from these fees is $1b — that’s three orders of magnitude less than that “firepower.”

That means that the IMF could simply give up on these punitive fees, levied against the poorest people in the world, at an annual cost of 0.01% of its reserves. Literally, the cruelty is the point.

The point of all of this? The victims of usury are all in the same boat — in the USA and around the world. The same tactics, the same excuses, the same misery, from Cairo to the Caribbean to Cleveland.

Not all debt is created equal, of course. If you’re Elon Musk or Peter Thiel, you can get sweetheart loans and roll overs that let you avoid almost all taxation through the fiction that you earn no income, even as you amass hundreds of billions.

https://pluralistic.net/2021/06/08/leona-helmsley-was-a-pioneer/#eat-the-rich

And of course, if you’re a government with debts denominated in the currency you issue, it’s not really “debt” at all — the only way the US government can run out of dollars is by ordering its employees not to type more dollars into existence in a central bank spreadsheet.

Indeed, you couldn’t ask for a starker example of the difference between monetarily sovereign nations and postcolonial countries that owe debts in the currencies of their former conquerors. Venezuela can’t spend its way out of US dollar debt by creating bolivars.

Like McGhee’s mother, whose debts turned out to be fictions that disappeared as soon as a professional with credentials and access to the levers of power printed out a boilerplate letter, these countries’ debts are cruel fictions.

The powerful and wealthy can indulge these fictions or ignore them, as they choose. For example, finance-friendly politicians can insist that the “debt ceiling” must not be raised, for political purposes.

When the US declines to do the trivial data-entry that would make the money to pay its sovereign “debts,” the consumption that the money would have funded still takes place — financed not by the democratic state, but rather by a loan-shark.

National financial “prudence” interrupts the normal and benign process of sovereign money-creation, opening space for usury — private borrowing from the vampires and ghouls whose 3,500% APRs are redeemed through terror.

The cruelty is the point.

Image: Sbw01f (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Developed_and_developing_countries.PNG

CC BY: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en

Image: А. Н. Миронов https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:%D0%98%D0%B7%D0%B3%D0%BD%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B3%D1%83%D1%8E%D1%89%D0%B8%D1%85_%D0%B8%D0%B7_%D1%85%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%BC%D0%B0._XXI_%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BA.jpg

CC BY-SA: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en