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European equities futures point south as Wall Street is set to return to trading following the President's Day holiday. A.I. concerns remain with the Nasdaq stuck deep in the red. Eurogroup ministers meet in Brussels to plan to strengthen the euro's role globally. The bloc is also preparing to unveil new draft laws designed to protect key sectors of industry. In Geneva, a second round of nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran are due to begin with President Trump indirectly involved. Officials from Ukraine, Russia and the U.S. also meet for another round of peace negotiations.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Tuesday's business news headlines along with Newstalk Business Editor Joe Lynam.
In this masterclass episode, Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS delivers an in-depth exploration of web sales optimization (CRO - conversation rate optimization) through strategic search engine marketing (SEM). The episode focuses on the critical relationship between website speed and conversion rates, revealing how technical optimization directly impacts sales performance. Favour emphasizes that web sales are fundamentally a result of web speed, explaining that websites loading slower than 3 seconds can decrease conversion rates by at least 7%, with compounding effects reaching 20% for sites taking 10 seconds to load.The discussion covers comprehensive website optimization strategies, including image optimization (recommending WebP format over JPEG/PNG), structured data implementation with schema markup, and the importance of optimizing every website element from headers and footers to file names and internal linking structures. Favour introduces the concept of treating URLs like seeds that need time to grow, recommending a 2-3 month planning horizon for content strategy.The masterclass also explores collection pages, category optimization, and the strategic use of content hubs to create pathways for user navigation. Favour shares practical tools and resources for keyword research and competitive analysis, while emphasizing the importance of submitting websites to Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools for maximum visibility. The episode concludes with actionable advice on implementing these strategies either independently or through professional SEO consultation.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick Links
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio insists that Washington wants to reform rather than abandon the trans-Atlantic alliance. We speak exclusively to German foreign minister Johann Wadephul at the Munich Security Conference who says Rubio's speech assured the path of future cooperation. European equities are called higher while U.S. markets are shut for President's Day with A.I. concerns continuing to be felt across sectors. Japanese Q4 GDP disappoints, coming in at only 0.2 per cent on the year and far below expectations.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The latest news from RNZ's business team.
Monday's business news review along with Joe Lynam and Russ Mould from AJ Bell.
The latest news from RNZ's business team.
Happy Valentine's Day! Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS breaks down proven strategies for monetizing and segmenting business email lists using platforms like Flodesk. Learn why email marketing delivers $36-$40 ROI for every dollar spent compared to social media, how to segment contacts based on behavior and engagement, and the technical foundations (DNS, backlinks, deliverability) that make campaigns successful. Discover workflows for turning subscribers into buyers through strategic segmentation, behavioral targeting, and quality-over-quantity content delivery.Episode Key Takeaways1. Email Marketing ROI Dominates Social Media – For every $1 spent on email marketing, businesses earn $36-$40 back, far exceeding social media returns.2. Segmentation Drives Conversions – Segment email lists by link clicks, engagement levels, and business vs. personal contacts to send targeted content that resonates.3. Technical Setup Matters – Proper DNS configuration, Google Search Console integration, and backlink strategies improve deliverability and SEO performance.4. Quality Over Quantity – Sending fewer, high-value emails with 15-minute read times generates more revenue than frequent, low-engagement blasts.5. Behavioral Targeting Wins – Track website behavior and email interactions to create personalized follow-up sequences that match subscriber intent.Episode Timestamps[00:00] Introduction: Monetizing and segmenting email lists[02:00] Why email outperforms social media ($36 ROI per $1)[05:00] Building business email lists as valuable assets[10:00] DNS, deliverability, and technical foundations[15:00] Segmentation strategies using link tracking[24:00] Creating consistency through targeted workflows[27:00] Backlinks and SEO benefits from email campaigns[32:00] Calculating engagement: 50 touchpoints = $36 product[45:00] Flowdesk features and automation workflows[68:00] Frequency matters: Quality beats quantity[71:00] Behavioral targeting and site tracking integrationPodcast Episode FAQsQ: What email marketing platform does Favour recommend?A: Favour specifically discusses Flowdesk for its segmentation capabilities, checkout features, and workflow automation that allow precise targeting based on subscriber behavior.Q: How often should I send emails to my list?A: Quality beats quantity. Favour sent only one email in February but generated revenue, leads, and referrals. Ask your audience through polls how often they want to hear from you.Q: What's the difference between business and personal email contacts?A: Business emails (domains like @company.com) engage differently and should be segmented separately. They're checked 3-5 times daily and represent higher-value prospects.Q: How do I improve email deliverability?A: Configure DNS records properly (A, TXT, CNAME), connect to Google Search Console, build backlinks through anchor text in emails, and maintain engagement with quality content.Q: What is behavioral targeting in email marketing?A: Tracking which links subscribers click, what pages they visit on your website, and how they engage with content to send personalized follow-up sequences that match their interests.Memorable Quotes by Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS"For every dollar that you spend on email, you get $36 to $40 back compared to social media where you may not get up to a dollar back or $2 back.""The best person to tell about what you wrote on your website is your contact list—the same way the best person to tell about something is your best friend.""I can have 50% open rate and no sales, that's vanity. But if you have 10-20% and that gives you more revenue because it's the right audience and it's segmented, then it helps a lot.""Don't just post on your website and expect magic to happen, abracadabra. You have to be intentional, you have to be factual.""Quality beats quantity. If you're actually able to capture that first party data and implement site tracking, it's very powerful to segment those people and send them follow-up messages."Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Happy Valentine's Day Weekend! Need to Outperform Your Competitors in 2026? Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS delivers an insightful masterclass on outperforming your competition through applied and actionable SEO marketing tactics. The discussion covers the critical distinction between direct and indirect competitors, strategic approaches to competitive analysis using tools like SimilarWeb.com and SparkToro.com, and the importance of focusing on long-term performance over short-term rankings.Favour emphasizes the value of understanding customer intent, the difference between pre-purchase and post-purchase behavior, and how to leverage both Google search and social media platforms like Instagram for comprehensive market visibility. The session includes live Q&A with participants discussing real-world challenges in SEO strategy, website validation, and go-to-market approaches for startups in niche markets.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksDetailed TimestampsIntroduction & Topic Overview00:00 - 02:02 - Opening: Outperform competitors with applied search everywhere optimization (SEO marketing tactics)02:02 - 03:10 - Understanding your competitors: National, international, local, and regional competitionDirect vs. Indirect Competitors03:10 - 04:46 - Defining direct and indirect competitors in your market04:46 - 06:17 - Market share dynamics and competitive positioningPractical Example: Flower Business Case Study06:17 - 09:13 - Using a Valentine's flower business as a practical example09:13 - 11:47 - Time-based pricing strategies and customer behavior patterns11:47 - 14:22 - Applying competitive insights to pricing and positioningSEO Strategy & Competitive Analysis14:22 - 17:35 - Understanding competitor strengths and weaknesses17:35 - 20:48 - Using competitive intelligence for content strategy20:48 - 23:19 - Keyword research and search intent analysisTools & Resources for Competitive Research23:19 - 25:42 - Introduction to SimilarWeb, SocialBlade, and SparkToro25:42 - 27:58 - Cost-effective alternatives for competitive analysis27:58 - 30:16 - Building long-term visibility through strategic toolsLive Q&A Session Begins•30:16 - 31:02 - Mohsen introduces himself: Software engineer starting a startup in the tattoo field31:02 - 32:34 - Question: How to approach SEO when there's no competition in your field?Google vs. Instagram Strategy Discussion32:34 - 35:05 - Why Google is the most unsaturated platform for search-based marketing35:05 - 37:15 - Instagram as a feed-based platform vs. Google as intent-based search37:15 - 40:30 - Pre-purchase vs. post-purchase intent: Amazon vs. YouTube analogyWebsite Validation & Trust Building40:30 - 43:12 - The importance of having a website for business credibility43:12 - 45:38 - Off-page SEO: Connecting Instagram to your website45:38 - 48:05 - Building relationship models across platformsAdvanced SEO Tactics48:05 - 50:21 - Running ads effectively: Brand awareness before advertising spend50:21 - 52:47 - Understanding audience targeting and customer journey mapping52:47 - 54:26 - Closing remarks and how to stay connected on ClubhouseFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)1. What is the difference between direct and indirect competitors?Direct competitors are businesses that offer the same products or services within your niche or market. They target the same customer base and operate in similar ways. For example, if you sell red roses, other florists selling red roses are your direct competitors.Indirect competitors are businesses that offer different products or services but satisfy the same customer need or compete for the same market share. Using the flower example, supermarkets and farmer's markets selling flowers would be indirect competitors to a specialized florist.2. How do I find out who my competitors are?Favour recommends using several competitive analysis tools:SimilarWeb: For website traffic and audience insightsSocialBlade: For social media analytics and competitor trackingSparkToro: For audience intelligence and content discoveryYou can also identify competitors by searching for your target keywords on Google and seeing which businesses rank for those terms. Consider both national, international, local, and regional competitors depending on your market scope.3. Should I focus on Google or Instagram for my business?According to Favour, Google is the most unsaturated platform because it's based on search intent—people actively looking for specific solutions. Instagram is a feed-based platform better suited for brand awareness and showcasing visual results (before/after transformations, product demonstrations).Best approach: Use both strategically. Google captures pre-purchase intent (people researching solutions), while Instagram provides post-purchase validation and builds brand awareness. Having a website connected to your Instagram profile adds credibility and improves your off-page SEO.4. What's more important: ranking or performance?Favour emphasizes that performance is more important than ranking. Rankings fluctuate constantly (like stock prices or gas prices), but performance focuses on long-term outcomes:How quickly can you serve customers?What value do you provide beyond just appearing in search results?Can customers find your information when they need it?Anyone can rank with AI-generated content today, but what makes your business different is the experience, speed, and value you deliver to customers.5. How do I approach SEO if I have no competition in my field?When you're in a niche market with little to no competition, Favour suggests:Reverse engineer your success: If you're getting traction on Instagram, create corresponding website content (10 Instagram posts = 10 website articles)Focus on search volume: Research if there's search demand on Google for your servicesBuild credibility: Having a website validates your business more than social media aloneCreate content ecosystems: Connect your social media to your website through embedding posts and cross-linking6. Why is having a website important if I already have Instagram?A website provides business validation and credibility. As Favour's example illustrated: if three businesses offer the same service but only one has a website, customers will trust the one with a website because it demonstrates investment in human resources, infrastructure, and long-term commitment.Additionally, a website enables off-page SEO—when your Instagram links to your website, you're building relationship models between platforms that improve your overall search visibility.7. What is pre-purchase vs. post-purchase intent?Pre-purchase intent: Customers researching before buying (e.g., reading Amazon reviews, comparing products on Google)Post-purchase intent: Customers who already bought and need guidance (e.g., watching YouTube tutorials on how to use an air fryer they purchased)Understanding this distinction helps you create appropriate content for each stage of the customer journey. Google and review sites capture pre-purchase intent, while platforms like YouTube and Instagram serve post-purchase needs.8. Should I run ads if people can't find my business organically?Favour advises: Don't run ads first if people can't find you organically. If the answer to "Will they find my business without ads?" is no, then focus on building organic visibility first through SEO and content creation.If people can already find you organically, then running ads becomes more cost-effective because you're amplifying existing brand awareness rather than starting from zero.9. What are applied SEO marketing tactics?Applied SEO refers to search everywhere optimization—not just optimizing for Google, but creating a comprehensive presence across all platforms where customers might search:Google searchInstagram searchYouTube searchSocial media platformsReview sitesLocal directoriesIt's about understanding customer behavior across multiple touchpoints and ensuring your business is discoverable wherever customers are looking.Additional Resources MentionedSimilarWeb: Competitive website analyticsSocialBlade: Social media statistics and trackingSparkToro: Audience research and insightsChatGPT: AI content generation tool (mentioned in context of ranking vs. performance)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
AI disruption fears hit equity markets once again, sending the S&P 500 and Nasdaq lower with transport, commercial real estate and software stocks all under pressure. Meanwhile, global leaders gather for the Munich Security Conference as U.S. allies in Europe look to chart a more independent course. And in corporate news, L'Oreal Q4 sales miss expectations as strong numbers out of the U.S. and Europe fail to offset weakness in China, sending U.S.-listed shares sharply lower, but CEO Nicolas Hieronimus tells CNBC he's confident the French beauty giant will bounce back.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This podcast episode provides a comprehensive overview of technical SEO, emphasizing its critical role in any successful digital strategy for 2026. Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS delves into the core components of technical SEO, including Core Web Vitals, mobile optimization, and the detrimental impact of crawlability issues and broken links.This episode also highlights the significant growth of the SEO services market, projected to reach nearly $150 billion by 2031. You will gain valuable insights into the importance of a technically sound website for improving user engagement, search engine rankings, and overall online visibility. Favour also shares information about relevant technical SEO courses and resources.Purchase all your Free and Paid Technical SEO Courses available in 2026 here >>Podcast Episode Timestamps[00:00 - 00:10] Introduction: Technical SEO Courses and Stats for 2026[02:57 - 03:45] What is Technical SEO and Why is it Important?[03:45 - 04:27] The Importance of Website Speed and Performance[04:27 - 05:21] Global SEO Services Market Size and Growth Projections[05:51 - 07:19] Understanding Core Web Vitals and Their Impact on User Engagement[07:19 - 08:42] The Significance of Mobile Optimization for SEO[08:50 - 12:06] Crawlability, Broken Links, and Their Effect on Search RankingsFAQs for Technical SEOWhat is technical SEO?Technical SEO refers to the process of optimizing the technical aspects of a website to improve its ranking in search engines. It focuses on making a website faster, easier to crawl for search engine bots, and more understandable for search engines. This includes optimizing website speed, mobile-friendliness, site structure, and ensuring there are no broken links or crawl errors.Why is technical SEO important for my website in 2026?Technical SEO is crucial for your website's success in 2026 because it directly impacts your search engine rankings and user experience. With the increasing competition online, having a technically sound website is no longer a niche specialization but a fundamental requirement. A well-optimized website will have better visibility on search engines, leading to more organic traffic, higher user engagement, and ultimately, more conversions.What are Core Web Vitals?Core Web Vitals are a set of specific factors that Google considers important in a webpage's overall user experience. They consist of three main metrics: Largest Contentful Paint (LCP), which measures loading performance; First Input Delay (FID), which measures interactivity; and Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS), which measures visual stability. Websites that meet Core Web Vitals standards can experience a significant increase in user engagement. Read more about Technical SEO from Google DocumentationHow does mobile optimization affect SEO?With over 60% of global website traffic coming from mobile devices, mobile optimization is a critical factor for SEO. Search engines like Google prioritize mobile-friendly websites in their rankings. A website that is optimized for mobile will provide a better user experience for mobile users, leading to higher engagement, lower bounce rates, and a greater likelihood of ranking on the first page of search results.Where can I find the best technical SEO courses?There are numerous free and paid technical SEO courses available online. Some popular platforms for finding high-quality courses include Coursera, Udemy, and the Google Digital Garage. It's recommended to look for courses that are up-to-date with the latest SEO trends and best practices for 2026.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Folks filing for unemployment benefits fell last week as we continue to watch the very strange labor market and we'll start with that story first this evening. This is the Business News Headlines for Thursday the 12th day of February, thanks for being with us. In other news, home sales fell in January even as mortgage rates ease. Well now, AI looks to Montana and residents worry about water and electricity. Will major league baseball stars play in the 2028 Olympics headed to Los Angeles? In yet another story about home sales we've got the latest on mortgage rates. We'll check the numbers from The Wall Street Report and it is good to be the CEO of Morgan Stanley not to mention the other big banks. Let's talk millions in raises. Let's go. Thanks for listening! The award winning Insight on Business the News Hour with Michael Libbie is the only weekday business news podcast in the Midwest. The national, regional and some local business news along with long-form business interviews can be heard Monday - Friday. You can subscribe on PlayerFM, Podbean, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher or TuneIn Radio. And you can catch The Business News Hour Week in Review each Sunday Noon Central on News/Talk 1540 KXEL. The Business News Hour is a production of Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications. You can follow us on Twitter @IoB_NewsHour...and on Threads @Insight_On_Business.
U.S. stocks give up an initial bounce as investors digest a mixed jobs report - the headline figure more than double expectations but growth for last year revised lower. German industrial giant Siemens raises its outlook after posting a 10% jump in first quarter orders, but Mercedes full year earnings more than halve as the automaker takes a €1 billion hit from tariff costs. And in Japan, Softbank notches a fourth straight quarter of profit, boosted by rising valuations of its stakes in AI giants Nvidia and Open AI.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Airports Company South Africa’s R22 billion plan to transform major airports into aerotropolis-style economic hubs is in focus as Thabo Phateng, Regional General Manager at ACSA, speaks to John Maytham about how the strategy aims to expand the role of airports beyond aviation, drive regional economic growth, attract investment and create jobs, while positioning South Africa’s airports as integrated centres for logistics, business and urban development. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
News from the business sector.
Welcome our guest, Rick Elmore, Founder of SimplyNoted.com | In this episode, Rick Elmore discusses the enduring power of handwritten notes in a digital world saturated with automated messages. He explains how his company, Simply Noted, leverages technology to automate the process of sending genuine, personalized handwritten notes, helping businesses cut through the noise and build meaningful connections with their customers.Rick emphasizes that while technology has evolved, the personal touch of a handwritten note remains a powerful tool for customer retention, marketing, and building lasting relationships. He shares insights on how to integrate this strategy into existing marketing workflows and leverage it to increase customer lifetime value and generate referrals.Start your 3-Day Fast Delivery with SimplyNoted.com here >>Rick Elmore's Top Key PointsThe Lost Art of Personal Connection: In an era of digital overload, a handwritten note stands out and makes a lasting impression.High Open Rates: Handwritten mail has a 99% open rate, significantly higher than any other form of direct mail or email marketing.Automation and Scalability: Simply Noted uses robotic technology to produce real pen-written notes that are scalable and can be integrated with CRMs and other marketing automation platforms.Hyper-Personalization with AI: By leveraging AI, the messages in the handwritten notes can be hyper-personalized based on customer data, making them even more impactful.Trackable and Actionable: With features like QR code tracking and delivery notifications, the impact of handwritten notes can be measured, and follow-up actions can be triggered for a multi-touch marketing approach.Podcast Episode Timestamps[02:48] Introduction to Simply Noted and the concept of automated handwritten mail.[07:07] The marketing power of handwritten notes and their high open rates.[10:31] The importance of systems and timing in a handwritten note strategy.[16:19] How to integrate handwritten notes into your marketing stack, including platforms like GoHighLevel.[22:00] How to get in touch with Rick Elmore and get a free sample kit from Simply Noted.Podcast Episode FAQsQ: What is Simply Noted?A: Simply Noted is a service that uses custom-built robots to write personalized, handwritten notes on behalf of businesses. This allows companies to send authentic-feeling mail at scale, fostering a personal connection with customers.Q: How does this integrate with my current marketing?A: Simply Noted can be integrated with most CRMs and marketing automation platforms. You can trigger the sending of a handwritten note based on specific customer actions, such as a purchase, an anniversary, or a birthday.Q: What are the benefits of sending handwritten notes?A: The primary benefits are increased customer engagement and loyalty. Handwritten notes have a near-perfect open rate and help your brand stand out. They are a powerful tool for building relationships, which can lead to higher customer lifetime value and more referrals.Next Steps with Rick ElmoreReady to add the personal touch of handwritten notes to your marketing strategy? Visit simplynoted.com to learn more and request a free sample kit. You can also connect with Rick Elmore directly via email at rick.elmore@simplynoted.com or on LinkedIn.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The jobs report from the Labor Department was a double edge sword. On one hand encouraging on the other it puts doubts on another Fed rate cut. We'll start there this evening. This is the Business News Headlines for Wednesday the 11th day of February, thanks for listening. In other news, the buildout of EV charging stations continues however there is a roadblock coming from the Trump Administration. Let's talk deficits and the national debt shall we? McDonald's gets it…it's all about affordability. We'll check the numbers in The Wall Street Report and Google is offering buyouts to employees. For the conversation you'll meet Nick McGargill from Tap Pay Solutions based in Omana…we're about to discuss credit card machines that should be of interest to lots of folks. Let's go. Thanks for listening! The award winning Insight on Business the News Hour with Michael Libbie is the only weekday business news podcast in the Midwest. The national, regional and some local business news along with long-form business interviews can be heard Monday - Friday. You can subscribe on PlayerFM, Podbean, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher or TuneIn Radio. And you can catch The Business News Hour Week in Review each Sunday Noon Central on News/Talk 1540 KXEL. The Business News Hour is a production of Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications. You can follow us on Twitter @IoB_NewsHour...and on Threads @Insight_On_Business.
Futures stretch into the green on both sides of the Atlantic as investors await a crucial U.S. non-farm payrolls print with the White House aiming to temper expectations. Dutch brewing giant Heineken announces it will be slashing thousands of jibs in the next two years and it has lowered its FY growth forecast after weak demand for its beers. German lender Commerzbank enjoys a Q4 beat on the top and bottom line and expects net profit for the year to top expectations. CEO Bettina Orlopp tells CNBC the bank is always open to renewed interest from Unicredit. On Wall Street, shares in U.S. financial stocks plunge following the unveiling of Altruist's new A.I.-powered tax planning tool. We hear from Anthoropic's CCO Paul Smith who says his company is set on extracting real value from A.I.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The latest market updates and news from RNZ's business team.
An early morning update from RNZ's business team.
The latest market updates and news from RNZ's business team.
The latest news from RNZ's business team.
An early morning update from RNZ's business team.
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It was a report that surprised economists as Americans pulled back their spending in December and we'll start our newscast with that story. This is the Business News Headlines for Tuesday the 10th day of February, and thanks for listening. In other news, Honda reports lower profits and the reasons why. Paramount has sweetened its hostile bid for Warner Brothers. The nation's largest utility now wants to keep its coal energy plant. In a bid to restructure Saks Global will close some stores. Coca Cola saw a strong fourth quarter but, there is a but.. We'll check the numbers in The Wall Street Report and delinquency rates on loans from mortgages to credit cards surge and we'll share that story. Let's go Thanks for listening! The award winning Insight on Business the News Hour with Michael Libbie is the only weekday business news podcast in the Midwest. The national, regional and some local business news along with long-form business interviews can be heard Monday - Friday. You can subscribe on PlayerFM, Podbean, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher or TuneIn Radio. And you can catch The Business News Hour Week in Review each Sunday Noon Central on News/Talk 1540 KXEL. The Business News Hour is a production of Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications. You can follow us on Twitter @IoB_NewsHour...and on Threads @Insight_On_Business.
Wall Street rebounded during Monday's session with strong performances from tech giants Oracle, Broadcomm and Nvidia. Asian equities have followed suit but Europe is set to open flat. Embattled UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to Labour MPs that he will fight on as pressure mounts on him to step down over his appointment of Peter Mandelson as U.S. ambassador. In luxury news, sales of Gucci plunge 10 per cent in Q4. It's the tenth consecutive quarter of falling revenue for parent company Kering which misses FY forecasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The latest market updates and news from RNZ's business team.
The latest market updates and news from RNZ's business team.
The latest news from RNZ's business team.
Podcast Ranking: Relatable Marketing SEO Best Practices for High Performance with Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS. In this episode, Favour shares expert insights on making podcast titles SEO-friendly and relatable to target audiences. The discussion covers critical technical and strategic elements that podcasters often overlook, including proper keyword placement, file naming conventions, image specifications, and distribution strategies. Favour emphasizes that successful podcasting requires matching titles with search intent, distributing across multiple platforms, and maintaining consistency. With over 620+ episodes and seven years of experience, he demonstrates how discipline, consistency, and patience (DCP) drive long-term podcast growth.Key Timestamps00:00-03:00 - Introduction to relatable podcast titles and SEO fundamentals03:00-09:00 - Matching podcast genres with titles; importance of primary/secondary keywords09:00-15:00 - Website integration and podcast distribution strategies (ListenNotes, pod.link)15:00-22:00 - Keyword strategy: primary vs. secondary keywords for discoverability28:00-30:00 - Critical mistakes: file naming and image size specifications (3000x3000 pixels required)31:00-35:00 - Biggest mistake: putting "Episode #" before actual keywords in titles47:00-50:00 - Visibility score explained (0-10 scale, similar to IMDB ratings)51:00-55:00 - Case study: client ranking in top 50K podcasts from 300K in three weeks71:00-72:00 - Closing remarks and contact information (info@playinc.online)FAQsQ: What makes a podcast title relatable for SEO?A: Match your title with search intent and include primary genre keywords. Put the most important keywords at the beginning, not "Episode #" or show acronyms.Q: What are the most underrated podcast mistakes?A: Incorrect file naming (MP3/MP4 files) and wrong image dimensions. Use 3000x3000 pixels for cover art, not 300x300.Q: How important is website integration?A: Essential. Your website anchors podcast growth and helps with cross-platform visibility on Google and podcast directories.Q: What is podcast visibility score?A: A 0-10 rating (like IMDB) measuring discoverability. Scores of 7.0+ indicate strong audience, signal, and content quality.Q: How can I distribute my podcast effectively?A: Submit RSS feeds to multiple platforms via pod.link and ListenNotes. Search "[Platform] RSS feed submission" on Google for each directory.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Airlines are cancelling trips to Cuba because of a shortage of jet fuel and that story tops our newscast this evening. This is the Business News Headlines for Monday the 9th day of February and thanks for listening. In other news, a trial opened today against the biggest social media companies all having to do with addicting behavior. In San Francisco teachers go out on strike and we'll share why. Some women enjoy Valentine's Day….but prefer Galentines Day. Don't worry, we'll explain. Eddie Bauer and Bankruptcy made the news today. We'll check the numbers in The Wall Street Report and it's highly likely that large numbers of American's missed work today…it's called the Super Bowl Flu…ready? Let's go! Thanks for listening! The award winning Insight on Business the News Hour with Michael Libbie is the only weekday business news podcast in the Midwest. The national, regional and some local business news along with long-form business interviews can be heard Monday - Friday. You can subscribe on PlayerFM, Podbean, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher or TuneIn Radio. And you can catch The Business News Hour Week in Review each Sunday Noon Central on News/Talk 1540 KXEL. The Business News Hour is a production of Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications. You can follow us on Twitter @IoB_NewsHour...and on Threads @Insight_On_Business.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi secures a snap election landslide to pave the way for major fiscal spending. Her decisive victory pushed the Nikkei beyond the 57,000-mark for the first time and drove JGB yields higher. In the U.S., beleaguered tech and software stocks rallied on Friday to help the Dow close about 50,000 for the first time ever. Italian lender Unicredit smashes Q4 net profit forecasts and raises its FY 2026 profit guidance. Speaking exclusively to CNBC, CEO Andrea Orcel says his bank has ‘more optionality' to potential dealmaking than other European rivals.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
An early morning update from RNZ's business team.
An early morning update from RNZ's business team.
The latest news from RNZ's business team.
The latest news from RNZ's business team.
Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS delves into the intricacies of social media marketing, with a special focus on hacking the Instagram and TikTok algorithms. Favour shares valuable insights on how to gain maximum visibility and grow your business by understanding the underlying mechanics of these platforms. The episode covers the importance of creating engaging content, the power of a strong call to action, and the strategic use of social media analytics. Favour also introduces a powerful tool called "Sort Feed" for analyzing content performance and provides a live demonstration of how to leverage it for your own business. This episode is packed with actionable tips and strategies for anyone looking to up their social media game in 2026.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksLearning TopicsUnderstanding Social Media Algorithms: Learn the difference between social media platforms and search engines, and how to leverage their APIs for growth.Content Strategy: Discover how to create content that resonates with your audience and encourages engagement.The Power of Call to Action (CTA): Understand the importance of a clear and compelling CTA in driving user action.Leveraging Social Media Analytics: Learn how to use tools like "Sort Feed" to analyze content performance and gain a competitive edge.The Psychology of Social Media: Explore the psychological principles behind effective social media marketing, including the use of color and emotional triggers.Cross-Platform Promotion: Discover how to increase the visibility of your social media content by embedding it on your website.Episode Timestamps[00:00 - 02:00] Introduction to the topic: Social Media Marketing, Instagram and TikTok algorithm hacks.[02:00 - 04:10] Introduction to the "Sort Feed" tool for analyzing Instagram and TikTok content.[08:02 - 10:13] The difference between social media platforms and search engines.[20:05 - 25:15] Analysis of a viral post and the importance of a strong CTA.[40:08 - 46:22] The power of comments and engagement in boosting visibility.[53:01 - 58:24] How to embed social media posts on your website to increase reach.[58:08 - 58:24] The psychology of color in marketing.[01:15:11 - 01:16:52] Recap and key takeaways.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Q: What is "Sort Feed" and how can it help my business?A: Sort Feed is a Google Chrome Extension tool that allows you to sort and analyze Instagram and TikTok content by various metrics such as likes, comments, and views. It can help you understand what content is performing well in your industry, identify trends, and gain insights to inform your own content strategy.Q: Should I focus on creating content for the algorithm or for my audience?A: While it's important to understand the algorithm, the primary focus should always be on creating valuable and engaging content for your audience. By building a strong connection with your followers, you will naturally see better results in the long run.Q: How can I increase the visibility of my social media posts?A: One effective strategy is to embed your social media posts on your website or blog. This can help you reach a wider audience and drive more traffic to your social media profiles.Q: What is the most important element of a social media post?A: A clear and compelling call to action (CTA) is one of the most important elements of a social media post. It tells your audience what you want them to do next, whether it's to like, comment, share, or visit your website.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
It was a stunning day on Wall Street as we watched investors buy on the dip and chip companies came roaring back. We'll start there this evening. This is the Business News Headlines for Friday the 6th day of February, thanks for listening. In other news, Gallo is about to mix wine with whiskey and we'll tell you about that. Uber is ordered to pay 8.5 million dollars to a woman who said she was raped by a driver. Have you heard of the Vegas Loop? You will today. Flowers are a big thing for Valentine's Day but do you know where they come from? We've got that story. High tariffs push yet another country into a trade deal with…China. We'll check the numbers in The Wall Street Report and this will not make U.S. ranchers happy as the President just signed an order to massively increase beef imports from Argentina. Thanks for listening! The award winning Insight on Business the News Hour with Michael Libbie is the only weekday business news podcast in the Midwest. The national, regional and some local business news along with long-form business interviews can be heard Monday - Friday. You can subscribe on PlayerFM, Podbean, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher or TuneIn Radio. And you can catch The Business News Hour Week in Review each Sunday Noon Central on News/Talk 1540 KXEL. The Business News Hour is a production of Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications. You can follow us on Twitter @IoB_NewsHour...and on Threads @Insight_On_Business.
The tech rout Stateside looks set to continue into a third day with giants such as Oracle, Palantir and Salesforce all suffering double-digit losses for the week. The gloom is contagious in the crypto space with Bitcoin briefly plunging below the $61,000 mark. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer offers an apology to victims of Jeffrey Epstein for his appointment of Peter Mandelson as U.S. ambassador, despite being aware of his close ties to the late, convicted paedophile. We hear from BoE governor Andrew Bailey who says the upheaval seen in Westminster is being felt globally. And in e-commerce news, Amazon posts its first quarterly miss in more than three years and announces $200bn for capex spending for 2026. Shares plummeted 11 per cent in after-hours trading as a result. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
There were a number of factors that tanked Wall Street today and one of them was a dismal report on job openings. This is the Business News Headlines for Thursday the 5th day of February, thanks for listening. In other news, Google reported some strong numbers this week. There is open conflict when it comes to AI think Chat GPT and Claude. News out of Pizza Hut that you might be interested in. Telehealth company Hims and Hers in trouble with Novo Nordisk. We'll check the numbers in The Wall Street Report and Coca Cola announced the end of some famous frozen products in the U.S. and Canada. Let's go! Thanks for listening! The award winning Insight on Business the News Hour with Michael Libbie is the only weekday business news podcast in the Midwest. The national, regional and some local business news along with long-form business interviews can be heard Monday - Friday. You can subscribe on PlayerFM, Podbean, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher or TuneIn Radio. And you can catch The Business News Hour Week in Review each Sunday Noon Central on News/Talk 1540 KXEL. The Business News Hour is a production of Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications. You can follow us on Twitter @IoB_NewsHour...and on Threads @Insight_On_Business.
SEO expert Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS delivers an in-depth comparison of Shopify SEO and Squarespace SEO CMS platforms, focusing on their SEO and CRO capabilities and website development features. This discussion covers critical technical insights about theme management, URL structure optimization, metadata configuration, and platform-specific best practices.Favour shares actionable strategies for improving website visibility, including the importance of regular theme updates, proper sitemap configuration, and effective use of SEO metadata. The session also touches on comparisons with WordPress, Wix, and other CMS platforms, providing business owners with practical guidance for choosing and optimizing their e-commerce and content-driven websites in 2026.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksEpisode Key Learning Topics1. Shopify Platform Deep DiveShopify as a closed-source e-commerce CMS platformTheme Liquid customization and custom code implementationImportance of regular theme updates for algorithm visibilityPre-installed sitemap functionality and automated SEO featuresApp ecosystem vs WordPress pluginsMulti-currency and multi-language capabilitiesSchema.org integration for product pages2. Squarespace Platform OverviewUser-friendly, content-driven platform positioningComparison with Shopify for product-based vs content-based websitesQuick setup and on-the-go management capabilitiesIntegration capabilities and limitationsBest use cases for small businesses and content creators3. SEO Metadata OptimizationProper configuration of SEO meta titles and descriptionsOpen Graph (OG) tags for social media sharingURL structure best practices and character optimizationThe importance of unique metadata vs duplicated contentHow to edit SEO metadata in Shopify product pages4. URL Structure StrategyStrategic URL naming conventions for productsUsing numbers strategically in URLs (e.g., "red-roses-12-piece" vs "12-piece-red-roses")Pattern disruption for user attention and click-through optimizationShorter, more concentrated URLs for better visual scanningPre-purchase click optimization through URL clarity5. Technical SEO FundamentalsSitemap management across different platformsGoogle Search Console setup and sitemap submissionThe difference between Google Analytics and Google Search ConsoleNAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistency for local SEORobots.txt configuration and indexing control6. Wix Platform InsightsHidden robots.txt settings affecting blog tag indexingHow to enable tag indexing in Wix SEO settings10-year evolution of the Wix platformCommon indexing issues and solutions7. WordPress vs Closed-Source PlatformsOpen-source flexibility vs closed-source constraintsPlugin management and sitemap conflictsThe analogy of "square footage" for platform capabilitiesWhen to choose WordPress over Shopify/Squarespace8. Content Strategy & Page ManagementThe power of compounding through content updatesUpdating old blog posts alongside publishing new onesFooter copyright year updates as ranking signalsOn-page SEO details that AI and search engines scanCreating and maintaining a content calendar9. Website Maintenance Best PracticesRegular theme updates and their impact on visibilityChecking and updating footer copyright yearsMonitoring broken links and slow page speedsPlatform-specific maintenance requirements (Shopify, Squarespace, WordPress, Webflow, Wix)10. Free Website Audit OfferFavour's offer for surface-level website auditsDeep dive capabilities for root problem identificationMulti-platform support (Shopify, Squarespace, WordPress, Webflow, Wix, Magento, Tilda, Duda)Email newsletter with SEO, marketing, and AI insightsEpisode Timestamps00:00 - Introduction: Shopify SEO vs Squarespace SEO comparison00:53 - Welcome and housekeeping (saving replays, accessing resources)02:36 - Shopify platform overview and e-commerce focus03:01 - Why Shopify stands out (price-friendly, brand-aware, aesthetically pleasing)03:43 - Shopify themes and purchasing considerations05:43 - Critical question: When did you last update your theme?06:40 - How theme updates affect algorithm visibility07:00 - Closed-source vs open-source platforms explained07:08 - Theme Liquid customization in Shopify08:00 - Shopify as your hosting platform08:10 - Apps in Shopify vs plugins in WordPress08:21 - Squarespace positioning and user-friendliness09:00 - Platform comparison analogy: Square footage (500 to 20,000 sq ft)09:33 - When aesthetics and ease-of-use matter most14:00 - Detailed Shopify theme management discussion18:00 - SEO metadata and URL structure fundamentals22:00 - The importance of page quantity and content strategy28:00 - Sitemap management and Google Search Console setup28:15 - Why Shopify pre-installs sitemaps (no conflicts)29:00 - WordPress sitemap conflicts and plugin management29:32 - The sitemap as "the brain of a website"30:00 - Content compounding strategy: updating old posts31:06 - Wix robots.txt issue: blog tags set to "no index" by default32:00 - How to fix Wix tag indexing in SEO settings33:00 - Tags as hashtags and their importance for visibility34:05 - Critical action item: Update your footer copyright year to 202635:00 - Why footer year matters for AI and search engine scanning36:01 - Shopify advantages for multi-language and multi-currency37:03 - Google Search Console vs Google Analytics confusion37:20 - The "reverse gear" moment in SEO audits42:00 - Deep dive into URL structure optimization45:00 - Strategic use of numbers in product URLs48:00 - Open Graph (OG) tags explained52:00 - Schema.org and structured data importance58:00 - Product page SEO metadata workflow in Shopify58:15 - How titles auto-generate URLs and the edit button59:00 - Example: "6-piece red rose bouquet" URL structure59:23 - Optimizing URL readability and pattern disruption60:00 - Pre-purchase click optimization through URL clarity61:00 - Character count optimization for URLs63:00 - Shopify vs Squarespace integration comparison63:16 - Schema.org as the "golden standard" for web documentation63:48 - NAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistency explained64:00 - "Dress how you want to be addressed" philosophy68:00 - Free website audit offer details70:00 - Platforms supported for audits72:00 - Newsletter signup for SEO, marketing, and AI insights74:00 - Surface-level vs deep-dive audit explanation75:00 - Closing remarks and call to actionFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Q1: What's the main difference between Shopify and Squarespace?A: Shopify is primarily an e-commerce platform optimized for product stores with extensive selling features (multi-currency, multi-language, robust app ecosystem), while Squarespace is more content-driven and user-friendly, ideal for portfolios, blogs, and smaller businesses that need quick setup without extensive product management.Q2: Why is updating my website theme important for SEO?A: Regular theme updates signal to search engine algorithms that your website has an updated setup and infrastructure. An outdated theme (e.g., last updated in August 2025 when we're in 2026) can cost you visibility because the algorithm may perceive your site as less maintained and current.Q3: What is Theme Liquid in Shopify?A: Theme Liquid is Shopify's templating language that allows you to customize code within the closed-source platform. It's where you would add custom elements like pop-ups, tracking codes, or other modifications that aren't available through standard theme settings.Q4: Do I need to create a sitemap for my Shopify store?A: No. Shopify automatically generates and maintains your sitemap as soon as you publish pages, products, collections, and posts. This is a major advantage over WordPress, where you need to install and configure sitemap plugins and ensure there are no conflicts.Q5: What's the difference between Google Search Console and Google Analytics?A: Google Search Console is for submitting your sitemap and monitoring how search engines crawl and index your site, while Google Analytics tracks visitor behavior and traffic sources. Both are important, but they serve different purposes. You must submit your sitemap to Search Console for proper SEO.Q6: How do I fix the Wix tag indexing problem?A: Go to your Wix dashboard, click Settings (bottom left corner), navigate to SEO Settings, find the Blog Tags section, and disable the "no index" robots.txt setting that's enabled by default. This allows your blog tags to be indexed by search engines.Q7: Why should I update my footer copyright year?A: The footer copyright year (e.g., "© 2026") is on-page text that AI and search engines scan. An outdated year (like "© 2023") signals that your site may not be actively maintained, even if you've updated content elsewhere. It's a simple but important ranking signal.Q8: How should I structure product URLs for better SEO?A: Use strategic placement of descriptive words and numbers. For example, "red-roses-12-piece" is better than "12-piece-red-roses" because users scanning search results will see "red roses" first, then the number variants (6, 12, 36), creating pattern disruption that draws attention and improves pre-purchase clicks.Q9: What is Open Graph (OG) and why does it matter?A: Open Graph tags control how your content appears when shared on social media, messaging apps, and other platforms. When you send a link via WhatsApp or iMessage and see a preview with title and image, that's Open Graph data. Properly configured OG tags ensure your content looks professional when shared.Q10: Should I choose Shopify, Squarespace, or WordPress for my business?A: Choose Shopify if you're running a product-based e-commerce store and need robust selling features. Choose Squarespace if you need a quick, aesthetically pleasing site for content, portfolios, or small-scale selling. Choose WordPress if you need maximum customization, flexibility, and control (open-source), but be prepared for more technical management.Q11: What is NAP and why is it important?A: NAP stands for Name, Address, Phone number. For websites, "address" includes your domain (www address). Consistent NAP information across your website and online directories is crucial for local SEO and helps search engines verify your business legitimacy.Q12: Can I get a free website audit from Favour?A: Yes! Favour offers surface-level website audits to help identify issues like broken links, slow pages, and basic SEO problems. The audit supports multiple platforms including Shopify, Squarespace, WordPress, Webflow, Wix, Magento, Tilda, and Duda. Links are available in the episode description or through the newsletter signup.About the Podcast HostFavour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS is an SEO and digital marketing expert who specializes in helping business owners optimize their websites for search visibility and conversion. Favour offers website audits, SEO consulting, and maintains a detailed email newsletter covering SEO, marketing, and AI insights. Visit our quick links above to get access.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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