Podcast Summary
Missing out on potential top candidates by not using LinkedIn for hiring: Companies not utilizing LinkedIn for recruitment might miss out on a vast pool of professionals, as over 70% of LinkedIn users don't visit other job platforms.
Businesses missing out on LinkedIn for hiring could be overlooking potential top candidates. Sandra, a professional not found on other leading job sites, emphasized that over 70% of LinkedIn users don't visit other job platforms. As a result, companies not utilizing LinkedIn for recruitment might miss out on a vast pool of professionals like Sandra, who might be open to new opportunities despite not actively seeking them. The importance of hiring on LinkedIn was further highlighted by the discussion on the superior comfort customization offered by Sleep Number smart beds, which can only be found through their website or stores. In finance news, the UK's banking sector faced yet another scandal involving misconduct in retail finance operations, with Lloyds Bank receiving the largest fine ever imposed by the regulator. This incident underscores the ongoing need for banks to address their past misdeeds and regain public trust.
Lloyds Bank Scandal: Fewer Customers Expected to Seek Compensation Than for PPI: Despite a major scandal involving investment bond sales to retail customers, not all sales were mis-sold. Lloyds has started contacting potentially affected customers, but fewer are expected to seek compensation than for PPI.
While Lloyds Bank faced a major scandal regarding the selling of investment bonds to retail customers between 2010 and 2012, not all sales were considered mis-sold. Some customers actually benefited from the investment, as the stock market performance during that period showed higher returns than a savings account would have offered. The bank has already started contacting potentially affected customers and giving them the opportunity to complain and request compensation. However, it's expected that the number of customers seeking compensation will be much smaller than the £1,000,000,000 Lloyds paid out for PPI. For those who are unsure about the products they bought or believe they were mis-sold, the advice is to wait for Lloyds to contact them. The process is expected to be drawn out, with customers having eight weeks to respond to any offers made by the bank. The consumer groups suggest that customers who receive a letter from the bank can challenge the offer and potentially receive more compensation. The claims management companies have yet to get involved significantly, as they believe that customers may not be unhappy with the products they were sold. Lloyds and the regulators emphasize that the sales incentives that led to this issue have already been removed.
Banks offering incentives with customer satisfaction emphasis and Southeast Asia's attractive investment opportunity: Banks are shifting focus to customer satisfaction while offering incentives, and Southeast Asia's dynamic economies and strong reserves make it an attractive investment opportunity
Banks in the industry are still providing incentives based on sales volume, but now with added emphasis on customer satisfaction. Regulators have been pushing for reforms to address this issue for a long time, and it remains to be seen how many changes will be implemented. Meanwhile, Southeast Asia, which was once a popular investment destination during the Asian financial crisis in the late 1990s, is once again attracting attention due to its dynamic economies and strong foreign reserves. Unlike the past, corporates in the region are borrowing less from US dollar bond markets, and consumption is now a major driver of growth. Southeast Asia includes the ASEAN 5 countries (Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam) and the frontier countries (Myanmar, Lao, and Cambodia), with Singapore and Brunei being already established economies. Despite challenges in China and Brazil, Southeast Asia's markets have been among the best performers in the world over the past five years, making it an attractive investment opportunity.
ASEAN Countries: Significant Advantages for Investors: ASEAN countries offer economic integration, large consumer base, and favorable demographics for investors. However, political instability, currency devaluation, and current account deficits pose risks. US QE tapering may cause foreign investors to pull out, but this could present opportunities for long-term investors.
Southeast Asian countries, particularly those in the ASEAN region, offer significant advantages for investors due to their economic integration, large consumer base, and favorable demographics. With countries like the Philippines having a young population and a rising economy, there is potential for substantial growth. However, there are risks and challenges to consider, such as political instability in countries like Thailand and economic issues like currency devaluation and current account deficits in Indonesia. The biggest risk, however, may be the potential for foreign investors to pull out due to QE tapering in the US. Yet, this could also present opportunities for long-term investors as valuations come down. Overall, the consumption story in ASEAN is compelling, and it's worth keeping an eye on these markets despite the risks.
Foreign investment in UK buy-to-let market: Foreign investors, primarily individuals, are buying UK properties to rent out, with London and the southeast being the most popular areas, and mortgages being a common financing method.
The buy-to-let market in the UK has been a significant investment trend over the past decade, with millions of people, both domestic and foreign, purchasing properties to rent out. The appeal lies in the attractive yields, potential for capital appreciation, and the tangible nature of the investment. The number of foreign landlords has consistently risen over the past 5 years, with over 2 million now investing in UK property. This investment is primarily concentrated in London and the southeast due to faster property price growth. These investors are predominantly individuals, and while some may be purchasing properties with cash, many are obtaining mortgages to finance their purchases. The trend is having a positive impact on the market, with new build properties being marketed directly to foreign investors and potentially improving the quality of new developments. Despite challenges such as reduced mortgage availability and changes to taxation, the buy-to-let sector continues to thrive.
Foreign Investors Preferring Mortgages Over Cash: Despite common assumptions, many foreign investors prefer mortgages to reduce tax exposure, but the process is complicated and often involves private banks or international clearing bank arms.
While there is a common assumption that foreign investors are buying UK property through cash, many have a strong motivation to secure mortgages instead to reduce tax exposure. However, due to limited options, they often have to fund these mortgages through private banks or international arms of clearing banks, making the process complicated and difficult to track. A change in capital gains tax from April 2015 may deter some foreign investors, but the yields and rising property values still make it an attractive investment. Overall, the trend of overseas landlords is likely to continue, but with increased regulations and tax implications.
Bringing joy through thoughtful gifts and beautiful blooms: 1800 Flowers infuses love and care into every product and service, delivering smiles through perfectly arranged bouquets and timely deliveries.
Every product and service offered by 1800 Flowers is infused with love and care, from the farmers and bakers to the florists and makers. This dedication to delivering a smile is at the heart of their mission. At 1800 Flowers, they understand that the little things, like a beautifully arranged bouquet or a thoughtful gift, can make a big impact on people's lives. That's why they put so much thought and care into each and every order. Whether you're sending a gift to express your love and appreciation, or to offer condolences during a difficult time, 1800 Flowers is there to help. Their team of experts work tirelessly to ensure that every detail is perfect, from the selection of the freshest flowers to the artful arrangement and timely delivery. In short, 1800 Flowers is more than just a business. It's a company that's dedicated to spreading joy and happiness through the power of thoughtful gifts and beautiful blooms. So, if you're looking to make someone's day, visit 1800flowers.com/acast and explore the many ways that 1800 Flowers can help you deliver a smile.
