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Fiserv’s Growth: How New Technology Is Driving Innovation in Payments

Fiserv Inc., a prominent financial services and payments technology company, has grown substantially by adopting advanced technologies and implementing key strategies. It reported notable growth figures for the September quarter. Fiserv’s growth may hinge on its continued development and release of new services, including recent projects like Cash Flow Central and the SMB Bundle, targeted at crucial customer segments such as financial institutions and merchants.

Key Takeaways

Strong Growth Driven by Digital Payment Innovations: Fiserv’s Q3 earnings report highlights significant growth in digital payment solutions, especially through the Clover platform, which saw a 15% increase in transaction volume and a 28% rise in revenue. This growth is helping Fiserv remain competitive in a rapidly expanding digital payment landscape.
Clover and Carat Platforms as Key Revenue Contributors: Fiserv’s merchant services strategy has become critical following the 2019 acquisition of First Data Corp. and its Clover POS system. In addition, the Carat platform is gaining traction among large retail clients, solidifying Fiserv’s position in both small business and enterprise markets.
New Financial Services Platform and Charter Expansion: Fiserv introduced Cash Flow Central to support digital payments and merchant acquiring for financial institutions, acquiring ten clients since its launch. Additionally, the company’s recent approval for a merchant-acquiring charter in Georgia positions it to expand its service offerings in the financial sector.
Focus on Small Business and e-Commerce Solutions: Targeting small and medium-sized businesses, Fiserv launched the SMB Bundle, an integrated package for payment acceptance and analytics designed to streamline operations. This move, alongside a partnership with PayPal for QR code payments, emphasizes Fiserv’s commitment to supporting the growth of digital payment options for smaller businesses and adapting to e-commerce trends.

Fiserv’s Q3 Earnings Highlight Growth in Digital Payments and Point-of-Sale Solutions

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The digital payment sector is changing dramatically, highlighted by recent earnings from Fiserv Inc., a top provider of payments and financial services technology. The company reported a third-quarter net income of $564 million in Milwaukee, with earnings per share exceeding analyst forecasts.

A critical development in Fiserv’s expansion was its 2019 purchase of First Data Corp. This $22 billion acquisition added the Clover point-of-sale (POS) system to Fiserv’s array of services, significantly enhancing Fiserv’s growth technology and boosting its merchant services offerings. Clover has become key to Fiserv’s strategy, offering businesses a flexible and expandable POS solution. In the third quarter of 2024, Clover processed $311 billion in transactions, marking a 15% increase from the previous year, according to Fiserv. Revenue from Clover rose by 28%. Additionally, the company repurchased $1.3 billion in shares.

Bob Hau, Fiserv’s Chief Financial Officer, mentioned that the company is witnessing solid revenue and volume increases from Clover. He stated that this progress is substantial enough for the company to aim for $4.5 billion in revenue next year. However, he noted that a slowdown in consumer spending has prompted management to temper expectations.

In the third quarter, Fiserv reported a 7% increase in adjusted revenue YOY, reaching $4.9 billion, with organic growth—excluding acquisitions—hitting 15%. The merchant solutions unit saw its revenue rise by 9% to $2.47 billion, driven primarily by small businesses, which accounted for $1.63 billion, also up by 9%.

The GAAP operating margin reached 30.7% in the third quarter and 27.7% for the first nine months of 2024, slightly changing from 30.8% and 25.2% in the same periods of 2023, respectively. In the Merchant Solutions segment, the GAAP operating margin improved to 37.7% in the third quarter and 36.2% over the first nine months of 2024, up from 34.8% and 32.9% in the corresponding periods of the previous year. For the Financial Solutions segment, the margin was 47.4% in the third quarter and 45.8% in the first nine months of 2024, an increase from 46.9% and 45.1% in 2023.

Net cash from operating activities increased 24%, totaling $4.41 billion in the first nine months of 2024, compared to $3.57 billion in the prior year.

Frank Bisignano expressed satisfaction with the third-quarter results, highlighting solid performances in both the Financial Solutions and Merchant Solutions segments and several significant new contracts. He noted that the company benefits from its critical role at the intersection of merchant and financial ecosystems, which are becoming more interconnected.

Apart from Clover, Fiserv has also developed the Carat platform to serve large enterprises with extensive digital payment and commerce solutions. Carat has become popular with significant retailers, including ten of the largest convenience store chains and nine of the top ten grocery chains in the U.S.

Building on these solid results, Fiserv continues broadening its offerings to align with shifting digital payments and e-commerce trends. The company’s partnerships and new product developments highlight its focus on innovation, particularly in enhancing payment flexibility and convenience for businesses of all sizes.

Digital Payments and E-commerce Driving Growth at Fiserv

Fiserv has broadened its e-commerce capabilities to adapt to the increase in digital payments. The company has collaborated with PayPal to launch QR code payment options, allowing merchants to take contactless payments easily. This move supports the rising consumer preference for digital and contactless payment methods.

The financial solutions division, covering banking, card issuing, ATM services, and Zelle peer-to-peer payments support, recorded revenues of $2.41 billion, a 4.3% increase. Digital payments were a significant driver within this segment, generating $987 million in revenue, marking a 5% growth.

Fiserv has also improved its digital payment solutions by integrating with platforms like Zelle, which supports peer-to-peer transactions. In the third quarter of 2024, Fiserv saw a 35% increase in the volume of Zelle payments processed, indicating a higher uptake of digital payment platforms.

Focusing on small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), which play a crucial role in the economy, Fiserv introduced the SMB Bundle—a set of payment services specifically designed for small businesses. This package is available through Fiserv’s extensive distribution channels, including the Clover POS system, equipping SMBs with sophisticated payment solutions.

The SMB Bundle simplifies payment processing for small businesses by offering integrated payment acceptance, invoicing, and analytics features. Frank Bisignano mentioned that this bundle is expected to impact earnings next year positively. With these tools, Fiserv aims to enhance operational efficiency and market competitiveness for SMBs. However, Bisignano advised caution regarding these and other new initiatives. He pointed out that it is still early to make definitive judgments.

At the intersection of digital payment solutions and financial services, Fiserv’s ongoing advancements are designed to support businesses and financial institutions. Following the success of its e-commerce and SMB solutions, the company has continued to innovate in the financial services sector, expanding offerings that improve cash flow and merchant management for banks and credit unions. These recent developments set the stage for Fiserv’s next steps in enhancing its financial tools and strengthening the Clover brand.

Cash Flow Central and Merchant-Acquiring Charter Drive Growth in Fiserv’s Financial Services

Fiserv has been improving its financial services beyond just merchant solutions. The company introduced Cash Flow Central, a new platform that equips financial institutions with tools for digital payments and merchant acquisition. Since its launch a year ago, Cash Flow Central has acquired ten clients, including three additions in the third quarter of 2024.

The platform provides a range of tools that help financial institutions manage payments, cash flow, and merchant services, facilitating better customer service and more efficient operations for banks and credit unions.

During the quarterly analyst call, Bisignano announced that the company’s application for a merchant-acquiring charter in Georgia had been approved. The new financial services entity is slated to start operations next year, although Bisignano clarified that the company is not transitioning into a bank.

He also conveyed to analysts that the groundwork has been established for expanding into new services for new and existing clients, progressing toward the next generation of solutions. Bisignano emphasized that these developments are in place, although they are still in the initial phases.

Looking forward, Fiserv is focused on maintaining its growth by continuing to innovate and broaden its range of services. The company is set to introduce several new products under its Clover brand, including a new device expected to be released by mid-2024. These initiatives will likely bolster Fiserv’s standing in the merchant services sector.

Additionally, Fiserv has set a high revenue target of $4.5 billion for the Clover platform in the next year, underscoring its optimistic outlook for Clover’s growth and market share expansion.

About Fiserv

Fiserv, established in 1984 through the merger of First Data Processing and Sunshine State Systems, operates as a leading provider of financial services technology and payments, connecting a diverse range of businesses, financial institutions, and individuals globally. The company offers a broad spectrum of services, including digital banking solutions, account processing, network services, card issuer processing, payment, merchant acquiring, e-commerce, and payment processing solutions.

Fiserv supports thousands of financial institutions and millions of businesses across more than 100 countries. Among its notable products are CardHub, Carat, and Clover. Recognized for its industry impact, Fiserv holds memberships in prestigious indexes such as the Fortune® 500 and S&P 500®, and it has been listed as one of Fortune® World’s Most Admired Companies™. In a recent development, Lance Fritz was appointed to the Fiserv Board of Directors in February 2024.

Conclusion

Fiserv’s strategic investments in digital payment solutions and financial services have positioned the company as a versatile provider in a rapidly evolving industry. Through the successful expansion of platforms like Clover, partnerships with major payment networks, and initiatives like Cash Flow Central, Fiserv’s growth technology has enabled the company to consistently adapt to meet the changing needs of merchants, financial institutions, and consumers.

The company’s emphasis on innovation, from enhancing e-commerce capabilities to supporting small businesses, indicates a strong commitment to staying competitive. These ongoing developments highlight Fiserv’s potential for growth, particularly as it continues to bridge the gap between digital payments and traditional financial services.

IMF Declares Victory in the Inflation Battle: What It Means for Payment Providers

Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, the IMF’s chief economist, noted that inflation could soon stabilize as it is practically under control. This is positive news for the global economy, as this control has been achieved without triggering a significant economic slump, marking a notable achievement. Inflation declined after substantial interest rate hikes, yet central banks remain cautious about claiming success.

The recent IMF inflation forecasts advised managing debt levels and criticized protectionist policies, yet they also commended effective monetary policy management. Historically known for its critical stance, the IMF’s acknowledgment in the recent World Economic Outlook highlights a shift, reflecting its approval of recent policy measures.

Key Takeaways

Declining Inflation with Caution on Growth: The IMF reports progress in controlling inflation, citing declining rates in affluent countries, but warns that slowing global growth and rising debt levels are still concerning. This suggests that while inflation appears manageable, economic vigilance remains essential.
Stabilization in Transaction Costs for Payment Providers: As inflation stabilizes, payment providers may benefit from more predictable transaction costs. This stability could support more consistent pricing models, enhancing profitability and operational planning.
Increased Consumer Confidence and Spending Potential: Lower inflation could boost consumer confidence, leading to higher spending. Payment providers might see increased transaction volumes, with potential growth in online and in-store purchases, providing an opportunity to capture more business.
Strategic Adaptation for Competitive Edge: To stay competitive, payment providers should invest in technology for efficiency, expand service offerings, enhance security protocols to prevent fraud, and stay adaptive to regulatory shifts. These strategies can help them respond effectively to the evolving economic landscape.

IMF Inflation Forecast: Reports Progress on Inflation Control but Warns of Rising Global Debt and Slowing Growth

In October 2024, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported that the global effort to control inflation is nearing success, indicating a notable change in economic conditions. Inflation, which increased worldwide following the pandemic and received renewed momentum from disruptions in food and energy markets due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, is now declining. This decrease has occurred without forcing the world’s central banks to induce a recession through elevated interest rates.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva stated in a preliminary speech that combining firm monetary policy, improving supply chain conditions, and falling food and energy prices contributes to price stability’s return.

In its recent global economy analysis, the IMF forecasts that global inflation will decrease from 6.7% last year to 5.8% this year and to 4.3% by 2025. The decline is expected to be more pronounced in affluent nations, where inflation is projected to drop from 4.6% last year to 2.6% this year, reaching the ideal 2% target for most major central banks by 2025.

During a press conference, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, the IMF’s chief economist, said the fight against inflation is nearing a successful conclusion. According to him, inflation rates in most countries are now close to the targets set by central banks.

IMF’s Economic Forecasts

However, now is not the time for complacency. Kristalina, during her speech, also warned against overlooking rising debt levels and geopolitical tensions, which remain significant concerns.

According to the latest IMF Fiscal Monitor report, the global public debt is expected to surpass $100 trillion this year and could exceed the total world GDP by 2030. This increase is primarily due to the emergency support measures during the pandemic, which led to larger budget deficits. In addition, the IMF revised its economic outlook for the United States upward for this year but lowered its growth projections for Europe and China. The global growth forecast remains steady at a modest 3.2% for 2024.

Regional Economic Outlooks

The IMF anticipates that the U.S. economy will grow by 2.8% this year, a slight decrease from the 2.9% in 2023 but better than the 2.6% previously predicted for 2024 in July. This growth has been driven by robust consumer spending and significant real wage increases. However, the IMF predicts a slowdown in the U.S. economy next year, forecasting a growth rate of 2.2%. With a new president and Congress, the job market is expected to cool down in 2025 as efforts are made to address large budget deficits by reducing spending, increasing taxes, or implementing a mix of these strategies.

In the United States, the budget deficit is projected to be over 6% of GDP in 2024 despite solid tax revenue. This increase is partly due to significant government spending to bring back manufacturing jobs, especially in sectors like semiconductor production. However, this cycle has deviated from expectations, with President Joe Biden’s administration allocating substantial funds to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S., particularly in politically sensitive areas like semiconductor production.

Europe is facing similar issues. Germany struggles to meet its national and EU fiscal guidelines as it heads towards a second year of stagnant growth. In the European Union, growth is anticipated at 1.1% in 2024, a slight downward revision of 0.1 percentage point, and 1.6% in 2025, revised by 0.2 percentage points. Germany’s economy is projected to stagnate in 2024, with a 0.2 percentage point downward revision to 0.0%, and to grow by 0.8% in 2025, revised down by 0.5 percentage points.

China faces a slowdown in its real estate sector and weaker economic growth. The country’s GDP increased by 4.6% in the third quarter compared to the same period in 2023, which did not meet the 5% growth target. Georgieva has recommended that China transition from relying on exports to boosting domestic demand, noting that not doing so could drop its annual growth rate to below 4% and possibly cause social instability. China’s growth forecast has been adjusted downward by 0.2 percentage points to 4.8% for 2024, with the 2025 projection remaining at 4.5%.

The revised growth forecast for Japan in 2024 is now at 0.3%, down by 0.4 percentage points, while the 2025 forecast sees a slight increase to 1.1%, up by 0.1 percentage point. Canada’s economic growth expectations are unchanged at 1.3% for 2024 and 2.4% for 2025. The United Kingdom’s economy is projected to grow by 1.1% in 2024, an increase of 0.4 percentage points, with the 2025 forecast steady at 1.5%. In contrast, Mexico’s 2024 growth prediction has decreased by 0.7 percentage points to 1.5%, and the 2025 forecast is down by 0.3 percentage points to 1.3%. India maintains strong growth rates of 7.0% for 2024 and 6.5% for 2025, with no revision from prior estimates.

0.9 percentage points have revised Brazil’s 2024 growth forecast to 3.0%, although 0.2 percentage points have slightly lowered the 2025 forecast to 2.2%. 0.2 percentage points have adjusted France’s 2024 growth prediction to 1.1%, but the same margin has reduced the growth forecast for 2025 to 1.1%. South Africa’s economic growth forecast 2024 has been raised by 0.2 percentage points to 1.1% and for 2025 by 0.3 percentage points to 1.5%.

Russia’s economy is forecast to grow by 3.6% in 2024, up by 0.4 percentage points. However, the 2025 growth rate is expected to slow to 1.3%, down 0.3 percentage points.

Escalating debt levels significantly impacts lower-income nations. In 2008, these countries spent about 5% of their revenues on interest payments; this has now risen to nearly 15%. This uptick restricts their capacity to fund essential services and infrastructure in health, education, and other vital sectors.

The IMF currently provides nearly $200 billion in loans to 35 countries. It recently approved an additional $1.1 billion in support for Ukraine after Kyiv enacted tax increases and structural reforms.

Economic Outlook Risks: Central Bank Policies, Geopolitical Tensions, and U.S. Trade Uncertainty

The IMF projects global economic growth at 3.2% for 2024 and 2025. However, it acknowledges that potential risks could undermine this outlook. Three primary concerns are highlighted:

Monetary Policy Adjustments: There is a concern that central banks may postpone lowering interest rates, which could impede economic growth. Financial markets expect central banks to successfully reduce inflation to target levels without causing a recession—a situation often described as the “Goldilocks” economy. While this result is likely for the United States, it is less certain for the eurozone.
Geopolitical Tensions in the Middle East: An increase in Middle Eastern conflicts could disrupt oil supplies, causing significant price hikes. Although commodity markets have been relatively stable amid recent tensions, this stability could quickly deteriorate. IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas has indicated that rising conflicts threaten commodity markets, especially in the Middle East.
Potential Shift in U.S. Trade Policies: The potential for a change in U.S. leadership brings concerns about a shift toward more protectionist trade policies. The IMF predicts that such a change could decrease global GDP by 0.5 percentage points by 2026. While trade barriers and subsidies for domestic industries might provide short-term advantages, they usually provoke retaliatory actions and do not improve long-term living standards.

Implications and Strategic Considerations for Payment Providers

Payment providers, which include credit card companies, digital payment platforms, and financial technology firms, play a crucial role in the economic ecosystem. The implications of the IMF’s recent statements on ‘IMF inflation payments’ are multifaceted for these entities. As inflation declines, payment providers might see a stabilization in transaction costs, which have previously risen due to the increasing prices of goods and services.

This stabilization allows for more predictable pricing models and could potentially boost profitability. Additionally, lower inflation may increase consumer confidence, leading to more lavish spending. As a result, payment providers could witness higher transaction volumes as consumers increase their purchasing activities both online and in physical stores. Moreover, central banks’ adjustments to interest rates in response to falling inflation could impact payment providers, particularly those involved in lending or credit services.

Changes in borrowing costs and interest income may require strategic adjustments to maintain financial stability. Finally, a more stable economic environment might lead regulators to revise policies affecting payment providers, including transaction fees, data security standards, and anti-fraud measures. Payment providers must remain vigilant and adaptable to navigate these changes effectively.

Post-inflation payment providers should adopt several strategies to remain competitive.

First, with costs stabilizing, it is crucial to invest in technology to enhance operational efficiency. Implementing automation, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technologies can streamline operations and cut costs.
Additionally, payment providers should look to broaden their range of services. Introducing cryptocurrency transactions or buy-now-pay-later options can attract a broader customer base and open new revenue opportunities.
Another essential consideration is enhancing security measures. As the volume of transactions grows, the risk of fraud also increases. Therefore, investing in robust security protocols and compliance measures is critical to protect the company and its customers.
Finally, adapting to regulatory changes is essential. By staying informed about potential changes and engaging with policymakers, payment providers can better anticipate new requirements, ensure compliance, and avoid penalties. These strategies can help payment providers adjust and thrive in a changing economic landscape.

Conclusion

Broader inflation control signals a positive shift for the global economy and payment providers. With inflation pressures easing, these companies can focus on technological innovations, expanding service offerings, and reinforcing security to enhance their market position.

However, risks from geopolitical tensions, potential trade shifts, and high debt levels mean adaptability and strategic foresight are essential. By addressing these factors proactively, payment providers can better support consumer demand and respond to evolving regulatory expectations, ensuring resilience in a dynamic economic environment.

CardFlight Receives Major Investment: What This Means for Mobile Payments

CardFlight, a SaaS payment technology company headquartered in New York City, secured a growth investment from WestView Capital Partners. The financial transaction details were not revealed.

The company plans to invest in advancing its payment solutions, improving its software offerings, and increasing its service reach to more small businesses and merchant partners throughout the United States. CardFlight, led by CEO and Founder Derek Webster, provides services to over 125,000 small businesses nationwide.

Key Takeaways

Strategic Investment for Expansion: CardFlight’s new minority investment from WestView Capital Partners is intended to drive growth in the SMB payment solutions market, where the company aims to strengthen its competitive position.
Increased Market Reach with SwipeSimple: CardFlight already serves over 125,000 SMBs through its product SwipeSimple, processing more than $12 billion annually. The investment will support further expansion of SwipeSimple’s reach via an enhanced reseller network.
Enhanced Product Development: The partnership enables CardFlight to accelerate product enhancements and introduce new features tailored for SMBs, especially as demand rises for flexible, digital payment methods.
Alignment with Fintech Trends: This investment mirrors the broader trend of fintech funding focusing on specialized, tech-driven payment solutions for SMBs, positioning CardFlight to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

CardFlight Secures Minority Investment from WestView Capital to Expand SMB Payment Solutions

CardFlight, a New York-based SaaS company focused on mobile payment technology, recently received a significant minority investment from WestView Capital Partners. This investment in mobile payments positions CardFlight for broader expansion in the highly competitive payment solutions market, mainly targeting small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

Founded in 2013, CardFlight has built a strong reputation with products like SwipeSimple, which enables over 125,000 SMBs to streamline payment processing with more than $12 billion processed annually across the U.S. This software has been especially appealing for its easy setup and comprehensive payment management features, addressing the needs of small business owners by simplifying payment processing across various channels.

CardFlight Secures Minority Investment from WestView Capital to Expand SMB Payment Solutions

Derek Webster, Founder and CEO of CardFlight, stated that the payment technology sector is experiencing substantial changes. At CardFlight, they continually assess the requirements of small businesses and create new solutions to meet these needs. This approach prepares them well for upcoming industry shifts. Webster and his leadership team are enthusiastic about having WestView Capital Partners on board for their next growth phase. WestView’s considerable experience and strategic insight align with the principles of the company, its employees, and its shareholders.

WestView’s financial backing brings both capital and strategic support. This partnership will facilitate CardFlight’s ability to enhance existing services and launch additional features aimed at SMBs and merchant acquirers. CardFlight investment in mobile payments is pivotal as SMBs increasingly seek digital payment solutions to support diverse payment methods and improve their business operations.

The funding will also support CardFlight’s expansion goals by strengthening its reseller network, which already includes over 100 partners distributing SwipeSimple to thousands of new businesses monthly. Furthermore, Kevin Twomey from WestView will join CardFlight’s board, bringing expertise that aligns with the firm’s growth strategies and its aim to lead in the SMB payment sector.

CardFlight Receives Major Investment: What This Means for Mobile Payments

CardFlight’s unique approach leverages a software-first model, providing embedded payment solutions that integrate easily with business operations—a trend gaining traction among SMBs that need more flexible and tailored payment solutions than traditional methods offer.

WestView’s investment could allow CardFlight to stay competitive in the shifting mobile payments landscape. Demand for digital solutions has accelerated due to changes in consumer behavior and the evolving digital economy. For merchants, especially SMBs, this development promises access to advanced tools without larger payment processors’ high costs or complexities.

Kevin Twomey, a Principal at WestView Capital Partners, noted a shift in how merchants, especially those in the small to medium business (SMB) category, approach payments. CardFlight’s software-driven embedded payments solution addresses the specific needs and preferences of today’s SMB merchants, helping them better understand and develop their businesses. Twomey added that Derek and his team have consistently led innovation in this area and are precisely the leaders WestView seeks to support and partner with. Twomey will join the CardFlight Board of Directors as part of the partnership.

This partnership reflects a broader trend in fintech, where private equity and growth capital are increasingly directed towards tech-driven payment platforms that cater to smaller, niche markets. The anticipated result is that CardFlight will now be better equipped to introduce more robust features and expand its market reach, aiming to simplify the payment process for more SMBs across the U.S., supporting the company’s goal of reshaping mobile payments through practical, SMB-focused solutions.

William Blair and Goodwin Procter LLP provided legal representation for CardFlight, while Latham & Watkins LLP provided WestView. The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.

About CardFlight

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CardFlight, established in 2013 and based in New York, provides mobile and in-person payment solutions that simplify transactions for small businesses throughout the United States. Their main product, SwipeSimple, is utilized by over 125,000 small merchants and offers versatile payment options for in-store, mobile, and online transactions. The SwipeSimple platform features EMV and NFC contactless card readers, mobile apps for iOS and Android, a virtual terminal, and a dashboard for business insights. These tools allow small businesses to efficiently manage sales, monitor transactions, and gather customer data from a single interface, accommodating various commerce needs in multiple settings.

CardFlight has earned a strong reputation by adapting quickly to industry changes, such as the shift to chip-card technology in the U.S., and by enhancing its offerings with new features like the EMV Quick Chip for quicker transactions. Their innovative strategies and partnerships with leading payment acquirers have fueled their rapid expansion, consistently earning them a spot on lists of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. CardFlight’s dedication to secure, accessible payment options has established them as a reliable resource for both small businesses and major merchant acquirers, further validated by their PCI Level 1 compliance.

About WestView

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WestView, located in Boston, is a growth equity firm concentrating on middle-market growth companies, managing $2.7 billion across five funds. The firm collaborates with current management teams to support minority and majority recapitalizations, provide growth capital, and facilitate consolidation transactions in various sectors such as IT services, business services, software, healthcare technology and outsourcing, and growth industrial sectors.

Westview aims to invest between $20 and $100 million in companies that generate at least $10 million in revenue and have operating profits ranging from $3 to $25 million.

Conclusion

With WestView Capital Partners’ minority investment, CardFlight is set to strengthen its position in the SMB payment solutions market, expanding its services and enhancing its product offerings to meet evolving merchant needs. This funding aligns with broader fintech trends toward specialized, tech-driven solutions for small businesses and supports CardFlight’s commitment to accessible, efficient payment processing.

As demand for digital payment options continues to grow, CardFlight investment mobile payments and software-first approach, in combination with WestView’s strategic guidance, positions the company for continued innovation and growth in a competitive market.

FTC’s Rule Banning Fake Online Reviews Goes Into Effect

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) implemented a new rule on October 21, following its finalization in August. This new FTC rule prohibits fake online reviews. It applies to AI-generated content and reviews that inaccurately portray the user’s experience with a product.

Additionally, it bans companies from purchasing fake reviews, including those sourced from company employees, and from distributing known false reviews. This measure aims to prevent consumers from being deceived by fraudulent online reviews.

Key Takeaways

FTC Bans Fake Reviews, Including AI-Generated Content: The new rule makes it illegal for companies to buy, sell, or distribute fake reviews, including those created with AI or misrepresenting user experience.
Civil Penalties for Non-Compliance: The FTC can impose fines of up to $51,744 per violation, targeting companies that engage in fraudulent reviews, endorsements, or deceptive social media metrics.
Disclosure Requirement for Insider Reviews: Reviews by employees or insiders, including family members influenced by management, must disclose any connections to the business.
Restrictions on Social Media Manipulation: The rule prohibits businesses from inflating their online reputation by buying fake followers or views to mislead consumers about their popularity.

New FTC Rule Targets Fake Online Reviews with Fines and Stricter Enforcement

A new federal regulation prohibiting fake online reviews has been implemented. The FTC established the rule in August, making selling or buying online reviews illegal. This regulation took effect on Monday, empowering the agency to impose civil penalties on those who intentionally break this rule.

Lina Khan, FTC Chair, remarked that fake reviews lead to consumers wasting money and time, disrupting the market, and unfairly diverting customers from businesses that compete fairly. Khan emphasized that this regulation aims to shield consumers from deceit, warn businesses against dishonest practices, and support a market based on fairness and integrity.

The regulation specifically outlaws reviews and endorsements that are falsely attributed to nonexistent individuals or created by artificial intelligence, as well as those from people who have not used the business or service/product or who misrepresent their experience.

The rule also prohibits businesses from generating or trading reviews or endorsements. Firms that deliberately acquire fake reviews, source them from company insiders, or distribute fraudulent reviews will face penalties.

Additionally, the regulation prevents companies from repressing reviews using baseless legal threats, physical intimidation, or coercive tactics to silence a negative consumer review. Companies are also prohibited from falsely asserting that their website displays all or most customer feedback if they have selectively hidden or deleted reviews due to poor ratings or critical remarks.

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The regulation will apply to reviews created in the future. Approximately 95% of consumers consult online reviews before purchasing, and the same proportion reads product reviews before deciding to buy an item. While it remains to be seen how the FTC will implement enforcement, the agency might focus on a few prominent cases to establish a precedent. It has the authority to impose fines of up to $51,744 for each violation.

The rule’s timing is crucial as the rise of artificial intelligence poses an increased risk of exacerbating the issue. Generative AI technologies can rapidly produce a large volume of fake reviews. This situation underscores the value of using reputable review platforms that feature reviews by human experts who have directly interacted with the products and possess in-depth knowledge.

Beyond just reviews, the FTC’s restrictions extend to companies that artificially enhance their social media visibility by purchasing bot followers or fake views. This applies specifically when businesses intentionally buy fake online engagements to represent their popularity falsely.

The final rule was announced after a series of preparatory steps, including an advance notice of proposed rulemaking in November 2022 and a notice of proposed rulemaking in June 2023. Additionally, the FTC conducted an informal hearing on the proposed rule in February 2024.

Closely Understanding the FTC’s New Rules on Fake Reviews and More

This new rule banning fake online reviews, which received a unanimous 5-0 vote, will become effective 60 days after its announcement in the Federal Register. The FTC’s goal is to address fake consumer reviews, testimonials, and altered social media metrics through various specific prohibitions.

Fake Reviews and Testimonials: It is now illegal for businesses to create or sell fake consumer reviews or testimonials, whether AI-generated or falsely attributed. Additionally, companies cannot purchase or distribute reviews if they knew or should have known that they were false or misrepresented real consumer experiences. Misleading endorsements by celebrities are also prohibited.
Insider Reviews without Disclosure: Reviews by company insiders, such as officers or managers, must explicitly disclose any significant connections to the business. The rule also limits employees from posting reviews solicited by company leaders unless the relationship is openly acknowledged. This includes reviews by relatives of employees if influenced by management.
Compensated Reviews with Conditional Sentiment: Businesses can no longer offer incentives or compensation to consumers for reviews that express a specific positive or negative sentiment. This applies to direct and implied agreements and remains applicable even if the incentive is disclosed.
Suppression of Negative Reviews: The rule prohibits companies from suppressing or removing negative reviews through intimidation, unfounded legal threats, or misleading consumers about the completeness of reviews on their platforms. Any selective display of reviews must be transparent and fairly reflect both positive and negative feedback.
Misrepresented Independence of Review Platforms: Companies are forbidden from falsely representing company-controlled websites as independent review platforms, as this could mislead consumers regarding the authenticity of the reviews.
Manipulated Social Media Influence: The buying or selling of fake social media metrics, such as followers or views, is also prohibited. These metrics must not be artificially generated to falsely inflate a business’s popularity for commercial gain.

Conclusion

The FTC’s new rule represents a significant step toward online reviews and social media metrics transparency. By targeting fake reviews, undisclosed insider endorsements, and manipulated social media engagements, the regulation aims to foster a fairer marketplace where consumers can make informed decisions.

Businesses are now held to stricter standards, with substantial penalties for those who engage in deceptive practices. As these changes take effect, the focus will be on compliance and enforcement to establish a trustworthy consumer environment and honest business competition.

Fiserv to Leverage Artificial Intelligence to Help Merchants

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a transformative force in financial services, reshaping businesses’ operational and growth strategies. Fiserv, a major provider of financial technology services and supporter of over 40% of US banks, is at the forefront of this revolution. Fiserv AI platform works to improve merchants’ and financial institutions’ profitability significantly. This transformative power of AI inspires optimism for the future of the financial services industry.

Fiserv focuses on data analytics, machine learning, and fraud detection. It aims to equip businesses of all sizes with immediate insights into customer behavior, preferences, and spending habits, enabling merchants to develop more focused, data-driven strategies.

Key Takeaways

Enhanced Customer Insights: Fiserv leverages AI to provide merchants with detailed insights into customer behavior, enabling them to tailor offerings and improve customer engagement based on purchasing patterns and preferences.
Improved Fraud Detection: Using AI-driven transaction monitoring, Fiserv’s tools detect unusual activity in real time, helping merchants adjust fraud prevention strategies and safeguard against financial risks effectively.
Operational Optimization: Fiserv’s AI solutions support inventory management, staffing adjustments, and dynamic pricing, aiding merchants in reducing inefficiencies and responding quickly to changing consumer demands.
AI Accessibility for Small Businesses: Through the Clover platform, Fiserv democratizes AI access for small businesses, empowering them with tools to improve operations and long-term growth without large-scale investments. This emphasis on democratization makes small businesses feel included and empowered in the AI revolution.

Fiserv’s Strategic Approach to AI to Transform Financial Services for Merchants

Artificial intelligence is reshaping numerous industries, including financial services, through its ability to analyze vast datasets. Machine learning and data mining help identify patterns, trends, and actionable insights. These capabilities are crucial but transformative for merchants and financial institutions, enhancing their decision-making processes, refining operations, and boosting profitability.

Fiserv’s data team is at the forefront of leveraging these technological advances. With a 7% revenue increase to $4.88 billion in the third quarter and $14.22 billion over the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same periods last year, the company is actively improving its utilization of the vast amounts of transaction data processed through its products annually to fuel future growth. The data team is instrumental in this process, using AI to analyze transaction data and provide detailed insights into customer behaviors, preferences, and spending habits.

These insights allow merchants to customize their services, improve customer experiences, and increase sales and revenue. Meanwhile, financial institutions use these data points to enhance risk management, increase fraud detection capabilities, and create innovative financial products that address their customers’ changing needs.

Fiserv CEO Frank Bisignano emphasized the importance of data and AI in increasing customer value. He explained that the company’s detailed, real-time data provides more thorough insights into banking and payment processes. This use of AI, which includes areas such as credit card and cash transactions, also improves anti-fraud efforts, a critical focus across the industry.

Fiserv AI Platform

A primary feature of Fiserv’s AI applications is its ability to mine transaction data in real time, which helps merchants personalize marketing, manage inventory, and set dynamic pricing to meet demand. For example, Fiserv’s systems can help businesses identify peak shopping times and adjust staffing or inventory accordingly. By providing these granular insights, AI-driven recommendations can improve profitability by reducing inefficiencies and enhancing customer satisfaction, increasing loyalty and repeat business. AI’s role in managing supply chains further benefits merchants, as it can reduce waste and streamline operations, ultimately lowering costs and increasing margins.

Fraud detection is another critical application of AI in Fiserv’s platform, particularly integrated with the company’s Carat global commerce system. Using machine learning, Fiserv’s tools continuously analyze transactions to flag unusual activity that could indicate fraud. This AI-driven monitoring enables real-time transaction scoring, allowing merchants to adjust their fraud tolerance levels according to their business needs. The technology can detect discrepancies in a customer’s usual spending behavior, helping prevent fraud before it impacts the business.

Fiserv’s Clover platform, which focuses on small businesses, has been particularly active in adopting AI to test advanced features with its merchants. In these applications, Fiserv is beginning to introduce AI-driven customer insights and operational optimizations to smaller businesses, democratizing AI for those who might not have the resources to invest in such technologies independently.

Brandy Wood, Fiserv’s head of client experience products, emphasized that AI’s expanded accessibility is a game-changer for businesses. By integrating language and small language models, Fiserv can offer merchants practical tools for day-to-day operations and strategic insights to drive long-term growth. Looking forward, Fiserv plans to expand the scope of its AI applications, potentially moving into areas like personalized marketing and automated financial advising, which would allow merchants to tailor recommendations and financial services based on customer profiles and transactional history.

Through these AI-based solutions, Fiserv is positioning itself as a comprehensive partner for merchants looking to improve transaction security, optimize customer interactions, and gain actionable insights from their data, ultimately offering them a robust platform to strengthen customer relationships and increase revenue.

About Fiserv

Fiserv, Inc. is a company that provides technology services for the financial sector. It operates through three business segments: financial, payments, corporate, and other. The Financial segment delivers services to financial institutions such as processing of items and source capture, account processing, cash management, loan management, and consulting. This segment also supplies various products that support different financial transactions.

The Payments segment offers services, including electronic bill payment, mobile and online banking solutions, transfers between accounts, debit and credit card processing, and individual payments. It also includes other electronic payment-related services. The Corporate and Other segment handles internal accounting actions, allocation of costs related to acquisitions, and unassigned corporate expenses. It also includes activities not part of the primary business evaluation, such as profits from business sales and related transition services. Fiserv was founded by George D. Dalton and Leslie M. Muma on July 31, 1984. The headquarters is located in Brookfield, Wisconsin.

Conclusion

Fiserv’s integration of AI across its platforms demonstrates a significant shift toward data-driven business strategies in the financial services industry. The company uses machine learning and data analytics to equip merchants and other financial institutions with specialized tools to make more informed decisions, improve operational efficiency, and enhance data security.

Fiserv’s approach addresses the need for increased fraud protection and personalization and supports scalable growth for businesses of all sizes. As Fiserv continues to expand its AI capabilities, it stands to provide clients with even more targeted insights and adaptable solutions that meet evolving market demands.

Check Fraud Through Use of AI on the Rise in the US

Check usage has declined in recent years with the rise of credit and debit cards, yet checks remain a popular payment method. Hence, check fraud has significantly increased in recent years. The US federal government has enhanced its fraud detection efforts by integrating artificial intelligence. The Treasury Department reported that AI was instrumental in preventing and recovering over $4 billion in fraudulent transactions in fiscal year 2024.

Key Takeaways

Increased Use of AI in Fraud Detection: With check fraud rising, federal agencies and financial institutions are using AI to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions, recovering over $4 billion in fiscal year 2024 alone.
Machine Learning’s Role in Spotting Fraud Patterns: Machine learning models have proven effective in identifying anomalies in check transactions, helping organizations like the Treasury Department flag and intercept suspicious activities in real time.
Sophisticated Fraud Techniques Require Advanced Tools: Fraudsters use AI-driven tools to create realistic counterfeit checks, making detection challenging without advanced technology. This calls for continued refinement in fraud detection models.
Ongoing Adaptation Needed Against Evolving Tactics: As fraudsters adopt new AI techniques, including generative AI for deepfakes, financial institutions and agencies must constantly update their fraud detection systems to counter these sophisticated schemes effectively.

AI Shaping the Fight Against the Rising Check Fraud in the US

The surge in check fraud in the US has led to significant advancements in using artificial intelligence (AI) as a preventive measure. Since the pandemic, check fraud has escalated considerably, with the Treasury Department reporting a sharp rise in fraudulent activities.

In response, federal agencies and financial institutions have begun implementing AI-based tools to curb these incidents, resulting in over $4 billion in prevented and recovered fraudulent payments in recent years. This AI-driven approach has become essential in countering a growing array of sophisticated fraud tactics.

In late 2022, US officials began employing artificial intelligence to identify financial crimes, adopting strategies similar to those used by banks and credit card companies to thwart criminals.

This initiative aims to safeguard taxpayer funds from fraud, which increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic when the federal government quickly distributed emergency assistance to consumers and businesses..

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of the Inspector General estimated that fraud involving unemployment checks amounted to $45.6 billion. Additionally, the Treasury Department noted a 385% increase in check fraud since the onset of the pandemic.

Renata Miskell, a senior Treasury official, recently stated that using data has significantly improved their ability to detect and prevent fraud.

One key factor behind the rise in check fraud is the increased availability of tools that allow fraudsters to replicate check images, often obtained through phishing scams or mail theft. Criminals now employ AI-driven software to create highly realistic counterfeit checks, making detection challenging without advanced technology.

Machine learning algorithms used by institutions like the Treasury are trained to spot anomalies in check transactions by analyzing vast datasets of historical transaction patterns. This allows them to flag potentially fraudulent checks quickly and efficiently, often in near real-time. This shift has helped agencies like the Treasury recover approximately $1 billion in check fraud losses over the past year, showcasing the effectiveness of AI in this domain.

Miskell stated that fraudsters excel at concealment, actively attempting to manipulate the system unnoticed. AI and data analysis are crucial in uncovering these concealed patterns and inconsistencies, aiding in fraud prevention.

This is particularly important for the Treasury, one of the largest payers worldwide, handling approximately 1.4 billion payments and nearly $7 trillion annually. Treasury official Renata Miskell emphasized that AI is instrumental in detecting hidden fraud patterns, enabling the agency to address attempts at misusing taxpayer money.

The banking industry has also responded to this trend by developing advanced AI platforms to detect fraud. For instance, companies like Abrigo offer solutions that enable banks to automate check screening and prioritize high-risk transactions, allowing for a quicker response to suspected fraud cases.

This technology provides tailored risk assessments for individual banks, reducing false positives and ensuring high accuracy in fraud detection. Such systems also relieve the burden on banking staff, who would otherwise require extensive manual review processes to identify fraudulent checks effectively.

To be clear, Treasury is not employing generative AI, which produces images, writes song lyrics, and responds to complex questions, as seen with Google’s Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

Instead, their fraud detection work utilizes machine learning, a branch of AI particularly adept at analyzing large datasets and making predictions and decisions based on that analysis.

AI proves to be highly effective in combating financial crime. It analyzes vast data streams and identifies subtle patterns much faster than humans. Once advanced AI models are trained, they can instantly detect suspicious transactions.

AI has proven invaluable in detecting fraud involving synthetic identities, where criminals combine real and fake information to create fictitious profiles. This method often involves forging personal information such as names and Social Security numbers used to open bank accounts or cash fraudulent checks.

Banks and government agencies can better detect and deter these complex schemes by incorporating biometrics, anomaly detection, and machine learning into their fraud prevention strategies.

Despite the promising results, experts warn that the rise of generative AI poses new challenges. Generative AI has enabled fraudsters to create convincing deepfakes, which can mislead banking staff and circumvent traditional verification processes.

For instance, voice cloning software, a tool within generative AI, has been used to impersonate bank representatives and redirect funds illicitly. Financial institutions are thus under increasing pressure to keep up with these evolving tactics and continuously improve their AI-driven fraud detection methods.

As fraudsters evolve their techniques, AI-based fraud detection systems will need constant updates and refinements to remain effective. Institutions will likely focus on increasing the sophistication of machine learning models, applying them to an even broader set of transaction types, and integrating them with real-time payment monitoring systems.

Additionally, enhancing customer and employee awareness about AI-driven fraud tactics remains a vital complementary measure. As AI continues to shape the fraud prevention landscape, collaboration among financial institutions, government agencies, and technology providers will be essential to stay ahead of increasingly complex fraud schemes.

Through such combined efforts, AI has become a pivotal tool in the fight against check fraud, potentially saving billions in losses and helping secure the financial systems that millions rely on daily. However, vigilance and continuous technological advancement will be crucial as fraudsters adapt to the evolving landscape of AI in financial security.

Conclusion

The rise of AI in combating check fraud reflects a critical evolution in fraud prevention efforts across the financial sector. As check fraud tactics grow more sophisticated, AI has become a key tool for government agencies and financial institutions to detect and prevent these crimes efficiently.

The Treasury Department’s recent successes in curbing fraudulent transactions demonstrate the importance of AI-driven analysis and machine learning in identifying suspicious activities. However, as fraudsters leverage new AI-driven methods, advanced technology, cross-sector collaboration, and ongoing system updates will be essential to avoid potential threats. This evolving approach not only safeguards taxpayer funds but also reinforces the security of the broader financial ecosystem.

New IRS Tax Brackets For 2025

Recently, the IRS announced the income tax brackets for 2025. These new brackets reflect a rise in income thresholds by approximately 2.8%, a decrease compared to the 5.4% increase in 2024 and 7% in 2023. This information is crucial for planning your finances for the next tax year, for which returns will be filed in early 2026.

The updated tax brackets, standard deductions, and related policies will apply to income earned during 2025, to be reported on tax returns in 2026.

Key Takeaways

Inflation Adjustments: To account for inflation, the IRS has raised income thresholds for all tax brackets by approximately 2.8% for the 2025 tax year. This adjustment aims to prevent “bracket creep,” ensuring that individuals do not enter higher tax brackets due to inflationary increases in their nominal income.
Increased Standard Deductions: For 2025, the standard deduction has increased to $15,000 for single filers and $30,000 for married couples filing jointly. This increase allows taxpayers to shield a larger portion of their income from taxation, simplifying the tax process for those who do not itemize deductions.
Updates to Key Tax Credits: The IRS has made several changes to tax credits and deductions, including an increase in the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for families with three or more qualifying children to $8,046 and a rise in the adoption tax credit to $17,280. These updates aim to provide additional financial relief to eligible families.
Future Tax Implications: After 2025, individual tax rates and brackets will revert to pre-2017 levels unless Congress enacts new legislation. This could result in higher tax rates and reduced deductions for individuals and families, emphasizing the importance of tax planning in the lead-up to these changes.

Do the 2025 Tax Brackets Adjust for Inflation?

The IRS has adjusted the tax brackets for the 2025 tax year to reflect changes in inflation, resulting in increased income thresholds for all brackets. The term “width” of the brackets refers to the range between the minimum and maximum income within a specific bracket. These adjustments aim to prevent “bracket creep,” a scenario where inflation causes individuals to fall into higher tax brackets without an actual increase in their economic standing. This change ensures that individuals whose income does not significantly increase will not face higher tax rates.

For 2025, the income limits for each tax bracket will rise by about 2.8% from 2024. For example, single taxpayers in the 12% bracket will be taxed at this rate for incomes up to $48,475, an increase from $47,150 the previous year. The standard deduction has also been raised to $15,000 for single filers and $30,000 for married couples filing jointly, allowing taxpayers to shield a more significant portion of their income from taxes, thereby offering further relief.

2025 IRS Tax Brackets

The IRS has adjusted the tax brackets and standard deduction for the 2025 tax year to reflect inflation. This will affect tax returns filed in early 2026. Although the tax rates remain the same at 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%, the income levels for each bracket have increased by about 2.8% to offset inflation.

Here are the revised tax brackets for 2025:

Tax Brackets	For Single Filers	For Married Couples Filing Jointly	For Married but Filing Separately	For Heads of Household
10%	Income up to $11,925	Income up to $23,850	Income up to $11,925	Income up to $17,000
12%	$11,925 to $48,475	$23,850 to $96,950	$11,926 to $48,475	$17,001 to $64,850
22%	$48,475 to $103,350	$96,950 to $206,700	$48,476 to $103,350	$64,851 to $103,350
24%	$103,350 to $197,300	$206,700 to $394,600	$103,351 to $197,300	$103,351 to $197,300
32%	$197,300 to $250,525	$394,600 to $501,050	$197,301 to $250,500	$197,301 to $250,500
35%	$250,525 to $626,350	$501,050 to $751,600	$250,501 to $375,800	$250,501 to $626,350
37%	$626,350 and above	$751,600 and above	$375,801 and above	$626,351 and above

The standard deduction has also increased. Single filers now get a $15,000 deduction, up from $14,600. Married couples filing jointly receive a $30,000 deduction, up from $29,200. Heads of households can now claim a $22,500 deduction.

These tax rates are marginal, meaning the specified rate applies only to income within that bracket. For example, a married couple filing jointly with a taxable income of $100,000 would be in the 22% bracket. Only income within that range is taxed at 22%, with income below that bracket taxed at lower rates.

Updated 2025 Standard Deduction Amounts and Their Impact on Taxpayers

For the 2025 tax year, the IRS has updated the standard deduction amounts to accommodate inflation. Below are the adjusted figures:

Single filers: The standard deduction is now $15,000, up $400 from the 2024 amount.
Married couples filing jointly: The deduction has been raised to $30,000, an $800 increase from the previous year.
Married couples filing separately: Each spouse is eligible for a standard deduction of $15,000.
Heads of household: The deduction is now $22,500, $600 higher than in 2024.

The standard deduction simplifies reducing taxable income, as it does not require the taxpayer to itemize individual deductions. This feature is particularly beneficial for taxpayers with straightforward financial situations. For instance, a single filer earning $50,000 in 2025 would only be taxed on $35,000 of their income after applying the $15,000 standard deduction.

This increase in the standard deduction adjusts for inflation and serves as a key strategy for many to lower their tax bill, especially for those without significant expenses to itemize. Additionally, specific provisions for extra deductions remain in place for individuals 65 or older or legally blind, offering further tax relief for those who qualify.

Additional Key Tax Credit and Deduction Updates for 2025

For the 2025 tax year, the IRS has made several updates to tax credits and deductions to adjust for inflation:

Health Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): The contribution limit for health FSAs will increase to $3,300, a $100 rise from the previous year. The maximum carryover of unused FSA funds will also go up to $640, provided the employer’s plan permits it. These changes offer individuals more leeway in managing healthcare expenses without forfeiting unused funds each year.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): The maximum EITC for families with three or more qualifying children will be $8,046, up from $7,830 in 2024. Reduced amounts apply to those with fewer or no dependents, tailored to their income and filing status. The fully refundable EITC helps support low- and moderate-income families.
Estate Tax Exclusion: The tax exemption is set to rise to $13.99 million for individuals and $27.98 million for married couples, an increase from $13.61 million and $27.22 million, respectively, in 2024. This allows estates below these thresholds to pass on assets tax-free, while larger estates may be taxed up to 40%. This exemption is scheduled to decrease in 2026 unless legislative changes are made.
Adoption Credit: The tax credit will increase to $17,280, up from $16,810 in 2024. This nonrefundable credit is intended to help cover adoption-related expenses, such as legal fees and travel costs, and applies to all adopted children, including those with special needs. If the credit exceeds the taxes owed, it can be carried over to the next tax year.

These updates are designed to counteract bracket creep and maintain the tax system’s fairness. Individuals and families must consider these factors in their financial planning for 2025, especially those who might benefit from specific credits or are engaged in estate planning.

How Does the IRS Use the Chained CPI to Adjust Tax Brackets?

The IRS uses the Chained Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (C-CPI-U) to adjust annual tax brackets to reflect inflation. Published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the C-CPI-U differs from the more widely recognized Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U), which is used for other adjustments, such as Social Security’s cost-of-living increases.

The C-CPI-U provides a more accurate reflection of consumer spending habits by considering the substitutions consumers make in response to price changes. For example, if apples become more expensive, consumers might purchase more oranges if their prices remain steady. This flexibility allows the C-CPI-U to measure inflation more realistically, often showing lower inflation rates over time than the CPI-U, which assumes a fixed set of goods.

The IRS calculates annual adjustments based on the year-over-year change in the C-CPI-U from September of the previous year to August of the current year. For instance, the 2.8% increase in the tax brackets for 2025 is based on changes in the C-CPI-U between September 2023 and August 2024. These adjustments are designed to preserve the actual value of tax thresholds, preventing “bracket creep”—inflation could elevate taxpayers into higher tax brackets without an actual increase in their buying power.

The transition from the CPI-U to the C-CPI-U for tax adjustments was implemented as part of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). This change aims to curb inflation-driven increases to tax thresholds, ultimately increasing federal revenue by gradually reducing the pace at which these thresholds rise compared to adjustments based on the traditional CPI-U.

What Changes Will Occur to Individual Income Tax Rates and Brackets After 2025?

Following the expiration of the individual tax provisions under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 at the end of 2025, tax rates and brackets are scheduled to revert to their pre-2017 levels unless Congress takes action to extend them or make new changes. This will result in higher tax rates for individuals at various income levels starting in 2026. The current brackets, which include rates of 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%, will shift to 10%, 15%, 25%, 28%, 33%, 35%, and 39.6%. Additionally, income thresholds for these brackets will decrease, subjecting more income to higher tax rates. For instance, the 24% rate will rise to 28%, and the highest rate will increase to 39.6%.

Significant alterations are also anticipated regarding the standard deduction and personal exemptions. The previously removed personal exemptions will be restored, and the standard deduction—which the TCJA nearly doubled—will be drastically lowered. For instance, after accounting for inflation, the standard deduction for a married couple filing jointly is anticipated to drop from nearly $30,000 to about $16,000. The child tax credit will also decrease from $2,000 to $1,000 per child, which could substantially impact families with dependents.

Furthermore, the TCJA’s $10,000 cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions is also expiring, permitting the full deduction of these taxes once more, which is particularly beneficial for residents in high-tax states. The estate and gift tax exemptions will also revert from over $12 million per person to about $7 million, affecting estate planning for those with larger estates.

Financial advisors are recommending strategies such as accelerating income through Roth conversions and maximizing current estate exemptions before the changes in 2026. Without further legislative measures or extensions, the end of the TCJA provisions will result in a general increase in taxes, a rise in tax rates, and a reduction in deductions starting in 2026.

Conclusion

The new IRS tax brackets for 2025 reflect adjustments made for inflation, allowing taxpayers to navigate their financial planning more effectively. With a modest increase of approximately 2.8% in income thresholds and higher standard deductions, these changes aim to mitigate the effects of inflation on taxpayers’ financial burdens.

As individuals and families prepare for the upcoming tax year, understanding these updates is essential for optimizing tax strategies and ensuring compliance. Additionally, the anticipated expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provisions at the end of 2025 signals the need for proactive tax planning, as future changes could lead to increased tax liabilities. Staying informed and adjusting financial strategies accordingly will be vital in managing tax obligations effectively in the years ahead.

Also read: Tax Calculator: 2022-2023 Refund and Tax Estimator

PayPal Drops Fundraiser Tool on App

PayPal recently announced it will discontinue its fundraiser tool on the app, ending a service that allowed users to raise money for personal causes directly on the platform. Launched initially to enable small-scale fundraising, this tool gave users a convenient way to support family or community needs.

Critics and industry observers note this decision could stem from factors such as compliance challenges, operational costs, or a strategic shift to differentiate PayPal from crowdfunding competitors like GoFundMe.

Key Takeaways

End of Fundraisers Feature: PayPal announced it is phasing out its in-app fundraising tool, stopping new campaigns as of October 7, 2024, and requiring funds to be withdrawn by January 12, 2025.
Alternative Fundraising Options: PayPal encourages users to shift to its Generosity Network for broader reach or use PayPal.Me for more private fundraising, providing alternatives to support individual or community needs.
Focus on Charitable Giving: Despite the feature removal, PayPal remains committed to charity through the PayPal Giving Fund and partnerships, allowing users to donate directly to verified nonprofits without transaction fees.
Strategic Shift and Compliance: The decision to focus on official charitable giving channels may align with regulatory, operational, or strategic goals, differentiating PayPal from crowdfunding-only platforms like GoFundMe.

Image source

PayPal Discontinues Fundraisers Feature, Redirecting Users to Alternative Options for Charitable Giving

In October 2024, PayPal announced discontinuing its “Fundraisers” feature within the app, which previously allowed users to launch fundraising campaigns for personal causes or charities. Starting October 7, users cannot start new campaigns, and active fundraisers will conclude by the end of October. Users are required to transfer their collected funds to their personal PayPal accounts by January 12, 2025. After this date, PayPal will automatically move any remaining funds.

A PayPal spokesperson explained that the decision to end the Fundraisers feature is part of an effort to refine and advance their service offerings. The spokesperson highlighted that customers still have multiple options to support charities, including using the ‘donate’ button in the app, which connects them to over a million charitable organizations.

PayPal suggests that users who previously used the Fundraisers tool for more minor or individual causes should consider switching to the Generosity Network for a wider audience or utilizing direct payment methods like PayPal.Me for more private fundraising efforts.

PayPal’s fundraising feature once functioned similarly to GoFundMe, enabling users to raise money for personal causes like medical bills or sudden financial challenges directly within the app. For instance, one campaign was created by a user recovering from a serious motorcycle accident caused by a teenager driving an SUV at high speeds.

The tool provided options to publicly share fundraisers for a fee or privately to a select group without cost, catering to those who preferred privacy or wider exposure. However, unlike GoFundMe, which focuses solely on fundraising, PayPal’s broader array of financial services may have influenced its decision to phase out this feature. Despite this change, PayPal maintains its commitment to charitable activities, collaborating with reputable charities and integrating with Meta platforms for fee-free donations to nonprofit organizations, thus ensuring greater visibility for these causes.

The elimination of the individual fundraising feature might be due to regulatory concerns and PayPal’s strategic shift towards facilitating more organized, official forms of charitable giving. PayPal continues to support fundraising through mechanisms like the PayPal Giving Fund and tailored donation processes that allow users to contribute to a large network of vetted nonprofits. When donations are made through PayPal’s platform, the company absorbs all transaction fees (provided there’s no currency exchange), ensuring that 100% of donations go directly to the charity.

Receiving Donations Through the PayPal Fundraiser Tool

Charities engaged with PayPal Fundraisers will see their donation receipt process vary depending on whether they are enrolled with the PayPal Giving Fund (PPGF).

Enrolled Charities:

These charities have a PayPal business account and have accepted PPGF’s terms. Donations are deposited directly into their PayPal accounts, usually around the 25th of each month. This schedule includes funds collected from the 16th of the previous month to the 15th of the current month.

The transfer method is electronic, which is quick and ensures funds are available without significant delays. Enrolled charities can also monitor their donations via a dashboard in their PayPal account.

Unenrolled Charities:

While not enrolled, these charities still receive funds collected by PPGF as long as they are verified for tax-exempt status through databases like GuideStar. For these charities, donations are sent as physical checks to the address registered with GuideStar, typically within 90 days of the donation. Should issues arise with the address or if checks are returned, PayPal might redirect these funds if the charity does not respond or update its information timely.

Charities not yet enrolled are advised to consider enrollment to benefit from quicker, more secure payment processing and enhanced tracking capabilities, including access to donor information where allowed. While enrollment is not mandatory, it greatly aids in the efficient receipt of funds from PPGF.

About PayPal

PayPal Holdings, Inc. provides a global platform supporting digital payments for merchants and consumers. This system allows users to send and receive payments online or in person, drawing from various funding sources such as bank accounts, PayPal or Venmo balances, credit and debit cards, and even cryptocurrencies.

PayPal operates a two-sided network that links consumers and merchants, enhancing payment efficiency and convenience. It offers a range of services under brands like Braintree, Xoom, Zettle, and Hyperwallet in addition to PayPal and Venmo. Founded in 1998, PayPal’s headquarters are in San Jose, California.

Conclusion

The discontinuation of PayPal’s fundraiser feature represents a shift in the company’s approach to personal fundraising and reflects a focus on streamlining its core services. While users may no longer launch personal campaigns directly on the platform, PayPal offers alternative options through tools like the Generosity Network and direct donation methods.

These channels allow individuals and organizations to continue supporting charitable causes in ways that align with PayPal’s updated service model. Through collaborations with vetted nonprofits and the PayPal Giving Fund, PayPal remains committed to facilitating charitable giving on a larger scale, aiming to meet regulatory standards while providing transparency and efficiency for both donors and beneficiaries.

E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders

In October 2024, health authorities confirmed an E. coli O157 outbreak associated with McDonald’s Quarter Pounders, impacting 49 people in 10 U.S. states, such as Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska. The outbreak has resulted in one fatality and ten hospitalizations. The potential contamination sources under investigation include the quarter-pound meat patties and the slivered onions in the burgers.

Key Takeaways

E. coli Outbreak Impact: The October 2024 E. coli O157 outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders affected 49 people across ten states, resulting in one fatality and multiple hospitalizations.
Potential Contamination Sources: Investigations are focused on quarter-pound beef patties and slivered onions as potential sources, while other McDonald’s beef products and diced onions remain unaffected.
McDonald’s Response: McDonald’s promptly removed Quarter Pounders from around 20% of its locations and is collaborating with federal agencies to ensure food safety and prevent further contamination.
Food Safety Precautions: Experts emphasize cooking beef to at least 160°F and practicing strict hygiene when handling raw food to reduce the risk of E. coli infections.

Background on E. coli

E. coli (Escherichia coli) is a type of bacteria often present in the digestive tracts of humans and animals. Most E. coli strains are harmless; however, the E. coli O157 strain associated with this recent outbreak produces a potent toxin that can lead to serious health issues. Consumption of foods tainted with this strain may cause symptoms including bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, and vomiting. Extreme cases can escalate to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that may induce kidney failure and has been fatal in instances tied to this outbreak.

E. coli in food often stems from the handling and processing stages, especially with meats like ground beef. During these processes, bacteria from the meat’s surface can be mixed into the meat. If the meat is not sufficiently cooked, the bacteria remain active and harmful if ingested. Additionally, under suspicion in this scenario, vegetables such as onions might become contaminated through contact with contaminated water or surfaces during their preparation.

McDonald’s Removes Quarter Pounders in Several States Amid E Coli Outbreak

McDonald’s has removed Quarter Pounders from the menu in approximately 20% of its locations. The company has ceased using both the onions and the quarter-pound beef patties in several states, including Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, and parts of Iowa, Idaho, Montana, Missouri, Nevada, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, pending further investigation, according to the CDC.

The CDC notes that these beef patties are exclusively used in Quarter Pounders, and the slivered onions are mainly for this menu item, not other products. According to the FDA, diced onions and other beef patty types at McDonald’s are not linked to the outbreak.

Additionally, as stated in their recent announcement, Taylor Farms Colorado, a McDonald’s supplier, has voluntarily withdrawn yellow onions from sale as a precautionary measure.

A spokesperson from Taylor Farms stated that their testing of raw and processed onions showed no presence of E. coli. They noted that they had not previously encountered E. coli O157 in onions. The spokesperson also mentioned that Taylor Farms cooperates with the FDA and CDC throughout the investigation. They emphasized that the company prioritizes the health and safety of its consumers and the quality of its products.

In a video statement, McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger noted that most states and menu items remain unaffected by the outbreak. He clarified that other beef products like hamburgers, cheeseburgers, McDouble, Big Mac, and double cheeseburgers are safe to consume, as they utilize different types of onion.

Erlinger expressed the company’s intent to swiftly restore the full menu in the impacted states, highlighting these measures as a testament to McDonald’s dedication to food safety.

He also mentioned that Quarter Pounder hamburgers are a key product for McDonald’s, generating substantial revenue annually. Notably, in 2018, McDonald’s introduced fresh beef for its Quarter Pounders in most U.S. locations.

McDonald’s has swiftly addressed the situation, voluntarily suspending the use of suspected ingredients and working with federal and state authorities to identify and mitigate risks. McDonald’s also implemented enhanced sanitation and cooking protocols at affected restaurants to control further contamination. The fast-food giant has emphasized its commitment to customer safety, assuring the public that it closely monitors developments and will take additional measures if needed.

In light of the outbreak, food safety experts stress the importance of properly cooking beef to an internal temperature of at least 160°F to kill harmful bacteria. Consumers are also urged to remain vigilant when handling raw food at home and thoroughly wash hands and kitchen surfaces to prevent cross-contamination.

This is not the first time a major fast-food chain has been linked to an E. coli outbreak. The most notorious case occurred in 1993 when Jack in the Box experienced an outbreak of E. coli O157 due to undercooked hamburgers. That outbreak led to over 700 illnesses and four deaths, prompting widespread changes in food safety regulations, including stricter guidelines for cooking temperatures and food handling practices.

McDonald’s had a prior E. coli-related incident in 1982, where contaminated beef patties caused an outbreak that sickened 47 people. This history has led to heightened scrutiny of fast-food supply chains and cooking protocols, particularly regarding ground beef, which poses a higher risk of contamination due to the grinding process mixing bacteria throughout the meat.

The CDC and FDA play critical roles in managing foodborne outbreaks. When a potential outbreak is detected, these agencies work closely with local health departments to collect data, conduct interviews with affected individuals, and trace the source of the contamination. Once the source is identified, regulatory agencies issue warnings and recalls to prevent further spread.

The CDC’s PulseNet system is essential in tracking foodborne pathogens. PulseNet uses DNA fingerprinting to identify outbreaks by comparing bacterial strains from infected patients. This system was instrumental in linking the E. coli strain to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders during the current outbreak.

While McDonald’s and other fast-food chains have implemented stricter food safety measures over the years, outbreaks like this highlight the ongoing challenges in preventing contamination in large-scale food production. Ground beef and fresh vegetables, particularly those eaten raw, remain vulnerable to contamination at various points in the supply chain.

In the wake of this outbreak, there may be renewed calls for tighter food production and handling regulations. Some experts advocate for more rigorous inspections of meat processing plants and better tracking of fresh produce to prevent contamination before it reaches restaurants.

Consumers can also prevent foodborne illnesses by following proper food safety practices at home. These include cooking meat to the recommended temperatures, washing vegetables and fruits thoroughly, and avoiding cross-contamination between cooked and raw foods.

How Can You Prevent E coli Outbreak and Infection?

To reduce the risk of E. coli infections, the CDC advises taking the following precautions:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom, changing diapers, or touching animals or their living spaces. It’s also crucial to clean your hands before preparing or eating food.
Exercise caution when handling raw meats. Use a food thermometer to verify that ground beef and other meats reach a minimum internal temperature of 160°F. Don’t rely on the meat’s color to determine if it’s adequately cooked, as this can be misleading.
Do not consume raw milk, unpasteurized dairy products, or juices; these items can contain harmful bacteria, including E. coli.
Refrain from ingesting water from lakes, rivers, swimming pools, or kiddie pools, as they may be contaminated with E. coli. Also, ensure your drinking water is safe, mainly if the water quality is questionable or you are traveling outside the U.S.
When preparing food, prevent cross-contamination by sanitizing surfaces, utensils, and your hands after they come into contact with raw meat.

Conclusion

The recent E. coli outbreak associated with McDonald’s Quarter Pounders highlights the persistent difficulties in maintaining food safety within the fast-food sector. While McDonald’s has taken swift action to address the issue, including removing Quarter Pounders in affected states and enhancing safety protocols, the situation highlights the vulnerabilities in large-scale food production, especially with items like ground beef and fresh vegetables.

Consumers also play a vital role in preventing foodborne illnesses by adhering to recommended safety practices, such as proper cooking and hygiene measures. This incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and potential regulatory improvements to safeguard public health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tervis Tumbler Co. Bankruptcy

This year has seen numerous store closures and bankruptcy declarations. Tervis Tumbler, a well-known Florida company recognized for its double-walled tumblers, is the latest to declare bankruptcy.

Operating from North Venice, the company seeks to restructure under Chapter 11 to support potential growth. It has also notified the state of an impending significant layoff, though it intends to retain a fundamental team of employees across all departments as it undergoes bankruptcy proceedings.

Key Takeaways

Chapter 11 Filing for Restructuring: Tervis Tumbler Co. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to restructure its finances, citing changes in consumer behavior, increased competition, and ongoing legal disputes as key contributors to its financial struggles.
Significant Debt and Revenue Decline: Tervis faces approximately $32.75 million in debt and has seen a sharp decline in revenue, dropping from $90 million in 2022 to around $33 million in 2024, mainly due to competition from stainless-steel drinkware brands.
Cost-Cutting Measures and Layoffs: To reduce expenses, Tervis plans to cut employee salaries and lay off a significant portion of its workforce while maintaining a core team for ongoing operations during the bankruptcy proceedings.
Focus on Restructuring and New Product Lines: As part of its recovery strategy, Tervis aims to pivot towards home-use products with a new sub-brand, TervisHome, while continuing to restructure its operations for long-term stability.

Tervis Tumbler Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Amid Financial Challenges and Legal Dispute

Tervis, a long-standing Venice-based manufacturer of double-walled drinkware, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The company has been in business since 1946 and owes about $32.75 million to creditors. Key issues contributing to the bankruptcy include changing consumer shopping patterns, increasing competition, and a lengthy legal dispute with a vendor.

Hosana Fieber and Tervis Chairman Rogan Donelly describe the Chapter 11 filing as a tough but essential move to stabilize the finances of their family-owned company, now in its third generation. Donelly mentioned that they do not plan to seek external investment for post-bankruptcy operations, intending to keep the business within the family.

Despite the challenges, Donelly emphasizes the brand’s resilience, noting Tervis’s 78-year history and adaptability through various economic climates. He views the bankruptcy as a strategic decision to maintain the company’s heritage and improve its future stability and growth prospects.

Fieber expressed confidence in the restructuring process, aiming for a swift exit from bankruptcy within three to six months. She highlighted that this period would provide a crucial pause, allowing the company to emerge more robust. In line with focusing on core strengths, Tervis plans to focus more on products designed for home use rather than mobile scenarios. This strategic pivot includes launching a new sub-brand, TervisHome, and introducing a new line of products next year.

Tervis, once a major employer in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, expanded rapidly, particularly after launching its retail presence in stores like Bealls in 2009. During the pandemic, the company saw a rise in online sales, with e-commerce growing from 15% in 2019 to 21% in 2021. Tervis invested in a new distribution center at its Venice facility to keep up with demand. However, the post-pandemic shift in consumer spending, which favored experiences and services over products, led to a sharp decline in revenue, dropping from $90 million in 2022 to approximately $33 million by mid-2024.

Closing major retail partners like Bed Bath & Beyond in 2023 also impacted Tervis’ revenue. In response, the company sold its distribution center property for $15.35 million in August 2023 and now leases back a portion of the space. Tervis currently rents 60,000 square feet for its headquarters, paying around $70,000 monthly.

Tervis also operates several retail stores in Osprey, Ellenton, Panama City Beach, Key West, Frankenmuth, St. Augustine, Michigan; Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. According to court filings, the rent for these stores currently costs $75,000 monthly, but it is expected to drop to $50,000 by early November.

During the bankruptcy process, Tervis has sought court approval to maintain employee salaries. As of the bankruptcy announcement, Tervis had 129 employees, with anticipated job reductions to lower expenses. The company’s biweekly payroll, currently at $305,000, is expected to decrease to $205,000 by early November.

Tervis Tumbler Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

Image source

CEO Hosana Fieber, who assumed her role in October 2023, has an annual salary of $425,000, down from $499,266. Former CEO and current board member Norbert R. Donelly earns $350,000 annually, while his father, chairman emeritus Norbert P. Donelly, receives $250,000 annually. Both have postponed their pay amid the company’s reorganization efforts.

Tervis is facing about $27.8 million in unsecured debts. Its largest creditor is TMF Plastics, which is owed more than $10.1 million. United Community Bank holds a lien on the company’s accounts receivable and inventory worth $4.95 million. Tervis’s total assets are valued at approximately $15.7 million. A crucial meeting with creditors occurred in early October during the restructuring process.

Company revenue has fallen significantly, from $90 million in 2022 to $33 million in 2024, impacted by changes in consumer preferences and increased competition in the drinkware industry. Challenges have intensified with competitors’ entry of stainless-steel products. Tervis has been experiencing difficulties for several years due to evolving industry dynamics and an ongoing legal dispute with a vendor.

Between 2011 and 2015, Tervis experienced rapid growth, but challenges arose with the advent of stainless steel drinkware competitors like Yeti, Hydroflask, and Swell beginning in 2014. These brands quickly captured significant market share, placing Tervis in a challenging position as demand shifted away from its traditional plastic tumblers toward stainless steel options.

To adapt, Tervis entered the stainless steel market in 2017, moving away from its “Made in the USA” promise to source tumblers from China. This transition initiated a challenging phase for Tervis, struggling to match the established brands in terms of quality and price. Issues like chipping and peeling plagued their stainless steel products, problems that were not effectively addressed until 2023.

Complicating matters further, Tervis ended its partnership with SIC Products LLC, the supplier of its stainless steel tumblers, in 2017 due to disagreements over pricing. The following year, SIC Products filed a lawsuit against Tervis, alleging breach of contract and accusing the company of producing imitation products. This legal battle, which had been ongoing for over six years, was still unresolved as of September 2024. It was scheduled for trial on September 23. Still, the proceedings were halted due to Tervis’s bankruptcy filing, which officials described as “burdensome” in their statements to the Business Observer and during interviews.

Despite these issues, the leadership remains hopeful about the company’s potential to restructure and recover.

Upcoming Layoffs at Tervis Impacting Multiple Positions in Tampa Bay and Sarasota

The company reports employing 131 individuals in the Tampa Bay and Sarasota regions. They plan to lay off 55 employees on November 11, four on December 14, and another on December 20.

The layoffs will affect various job titles, such as Assistant Store Manager, Accounts Coordinator, Key Holder, and Store Manager.

About Tervis Tumbler Co.

Tervis Tumbler, a family-owned company based in Florida, has produced durable and insulated drinkware since 1946. Known for their original double-walled tumblers, which help maintain the temperature of hot and cold drinks, Tervis offers a wide range of products, including tumblers, mugs, water bottles, and drinkware for kids. Their products are available in thousands of designs, allowing customers to express their style.

The company’s headquarters reflect the relaxed Florida lifestyle, providing a casual work environment that supports individual growth and overall success. Tervis also operates retail stores in various well-known cities across the U.S. and offers employees competitive pay, benefits, and a generous discount on its products.

Conclusion

Tervis Tumbler Co.’s bankruptcy filing under Chapter 11 marks a significant turning point for the company as it seeks to stabilize and adapt to a changing market. Focusing on restructuring, reducing overhead, and pivoting towards new product lines, Tervis aims to emerge more robust and focused from this period.

While the company faces challenges from increased competition, shifting consumer preferences, and ongoing legal disputes, its leadership remains committed to retaining the brand’s legacy and positioning it for future growth. The coming months will be critical in determining the company’s long-term viability.

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Background on E. coli

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Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

Tervis Tumbler Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Amid Financial Challenges and Legal Dispute

Upcoming Layoffs at Tervis Impacting Multiple Positions in Tampa Bay and Sarasota

About Tervis Tumbler Co.

Conclusion

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