Author name: Business Summit

Have you ever questioned why you consistently miss growth opportunities, struggle with limited support, and maintain low industry visibility? The answer often lies in a lack of networking know-how. The exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions and specifically the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or businesses is how Marian Webster defines Networking. This article delves into the power of your network, demonstrating how you can leverage it to attract clients and investors, and foster business growth. Numerous factors might be hindering your access to clients and potential partners or investors, thereby affecting the growth your business truly deserves. The key lies in implementing the strategies we’ll explore below. Establish Distinct Goals Ask yourself what you aim to achieve through these interactions. Are you seeking to connect with potential clients, explore job opportunities, or gain industry insights? Having clear objectives provides direction and purpose to your networking efforts. According to a study by Arvey, Dewhirst, and Boling, being specific about your goals significantly boosts motivation in organizations. Rather than pursuing vague aspirations, setting specific goals can genuinely motivate you to attain them so begin by defining your goals. Attend Events, Summits and Conferences These gatherings provide a unique opportunity to meet peers, mentors, and potential clients face-to-face, bypassing lengthy paperwork and bureaucracy. You get to discuss common interests and challenges and it’s a level playing field for everyone, offering valuable knowledge-sharing opportunities. In-person interactions foster trust between people because they enable individuals to gauge body language, tone, and facial expressions, which can convey sincerity and authenticity in ways that digital communication often cannot. Leverage online platforms In the digital age, networking platforms like LinkedIn and other similar social media platforms can help you connect with people worldwide. You can share your knowledge, join groups related to your interests, and make friends who might become your clients or partners. According to Hootsuite, LinkedIn currently has over 800 million users, and LinkedIn users live in more than 200 countries and regions around the world. This is a great opportunity to expand your network. Additionally, 8 people are hired through LinkedIn every minute. Be an effective communicator If you come across a pair of sneakers that were supposed to be Adidas but are misspelt as “Abbibas,” you’d likely doubt the authenticity of the product and might decide not to make the purchase. Similarly, poor communication can create doubt and hinder effective networking. Just as a simple misspelling can raise concerns about a product, unclear or ineffective communication can cast doubt on your intentions and the potential success of your efforts to network. In essence, effective communication involves language mastery, listening actively, asking questions, showing interest, building trust, and fostering rapport. Join professional organizations Being a member of professional organizations relevant to your field, such as lawyers’ associations, banking groups, or business chambers, can offer you a valuable network of like-minded individuals and essential resources. These organizations not only provide opportunities for networking but also serve as a shield against external challenges and promote accountability within the group. After making connections, follow up promptly by sending a thank-you note, email, or message. This simple act demonstrates your sincerity and helps maintain the connection. Additionally, continuously educate yourself about your industry, market trends, and current events. Being well-informed makes your conversations more engaging. Furthermore, networking is an ongoing process, and consistency is key. Regularly nurture your connections, and you’ll find that your network becomes more robust over time. Our Business Summit scheduled for February 15, 2024, offers an excellent platform to put the networking strategies you’ve learned into practice. It presents an opportunity to connect with investors and influential business owners who can assist with funding and support your business expansion efforts. Get your ticket here and reserve your spot.

Your business is like a thriving garden, with each branch representing a potential avenue for growth. Knowing the right strategies for business expansion is what will help nurture your business into a lush, expansive forest. In this article, we’ll provide you with the essential strategies and insights to transform your business into a flourishing empire. Business expansion occurs when a business has reached a growth stage and actively explores additional avenues to increase profitability. It involves various strategies and actions aimed at increasing a business’s market presence, revenue, and profitability. Business expansion can take many forms, and here are some key strategies below Strategic Partnerships This involves collaborating with other businesses or forming alliances to access new markets, technologies, or distribution channels. A good example is the Apple and IBM Partnership In 2014, Apple and IBM announced a partnership to develop mobile apps for enterprise customers. By 2020, the partnership had generated over 500 mobile apps tailored for various industries, enhancing business productivity and efficiency. Nike and Apple also joined forces to create the Nike+ ecosystem, which includes sports-tracking apps and wearable technology. Nike reported a 75% increase in its digital business after launching the partnership. E-commerce and Online Presence According to Statista, Global E-commerce sales are projected to reach $6.4 trillion by 2024, reflecting the significant growth potential of online business expansion. E-commerce and online presence are pivotal for business expansion. They enable companies to reach a global audience, operate 24/7, reduce costs, and gather valuable customer data for informed decision-making. E-commerce is a scalable, cost-effective strategy that facilitates business expansion. Funding and Investment Funding and investment serve as strategic tools for business expansion. By attracting investors who are willing to buy a share of ownership in your company, or by obtaining grants, companies can fuel their growth ambitions. This capital infusion enables the development of new products, expansion into new markets, and scaling operations globally. This is where you can leverage our upcoming summit to get the funding you deserve. Gain access to ready investors, make your pitch, get funded and expand your business. Diversification Diversification is a strategic approach where a business expands its product or service offerings to enter new markets or appeal to different customer segments. McDonald’s has expanded its menu from hamburgers and fries to include breakfast items, salads, and even coffee. This diversification appeals to a broader range of customers throughout the day. Tesla was initially focused on electric cars, Tesla diversified into energy products like solar panels and energy storage. This diversification supports the company’s vision of sustainable energy. Offering a variety of products or services can create cross-selling opportunities. Customers who buy one product may be more inclined to purchase others from the same business, increasing overall sales. In conclusion, effective planning, a strategic approach, and the right tools are essential for business expansion. From strategic partnerships to e-commerce, funding, diversification, and franchising, these strategies and diligent market research provide a roadmap to growth and profitability. By embracing these approaches and listening to customer feedback, companies can thrive, ultimately nurturing your business into a global conglomerate. Reserve a seat in our next business submit if you think you are ready to get funded

According to Gullap, more than 61% of investors have their money in stock. What motivates so many investors to invest in the stock market? Over the long term, stocks have the highest potential for growth (capital appreciation) for investors. Long-term stock investors who are willing to keep their investments for, say, 15 years, usually get good returns on their money. When properly diversified, a portfolio that includes stocks can provide significant returns. You can increase your savings, shield your funds from inflation and taxes, and increase the return on your investments by purchasing stocks in a variety of companies. It’s critical to understand that there are dangers associated with stock market investing. Understanding the risk/reward relationship and your own risk tolerance is important before making any investment. It’s no secret that the stock market has been on a roller coaster ride over the past few months. The coronavirus pandemic has caused unprecedented upheaval and uncertainty, leading many investors to wonder if now is a good time to invest in stocks. The stock market has been on a tear lately, and there are signs that the good times could continue for a while. If you’re thinking about investing in stocks, now is a great time to do so. Here’s why. The economy is strong. One of the reasons why now is a great time to invest in stocks is that the economy is currently doing well. The economy is expected to continue growing at a moderate pace in spite of some headwinds. Inflation is expected to remain low, which is good news for investors. Unemployment is also expected to stay low, although interest rates are expected to rise. All in all, this is positive news for the stock market. Of course, no one can accurately predict the future. However, these economic ratings can give you a general idea of where the market is headed. As an investor, it’s important to stay up-to-date on these things so that you can make the best decisions with your money. The job market is strong, and wages are rising. This bodes well for company profits and, by extension, stock prices. When the economy is doing well, stocks tend to go up. Interest rates are low. Another reason to consider investing in stocks now is that interest rates are still relatively low. This makes stocks more attractive relative to other investments like bonds. Interest rates have been at historical lows since the pandemic started. The Federal Reserve has said that they do not foresee raising interest rates until 2023 at the earliest. However, there are some experts who believe that inflation will start to rise in 2022 due to the increase in government spending associated with stimulus bills. If this happens, we could see interest rates start to rise as well. When rates are low, it’s cheaper for companies to borrow money and invest in growth initiatives. This can lead to higher profits and share prices down the road. Stocks are relatively cheap right now. Despite the recent run-up in stock prices, valuations are still relatively reasonable right now. This means that there’s potential for further upside in the months and years ahead as company fundamentals continue to improve. While there’s no such thing as a sure thing, buying stocks when they’re cheap can help increase your chances of making money over the long run. Many experts believe that we are currently in a “bear market,” which is defined as a decline of at least 20% from the highest point. Bear markets usually have a lot of ups and downs, and they can last for months or even years. There’s no easy answer when it comes to whether or not now is a good time to invest in stocks. However, it’s important to keep in mind that bear markets are also opportunities for long-term investors to buy stocks at a discount. It is also a great time to do so thanks to a strong economy, low interest rates, and reasonable valuations. Of course, no one can predict the future with 100% accuracy. If you’re planning on investing for the long haul, then now may be a good time to start buying stocks, as they are likely to rebound in the future. It’s also important to make sure you have a solid financial foundation in place before investing, and to consult with a financial advisor if you’re unsure about whether or not it’s right for you.

The oil and gas sector have long been a mainstay of the global economy, and they show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Fossil fuels, such as oil and natural gas, continue to be in high demand because they are typically less expensive than alternative heating and transportation fuels. In comparison to clean fuels like solar and wind power, which are just starting to gain traction, they also have a significant infrastructure advantage. Despite recent challenges, the sector is still expected to grow significantly in the coming years. This makes it an attractive option for investors—especially investors looking to generate high returns. The oil and gas sector offers a number of advantages for investors. First, the sector is large and growing. Global demand for energy is expected to increase by nearly 30% by 2040, according to the International Energy Agency. This means that there will be continued opportunities for companies operating in the sector to grow their businesses. As public awareness of the impact of climate change grows , so too does pressure on companies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions . In response , many firms in the oil and gas sector have set ambitious emission reduction targets . For example , Shell has pledged to become “a net-zero emissions energy business” by 2050, while ExxonMobil has committed to reducing its emissions by 15% by 2025 . These initiatives present both risks and opportunities for investors . On one hand , strict emissions regulations could lead to higher costs for energy companies . On the other hand , those who are able to successfully navigate this new landscape could be well positioned for long-term success . Second, the oil and gas sector is relatively stable compared to other sectors of the economy. While commodity prices can fluctuate, they have generally trended upwards over time. This makes investing in the sector a relatively safe bet. Emerging markets such as India, China, Brazil, Mexico, and Pakistan are expected to drive much of the growth in demand for oil and gas over the next few years. These countries are experiencing rapid economic expansion coupled with population growth, which is resulting in increased energy consumption. According to some estimates , energy demand in emerging markets could increase by as much as 50% by 2040 . This presents a big opportunity for investors looking to get involved in the sector. Third, the oil and gas sector offers investors a number of different ways to make money. For instance, companies can earn revenue from exploration, production, refining, marketing, and transportation activities. This diversification provides a degree of protection against downside risk. The oil and gas industry is also undergoing a digital transformation as companies look to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety. Digital technologies such as automation, data analytics, and machine learning are being used to manage every aspect of the exploration, production, transportation, and refining process. As a result, many companies are now using fewer resources and getting better results. Fourth, the oil and gas sector is global in scope. Companies operating in the sector have access to markets all over the world. This gives them a significant competitive advantage over companies operating in other sectors. The oil and gas industry is a cornerstone of the global economy, accounting for more than $1.7 trillion in revenue each year. The sector directly employs more than 10 million people around the world and supports nearly 100 million jobs indirectly. What’s more, oil and gas companies make up a significant portion of many stock indexes, including the S&P 500 Index. This means that these companies have a big impact on overall market performance. Finally, the oil and gas sector offers investors attractive returns. Over the past 10 years, shares of oil and gas companies have outperformed the broader stock market by a wide margin. As the need for energy grows around the world, this outperformance is likely to continue in the future.

Market Research: Before embarking on any global expansion, thorough market research is paramount. Understand the cultural, economic, and regulatory nuances of your target markets. Identify local competitors, consumer behaviors, and potential risks. A comprehensive understanding of the market landscape will be the foundation of your expansion strategy. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Navigating the legal landscape of a new country can be complex. Ensure compliance with local laws, regulations, and licensing requirements. Consult with legal experts who specialize in international business to mitigate potential risks and streamline the entry process. Cultural Adaptation: Cultural sensitivity is key to building strong relationships in new markets. Tailor your products, services, and marketing strategies to resonate with local customs and preferences. Hiring local talent who understands the cultural nuances can also be instrumental in bridging the gap between your business and the new market. Strategic Partnerships: Building strategic partnerships with local businesses or distributors can expedite your market entry and enhance your understanding of the local business landscape. Seek partners who share your values and vision, and whose expertise complements your own. Technology Integration: Leverage technology to facilitate global operations. Implement robust communication tools, project management systems, and data analytics to ensure seamless coordination across different time zones and geographies. Cloud-based solutions can be particularly beneficial in this regard. Risk Management: Global expansion inherently involves risks, from currency fluctuations to geopolitical uncertainties. Develop a comprehensive risk management strategy that includes contingency plans for potential challenges. Stay agile and responsive to changes in the global business environment. Employee Training and Development: Your workforce is a critical asset in global expansion. Invest in comprehensive training programs to equip your employees with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of working in a global context. Foster a culture that values diversity and promotes cross-cultural understanding. Customer Support and Service: Provide excellent customer support tailored to the needs of your global customer base. Multilingual customer service and localized support can go a long way in building trust and loyalty among international customers. Conclusion: Embarking on a journey of global expansion is a bold and strategic move for any business. Success in the global marketplace requires a combination of meticulous planning, cultural sensitivity, and a proactive approach to challenges. By embracing these considerations and strategies, businesses can position themselves for growth and longevity on the global stage.

In our increasingly interconnected world, international transactions have become an integral part of both personal and business finances. Whether you’re sending money overseas, making a purchase from an international vendor, or conducting business on a global scale, it’s crucial to be well informed to ensure smooth and secure transactions. Here are five essential things you should know before engaging in international financial activities. Understand Currency Exchange Rates: Transaction Fees and Hidden Costs: Security and Fraud Prevention: Compliance with Regulations: Consider Alternative Payment Methods: Navigating international transactions requires careful consideration of exchange rates, fees, security measures, regulatory compliance, and available payment methods. By staying informed and making well-informed choices, you can conduct international transactions confidently and efficiently. Whether you’re an individual sending money to family abroad or a business expanding its global reach, these considerations will help you navigate the complex landscape of international finance.

Welcome to 2024! As the calendar turns, it’s the perfect time for businesses to reassess their goals, reevaluate their strategies, and embark on a journey of expansion and success. In the dynamic landscape of 2024, where markets are evolving rapidly, adopting innovative approaches is crucial for sustained growth. we’ll explore key strategies to propel your business forward and ensure a prosperous New Year. 1. Embrace Digital Transformation: In an era dominated by technology, businesses that leverage digital tools and platforms have a competitive edge. Invest in upgrading your technology infrastructure, explore e-commerce solutions, and enhance your online presence. From social media marketing to e-commerce platforms, embracing digital transformation will widen your reach and connect you with a broader audience. 2. Customer-Centric Approach: Customer satisfaction and loyalty are the cornerstones of business success. Ensure your business is customer-centric by actively seeking feedback, addressing concerns promptly, and personalizing your interactions. A happy customer is not only a repeat customer but also a powerful brand advocate. Prioritize customer experience to foster long-term relationships and encourage word-of-mouth referrals. 3. Expand Your Product/Service Offerings: Diversifying your product or service portfolio can open new avenues for revenue. Conduct market research to identify gaps or emerging trends, and tailor your offerings accordingly. This expansion not only attracts new customers but also keeps existing ones engaged. Consider bundling products, introducing new features, or collaborating with complementary businesses to enhance your value proposition. 4. Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations: Forge strategic partnerships with other businesses in your industry or related sectors. Collaborations can lead to shared resources, increased exposure, and access to new customer bases. Look for mutually beneficial partnerships that align with your brand values and business objectives. Joint ventures, co-marketing campaigns, or cross-promotions can amplify your reach and drive growth. 5. Invest in Employee Development: Your team is a valuable asset, and investing in their skills and well-being pays dividends. Provide training programs, and mentorship opportunities, and create a positive work environment. An engaged and skilled workforce is more productive, creative, and adaptable to changes, fostering a culture of innovation that propels your business forward. 6. Localized Marketing Strategies: Tailor your marketing efforts to specific regions or demographics. Localized marketing strategies resonate more with diverse audiences and create a sense of community. Utilize regional events, sponsorships, and partnerships to establish a local presence and build trust within communities. 7. Data-Driven Decision Making: Harness the power of data analytics to make informed business decisions. Analyzing customer behavior, market trends, and operational metrics enables you to identify opportunities and address challenges. Implementing data-driven strategies enhances efficiency, minimizes risks, and positions your business for sustained growth. As you step into the New Year, remember that business expansion requires a combination of innovation, adaptability, and strategic thinking. By embracing digital transformation, prioritizing customer satisfaction, diversifying your offerings, and fostering strategic partnerships, your business can thrive in the dynamic landscape of 2024. Here’s to a year of growth, success, and unparalleled achievements!

Expanding your business can be an exciting venture, but it’s crucial to approach it with careful planning and consideration. Before taking the leap, there are several key factors you need to assess to ensure a successful expansion. In this blog post, we’ll delve into 10 crucial considerations that every business owner should keep in mind before committing to expansion. Expanding your business is a significant step that requires careful planning and consideration. By thoroughly researching and addressing these 10 crucial considerations, you can increase the likelihood of a successful expansion. Remember, a well-thought-out strategy will not only minimize risks but also pave the way for sustainable growth and prosperity in your new market. This is why our upcoming Investors Summit is a must-attend for you. Get to present your expansion plan, get ready investors to commit on the go, and expand your dreams. Get yourself a ticket to our Lisbon Summit here.

In the dynamic world of business, securing funding is often a make-or-break moment for startups and established companies alike. Whether you’re a novice entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, effectively impressing investors is essential for driving growth and realizing your vision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the strategies and tactics that can elevate your investor pitches, helping you secure the funding you need to thrive. Confidence and Passion: At the heart of every successful investor pitch lies confidence and passion. Investors are not just investing in your business idea; they’re investing in you as a leader. Therefore, it’s crucial to exude enthusiasm and belief in your venture. Your passion is infectious and can captivate investors, making them more inclined to believe in your vision. Highlighting Track Record and Achievements: Actions speak louder than words, and when it comes to impressing investors, showcasing your track record and achievements can speak volumes. Whether it’s demonstrating exponential growth, successful pilot programs, or strategic partnerships, tangible results validate your business model and instill confidence in potential investors. Crafting a Compelling Pitch Deck: Your pitch deck serves as the gateway to capturing investors’ attention and imagination. Craft an executive summary that succinctly conveys your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) and showcases your team’s expertise. Incorporate realistic financial projections and risk analysis to demonstrate your preparedness and mitigate investors’ concerns. Building Relationships: Investor relations extend beyond the boardroom; they’re built on trust, transparency, and mutual respect. Take the time to cultivate meaningful connections with potential investors, whether through networking events, referrals, or personalized outreach. Building rapport lays the foundation for long-term partnerships that transcend mere financial transactions. Patience and Persistence: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are successful investor relationships. Avoid the temptation to rush negotiations or hastily seek funding. Instead, adopt a patient and persistent approach, allowing investors the time to evaluate your proposal and engage in meaningful discussions. Patience signals confidence and strength, attributes that resonate positively with investors. Conclusion: Securing funding is a pivotal milestone in the journey of any business, and mastering the art of investor impressions is key to unlocking growth opportunities. By embodying confidence, highlighting your track record, crafting compelling pitches, nurturing relationships, and exercising patience, you can enhance your chances of securing the funding needed to propel your business forward. So, embrace these strategies, seize opportunities, and embark on the path to entrepreneurial success

I visited Lithuania for first time in 2005. It was a very new country that was born on the 11th of March 1990. Brave Lithuanians are the one that declared Independence from USSR on this day and successfully became an independent Baltic state, though USSR/Russia recognized Lithuania a year later, however the international communities recognized Lithuania already and it had a great start as a Country. With a small territory of 63,500 square kilo meter space and a population of about 2.65 million having its territories with Latvia, Poland, Belarus and Russia, it’s a challenge they have been facing with some of the neighbours that are very well known by all in the World. A country with a lot of lakes and fertile soil does not rely on the agriculture. It’s 1.5 million Human Capital that are key to change this nation what I saw in 2005 and what I saw in 2023 are completely a different story. During my first visit I met number of officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and I was warmly welcomed by the Ministry officials and the Minister, Investment and Business Wings of the Government and some of the private sector companies such as Avia Solutions Group. I met a lot of people during my trip and I clearly understood from the level of intelligent and smart discussions that this country has only one way to and that is growth. I enjoyed working with the Lithuanian companies such Avia Solutions Group, Avia Baltika, Klaipeda Port, and many others that can be named. I saw a lot of new opportunities that this country could bagged in having a strong relationship with the South Asian countries who are manufacturers of Textiles, a growing market for Aviation Business, Technology and others. Thus, I wrote an article on my return to my home country (Bangladesh) that there is Ample scope for Bangladesh to grow the economic and diplomatic relationship with Lithuania and the two other Baltic states which were pretty unknown to the mass people in Asia. The article was posted in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for a long time and I wrote another article while I was helping some of the Lithuanian companies grow expand in Asia specially in India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, which was published and still hanging in the website of Lithuanian Embassy in Delhi, India. have seen the growth of cooperation and business, investment by Lithuanian companies in Asia and surely it was a pride for me to see them opening mission in India facilitating the Lithuanian and Asian businesses to grow thus today many of the Lithuanian companies having huge business with South Asian countries with multi million dollars of investment, creating local jobs and transferring technologies. In 2014 I leased an aircraft from Lithuania with 6 Lithuanian flying and engineering crew who performed excellent and I was very proud of them. I gave a clear indication to the business communities in Asia that Lithuania could be a growing market and it could be a hub for other Baltic nations and regional market, which happened in a large scale like this time when I visited the three Baltic States, I saw the most of the textiles are coming from Bangladesh, Cambodia mostly. What a change! See the growth between the country. I felt the people of Lithuania are extremely intelligent and tech oriented. They are result driven, committed and fearless in driving ideas to the emerging market. That made some of the Lithuanian companies today World’s largest conglomerate like Avia Solutions group, where not they are operating today globally. Their contribution towards the GDP growth of the country is remarkable. Let me give a little bit of information on their economy, a country having no natural resources at all, based on its services mostly, with very little agriculture, with a declining population (population grown -1.05%) they have been growing purely based on their merits, plans and leadership quality. They are proud member of NATO, EU, Schengen. Export is higher than Imports which is absolutely stunning. Current Export is 53.39 billion USD and import is USD50 billion. Having a GDP growth of 5.58% with a Central bank reserve of USD:5.58 billion. Having a per capita income of USD39.300, with a Fitch Rating of A, Moody’s A3 is absolutely gorgeous. Stable Political situation growth mindset population and excellence in Tech oriented non- traditional business is making this country Grow Silently and becoming an important player in Global Economy and Politics. I am so proud of Lithuania and shall be glad to see it growing further with a much higher speed to become one of the most developed Economy in the World. DR M HAIDER UZZAMAN haider@businesssummit.net