For years, small businesses have been regarded as the backbone of the U.S. economy. But is that perception shifting? What factors are contributing to this change, and what challenges do small businesses face in maintaining their pivotal role?
This week, ECNETNews explores the ongoing discussion about whether small businesses still hold the same significance in the U.S. economy.
Small Business News Roundup – February 16, 2025
Wildfires in Los Angeles Disrupt Employment and Payroll
The recent Palisades and Eaton fires in Los Angeles have caused significant interruptions in the local job market, with recent payroll data showing a noticeable drop in issued paychecks and hours worked. While only a small fraction of employment was directly impacted, the fires have had broader economic repercussions throughout the region.
Positive Sales Growth and Reduced Payment Delays for US Small Businesses
American small businesses experienced their first positive sales growth since late 2022 in the September 2024 quarter, according to new data. This report signals encouraging trends, including shortened payment delays, indicating a potentially more stable financial landscape for small enterprises.
Rising PayPal Invoice Scam Alerts Warned by Pennsylvania Attorney General
Pennsylvania officials are warning consumers about an increasing cyber fraud scheme involving fake invoices sent through PayPal. This scam targets vulnerable email users with urgent payment requests and may mislead victims into contacting imposters posing as customer support.
Zelle Achieves Milestone with Over $1 Trillion in Payments
Zelle has recorded a remarkable milestone, processing over $1 trillion in transactions in 2024, the highest in a single year for any person-to-person payment service. This growth underscores Zelle’s increasing importance as a financial tool for both individuals and small businesses.
Home Service Industry Poised for Growth Amid Housing Recovery
The home service industry is expected to thrive in 2025, driven by a recovering housing market, heightened consumer confidence, and a significant rise in digital payment adoption, according to the latest Home Service Economic Report.
Google Drive Emerges as Leading Productivity App in the U.S.
A recent study has identified Google Drive as the most utilized Google productivity application in the United States, surpassing popular tools such as Gmail and Google Docs. Geographic analysis revealed that New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island are the top states for Google app usage.
New Revenue Streams for Content Creators Introduced by Mirage Digital
Mirage Digital has unveiled a groundbreaking content monetization model that has already generated over a million dollars for more than 300 content creators, showcasing innovative ways for digital artists to maximize earnings.
HP Expands AI Product Line with EliteBook and Z Series Workstations
HP has launched a new range of AI-driven business PCs and workstations, tailored to enhance productivity and streamline complex workflows. The devices integrate cutting-edge AI technologies aimed at professionals across various sectors.
ASUS Introduces High-Speed Cobble SSD Enclosure
ASUS has launched the Cobble SSD enclosure, a robust external storage solution designed for gamers and professionals, featuring lightning-fast USB-C connectivity and an IP55-rated water- and dust-resistant design.
Snap Develops Mobile-Optimized AI Text-to-Image Model
Snap has rolled out an advanced AI diffusion model capable of generating high-resolution images on mobile platforms, setting a new standard for mobile-first artificial intelligence innovations expected in upcoming Snapchat features.
Redefining Employment in the Small Business Landscape
Since the onset of COVID-19, there’s been a significant transformation in how employment is perceived within small businesses. New approaches to earning a living are emerging, prompting discussions about the future of traditional employment roles.
eBay Expands Digital Vehicle Marketplace with Caramel Acquisition
eBay Inc. has completed its acquisition of Caramel, an online automotive transaction platform, enhancing its digital vehicle marketplace. The integration aims to optimize vehicle sales through seamless transaction technology.
Gas Prices Increase as National Average Reaches $3.13
Gas prices across the U.S. have seen a slight uptick, with the national average for gasoline now at $3.13 per gallon. This rise comes amid tariff concerns and reflects ongoing fluctuations in supply and demand. Meanwhile, the average cost for public electric vehicle (EV) charging remains steady at 34 cents per kilowatt hour.
