Flights between the U.S. and Europe have become more affordable than they’ve been in years, with significant drops in fares even during traditionally slower travel months like late fall and winter. This price dip, combined with low-cost airlines offering budget-friendly options, is making travel to Europe more accessible than ever before.

One major reason for this trend is a recent increase in transatlantic flights as airlines work to meet high post-pandemic demand. Carriers have expanded schedules not only during peak summer months but also in the off-season. More flight availability and a focus on cheaper fares have been essential in keeping costs down, even with fewer travelers.

In November, “good deal” fares to Europe are averaging around $578, a reduction from last year’s $619, according to Hopper. Early 2025 fares look even better, with January flights priced at around $558, a notable drop from previous years. This means travelers can look forward to affordable transatlantic flights well into the coming months.

However, domestic U.S. flights are telling a different story. With less competition among carriers in many areas, domestic fares are higher in comparison, as airlines have cut flights or adjusted growth plans to stabilize revenue. Some major airlines, including Delta and United, have emphasized that the week surrounding the U.S. presidential election and certain holiday periods see fewer bookings, leading to firmer prices domestically.

Airlines Boost Service to Europe and Unique Destinations

To meet the steady demand for Europe travel, especially outside of peak months, airlines are adding unique destinations beyond the typical European hotspots. United Airlines, for example, plans to expand its offerings to include off-beaten-path locations like Greenland and Mongolia, aiming to capture interest from travelers who want something different. This shift means more options and potentially lower costs, giving travelers affordable transatlantic flights that can match their adventurous spirit.

Low-Cost Airlines Maintain Accessibility

The expansion of low-cost airlines and an increase in transatlantic routes has contributed to making Europe more affordable for Americans. By boosting flights to Europe year-round, these airlines are not only meeting demand but are also giving budget-conscious travelers more options to explore popular destinations. Lower fares are expected to continue, encouraging travelers to take advantage of the opportunity to visit Europe during the cooler months.

Future Trends: Cheaper Fares, More Choices

The affordability of transatlantic flights is expected to persist as airlines seek to maintain steady seat occupancy through competitive pricing. With plenty of options for exploring Europe without the summer crowds and lower fares than in previous years, now is a great time to consider a European getaway. As airlines continue to innovate with their routes, travelers will enjoy cheaper flights, a broader selection of destinations, and fewer crowds—making it the ideal time for an international adventure.

Finding a great startup idea can be challenging, especially since many entrepreneurs start with an idea that sounds exciting but lacks real impact. As Y Combinator co-founder Paul Graham warns, focusing solely on coming up with an idea often leads to plausible-sounding but ultimately weak concepts. Instead, a structured approach to uncovering viable opportunities is crucial.

Here’s a 5-step guide to help you discover startup ideas that are worth your time and effort:

1. Spot and Solve Everyday Work Challenges

One of the most effective ways to uncover meaningful startup ideas is by identifying problems in your day-to-day work life. Small inefficiencies, recurring challenges, or time-consuming tasks often hide valuable opportunities. When you spot these inconveniences and seek to solve them, you’re likely to find ideas that have immediate relevance and clear value for potential users.

Start by making a habit of noting process inefficiencies or areas for improvement in your job or industry. Over time, you may spot patterns, revealing specific areas where your solution could grow into a viable business.

2. Dive Into Niche Markets for Unique Opportunities

Niche markets are often gold mines for startup ideas. These specialized markets, often overlooked by larger companies, are underserved, which means there’s space for innovative solutions. By focusing on a particular niche, you not only narrow down your audience but also tap into a community with specific challenges and needs.

For example, pet technology has emerged as a growing niche market, with products like GPS-enabled collars and health-tracking apps designed for pets. According to the American Pet Products Association, Americans spent over $100 billion on their pets last year, showcasing the revenue potential even within a smaller segment. Exploring niche markets can help you discover startup ideas with clear demand and less competition.

3. Leverage Emerging Trends to Uncover Ideas

Keeping an eye on trends, both technological and societal, gives you a glimpse of potential needs on the horizon. Following these trends allows you to anticipate shifts in demand and behavior, positioning you to address these needs early.

For example, the rise of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic drove demand for tools like Zoom, Slack, and Asana, which catered to distributed teams. Today, emerging trends like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and the gig economy are creating new opportunities. Analyze these trends to identify what people are likely to need in the future and shape your business around these insights.

4. Connect With Users Early On

Direct engagement with potential users is invaluable when identifying and validating startup ideas. Joining online communities, social media groups, or industry forums helps you understand real frustrations and challenges that users face, often revealing insights that typical market research might miss.

By actively listening and engaging with users, you can shape your idea to better align with their needs. This approach not only strengthens idea validation but also helps in building an early user base that’s invested in your project.

5. Quickly Test and Validate Your Ideas

Validation is crucial for any startup, and adopting a “fail fast” approach is the best way to ensure your idea has genuine potential. Rather than investing heavily in a full product, start with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or prototype to test your concept with real users.

Dropbox famously did this by releasing a simple explainer video to gauge interest before fully developing the product. Using platforms like online surveys, landing pages, and basic prototypes can help you measure initial interest. If feedback is underwhelming, pivoting early allows you to adjust your idea to better fit the market.

Wrapping Up: A Clear Path to Startup Success

Uncovering a valuable startup idea is more than just a spark of inspiration. It involves a strategic approach where you tackle real problems, explore niche markets, stay updated on trends, connect with users, and validate ideas quickly. By following these steps, you increase your chances of finding an idea that has solid potential and a path to success.

For entrepreneurs ready to take on this journey, start by observing, testing, and refining your ideas with a structured approach that can lead to a winning startup.

In an age where digital media often takes the spotlight, Sheriff Blathur, Head of Design and Prepress at Balmer Lawrie UAE LLC, reminds us of the enduring power of print. For centuries, printing has been at the heart of communication, education, and art. While the methods and technologies have evolved, the essence of print remains a timeless force, constantly adapting to meet the needs of each generation. Sheriff captures this concept in his philosophy, “Printing is immortal, forever changing its attire,” reflecting his deep understanding of the industry and its future potential.

The Ever-Evolving Nature of Print

Throughout his extensive career, Sheriff Blathur has witnessed the dramatic transformation of the printing industry. From the traditional offset printing methods to the rise of digital technology and automation, printing has continued to reinvent itself. But while the tools may have changed, the value of print remains constant.

Sheriff’s role as the Head of Design and Prepress allows him to engage with the latest technologies, ensuring that each project is handled with precision and innovation. His work with major brands like Apple, PepsiCo, and McDonald’s reflects his expertise in blending timeless design principles with cutting-edge printing techniques. His hands-on experience in various industries across the Middle East and Africa has given him a front-row seat to the evolving face of printing.

The Inspiration Behind Basics of Prepress: A Comprehensive Guide

Sheriff’s belief in the immortality of print is perhaps best reflected in his contributions to education. Recognizing the need for accessible and affordable resources in the field, he authored “Basics of Prepress: A Comprehensive Guide.” This book underscores the idea that while the technologies of printing may change, the foundational knowledge remains critical.

The book was inspired by Sheriff’s own experiences as a student, where finding comprehensive and affordable resources on prepress technology was a struggle. Many students, like him, found existing reference materials too expensive or overly complex. Sheriff decided to tackle this problem by creating a guide that simplifies the process without sacrificing detail. His book covers key topics like file preparation, design principles, and color management, giving readers the tools they need to navigate the ever-changing world of prepress.

Launched at Calicut University Campus and published by White Falcon Publishing, Basics of Prepress has been widely praised for its affordability and practical insights. The book serves as a vital resource for students, beginners, and professionals alike, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in the printing industry.

Beyond Prepress: Expanding the Reach of Design

Sheriff’s contributions to the field of design extend beyond prepress. His second book, “Successful Logo Design,” available on Amazon, offers valuable lessons on the creative aspects of branding. In this book, Sheriff explores how effective logos—another immortal element of design—continue to evolve in style while maintaining their timeless appeal.

His research also reflects his forward-thinking approach. In his paper “Offset Printer Automation: An Industrial Revolution,” published by IEEE on TechRxiv, Sheriff delves into how automation is revolutionizing traditional offset printing methods. This research highlights how automation is the next phase in printing’s attire change, ushering in new efficiencies and capabilities while still preserving the heart of the craft.

Printing as a Timeless Craft

Sheriff Blathur’s journey in the printing industry reinforces his belief that printing, in all its forms, is a timeless craft. Whether through design, prepress, or the latest innovations in automation, the art of printing continues to adapt to modern demands while maintaining its essential role in communication and culture.

“Printing is immortal, forever changing its attire,” reflects this reality. For Sheriff, the constant evolution of print doesn’t diminish its importance—instead, it enhances its reach and relevance. As the world shifts towards digital solutions, Sheriff believes print will always find its place, continually evolving to meet new challenges without losing its roots.

A Vision for the Future

Sheriff’s long-term vision is rooted in his passion for education and innovation. His contributions to the printing industry—whether through his books, research, or mentorship—are all aimed at ensuring the future of print remains as vital and dynamic as it has been in the past.

As he continues to push boundaries in design and prepress, Sheriff’s focus remains on sharing knowledge. His belief that knowledge should be accessible to all is reflected in his commitment to creating affordable resources and engaging with the next generation of printing professionals.

In an industry that constantly changes its attire, Sheriff Blathur stands as a key figure ensuring that while the form may change, the essence of print endures. His work is shaping a future where printing continues to evolve, leaving a lasting impact on industries, design, and communication worldwide.

The Lasting Legacy of Print

The enduring nature of print lies in its ability to adapt and innovate, a belief Sheriff Blathur holds dear. Through his career, books, and research, Sheriff has embodied the spirit of this immortal craft, ensuring it remains relevant and accessible to all. As the world embraces new technologies, Sheriff’s contributions remind us that printing will continue to change its attire but never lose its timeless importance.

China’s economy  slowdown is not an abstract concept for 23-year-old Zheng Jiewen, who works full-time at an advertising agency in Guangzhou, one of China’s southern megacities. Initially, Zheng’s main source of income came from her work as a print model, earning her a comfortable monthly salary of around 30,000 yuan ($4,230) when she started two years ago. However, last year things started to change. New business at the company she worked for began to dwindle, and as a result, her income took a hit. By February, her salary was reduced by half.

“I was extremely shocked,” she recalled. In response, Zheng quickly cut down her spending to match her reduced earnings. Gone were the days of splurging on Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Prada—brands that had once been her go-to for fashion. Instead, like many of her peers in China, she turned to more affordable alternatives. The impact of the economic slowdown has been “obvious,” says market experts, with social media searches for “dupes” (high-quality replicas of luxury goods) tripling from 2022 to 2024.

Now, Zheng and her friends spend their more limited funds on these so-called “pingti” products, the Chinese term for dupes. These replicas, which range from near-identical copies to inspired versions with added color or texture options, have become immensely popular. Analysts note that this shift is reflective of a broader trend. Consumer confidence in China has plunged to historic lows, and this has translated into a growing preference for these cheaper alternatives.

According to Laurel Gu, a director at the Shanghai office of Mintel, a global market research firm, the behavior of Chinese consumers has undergone a dramatic shift. Unlike a decade ago, when they were the world’s top luxury spenders, eager to purchase Western luxury brands, today’s consumers are increasingly drawn to affordable alternatives. This shift in consumer behavior, driven by economic pressures, is not a niche trend but rather “the new mainstream,” she explains.

The price difference between branded items and their dupe counterparts can be staggering. Take, for instance, Lululemon’s popular Align yoga pants. While the original leggings are priced at 750 yuan ($106) on the brand’s official Chinese website, similar leggings—many with store names that subtly reference Lululemon—can be found on e-commerce platforms like Tmall for as little as $5. These stores often claim that their products offer comparable quality to the originals.

The surge in demand for dupes is posing a significant challenge for established luxury brands like Louis Vuitton. For instance, sales at LVMH, the luxury powerhouse that owns Louis Vuitton, dropped by 10% in its Asia region (excluding Japan) during the first half of this year. China, which makes up a large share of that market, has been a key driver of this decline.

This trend, fueled by rising demand for affordable knock-offs, is contributing to China’s overall sluggish consumption. Retail sales have consistently fallen below already-low expectations. Weak economic data from the summer has led economists to fear that China might fall short of the 5% growth target set for 2024.

In an effort to reignite growth, China’s central bank introduced new measures to boost the economy. These include cutting its main interest rate and lowering the reserve requirements for banks, freeing up capital for lending. However, despite these efforts, consumer confidence remains in a fragile state. A research note from investment bank Nomura, released in early September, revealed that China’s consumer confidence index dipped to 86.0 in July, down from 86.2 the previous month. The index, which measures confidence on a scale of 0 to 200, has barely budged from its historic low of 85.5, recorded in November 2022, when the country was still grappling with the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many consumers, like Zheng, have come to see themselves as fortunate just to have jobs. According to a recent report, China’s unemployment rate among people aged 18 to 24, excluding students, reached 18.8% in August, the highest level recorded since the data started being tracked in January.

Xinxin, an elementary school math teacher from Chongqing, southwestern China, also felt the economic pinch. Previously a loyal fan of Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair serum, Xinxin was forced to switch to more budget-friendly skincare products after experiencing a “brutal” 20% pay cut earlier this year. She blames this reduction on “fiscal issues” within her school district, brought on by broader economic challenges. She managed to find a cheaper alternative to her favorite serum with similar key ingredients, priced at just 100 yuan ($14) for 20 milliliters, compared to Estée Lauder’s 720 yuan ($100) for 30 milliliters. Her reasoning for switching was simple: “Why dupe? Pay cut, of course!” she joked.

Many of China’s economic challenges are rooted in its once-booming real estate sector, which at its peak accounted for as much as 30% of the country’s economic activity. Starting in 2019, this sector began to slow down, eventually collapsing into a deep recession. This crisis has had a profound impact on consumer confidence, as falling real estate prices eroded household wealth. Barclays economists estimate that Chinese households have lost as much as $18 trillion in wealth due to the housing slump. This translates to an average loss of $60,000 per household—a staggering amount considering that it is nearly five times China’s per capita GDP.

The ripple effects of the housing crisis and reduced consumption have prompted several investment banks to revise their growth projections for China, bringing them below the government’s official target. The country’s leaders have responded by shifting their focus toward manufacturing, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. While China’s strategy of exporting excess capacity to overseas markets has bolstered its EV industry, it has also sparked tensions with global competitors, especially in Europe.

The measures introduced by China’s central bank, including cuts to mortgage rates and down payments for second-time homebuyers, are aimed at boosting domestic demand. However, economists remain cautious, warning that without significant improvements in consumer confidence and spending, China’s economic woes are unlikely to dissipate soon. As consumers like Zheng and Xinxin turn to dupes and cut back on spending, it seems the once unstoppable Chinese luxury market may continue to slow.

Mumbai, India – On September 22, 2024, Mumbai will play host to “Business and Beyond,” an exceptional one-day seminar poised to be the largest event for business owners in the city. Taking place at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Grande Banquet, NESCO, in Goregaon, this event promises to be a game-changer for entrepreneurs, business owners, and executives eager to learn cutting-edge business strategies directly from globally renowned leaders.

“Business and Beyond” is far more than just a seminar; it’s a dynamic platform designed to accelerate success in both business and personal growth. Building on the overwhelming success of last year’s Growth Summit, where industry heavyweights like Sunil Tulsiani and Aman Gupta were joined by Robert Kiyosaki, author of “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” for an unforgettable session, the “Business and Beyond” is set to raise the bar even higher by featuring an impressive lineup of world-class speakers, including Aman Gupta, Sunil Tulsiani, Joseph McClendon III, Sorav Jain, Mac Srinivasan, Kishor M, Richard Tan, and more. Each of these speakers brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and actionable strategies, offering attendees a unique opportunity to learn from some of the most accomplished figures in the business world.

“Business and Beyond” will feature a stellar lineup of speakers, each bringing unique expertise and insights to the seminar. Leading the event is Joseph McClendon III, an ultimate performance specialist and neuroscientist with over 35 years of experience. Known for his collaboration with legends like Tony Robbins, McClendon will delve into neuro encoding, providing powerful strategies to enhance brain performance and personal growth. Alongside him is Aman Gupta, the visionary behind boAt, who will share his journey of transforming a startup into a billion-dollar brand. Gupta’s session will focus on innovative marketing techniques and leadership principles that fueled boAt’s rapid ascent, offering invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Additionally, Sunil Tulsiani, the acclaimed “Wealthy Cop,” will impart his knowledge on real estate investment and wealth creation strategies, drawing from his extensive experience training over half a million individuals. Digital marketing expert Sorav Jain will provide deep insights into the latest trends and practical applications in digital marketing, leveraging his 18 years of industry experience. Mac Srinivasan, CEO of The Abundant Group, will share his expertise in global business scaling and franchise management, while Kishor M will offer insights into Web3 and high-frequency trading. Rounding out the lineup is Richard Tan, Chairman of Success Resources Group, who will deliver inspirational insights on leadership and personal development. This diverse array of speakers promises to deliver a wealth of knowledge, strategies, and inspiration for all attendees.

“Business and Beyond” will follow a carefully crafted agenda, beginning with early morning registration and progressing through a series of high-impact sessions designed to cover a wide range of topics. These will include training the brain for peak performance, leveraging personal branding, cultivating a business empire, transforming modern business strategies with AI, encoding resilience, and innovating businesses to scale and grow. The event will conclude with a photo session, providing a perfect opportunity for networking and connecting with other participants and speakers.

This event is designed for a diverse audience, including entrepreneurs, business owners, investors, traders, leaders, executives, personal development enthusiasts, educators, mentors, tech entrepreneurs, and global networking enthusiasts. With the success of last year’s summit as a backdrop, expectations for “Business and Beyond” are incredibly high. Attendees will once again be treated to high-value content from some of the world’s leading business minds. Whether you’re aiming to scale your business, improve your marketing strategy, or develop your leadership skills, this event is the perfect platform to turn those aspirations into reality.

Whether you are an established business owner, a budding entrepreneur, or a professional looking to elevate your career, “Business and Beyond” offers an unparalleled chance to learn directly from industry leaders and innovators. With sessions covering business strategy, marketing, leadership, and personal development, this event promises to be a transformative experience for all attendees.

Mark your calendar for September 22, 2024, and join the excitement at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Grande Banquet, NESCO, Goregaon, Mumbai. This is your chance to be part of a day that could redefine your professional and personal journey. For more information and to register, visit the event website. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to accelerate your success!

The Biden administration has strongly condemned Tucker Carlson after his recent interview with Darryl Cooper, a podcaster who controversially suggested that the Holocaust was an unintended consequence rather than a deliberate act of genocide. The administration described the interview as “a disgusting and sadistic insult to all Americans,” highlighting its offensive nature to the memory of the six million Jews who were murdered during the Holocaust and the American soldiers who fought against Nazism.

In his interview, Cooper, whom Carlson called “the best and most honest popular historian in the United States,” made the unfounded claim that the Holocaust resulted from poor planning rather than a systematic extermination. Cooper also labeled British Prime Minister Winston Churchill as the “chief villain” of World War II, an assertion that the White House refuted, stating unequivocally that Adolf Hitler was the “chief villain” of the war.

The White House’s statement, delivered by senior deputy press secretary Andrew Bates, emphasized that promoting Holocaust denial and Nazi propaganda is unacceptable, particularly in light of recent global increases in antisemitism. Bates condemned the interview’s distortions and underscored the need for responsible discourse.

Carlson responded by criticizing the White House, alleging that the administration’s focus on the Churchill myth is leading the country closer to nuclear conflict. He dismissed the administration’s comments as being out of touch and provocative.

The interview has drawn widespread criticism from various quarters, including Jonathan Greenblatt of the Anti-Defamation League, who condemned the interview as “truly revolting” and corrected the record on the Nazis’ planned extermination of Jews.

Since his departure from Fox News, Carlson has continued to spark controversy through his online content and public appearances, frequently featuring radical figures. Despite the backlash, he remains a prominent figure within the Republican Party, having recently been given a significant speaking role at the party’s convention in Milwaukee. He is also set to embark on a live speaking tour this fall, with JD Vance, Donald Trump’s vice presidential nominee, scheduled to join him at a September 21 event in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Vance’s campaign has since clarified that while he does not support “guilt-by-association cancel culture,” he does not share the views expressed by Carlson’s interview guest.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has asserted that the world is not obligated to tolerate billionaire Elon Musk’s “far-right anything goes” agenda simply because of his vast wealth. Lula da Silva made this statement in an interview in Brazil, published on Monday, shortly after Musk’s social media platform X was suspended in Brazil, affecting a significant market.

“The Brazilian justice system may have sent a crucial message that the world is not required to endure Musk’s extreme right-wing views just because he is wealthy,” the president remarked.

These comments are part of an ongoing dispute between Lula da Silva and Musk concerning free speech, far-right content, and misinformation within Brazil. Over the weekend, many Brazilians, including the president, bid farewell to X, sharing their profiles on other social media platforms.

Brazil represents a vital market for X, which has faced challenges with advertiser loss since Musk’s acquisition and rebranding of Twitter last year. Approximately 40 million Brazilians, or about one-fifth of the population, use X at least once a month, according to Emarketer.

The platform’s access was blocked following a Supreme Court order due to Musk’s refusal to appoint a legal representative in Brazil. The court had previously mandated the suspension of several X accounts as part of a broad investigation into misinformation and hate speech that threatens Brazilian democracy.

These suspensions have included accounts linked to former President Jair Bolsonaro’s right-wing party and individuals accused of undermining democracy. Musk, a self-declared “free speech absolutist,” has criticized the court’s actions as censorship, a viewpoint supported by Brazil’s political right.

On Tuesday, Musk further engaged with Brazilian politics by sharing a link on X to an upcoming demonstration advocating for “freedom, protesting judicial overreach, and defending free speech.

The New Rules of Negotiation: Empowering Professionals to Close Deals in 2024

In the rapidly evolving world of business, the art of negotiation has never been more important. Internationally recognized trainer and keynote speaker Mihir Koltharkar has spent two decades honing and teaching the structured negotiation techniques necessary to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace. Based in Mumbai, India, and Manila, Philippines, Mihir’s influence stretches across the globe, helping professionals from various industries achieve unprecedented results.

Structured Negotiation is Essential

For sales executives, procurement teams, and senior leaders, having structured negotiation skills isn’t an option—it’s a necessity. In an environment where deals can make or break a company’s future, the ability to negotiate effectively can lead to higher profits and longer-lasting business relationships. Mihir Koltharkar’s training programs are designed to develop these critical skills, enabling people to handle high-stakes negotiations with confidence and precision.

Mihir’s approach to negotiation isn’t just about closing deals; it’s about creating win-win situations that build trust and foster cooperation between all parties involved. His interactive sessions have helped organizations around the world increase profits by billions, and his methods have been recognized globally, earning him accolades like ‘Pride of India – Negotiation Skills’. 

Mihir’s Impactful Journey

Mihir Koltharkar’s career is a testament to his commitment to excellence and his passion for empowering others. With an MBA in Corporate Training & Total Quality Management and certifications in various disciplines such as NLP, ISO, and Six Sigma, Mihir has built a strong foundation of knowledge and expertise. Over the past 24 years, he has conducted over 2,500 training sessions in 12 countries.

From his origins in direct sales and market research to leadership roles in prestigious organizations such as JPMorgan Chase, Tata Teleservices, and DAMAC Properties, to starting his own training consultancy MKTI Edge, Mihir has consistently demonstrated his ability to deliver results. His structured approach to negotiation has been a game-changer for the companies he’s worked with, helping them secure deals worth billions and achieve significant success.

Global Recognition and Unmatched Expertise

Mihir’s contribution to sales and negotiation has not gone unnoticed. He is among the top 20 global trainers in sales, sharing this prestigious list with industry veterans like Brian Tracy and Jordan Belfort. His book ‘Impossible Sales’ is a testament to his deep understanding of the sales process and his ability to simplify complex concepts into actionable strategies.

As a two-time TEDx speaker and keynote speaker at events such as the SME World Summit, Mihir’s influence extends beyond the training classroom. His sessions are known to be highly engaging, interactive, and impactful, with participants consistently rating his training as ‘excellent’ or ‘outstanding.’

Changing Lives Through Negotiation Training

Mihir’s journey to becoming a top negotiation trainer and speaker was not without its challenges. While working in the UAE, he witnessed first-hand the struggles of salespeople who were passionate about their work but lacked the structured training needed to achieve their goals. This experience sparked a deep calling in him to expand his knowledge globally and help professionals unleash their full potential.

Since establishing his training consultancy, Mihir has reached out to thousands of professionals, helping them close major deals and transform their careers. His unique blend of real-world experience, proven results, structured approach, and engaging delivery style sets him apart from his peers, making him a sought-after trainer for organizations looking to achieve measurable results.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Negotiators

Mihir Koltharkar’s vision for the future is clear: to continue adding significant value to people’s lives, helping them achieve their dreams through structured sales and negotiation training. His commitment to client success is unwavering, measuring his success by the tangible results his clients achieve.

As Mihir often says, “Motivation is not enough to achieve your goals; you need a robust plan, strong will, and discipline to work the plan.” This philosophy is at the core of his training [sessions and inspires professionals to push beyond their limits and achieve greatness.

In a world where more than 95% of employees have never received formal negotiation training, Mihir Koltharkar’s work isn’t just important—it’s essential. His structured approach empowers professionals around the world to negotiate effectively, grow their businesses, and inspire those around them to reach new heights.

Americans are turning to Chili’s for their burger cravings, leaving McDonald’s in the dust. Chili’s parent company, Brinker International, reported a nearly 15% surge in same-store sales and a 6% increase in traffic last quarter, thanks to their new Big Smasher burger and a savvy promotional campaign.

With fast food prices on the rise, sit-down chains like Chili’s and Applebee’s are capitalizing on the trend by offering competitive deals. Chili’s latest $10.99 meal deal features the Big Smasher—an oversized burger with double the beef of a Big Mac, though with a single hearty patty and familiar toppings.

This bold move and targeted advertising have allowed Chili’s to outperform competitors in both sales and traffic, contrasting sharply with the struggling performance of major fast-food chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s.

Brinker CEO Kevin Hochman highlighted that the Big Smasher promotion has been instrumental in attracting customers frustrated by fast food prices and engaging in broader cultural discussions. The campaign is set to run through the year, continuing to challenge the fast-food giants.

In comparison, Applebee’s has also promoted value-based offers, but without the same impact as Chili’s. The shifting landscape reveals a growing opportunity for sit-down restaurants to draw diners with appealing pricing and a more comfortable dining experience, challenging fast-food norms.

In response to Chili’s Big Smasher promotion, major fast-food chains quickly rolled out their own deals. McDonald’s $5 offer has been so successful that it will remain on U.S. menus through August, the company recently announced. According to a July memo, the promotion is achieving its goal of drawing customers back and even boosting full-priced sales, though the financial impact will be detailed in their fall earnings report.

Despite Chili’s impressive performance in driving traffic and sales, Brinker International’s stock took an 11% hit. The drop reflects a disappointing profit report that fell short of analyst expectations and a cautious outlook from the company.

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, brands are no longer just advertisers; they have become content creators in their own right. This transformation reflects a fundamental shift in how businesses engage with their audiences, focusing on storytelling and direct interaction rather than traditional marketing methods. Video production agencies like Cutting Fillum Entertainment are at the forefront of this change, helping brands navigate the complexities of content creation and distribution.

The Rise of Brands as Content Creators

The ability to produce and distribute content has given brands unprecedented control over their image and message. They can now tailor their content to specific demographics, engage in real-time conversations, and foster community around their products and values. This direct engagement creates a more personal relationship between brands and consumers, enhancing loyalty and brand affinity.

The Importance of Strategy and Innovation

For brands to succeed as content creators, they need a strategic approach that encompasses content development, distribution, and promotion. This is where agencies like Cutting Fillum Entertainment play a critical role. They provide brands with the expertise to develop compelling video content, identify the right platforms for distribution, and optimize promotional efforts to maximize reach and impact.

Cutting Fillum Entertainment leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance and expedite video production. By using tools like Midjourney and Runway ML, they ensure rapid delivery without compromising quality. This technological edge enables them to create complex CGI videos and execute campaigns that reach millions, showcasing their ability to craft compelling and far-reaching content.

The Role of Video in Brand Storytelling

Video has emerged as a powerful tool in this new landscape, offering a dynamic way to tell stories and convey messages. With its ability to capture attention and evoke emotion, video content has become a cornerstone of brand communication strategies. It enables brands to showcase their products, share customer testimonials, and highlight their corporate social responsibility efforts in a compelling manner.

Cutting Fillum Entertainment, based in Mumbai, has been instrumental in helping brands transition into content creators. Founded by four high school friends with a shared passion for chai and films, the agency started by creating short films and product videos for Instagram businesses. Today, they serve some of the biggest brands globally, producing over 3,000 videos, including 2,000 animation videos, since their official launch in 2020.

Embracing Emerging Technologies

As brands continue to evolve as content creators, embracing emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) becomes essential. These technologies offer immersive experiences that engage audiences in novel ways, making them valuable tools for brands seeking to differentiate themselves in a crowded market.

The Future of Brand Content Creation

The future of brand content creation lies in the seamless integration of technology, strategy, and creativity. As AI and automation continue to advance, brands will have even more opportunities to produce high-quality content quickly and efficiently. This will allow them to respond to market trends and consumer preferences in real-time, further strengthening their connection with audiences.

Cutting Fillum Entertainment’s vision is to become India’s best and fastest video content consultation and production agency. With a growing team and a relentless commitment to innovation, they are well on their way to achieving this goal. Their tagline, “Videos For The New Age,” reflects their dedication to staying ahead of trends and continuously evolving to meet the needs of their clients.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Creators

Beyond their commercial success, agencies like Cutting Fillum Entertainment have the opportunity to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and content creators. By sharing their journey and fostering a culture of creativity and innovation, they can encourage budding talent to explore the possibilities of digital storytelling and content creation.

In conclusion, the strategic shift of brands becoming content creators is reshaping the marketing landscape. By embracing this change and leveraging the expertise of agencies like Cutting Fillum Entertainment, brands can craft compelling narratives, engage audiences more deeply, and drive meaningful results in the digital era and create videos for the new age.