Oh, how far we’ve come! Recently, it was revealed that — finally! — women CEOs at Fortune 500 companies outnumber male CEOs named John. A dubious milestone, but it's something to celebrate.
Though women have come pretty far in society, the progress we've made is far from enough. From the pay gap to daily microaggressions, it’s still obvious that women are treated as lesser than in society. This is especially clear when you look at how few female-founded businesses there are.
According to Rolling Stone, it’s crucial to support female-owned businesses. They report: “While it is true that the different experiences and backgrounds that women and men have undoubtedly affect business approaches, this is actually a good thing. A business with diverse perspectives is an innovative business that can actually push the boundaries of industries.” Like with any other social justice cause, uplifting marginalized folks is good for everyone involved. We all benefit from the increased, diverse worldviews brought about by representation.
The article continues: “Having a gender-diverse business yields better consumer insight, and in turn, a more profitable business. Back in 2015, McKinsey & Company found businesses that were more gender-diverse were likely to outperform approximately 15 percent above the industry median. Years later in 2020, they found that the percentage had increased to 25 percent.”
Therefore, even if we aren’t focused on all the social and political reasons to uplift female entrepreneurs, it’s better for everyone’s bottom line if we do.
Yet, despite this oft-proven reality, archaic stereotypes and oppressive systems stand in the way of progress in every sector. An article in Business News Daily outlines some of the obstacles women face as entrepreneurs. The number one hurdle they face? Social expectations.
The article advises that in order to beat this imposter syndrome, female founders should stick to their guns rather than trying to conform. “Women may feel as though they need to adopt a stereotypically "male" attitude toward business: competitive, aggressive, and sometimes harsh. But successful female CEOs believe that remaining true to yourself and finding your own voice are the keys to rising above preconceived expectations.”
But often, women are told their lack of professional advancement is their fault. You’re too shy. You’re not assertive enough. You need to ask for what you want. Otherwise, how do you expect to get it?
However, despite this refrain, it’s actually not their own fault. This scapegoating convinces ambitious women that if their careers are stifled, it’s their fault. This causes imposter syndrome, lack of representation, and real industry consequences.
According to BND, “Raising capital is even more difficult for women-owned businesses. A 2014 Babson College report found that less than 3% of companies with venture capital funding had female CEOs … venture capitalists tend to invest in startups run by people of their own ‘tribe.’”
Other things that get in the way of women climbing the ladder to success include: struggling to be taken seriously, owning their accomplishments, building a support network, balancing business and family life, and coping with the fear of failure.
These are real, tangible barriers that most female entrepreneurs face. The women who have succeeded should be celebrated — and this month is the perfect one to do so. Luckily for us, we can vote with our dollars, supporting the businesses we love so that there can be more like-minded companies out there in the world.
Here are some of my favorite female-owned brands to support in the pursuit of equality:
Ekster’s Anniversary Sale: Get up to 20% OFF! Follow this link to shop!
Today our style editors are reviewing Ekster, an innovative company that offers premium accessories that fuse functionality and ground-breaking tech. To hear our first impressions and overall verdict on Ekster and its products, keep reading…
By now, our editors have seen Ekster’s ultra-slim smart wallets on subway ads and across all of their social feeds. Many online are saying it's the best wallet they’ve ever owned and beats traditional wallets by miles. Yet, after all the hype, our editors’ initial thoughts are that it's too thin.
“Where would we stash our cash?”
Sure, wallets can serve more purposes than holding cash and cards - there are wallets that can protect your cards from electronic theft. There are even wallets that you can track with your phone when you've misplaced it.
These are undoubtedly useful features but, if it’s too thin for a bit of cash and your go-to cards, what’s the point?
Still, they decided they had to get their hands on a few wallets before making their final decision:
The Products
Unlike many brands out there, with Ekster, our editors realize you aren’t stuck with the traditional, bulky leather wallets. Instead, they offer next-generation smart wallets, stylish cardholders, and streamlined iPhone cases that are sleek and affordable:
- Parliament Wallet - made with premium leather, this super-smart smart wallet is the perfect money-holding solution you've been looking for. Its built-in aluminum card holder fans out your cards with the push of a button + comes in 7 shades.
- Senate Cardholder - An elegant cardholder ideal for those who go cashless. Also made with premium leather, it has a built-in aluminum cardholder. Bonus: there’s a removable cash strap if you like having cash on hand.
- Key Holder - the compact design stores up to 8 keys. With the flick of a button, access any key with just one hand and absolutely no jingle.
First Impression
Ekster’s smart wallets combine endless style, functionality, and technology. They’re slim, stylish, and fit into jeans without that unsightly back-pocket bulge. After a day out on the town, our editors said they love how Ekster wallets have RFID technology that protects against theft, skimming, and scanning. And they were seriously thrilled about how nicely the slim Tracker Card slips into any of the leather wallets or aluminum card holders without sacrificing card space.
Talk about unlosable! The Ekster Tracker Card connects to your Bluetooth devices, so there is no need to worry about losing another wallet.
Bonus: Ekster’s Key Holder is also unlosable. Misplaced keys? Simply call or locate them on a smartphone, Google Home, Alexa, or Siri. Plus, an immediate alert is sent when keys are left behind.
Okay-okay. Our editors were beginning to convince me. But then he pushed a button, and all his cards popped right up, ready to use.
Verdict
Losing your wallet is no fun – sadly, we’ve all been there.
From concert venues to restaurants, we're all guilty of forgetting our wallets or keys. And don’t get us started on the tedious process of ordering new credit cards, IDs, licenses, or that expensive call to the locksmith.
Ekster's connected-carry accessories are totally Instagrammable, but they never compromise on quality: this wallet just works.
Ekster wallets are slimmer, more affordable, and have the best card pop-up feature to date. Each of our editors were wowed at how convenient, trackable, and aesthetically pleasing Ekster’s leather wallets are compared to other brands they’ve tried.
Ekster is the clear winner.
With its compact size, quick card access mechanism, RFID protection, and timeless sophistication, Ekster is an upgrade you'll never regret.
NEW OFFER: Shop Ekster's Anniversary Sale To Get Up To 20% OFF Sitewide on ALL EKSTER PRODUCTS!
Geld zu investieren kann ganz schön riskant sein. Doch es ist wie mit allem im Leben: je besser du dich über das Thema informierst, desto einfacher ist es, fundierte Entscheidungen zu treffen. Krypto kann beispielsweise eine großartige Möglichkeit bieten, dein Vermögen langfristig zu vermehren.
Leider ist das traditionelle Finanzsystem sehr komplex und mit hohen Kosten verbunden. Viele Menschen fühlen sich auch gesellschaftlich davon ausgeschlossen, sodass die wenigsten wissen, wo sie überhaupt anfangen sollen.
Doch keine Sorge. Am Anfang ist es ganz normal, viele offene Fragen zu haben. Wo beginnt man? Wie funktionieren Investments? Wo kann man einfach investieren? Wo kann man über die Grundlagen des Investierens lernen?
Unsere Redakteure haben intensiv recherchiert, um eine vertrauenswürdige Plattform ausfindig zu machen, auf der du deine Investmentreise sorgenfrei, sicher und reguliert starten kannst: Bitpanda.
Bitpanda ist eine benutzerfreundliche Investmentplattform, mit der du jeden beliebigen Geldbetrag in verschiedenste Kryptowährungen anlegen kannst.
Du möchtest mehr über Bitpanda erfahren? Hier haben wir Antworten auf deine wichtigsten Fragen:
Was ist Bitpanda?
Bitpanda ist Europas führende Investmentplattform für Krypto. Das Unternehmen wurde vor 8 Jahren gegründet und hat es sich zum Ziel gesetzt, mit benutzerfreundlichen Finanzprodukten das Investieren für alle zugänglich zu machen, die Geld anlegen wollen. Mit mittlerweile über 3,5 Millionen Nutzern zählt Bitpanda zu einem der am schnellsten wachsenden FinTechs in Europa.
Ist Bitpanda sicher und reguliert?
Ja. Sicherheit steht bei Bitpanda an oberster Stelle. Zudem ist das Unternehmen eine MiFID II- Wertpapierfirma, ein PSD2- Zahlungsinstitut und bei der österreichischen Finanzmarktaufsicht (FMA) als Anbieter für digitale Assets registriert. Weiters muss jeder Nutzer auf Bitpanda eine Zwei-Faktor-Authentifizierung aktivieren, was für eine weitere Sicherheitsschicht auf der Plattform sorgt.
Wie registriere ich mich bei Bitpanda?
Um auf Bitpanda investierenzu können, musst du ein Konto erstellen. Um hierbei höchste Sicherheit zu gewährleisten, besteht der Anmeldeprozess aus mehreren Schritten.
Zunächst musst du dein eben erstelltes Konto mit deiner E-Mail-Adresse bestätigen. Anschließend wird deine Identität in einem kurzen KYC (“Know your Customer”)-Prozess überprüft – hierfür lädst du ein Foto deines Ausweises hoch. Im letzten Schritt zahlst du einen Mindestbetrag von 25 € ein – und voilà. Nun kannst du auch schon ab nur 1 € mit dem Investieren loslegen!
Wie und in welche Produkte kann ich auf Bitpanda investieren?
Bitpanda bietet Nutzern verschiedenste Finanzprodukte, wie beispielsweise Kryptowährungen. Bitpanda bietet dir auch an, eigene, personalisierte Sparpläne mit deinen liebsten Assets einzurichten, mit denen du in von dir festgelegten Intervallen ganz automatisch investieren kannst – ganz nebenbei, ohne dass du ständig die Märkte im Auge behalten musst.
Für wen eignet sich Bitpanda?
Die Plattform ist unglaublich informationsreich und extrem einfach zu bedienen. Umfangreiche kostenlose und einfach verständliche Informationen über persönliche Finanzen, Investieren für Anfänger und tagesaktuelle Entwicklungen auf den Finanzmärkten stehen für alle Nutzer kostenlos zur Verfügung – nicht umsonst ist das Ziel von Bitpanda, das Investieren für alle zugänglich zu machen. Somit eignet sich Bitpanda sowohl für Einsteiger als auch für Investmentprofis. Neben der Fülle an Bildungsressourcen über private Finanzen kannst du dich auch auf einen verlässlichen Support verlassen, der dir bei Fragen jederzeit zur Verfügung steht.
Welche Währungen werden bei Bitpanda akzeptiert?
Bitpanda akzeptiert Euro (EUR), US-Dollar (USD), Schweizer Franken (CHF), Britische Pfund Sterling (GBP), Türkische Lira (TRY) und Polnische Zloty (PLN) für Ein- und Auszahlungen. Hierbei stehen dir verschiedenste, gängige Zahlungsanbieter wie SEPA (SEPA Instant), GIROPAY/EPS, SOFORT, NETELLER, Skrill, Visa und Mastercard zur Verfügung.
Was sagen Nutzer über Bitpanda?
“Schnell, korrekt, seriös, zuverlässig.... besser als alle anderen Tradingplattformen. Nur zu empfehlen!” – Rico
“Als Anfänger super, hatte auch gleich eine Frage an den Support und bekam sofort die richtigen Unterlagen, die es zu studieren galt....bis jetzt eine positive Erfahrung” – Franz
“Seit Anfang 2017 dabei und bisher noch nie Probleme gehabt. Ich bin sehr zufrieden und das Angebot an neuen Cryptos und anderen Produkten wird zur Zeit auch immer größer!!! Die News der letzten Monate lässt IMO auf eine außergewöhnlich positive zukünftige Entwicklung schließen!” – Jost
Wie du siehst, ist Bitpanda eine sichere und regulierte Plattform, die von Nutzern gerne empfohlen wird, um Geld anzulegen. Neben dem großen Kryptoangebot zeichnet sich Bitpanda durch hohe Sicherheit, intuitive Navigation und umfangreiche und einfach verständliche Bildungsressourcen aus, die die Plattform für jeden zugänglich machen. Probiere es doch einfach selbst aus, melde dich noch heute auf Bitpanda an und starte deine Investmentreise!
Bitpanda: Kaufe, verkaufe und tausche Kryptowährungen immer und überall
Disclaimer: Dieser Artikel stellt weder eine Anlageberatung noch ein Angebot oder eine Aufforderung zum Kauf von digitalen Assets dar. Er dient nur zu allgemeinen Informationszwecken und es wird weder ausdrücklich noch stillschweigend eine Zusicherung oder Garantie bezüglich der Fairness, Genauigkeit, Vollständigkeit oder Richtigkeit dieses Artikels oder der darin enthaltenen Meinungen gegeben und es sollte kein Vertrauen in die Fairness, Genauigkeit, Vollständigkeit oder Richtigkeit dieses Artikels oder der darin enthaltenen Meinungen gesetzt werden. Dieser Artikel stellt weder eine Anlageberatung noch ein Angebot oder eine Aufforderung zum Kauf von digitalen Assets dar. Investieren birgt Risiken. Vor dem Abschluss einer Transaktion sollten stets eigene Recherchen durchgeführt werden. Bitpanda Savings ermöglicht wiederkehrende Käufe von Assets auf der Bitpanda Plattform.
Image via UnSplash: Giorgio Trovato
There’s so much to do before the end of the year. And so much of it seems to zap your bank account. Hosting Thanksgiving? Holiday shopping? Decorating and decking the halls? All of it costs money. But there's one way to get some money back before the close of the year — your FSA. Just make sure you don’t miss the deadline.
That’s right, the FSA deadline is coming up. And if you haven’t drained that FSA account dry, you’re leaving money on the table. So what are you waiting for? Get those reimbursement dollars and put some money back into your pockets this season for a change.
Not sure where to start? Here’s the 411 on FSAs and everything you should be buying with your remaining funds.
What is an FSA?
An FSA, aka Flexible Spending Account, is an employee benefit that lets you stash away pre-tax income for later use on your medical expenses. The amount varies based on whether you have dependents or if you’re married, etc. Check your benefits portal or contact HR if you’re not sure if you have one or how to access it. About 43% of employees have an FSA allowance, so take a look.
Since it’s tied to your employer, it’s definitely something you want to use. Wasting your FSA allowance is like throwing a portion of your salary away. You worked hard, you earned it. So use it before you lose it.
How does an FSA work?
From the day your plan is active each year, you can withdraw your funds to pay for a ton of different health services and products. From medication to co-pays. Covid-related supplies, and even menstrual products anything for the good of your health is fair game. Some more niche FSA-approved purchases include deep massage guns and even some of the costs of buying and maintaining a service animal.
To get your benefits, you can either withdraw funds or save your receipts and get reimbursed later.
What is the difference between FSA and an HSA?
A Health Savings Account (HSA) lets you set aside pre-tax and tax-exempt money to pay for qualified medical expenses. Like a savings account, it stays there until you use it – and many even earn interest, like an investment account. Your HSA also doesn’t expire, so no deadlines. Instead, your funds roll over. And since it’s not tied to your employer, you can carry HSA funds from job to job — even after you change health insurance plans or retire.
When is the FSA Deadline?
For most employees, the deadline to use your funds is December 31st. Employers have some leeway, so make sure to double-check. But for most of us, it’s go time.
And while there was a rollover grace period during the pandemic, now, the leniency of the deadline depends on your employer. So make sure to make your FSA-eligible purchases, or request your reimbursements now!
Before the deadline passes, make sure to stock up on essentials and even get your money back from past purchases (if you have your receipt!). And if you’re looking to discover some exciting FSA-eligible purchases to make before New Year’s, here are a few we’re shopping:
All products featured are independently selected by our editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
FEEL GOOD LOTION & SPRAY BUNDLE - SPF 30
Non Toxic Vegan Lotion & Spray Sunscreen BundleIf your FSA is buying, it’s easier to justify splurging on suncare. This 2-in-1 Bask Suncare kit comes with a spray and lotion sunscreen. I’ll be buying this in bulk. Sunscreen is a must, even in the winter!
Warby Parker Glasses, Contacts, & Annual Eye Exam
www.warbyparker.com
Glasses, contacts, and even your annual eye exam are covered under your FSA. I get all three taken care of at Warby Parker for stylish specs and updated prescriptions.
WTHN Acupressure Mat and Pillows
Acupressure Mat SetStress relief is covered under FSA guidelines, including acupressure mats and pillows. This WTHN mat targets stress and tension — while also being aesthetically pleasing. I’ve been eyeing it on Instagram for ages and I finally get to take the plunge.
Aura Revive Heated Deep Muscle Pain Relief Device – Aura Wellness
Aura Revive Heated Deep Muscle Pain Relief DeviceGet pointed pain relief with heat and pressure with this state-of-the-art device. It comes with multiple attachments for personalized, customizable treatments each time you use it.
Shiatsu Air Pro Foot Massager with Heat
HoMedics® Shiatsu Air Pro Foot Massager with Heat in Silver
Spend all day on your feet? That could have adverse health effects. But don’t worry, foot relief tools like home pedicure stations and massagers are all covered by your FSA. This heated Shiatsu massager is the answer to all your foot-pain problems.
Dyson Air Purifier
Dyson Pure Hot + Cool Link™ HP02 purifier heater (Black/Nickel)
Got allergies? You might be able to get your air purifier covered. This one might take a doctor’s note, but it’s worth the try.
Mighty Patch Pimple Patches
Mighty Patch Original from Hero Cosmetics
Amazing! Acne treatments are covered under your FSA — and my hormonal breakouts could not be happier to hear it. I can finally justify spending on these viral Mighty Patch pimple patches.
