Esther Shein is a freelance writer and editor whose work has appeared in several online and print publications, including InformationWeek, eWeek, Computerworld, BYTE, CIO, CFO and The Boston Globe. Previously she was the editor-in-chief of Datamation.
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Design in Progress
The market for 3-D printing is booming, but consumer applications have room for growth
Users are creating everything from human organs and limbs to handguns and musical instruments. Sales of 3-D printers, including materials and associated services, reached $2.5 billion globally in 2013, according to Canalys, which projects the market will reach $3.8 billion in 2014 and as much as $16.2 billion by 2018. But there remains room to grow.
Made to Last
Trusteed IRAs can stretch assets over generations
You’ve made all the right financial decisions. You’ve saved, you’ve planned, you’ve invested. But what if your heirs aren’t quite ready for the responsibilities and tax advantages that go along with inheriting your dutifully funded IRA? Your best bet for control from the grave may be a trusteed IRA.
Easy Access
Banks are swapping teller lines and velvet ropes for digital kiosks and coffee machines
Whether it’s newly designed branches or banks without branches at all, the banking industry is undergoing a physical transformation as consumers seek improved customer service and more digital options.
Banking on Content Marketing
Community banks embrace new marketing strategies to supplement traditional advertising
Having just begun using social media in 2012, Safe Credit Union is relatively new to content marketing. But it hasn’t taken long for the company to discover the benefits of engaging online with its customers and potential consumers.
Elder Appeal
Community banks boost services to retain retirement-bound clients
Robert Fay likes to tell the story of a client whose father worked with his grandmother long ago. She mentioned her plan to move her money to an investment firm. “I told her, ‘You should talk to me.’ After we had gone through all that [our bank could] do, I said, ‘Dorothy, you know I’m going to do the best I can for you.’ She said, ‘I know you will. And if you don’t, I’ll tell your mother.’”