Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.

Ask Rusty: What is the Formula for Deciding When to Claim SS?
Dear Rusty: I am curious about the “formula” to decide when to take Social Security (SS) while still working. I am past the full retirement age (FRA). How do you best address such? Should we schedule a call? Signed: Wondering When Dear Wondering When: Well, you can always contact us by phone on (888) 750-2622 […]

VIEWPOINT: Online business fraud continues to increase
We’re all aware of the many ways that scammers are working to defraud individuals out of their hard-earned money. But small businesses continue to be in the crosshairs of today’s online criminals. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) highlights a wide range of fraudulent schemes targeting businesses, including scams involving fake invoices and unordered merchandise, online

VIEWPOINT: Parsing through the economic data & gauging the outlook
I’d like … to share my assessment of recent economic data and how it’s informing my outlook for the economy. Particularly, I’ll explain what the data are telling us in light of economic uncertainty, and how I expect the effects of tariffs to take shape. Now is when I must give the standard Fed disclaimer

VIEWPOINT: A Warning for New York State’s Energy Policy
On June 24, New York State’s electricity grid nearly blew a fuse. That day was extremely hot, and air conditioning was working overtime. The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO), the entity running New York’s electricity grid, declared the so-called “Energy Warning.” How bad was it? According to NYISO, an energy warning is issued when

VIEWPOINT: Community Bank, Credit Union Strategies for Building Brand Reputation
Reputation is the cornerstone of trust in community banking, and it is essential for local banks and credit unions to maintain a positive, pristine reputation in their local communities. Here are a few ways to accomplish this critical goal: 1. Prioritize transparency and communication: Maintaining open communication with your community is vitally important, as it

Ask Rusty: Can I Switch to a Taxi Driver Job Without Hurting my Social Security?
Dear Rusty: I I opted to draw my Social Security (SS) retirement benefit early and work part time. The company I work for has decided to pull me from field work due to my age and health. Although they are great keeping me at 20 hours per week running for parts and doing office work,

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Syracuse Boat Tours – Making Waves in The Community
During the summer of 2024, a new boat tour company made its way onto the waters of the Seneca River and Onondaga Lake. Syracuse Boat Tours provides locals and visitors the opportunity to gain an appreciation for the Central New York area and the beauty it has to offer. Annette Peters, the company’s owner, is

VIEWPOINT: Community Banks, Credit Unions Need to Market Local, Build Trust
Community banks and credit unions hold a unique position in the financial-services marketplace. As vital members of their local communities, these organizations serve an essential role in fostering economic growth, giving them an inside track in building and maintaining trust with their customers and members. However, the financial landscape is rapidly evolving. With changing demographics

VIEWPOINT: From Burden to Breeze: Redefining Compliance with AI-Powered Solutions
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are steadily transforming the way businesses approach risk, regulation, and operational oversight. With an ever-evolving cyber ecosystem, compliance is regularly playing catch-up. Revelations regarding zero-day attacks, where no prior knowledge of the exploitation exists, promote additions and amendments to what defines a “secure environment.” New software and breakthroughs in industry

VIEWPOINT: Supreme Court Sets Legal Standard for Students Claiming Disability Discrimination
The Supreme Court recently issued a unanimous decision in A. J. T. v. Osseo Area Schools, Independent School Dist. No. 279 that changes the standard for students pursuing disability-discrimination claims against schools under Section 504. The case was initiated by the parents of a teenager with epilepsy that caused her to be unable to attend
Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.