Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.
Ask Rusty: Does my SS payment include repayment of contributions?
Dear Rusty: I have a question about my Social Security (SS) benefits. Would I be correct to assume that part of the monthly SS income I get is a repayment of what I contributed to the fund while I was working? If so, how much of my monthly benefit payment is my own money coming […]
VIEWPOINT: Bridging the Gap Between Digital and Branch Banking
The pandemic had a lasting impact on consumer behavior, and nowhere more so than in financial services. The financial landscape has shifted dramatically over the past four years, as the adoption of digital banking has accelerated across all generations. When the world shut down in March 2020, essential industries quickly pivoted to serve the needs
Creating a Strong Brand Identity: A Necessity for Small Businesses
In today’s competitive marketplace, creating a strong brand identity is crucial for small businesses looking to stand out from the crowd and is essential for growth and success. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through the creation of collateral materials, including letterhead, presentation templates, and business cards. Brand identity is the
Ask Rusty: Will My Wife Get a Spousal Benefit from Me?
Dear Rusty: I will be turning 70 this coming November. I will begin taking my Social Security (SS) benefit at that time. My age 70 SS benefit will be about $4,500 per month. My spouse (who is currently 74) began receiving her SS benefits about 10 years ago — before her full retirement age (FRA).
VIEWPOINT: District Court Approves FTC Non-Compete Ban
A Growing Divide That May Sow Confusion On July 23, 2024, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (Hon. Kelley B. Hodge, U.S.D.J.) issued a memorandum opinion and order in the matter of ATS Tree Services, LLC v. Federal Trade Commission, 2024 WL 3511630, 24-1743, denying plaintiff’s motion seeking a preliminary
Ask Rusty: About Social Security’s annual COLA
Dear Rusty: I’ve been reading a lot lately about speculation on what next year’s Social Security benefit increase will be, and it seems like most of the experts are suggesting a range of 2.5 percent to 3 percent. My neighbor says don’t worry about it, because there will always be some level of increase come
Honoring Steve DiMeo by championing regional projects
Earlier this year, our region suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Mohawk Valley EDGE President Steve DiMeo. He was the guiding force behind EDGE, Marcy Nanocenter, Griffiss Business & Technology Park, and countless other projects that have led to massive growth and success. His leadership and vision were unparalleled to all those who
VIEWPOINT: Supporting the Region’s Revitalization
Central New York’s economy is at the threshold of a period of steep, lucrative growth for the first time in decades. Thanks in part to major public and private investments, our region gained more than 5,300 jobs in the past year across all industries and is forecasted to continue growing. As a major employer of
VIEWPOINT: How Community Financial Institutions Can Compete, Collaborate with FinTech
In 1967, the first automated teller machine (ATM) was installed in a Barclays branch, enabling banking customers to withdraw cash from their account without visiting a teller line. Since then, technology has taken center stage in financial services. Today, consumers have instant access to their entire financial lives no matter where they are on the
Ask Rusty: Why Aren’t I Exempt from Medicare Part B Premium?
Dear Rusty: Why, as I continue to work after age 65 and have FICA taxes taken from my check, am I (or anyone) also compelled
Stay up-to-date on the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Syracuse, Central New York and beyond.