The 47th president’s newly announced tariffs are expected to raise prices on everyday goods, disproportionately impacting low-income and marginalized communities who spend a higher share of their income on essentials. Experts warn that the increased costs and economic uncertainty could worsen inequality, strain household budgets, and potentially lead to job losses in vulnerable sectors.
Category: BUSINESS
Posted inBUSINESS
Founders of Black-owned brands adapt their hopes and business plans amid diversity, equity rollbacks
Black-owned businesses are adjusting their strategies as major retailers scale back diversity initiatives, with some entrepreneurs reconsidering partnerships and others looking for alternative growth avenues. While brands like Pound Cake and Puzzles of Color navigate shifting corporate commitments, founders remain focused on community-driven support, independent retail expansion, and fostering resilience in an evolving business landscape.
Posted inNational News
Kenneth B. Stanciel Sr., Chicago broadcast media sales executive, dies at 90
Kenneth “Ken” Stanciel Sr., a trailblazing African American broadcast sales executive at CBS Radio (WBBM) and longtime media professional, has passed away at 90. A respected figure in both general market and African American media, Stanciel was known for his business acumen, charismatic presence, and contributions to corporate investment in diverse audiences, leaving a lasting impact on Chicago’s media landscape.
Posted inBUSINESS
A loan shark in your pocket: Cellphone payday loan apps leave many consumers worse off
Predatory earned wage advance (EWA) apps are trapping low-income workers in cycles of high-interest debt, with borrowers often reborrowing at rates equivalent to 300 percent APR or more. Consumer advocates and regulators warn that without stronger financial protections, these apps will continue to exploit vulnerable Americans, deepening financial insecurity rather than alleviating it.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Smithsonian African American Museum Director Placed on Leave
By Stacy M. BrownBlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent Kevin Young, the director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), is currently on personal leave and not leading the museum, according to Smithsonian officials. The leave began on March 14 and will continue for an “undetermined period,” according to Kevin Gover, the Smithsonian’s […]
Posted inBaltimore News
JPMorgan Chase expands virtual jobs to military spouses in Maryland
JPMorgan Chase expanded its virtual call center in Baltimore to provide job opportunities for military spouses within a 90-mile radius. Dawn Moore, Maryland’s first lady, praised the effort, emphasizing the value military spouses bring to the workforce.
Posted inBUSINESS
Smart tips to make this tax season stress-free and maximize your refund
Janet Currie is president of Bank of America Maryland. This week, she discusses ways to take the pain out of tax season, and how to get the most bang out of every buck received in tax returns.
Sponsored
Preparing Financially for Future Emergencies: Building Resilience and Readiness
Sponsored by JPMorganChase In an unpredictable world, financial emergencies can arise at any moment, whether due to unexpected medical expenses, job loss, or natural disasters. Building financial resilience is not just about having a safety net; it’s about cultivating habits and strategies that help ensure stability and peace of mind in the face of uncertainty. […]
Posted inWomen's Rights
Athena Ware Hernandez and Geri Bryd: chiefs of change
This Women’s History Month, Athena Ware Hernandez and Geri Royale Byrd are celebrated for redefining leadership and creating pathways for future generations. As chiefs of staff in Maryland government, their work in public service, advocacy and policy continue to inspire and uplift communities.
Posted inBaltimore News
One year later: Residents and business owners continue recovery efforts from Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse
As the anniversary of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse approaches, Baltimore residents reflect on the lasting impact of the tragedy and the ongoing rebuild efforts. While the collapse has caused significant disruptions to traffic and local businesses, community leaders remain hopeful that increased attention and new partnerships will help address infrastructure concerns.
Posted inBaltimore News
State of Maryland announces grant funding for economic development projects for Baltimore’s most-disinvested residential and commercial corridor in West Baltimore
The West North Avenue Development Authority (WNADA) has awarded over $6.5 million in its second round of grant funding to 19 recipients, including minority-, women-, veteran-, and returning citizen-led businesses, as part of its 15-year revitalization strategy for West Baltimore. With a total investment of $21.2 million over the past two years, WNADA continues to drive economic growth, support local businesses, and improve community services along the West North Avenue corridor.
Posted inBaltimore News
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore releases annual ‘State of Downtown’ report
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore (DPOB) unveiled its 2024 State of Downtown report on March 20. The annual analysis provides updates on key indicators of the health of Baltimore’s Central Business District, including data on employment, tourism, employment, vacancies and public safety According to DPOB’s president, Shelonda Stokes, downtown is […]