What’s Open and Closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day 2024

Entrepreneur contributors advocate for robust training programs for franchisees, emphasizing the need to cater to individuals with varying levels of industry knowledge and skills. Training typically begins at the franchisor's headquarters, featuring classroom sessions, hands-on activities, and testing. On-site training follows, focusing on day-to-day operations and tailored to each franchisee's needs. Ongoing training is essential for long-term success, with requirements for recertification and continual education included in franchise agreements. Full Article

Private equity funds have struggled to meet investor expectations, with payouts falling short for the third consecutive year due to a deal drought. Cambridge Associates estimated a $400bn shortfall in payments over the past three years, prompting firms to explore new ways to return cash to investors. While there is optimism for increased merger and acquisition activity in 2025, concerns remain about the industry's ability to sell assets at realistic valuations, with some assets being...

Entrepreneur contributors express their own opinions through curated themes found in books of the year, highlighting topics like calming anxiety, math-mindedness, good aging, rethinking higher education, generosity-first leadership, saving humanity in the age of AI, the female lens in history, finding purpose, climate solutionism, the citizenship imperative, quiet leadership, and the importance of friendships as an antidote to loneliness. These books offer insights into relevant issues for entrepreneurs and professionals heading into 2025 and beyond....

Trade groups representing major U.S. banks have filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking increased transparency in the Federal Reserve's stress tests post-2008 financial crisis. The Fed has already proposed changes to the annual process, indicating potential adjustments to address the concerns raised by the banking industry. This legal action highlights the ongoing debate over the regulatory framework governing the U.S. banking sector. Full Article

Companies like Singapore Technologies Engineering (STE) are worth considering due to their double-digit revenue and profit increases, diversified customer base, and 3.5% dividend yield. STE, with businesses in defence, commercial aerospace, and urban solutions, reported strong revenue growth across its divisions, with DPS leading at 18%. The company's global presence, healthy order book, and focus on high-value activities make it a strong investment option with a "strong buy" rating from analysts and a 3.53% dividend...

In a recent share buyback, Elon Musk's SpaceX became the most valuable private company, offering employees $185 per share, a 65% increase from the previous price of $112. Thanks to a surge in investor interest following his relationship with Donald Trump, Musk's companies like Tesla and xAI have seen significant gains, benefiting Baillie Gifford-managed investment trusts with exposure to SpaceX. Despite risks associated with private investments, Baillie Gifford's successful strategy has led to substantial returns,...