Reginald Chan

Category: Business

  • The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Cryptocurrency Trading in Malaysia

    Abstract cryptocurrency trading representation

    Key Highlights

    • This guide is a simple start to cryptocurrency trading in Malaysia.
    • It explains what cryptocurrency is, how the market works, and why it is getting popular.
    • Beginners can find easy steps on how to start trading. This includes setting up a wallet and choosing an exchange.
    • The guide also covers managing risks, finding scams, and gives important tools and resources for safe trading.
    • Readers will get clear explanations of trading strategies for beginners. This will help them feel confident as they enter the cryptocurrency market.

    Introduction

    The cryptocurrency market is drawing attention from traders and investors worldwide. Malaysia is joining in on this trend too. This market uses blockchain technology to link people with financial markets and digital assets.

    If you are new to cryptocurrency or want to improve your trading skills, it is important to understand how this new technology works.

    Understanding Cryptocurrency Trading in Malaysia

    Diverse group trading cryptocurrency

    Cryptocurrency trading in Malaysia is becoming more popular among residents of the United States. Many residents are learning about its possible benefits.

    The laws about cryptocurrency in the country, as well as local law, are still changing. This creates both chances and challenges for those wanting to join this digital economy.

    This beginner’s guide is here to make cryptocurrency trading easy. It will give you the skills and tools you need to explore this exciting but unpredictable market. You can learn how to avoid the risks and pitfalls that come with such distribution.

    Want to buy and sell cryptocurrency according to Malaysian rules and regulations? Sign up at Luno right now!

    The Basics of Cryptocurrency and Its Market Dynamics

    Cryptocurrencies are different from traditional currencies issued by central banks. They are digital currencies that use cryptography to remain secure. This fact relates to the mining process. Because of this, cryptocurrencies are decentralized and not under the control of the government or banks. This reduces the chance of hacks. People can trade cryptocurrencies directly with each other as a form of payment. These trades are then recorded on a public ledger called a blockchain.

    The cryptocurrency market depends on supply and demand. Many factors can have a significant impact on it, leading to increased volatility. News, technology changes, government rules, and political concerns affect the market. There is a lot of uncertainty about how cryptocurrencies fit into financial markets. Understanding these significant impacts, including volatility, is important for anyone who wants to trade successfully.

    Some well-known cryptocurrencies are Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple, and Litecoin. Bitcoin is the first and the most famous cryptocurrency. Ethereum has its own currency called Ether. Ripple is fast at processing transactions. Litecoin is like Bitcoin but offers quicker updates for payments and transactions.

    Why Cryptocurrency Trading Has Gained Popularity in Malaysia

    Cryptocurrency trading is getting more popular in Malaysia. This growth is because of blockchain technology. It offers security and clear transactions. With blockchain, we don’t need middlemen, which cuts down on fraud. As a result, more people want to invest in digital assets.

    The cryptocurrency market is easy to join using a mobile platform. Many new investors want to get involved. You can trade at any time and from any place. Also, the starting costs are lower than those of traditional financial markets.

    Retail client accounts can offer great chances for quick profits. However, it’s important to remember how this product works and that higher rewards also come with high risk. This is especially true when you work with complex instruments. The market can change quickly, which can lead to losses. So, it’s best to be cautious.

    Getting Started with Cryptocurrency Trading in Malaysia

    Now that you know what cryptocurrency is, let’s talk about how to start trading in Malaysia. The first step is to learn about the key tools and resources. They will help you get a better grasp of the cryptocurrency market.

    Next, we will show you how to create your first cryptocurrency wallet. A wallet is a digital space that keeps your digital assets secure. We will also discuss important safety steps to protect your investments.

    Essential Tools and Resources Every Beginner Needs

    Before you start crypto trading, it is important to have the right tools. Luckily, there are a number of free and paid resources that can help you:

    • Trading Platforms: Look for a safe and easy-to-use trading platform. It should let you trade a range of cryptocurrencies and provide useful tools for technical analysis.
    • Mobile Apps: Many apps make accessing crypto trading simple. Choose a trustworthy app with good security. This will help you track your investments and trade easily.
    • Educational Resources: There are many online courses, webinars, and forums about cryptocurrency trading. Take some time to learn about different trading strategies, risk management, and market analysis.

    Setting Up Your First Cryptocurrency Wallet Safely

    A cryptocurrency wallet is important for keeping your digital currency safe. It acts like a bank account for your crypto. A wallet helps you send, receive, and manage your crypto assets. But, wallets do not actually hold your cryptocurrency. They keep private keys instead. These keys help you access your money on the blockchain.

    Choosing a safe wallet is important. Software wallets, like desktop or mobile wallets, are simple to use. However, hardware wallets are more secure. They keep your keys offline.

    When you create your wallet, remember to think about security. Make sure to turn on two-factor authentication. Keep your private keys safe. Be careful of phishing scams.

    Step-by-Step Guide to Buying and Selling Cryptocurrency in Malaysia

    Once you know about cryptocurrency and have a secure wallet, you can start buying and selling. Here are some simple steps for beginners:

    • Choose a good cryptocurrency exchange.
    • Make your first purchase.
    • Learn trading strategies that work well for beginners.
    • Know how to sell your cryptocurrency and protect your profits.

    Step 1: Choosing the Right Cryptocurrency Exchange

    A cryptocurrency exchange account is a place to buy and sell cryptocurrencies and cryptocurrency tokens. You can use traditional currencies, like the US dollar, for these transactions. Choosing the right exchange is very important. The fees, security measures, and range of cryptocurrencies offered can change a lot. This can affect the full value of the asset you trade.

    FeatureDescription
    FeesCompare trading fees (buying and selling) and deposit/withdrawal fees.
    SecurityLook for exchanges with robust security measures, such as two-factor authentication (2FA).
    Cryptocurrencies OfferedChoose an exchange that supports the specific cryptocurrencies you want to trade.
    User ExperienceConsider the platform’s ease of use, especially if you’re a beginner.

    It’s smart to look into and compare different exchanges. Pick one that meets your trading needs and aligns with how much risk you can take. Be sure to read reviews. Also, check that the exchange is legal in Malaysia.

    Step 2: Making Your First Purchase

    Once you choose an exchange and set up your account, you can buy your first cryptocurrency. Think about how much money you are comfortable investing. If you are just starting out, it is best to begin with a small amount.

    Next, pick Bitcoin or another crypto. Enter the amount you want to buy. Then, check the transaction details, such as the fees, before you confirm it. Most exchanges let you pay with bank transfers, credit cards, debit cards, or by exchanging one crypto for another.

    Cryptocurrency markets can move fast. Members of the IG Group know about trading financial instruments and tools. They can help you look for big profits. However, it is important to make careful decisions. Always use your sole discretion when you invest. Be careful of any solicitation. Remember, never invest more than you can afford to lose.

    Step 3: Understanding Trading Strategies for Beginners

    For people who are new to crypto trading, it’s best to start with simple and easy strategies. A popular approach is “buy and hold.” This means you buy a cryptocurrency and keep it for a long time. You feel that its value will go up over time.

    Another way to invest is called “dollar-cost averaging.” This means you put a set amount of money in at regular times, no matter the market price. This method helps reduce the risks related to price changes.

    Trading CFDs with a CFD account trading account lets you guess how cryptocurrency prices will change. As derivatives, CFDs provide full market exposure without owning the actual asset. However, CFDs can be complex. They are better for experienced traders because they involve leverage.

    Step 4: Selling Cryptocurrency and Securing Profits

    Knowing when to sell your cryptocurrency is as important as knowing when to buy. You need to watch the market. Track the value of your investments. Pay attention to cryptocurrency price movements closely. This will help you figure out the best time to sell.

    • Set price targets that are realistic and fit your goals. Think about how much risk you can handle.
    • When a cryptocurrency hits your target, it is often smart to sell and take your profits.
    • Be careful with greed. It can lead to losing money.
    • Keeping your investments for too long may cause you to miss good opportunities.
    • Think about using stop-loss orders.
    • These orders automatically sell your cryptocurrency if its price drops to a specific level.
    • This can help limit possible losses.
    • It can help you manage risk more effectively.

    Risks and Safety Measures in Cryptocurrency Trading

    Cryptocurrency trading can feel thrilling and offers many chances to make money. However, you must understand the risks too. The market changes quickly. There can be scams and security issues. That’s why it’s important to stay cautious and attentive.

    In this section, we will talk about common scams in cryptocurrency. This includes fake sales offers for individual retirement accounts that use cryptocurrencies. We will share tips to help you avoid these scams. Also, we will discuss smart ways to handle risks. This will help keep your investments safe in this uncertain market.

    Recognizing Common Scams and How to Avoid Them

    Cryptocurrency trading can help you earn money, but it also comes with big risks from scams. Knowing about these common scams can help you protect your investments:

    • Phishing Scams: Some scammers pretend to be real businesses or people to steal your login details or personal information. Always check the links of websites and the addresses of emails. Don’t share your private keys.
    • Fake ICOs: Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) let you invest in new cryptocurrencies. But some promise returns that are too good to be true. Make sure to research any ICO carefully. Read their whitepapers and ensure they have an official presence and a reliable team.
    • Always remember, if something looks too good to be true, it likely is.
    • Be careful with investment choices.
    • Always do your research before you make a decision.

    Risk Management Strategies for New Traders

    Navigating the world of crypto trading can be tough, especially for new traders. If you are checking out IG International Limited, which is part of the IG Group’s ultimate parent company IG Group Holdings Plc, you need to manage your risks. Keep your money safe by only investing what you can afford to lose, and be aware that IG International does not have an official Line account. The crypto markets can change quickly, so it is important to be careful.

    • A good strategy is to spread out your investments.
    • This means you should not put all your money into one kind of cryptocurrency.
    • Instead, try to invest in several different cryptocurrencies.
    • Consider using stop-loss orders.
    • These orders will sell your cryptocurrency on their own if the price falls to a certain level.
    • This can help you reduce your losses.
    • You may also want to talk to a financial advisor or an investment provider.
    • They can offer advice that meets your risk level and investment goals.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, if you want to start trading crypto in Malaysia, you need to understand the market and the tools you will use. By having good knowledge and smart risk strategies, beginners can safely explore the world of crypto. It is important to spot common scams and pick trustworthy exchanges to keep your money safe. Start with small amounts and grow over time as you learn. Stay updated and aware.

    Enjoy your journey in crypto trading in Malaysia with Luno!

    When you feel ready, take the first step towards your financial growth with confidence and good choices.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How Much Money Do I Need to Start Trading Cryptocurrency in Malaysia?

    The amount you need to start trading crypto in Malaysia can be different. It depends on which exchange you use and what digital currency you choose. Some places let you begin with just $10 USD. However, other platforms may ask for a larger minimum deposit.

    What are the basic concepts of cryptocurrency trading that beginners should understand?

    Some basic concepts of cryptocurrency trading that beginners should understand include:

    1. Market volatility: Cryptocurrency prices can fluctuate rapidly, leading to potential profits or losses.

    2. Exchange platforms: These digital platforms allow you to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies.

    3. Wallets: Digital wallets store your cryptocurrencies securely and provide access to your funds.

    4. Research and analysis: Understanding the market trends, news, and technical analysis can help in making informed trading decisions.

    5. Risk management: Implementing strategies like diversification and stop-loss orders can help mitigate risks associated with trading.

    How can a beginner get started with cryptocurrency trading?

    To begin your journey in cryptocurrency trading as a beginner, follow these steps:

    1. Educate yourself: Learn about blockchain technology, how cryptocurrencies work, and the basics of trading.

    2. Choose a reliable exchange: Research and select a reputable cryptocurrency exchange that suits your needs.

    3. Set up a wallet: Create a secure digital wallet to store your cryptocurrencies safely.

    4. Start small: Begin with a small amount to get a feel for trading and gradually increase your investments as you gain experience.

    5. Diversify your portfolio: Invest in different cryptocurrencies to spread out risk and potentially maximize returns. Remember to stay updated on market trends and continuously educate yourself to improve your trading skills.

    What are some common mistakes that beginners make when trading cryptocurrencies?

    Some common mistakes beginners make when trading cryptocurrencies include:

    1. Lack of research: Failing to understand the market, technology, and risks associated with cryptocurrencies.

    2. Emotional trading: Making decisions based on fear or excitement rather than rational analysis.

    3. Overlooking security: Neglecting to secure your funds properly in digital wallets or exchanges.

    4. Chasing losses: Trying to recover losses by making impulsive trades instead of sticking to a well-thought-out strategy.

    5. Not using risk management tools: Ignoring stop-loss orders or failing to diversify their portfolio to minimize risk exposure.

    Are there any reliable sources for learning more about cryptocurrency trading strategies?

    Yes, there are several reliable sources for learning more about cryptocurrency trading strategies. Some popular options include online courses from platforms like Coursera or Udemy, reputable cryptocurrency websites and blogs such as CoinDesk or CoinTelegraph, books written by experienced traders like “Cryptocurrency Trading & Investing” by Aimee Vo or “The Bitcoin Standard” by Saifedean Ammous, and joining cryptocurrency communities on platforms like Reddit or Discord to learn from others’ experiences and insights. If you are looking for Malaysian cryptocurrency news, Luno blog is the place to be.

    Remember to always verify the credibility of the sources you use for information on cryptocurrency trading strategies.

  • 5 Effective B2B Lead Generation Strategies for SaaS Startups

    5 Effective B2B Lead Generation Strategies for SaaS Startups

    5 Effective B2B Lead Generation Strategies for SaaS Startups

    5 Effective B2B Lead Generation Strategies for SaaS Startups

    SaaS startups are becoming more common these days as computer users are increasingly shifting towards using online services instead of desktop apps. Thus, SaaS marketing is a fiercely competitive industry and only the most savvy companies survive. 

    In the SaaS industry, you have to constantly remain on top of your marketing game if you want to gain an edge over the competition. Online services companies are able to spend upwards of 40% of their overall revenue on sales and marketing. 

    They also tend to have really talented marketers who have a wealth of resources on their disposal. With money taken care of, strategies come into play. SaaS companies have little room for failure in their marketing strategies. 

    But for all its complexity, it is still possible to successfully market a SaaS company and acquire new customers. 

    SaaS lead generation is therefore a multi-faceted strategy, one which will rely on organic traffic (SEO), content marketing, traditional lead prospecting and so on. 

    The goal with a SaaS lead generation strategy should be to acquire high quality qualified leads that have a high chance of conversion. 

    In this guide to prospecting leads, we’ll share effective strategies SaaS startups can use to acquire new customers. 

    1. High Quality Leads

    Many marketers fall into the trap of concentrating on the number of leads they can acquire, no matter what kind of lead it is. 

    The reality is however, low quality leads that have no chance of converting into revenue generating customers are useless. 

    These days, the emphasis of lead generation efforts should be on acquiring marketing qualified leads. This is an approach for quality over quantity. 

    Total number of leads is a meaningless statistic these days. Qualified leads are what matter. 

    A low quality lead is one where the person in question has no intention of buying your services. Spending valuable sales and marketing resources for this is of course wasteful. 

    So with this shift towards marketing qualified leads, how do you actually do it?

    That’s what we’ll discuss in the next section..

    2. Ideal Customer Profile

    Before you can even think about generating leads for your SaaS startup, it’s time to think about who you want your services towards.

    What is your ideal customer’s income? How about their age bracket?

    Creating an ideal customer profile will help your lead generation efforts later on, as you can execute campaigns that are targeted at a certain portion of people, rather than everyone. 

    3. Website SEO

    Organic traffic from Google and other search engines can be a great source of lead generation. 

    What’s great about SEO is that it’s not like traditional marketing where you’re bound to spend lots of money. 

    Great SEO can be done by tweaking your website for best practices and a great user experience. A part of SEO also heavily relies on content. 

    Creating content that’s targeted towards your ideal customer profile will help you attract visitors who already have an interest in your services, or services similar to what you offer. 

    The key is to create content that’s geared towards buyer intent topics, such as reviews.

    SEO is a great strategy but what it does require – and lots of it – is time. 

    Google will recognize the topics and content of your website and rank it based on how relevant it is. 

    This is a time consuming process, but you don’t have to spend a lot of money for it. There are a lot of great SEO resources and well-priced SEO experts to hire. 

    4. Case Studies

    Case studies are a great idea for generating content for your website. Nothing builds trust more for potential customers than reading about case studies in which it is communicated how your startup helped another company through its services. 

    Focus on building detailed case studies which highlight the before and after effect of your SaaS services. 

    Case studies can also help convert warm leads into ‘hot’ leads. Customers who’re having second-thoughts about your services might feel reassured after reading case studies and looking at the results your services got for other customers. 

    5. Personalized Email Campaigns

    Email gets a bad reputation because of how misused of a medium it is when it comes to lead generation.

    If you sincerely want to help potential customers through your SaaS however, personalized email campaigns are still a powerful lead generation strategy. 

    For SaaS companies, email campaigns are useful if they have a sizable readership on their blogs. 

    This is why having content and call-to-action for email newsletter signups is so important. 

    If you have a good email list to work with, you can often generate leads by sending personalized email campaigns. 

    The chances of success with this are higher since the recipients have read your content and shown an interest in future content by signing up for the newsletter as well.

  • How Recent Regulatory Changes are Reshaping Online Casinos

    Online casinos have experienced tremendous growth in the last two decades, driven by the rise of internet-based entertainment and innovative technologies. However, the Industry is also facing increasing scrutiny from regulators across the globe.

    Recent regulatory changes in the market are significantly impacting how online casino games are developed and operated, forcing operators and developers to adapt to new standards. Here is how these regulatory changes are impacting the online casino landscape in 2024.

    The growing need for online casino regulation

    The rapid growth of the online casino market has drawn the attention of regulators worldwide. These regulators are increasingly concerned about problems like gambling addiction, fair play, and money laundering. As a result, states and other regulatory bodies are implementing new regulations and laws to ensure that online casino games are operated safely, transparently, and securely.

    These new regulations are made to protect online players from exploitation, promote responsible gaming behavior, guarantee fairness in the games, and prevent fraud. Moreover, regulations level the playing field for all online casino operators by establishing clear rules that must be followed in the rapidly evolving market.

    Navigating the regulatory landscape

    Navigating the ever-evolving regulatory landscape poses a significant challenge to online casino game developers and global operators like Betway. Developers and operators must stay updated with the latest regulatory changes to ensure their games comply with the rules in every jurisdiction. That requires a clear understanding of the regulations set by different jurisdictions and the ability to anticipate changes in the regulatory landscape.

    Key regulatory changes influencing the online casino market

    Various jurisdictions across the world have introduced several key regulatory changes in recent years, significantly reshaping the online gambling market. These changes include:

    Strict licensing requirements

    Many jurisdictions have introduced strict licensing requirements for digital casino operators like Betway, requiring them to get licenses from trustworthy regulatory bodies. These casino licenses often come with strict measures like implementing anti-laundering measures, regular audits, and promoting responsible gaming behavior.

    Advertising restrictions

    Regulators are implementing strict controls on how digital gambling sites can advertise their games. That includes restricting the type of casino promotions they can offer and the requirements for transparent advertising without targeting minors and vulnerable individuals.

    Data privacy and security

    With the growing importance of privacy and data protection in the digital landscape, regulators are increasingly implementing new requirements for operators handling their players’ information. As such, the operators must implement robust data security measures to protect their players and comply with requirements like the General Data Protection Regulations.  

    Challenges for online casino game developers

    The introduction of new online casino regulations presents various challenges to game development companies in the industry. Game development companies must make sure that their casino games comply with the latest regulations, which may vary from one jurisdiction to the other. That requires a deep understanding of the regulations and the ability to adapt to the changing laws.

    One of the biggest challenges faced by casino game developers is making sure the games are transparent and fair. That includes implementing random number generators audited regularly by independent third parties and providing fair play with all the necessary information about the probability of winning. Additionally, casino game developers need to ensure their games promote responsible gambling behavior with tools that allow online players to limit their expenditure.

  • Free Resources For Business And Marketers During Covid-19

    Free Resources For Business And Marketers During Covid-19

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    List of Free Softwares and Courses During Coronavirus (Covid-19) Pandemic for Business & Professionals

    Is Covid-19 affecting your business? I bet it has some effects, one way or another. In this article, you will find free software and courses that are offered during this pandemic.

    Software / SaaS for Free or on Extented Free Trial

    Airtable Pro Plan free

    Airtable Pro plans available for free—with no time limit—to any non-political humanitarian groups working on COVID-19 relief efforts.

    Learn more: https://blog.airtable.com/airtables-support-for-covid-19-response-efforts/

    Calendly Premium features for free

    Calendly Is offering free Zoom And GoToMeeting integrations to help remote workers stay connected.

    Learn more: https://blog.calendly.com/meeting-integration-update/

    Hootsuite free access to Professional tier

    In response to the global economic impact of COVID-19, Hootsuite is offering free access to our Professional plan to help small businesses and nonprofits stay connected to their customers and audiences.

    Learn more: https://hootsuite.com/pages/stay-connected

    ZOHO’s Remotely free

    Zoho Remotely will enable you to take your work remote by offering a complete suite of web and mobile apps that will help you communicate, collaborate and be productive.

    Learn more: https://www.zoho.com/remotely/

    Audiencefy – Freee for 6 Months

    Segmentation and eCommerce analytics app. Grow Shopify sales and exponentially increase eCommerce revenue.

    Learn more: https://audiencefy.io/

    Bundy.io is Free

    Free Upto 10 members and Subscription fees reduced by 75% to support organisations during this difficult time.

    Learn more: https://bundy.io/

    SilFer Bots – Freee for 6 Months

    SilFer Bots Messenger Marketing Chatbot building platform providing 6 months of their Pro Unlimited Plan.

    Learn more: https://silferbots.co/blog/free-messenger-marketing-platform/

    Atlassian cloud for free

    Free access to Atlassian cloud projects including Jira and Confluence.

    Learn more: https://www.atlassian.com/software/free

    1Password free Business Plan

    Removing trial limits to help businesses work securely from home.

    Learn more: https://blog.1password.com/covid-19-response/

    Freshworks unrestricted access

    If you’re a small business with less than 50 employees, they’re offering you free and unrestricted use of our customer engagement tools, Freshchat and Freshcaller, for the next six months.

    Learn more: https://www.freshworks.com/company/freshworks-covid-offer-for-smb-blog/

    Pandadoc free tier (eSign plan) gives unlimited everything

    Unlimited document uploads – upload and send as many documents for esignature as you’d like, unlimited esignatures – collect an unlimited number of safe, secure, and legally binding electronic signatures & payment processing – accept a credit card, paypal, or ach payment the moment your doc is signed.

    Learn more: https://blog.pandadoc.com/new-pandadoc-free-esign-plan/

    Nimbus Business version free

    That’s why they’re offering businesses a free business version of their services for the next few months.

    Learn more: https://nimbusweb.me/covid19-support.php

    Adzooma fully free until June 1, 2020

    From now through to at least the start of June 2020, agencies, small businesses and anyone else who are using Google, Microsoft or Facebook to promote their business or services, will be able to benefit from the time and cost efficiencies that Adzooma can provide, for free.

    Learn more: https://www.adzooma.com/a-message-regarding-covid19/

    CTARe providing 2 months free

    Free for website security and reduced prices for remote computer (PC & Mac) management.

    Learn more: https://ctare.cloud/managed-it-support-computers-dsg-2020/

    Wrike Professional plan free for new users for 6 months

    Learn more: https://learn.wrike.com/remote-working/

    ZOOM Unlimited meeting times and break out rooms

    Zoom is doing everything we can to provide resources and support to those navigating the coronavirus outbreak.

    Learn more: https://blog.zoom.us/wordpress/2020/02/26/zoom-commitment-user-support-business-continuity-during-coronavirus-outbreak/

    Microsoft Teams – Free 6 month subscription

    Make Teams available to as many people as possible, they aim to support public health and safety by keeping teams connected while they work apart.

    Learn more: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2020/03/05/our-commitment-to-customers-during-covid-19/

    Hangouts Meet, free for up to 250 users per call and 100,000 viewers for live stream

    They will begin rolling out free access to our advanced Hangouts Meet video-conferencing capabilities to all G Suite and G Suite for Education customers globally.

    Learn more: https://cloud.google.com/blog/products/g-suite/helping-businesses-and-schools-stay-connected-in-response-to-coronavirus

    Dropbox Business – Free 3 Month Subscription

    Dropbox is offering free Dropbox and HelloSign subscriptions for a three-month period to nonprofits and NGOs that are focused on fighting COVID-19. In addition, Dropbox is offering free 3-month subscriptions to K-12 teachers who are facilitating distance learning.

    Learn more: https://go.dropbox.com/en-us/covid19-donation-program

    Cloudflare for Teams for small businesses

    Cloudflare is offering Cloudflare for Teams seats at no cost for small businesses through September 1. There is no commitment to continue using the product after September 1.

    Learn more: https://www.cloudflare.com/smallbusiness/

    Zencastr Hobbyist Plan free

    There will be no limits on recording hours or participants for Hobbyist users. They’ll keep this in effect through July 1, 2020.

    Learn more: http://blog.zencastr.com/blog/2020/3/17/corona-virus-response-were-lifting-limits-for-hobbyist-users

    Weberlo – Free UTM Link Builder

    Online Digital Marketing SaaS Tool For Funnel Tracking & Analytics.

    Learn more: https://www.weberlo.com/free-link-builder/

    SpyFu – is Free for Anyone Who Needs It

    They will offer a Basic Premium plan, free for 2 months. (Check in with us at the end of that period if you need additional time.)

    Learn more: https://www.spyfu.com/blog/spyfu-is-free-for-anyone-that-needs-it/

    TechSmith Snagit, and TechSmith Video Review Free Until July 30, 2020

    These temporary versions of TechSmith Snagit, their screen recording tool, and TechSmith Video Review, their asynchronous collaboration platform, will work through the end of June 2020.

    Learn More: https://discover.techsmith.com/remote-techsmith/

    Krisp – Free plan and dropped prices

    COVID-19 Response: New free plan and dropped prices Krisp can help clear all background noise from your professional conversations. All users get 120min/week of free noise cancellation for next 6months.

    Learn More: https://krisp.ai/blog/covid19-response/

    Vectera – Better online client meetings

    Vectera is the easy way to meet clients online. Free till June 1, 2020.

    Learn More: https://www.vectera.com/home/

    Yext Answers – Free for 90 days

    To ensure strong customer communications, they are offering Yext Answers for free for 90 days.

    Learn More: https://nowronganswers.com/

    Loom – 50% OFF on all paid plans

    Loom is the most effective way to get your message across, no matter where you work. Cutting Prices, Removing Limits.

    Learn More: https://www.loom.com/blog/coronavirus-response

    RingCentral – Voice, Video, Team Messaging, Contact Centers

    If you’re an educator (K-12 or community college), health-care provider, non-profit, public sector, or news and media organization, tell us a little about yourself and they’ll get you up and running right away.

    Learn More: https://www.ringcentral.com/covid19

    Slack – Free upgrades to paid plans for teams

    Free upgrades to paid plans for teams working on coronavirus pandemic research, response, or mitigation. Interested teams can email a special address to get this set up, and a consultation on how best to get started with remote collaboration. covid@slack.com

    Learn More: https://www.ringcentral.com/covid19

    LogMeIn – Free Emergency Remote Work Kits

    Free emergency remote work kits for health care providers, educational institutions, municipalities & non-profit organizations for 3 months.

    Learn More: https://blog.gotomeeting.com/coronavirus-disruptions-and-support/

    Intermedia- Free Video Conferencing

    Free Video Conferencing for all of 2020, and Pro Video Conferencing until 2021.

    Learn More: https://www.intermedia.net/anymeeting-video-conferencing

    Vidyard- Free Video Tools

    Vidyard introduces secure video messaging to enhance internal communications during the Coronavirus pandemic. Now available to all businesses for free.

    Learn More: https://www.vidyard.com/press-releases/free-video-tools-during-covid-19/

    Discord App- A new way to chat with your communities and friends

    They are temporarily upping the limit on Go Live to 50 people at a time, up from 10. Go Live is free to use and lets people privately stream or screen share apps from a computer while others watch on any device — so teachers can conduct a class, co-workers can collaborate, and groups can still meet.

    Learn More: https://blog.discordapp.com/helping-out-where-we-can-3a5fb7bac77a

    Panopto Adds- Free Offer 3 Months

    Automatic recording and sharing of recurring zoom meetings, offers businesses, universities, colleges, and schools unlimited, complimentary panopto enterprise for three months

    Learn More: https://www.panopto.com/about/news/panopto-adds-automatic-recording-and-sharing-of-recurring-zoom-meetings-offers-businesses-universities-colleges-and-schools-unlimited-complimentary-panopto-enterprise-for-three-months/

    Mailchimp’s COVID‑19 Response

    Mailchimp announces a $10M price relief fund to support small business customers & free standard Mailchimp accounts for eligible public service organizations.

    Learn More: https://mailchimp.com/covid19-statement/

    Adobe – Free Creative Cloud tools offered to students through May 31, 2020

    Adobe also has a vital role to play in schools, businesses, and government agencies, and earlier this week we began to offer free 90-day access to Adobe Connect, our web conferencing solution, until July 1, 2020.

    Learn More: https://theblog.adobe.com/adobe-enables-distance-learning-globally-schools-impacted-covid-19/

    Bitdefender offers up to 12 months of FREE enterprise grade security for ALL healthcare organizations

    Bitdefender helps healthcare providers to work at full capacity on delivering care during the Coronavirus pandemic, without worrying about falling victim to the ruthless, opportunistic attacks revolving around this crisis.

    Learn More: https://www.bitdefender.com/business/help-healthcare-fight-coronavirus.html

    Courses and Education Free or on Extended Free Trial

    Want to learn a new skill during Covid-19 lockdown? This is the time!

    ​Here are some of the best free courses for the public.

    Free Access to Premium Course Blogging for business by Ahrefs

    Learn how to grow your blog past 100K monthly visitors and turn thousands of your readers into paying customers.

    Learn More: https://ahrefs.com/academy/blogging-for-business

    ​MOZ SEO courses are available for free with the code ‘wegotthis’:

    Now through May 31, they’re making courses in Moz Academy free for our community.

    Learn More: https://academy.moz.com/

    Free courses on SEMRush

    Free online digital marketing courses and exams from Semrush.

    Learn More: https://www.semrush.com/academy/

    Link Research Tools SEO Certification

    Join the LRT Associates – an own Class of Experts, and a highly reputable and sought after certificate (a total value of €445).

    Learn More: https://www.linkresearchtools.com/seo-training/lrt-associate/

    ​Spocket SEO

    Learn More: https://academy.spocket.co/collections?category=seo

    CXL Growth Marketing Minidegree

    They are offering our Growth Marketing Minidegree to people whose livelihoods are affected by COVID-19.

    Learn More: https://cxl.com/institute/career-change/

    Oberlo Dropshipping 101 course for free. Use the code ‘LEARNFROMHOME’

    Oberlo 101: Start your first online business.

    Learn More: https://course.oberlo.com/offers/L4zaBsnx/checkout

    Smart Passive Income Media (SPI Media) courses

    Learn More: https://www.smartpassiveincome.com/online-business-toolkit/

    Free SEO Training Course craigcampbellseo

    Advanced SEO Courses completely FREE it’s normally sold at £800 per person, but anyone who signs up in the next 7 days will get access completely FREE of charge.

    Learn More: https://www.craigcampbellseo.com/free-seo-course/

    Yoast SEO training free

    All-around SEO training.

    Learn More: https://yoast.com/academy/all-around-seo-training/

    Schema Markup Boot Camp

    This schema.org Bootcamp was created to help digital marketing agencies take full advantage of the Schema.org vocabulary and show how to do markup on a website to get great organic search results.

    Learn More: https://www.schemaapp.com/schema-markup-bootcamp-modules/

    Conversion Optimization course free

    If you are working from home during the virus outbreak, please become a data-driven digital marketer for free.

    Learn More: https://www.conversionlive.com/

    Traffic Research Bunker Edition:

    Until April 15th 2020, Traffic Research Bunker Edition is being given out for free to help people during COVID-19.

    Learn More: https://www.mytrafficresearch.com/free/

    Free courses on Udemy:

    To support you through this time, Udemy have put together this collection of free courses from our learning marketplace.

    Learn More: https://www.udemy.com/courses/free/

    Free courses on Coursera

    To help our community during this critical time, they are launching new, free resources, as well as surfacing interesting course collections, community discussions, and expert interviews.

    Learn More: https://blog.coursera.org/coursera-together-free-online-learning-during-covid-19/

    All 10 of Nikon’s photography lessons are streaming for free

    Nikon’s mission has always been to empower creators. In these uncertain times, they can do that by helping creators stay inspired, engaged and growing.

    Learn More: https://www.nikonevents.com/us/live/nikon-school-online/

    LinkedIn – Free 16 LinkedIn Learning courses

    LinkedIn is giving free access to 16 LinkedIn Learning courses on how to effectively work remotely. Remote Working: Setting Yourself and Your Teams Up for Success

    Learn More: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/paths/remote-working-setting-yourself-and-your-teams-up-for-success

    Codecademy – Scholarships for Students Affected by COVID-19

    They offering 10,000 scholarships to Codecademy Pro for free to high school and college students across the world for the rest of the school year.

    Learn More: https://pro.codecademy.com/learn-from-home/

  • The difference between first, second, third-party data and how to use them

    The difference between first, second, third-party data and how to use them

    Data

    The difference between first, second & third-party data and how to use them

    Our society today is generating an enormous amount of data on a daily basis.

    The source of this data generation includes the internet, social media, services, communication channels and so on.

    Proper data analysis using the right systems can be used to improve a variety of processes involved in healthcare, energy production & distribution, finance, communication, marketing, etc

    Data is an extremely valuable resource that can be fed into advanced systems and used to address a lot of societal issues.

    In digital marketing, customer data can provide high quality and in-depth information about changing consumer behavior, needs and interests.

    These distinct pieces of information can then be used by marketers to develop and implement an effective and efficient marketing strategy.

    The primary aim of data-driven digital marketing is to utilize consumer insights to develop personalized content that will prompt conversions and sales.

    In this article, we are going through the difference between first, second and third-party data and how to use them.

    First-Party Data.

    First-party data refers to information your brand obtains on your audience and customers.

    First-party data plays a major role in site and customer relationship management (CRM) retargeting efforts because it provides you with insights about your existing customers.

    This makes the information obtained reliable for making forecasts on future user behaviors and patterns.

    With first-party data, you can target your customers by capitalizing on previous actions they have taken on your brand’s website.

    First-party data include information collected from users’ behavior on your website or mobile application, surveys, customer relationship management (CRM) platform, customer feedback, point of purchase, etc.

    How To Use First-Party Data.

    The high quality, accuracy, and in-depth nature of first-party data increases its value and relevance in enriching your digital marketing efforts.

    First-party data is also associated with minimal privacy risk as you are required to seek the consent of your customers before collection.

    During the process, you are expected to comply with all the rules and regulations surrounding consumer data protection and privacy.

    As the marketer who collects and manages this data, you have direct control and outright ownership over it.

    Here are​ three ways you as a marketer can use first-party data:

    1. Personalize customer experience:

    The data you collect can give in-depth knowledge of your visitor’s needs and interests. You can then use these insights to create personalized content and advertisements. Meeting the needs and satisfying the interest of your audience is one way to stimulate repeat purchases.

    2. Predict trends:

    First-party data can provide you with valuable insights into your customer’s behavior. With this information, you can predict how they will respond to your marketing strategy or product offerings.

    3. Improve Audience segmentation:

    You can use the rich insight first-party data generates about your audience to organize them into different groups with similar behavioral patterns, preferences, and interests. This increases your chances of success with personalized user experience.

    Second Party Data.

    Second-party data is information that a company collects from its audience and trades with another company in a mutual agreement.

    This data is from a different audience other than your own with whom you do not have any connection with.

    Second-party data is basically a second-hand data because it is the first-party data of another company.

    It typically includes information gotten from surveys, customer feedback, past purchases, product interests, digital interactions and so on.

    For you to drive up sales and improve overall growth, you cannot rely solely on data gotten from your audience. Therefore, the need for second-party data from a trusted partner with a demographic that is favorable to your business interest.

    Second-party data plays a pivotal role in helping you to expand your reach, target a new audience and possibly capture new high paying customers.

    How to use second-party data.

    There has been a rapid increase in the number of participants leveraging second-party data. This massive surge in its use can be attributed to more companies recognizing it’s value.

    The use of second-party data provides you with similar benefits of first-party data but also gives you the ability to gain a broader understanding of different consumer needs and interests.

    Below are some ways for you to use second-party data:

    1. Enhance your marketing campaigns:

    Second-party data can provide you with deeper insights to improve your marketing strategy and targeting tactics.

    2. Enrich your database:

    First-party data is of high quality but limited in its scale. This is because it consists only of data gotten from your existing customers. Enriching your database would require additional data from a trusted second party. An increase in your database will allow you to expand your digital marketing campaigns.

    3. Reach new audiences:

    First-party data limits your marketing campaigns to only your existing customers. You cannot rely on this for sustainable and effective business growth. You can use the information gotten from second-party data to expand your reach and generate more exposure from a new market that will be beneficial to your business interests.

    Third-Party Data.

    Third-Party Data is data that you purchase from external sources who did not collect the data directly. These external sources are companies or entities referred to as Data aggregators.

    Data aggregators obtain the data they sell from other brands, businesses, and organizations. They pay the initial data collectors a certain fee in exchange for the data. These data are managed and stored in a central database as third party data.

    A significant number of companies sell their first-party data to data aggregators which makes them accessible through different mediums.

    After collecting large amounts of data from different publishers, the data collectors categorize them into different segments.

    These include but are not limited to psycho-graphic factors (like audience behavior, user preferences, interests, etc), demographic factors (like age, gender, occupation, income level, etc), industry and so on.

    The categories can further be broken down into specific sections from which the buyer can pick. These sections usually align with their business interest or marketing tactic.

    Some benefits of third party data is access to a large pool of user data and its extensive coverage.

    However, since this data is not collected directly from your existing customers, it is not exclusive and available to your competitors.

    How to use third party data.

    1. Discover new audiences:

    The broad scope of third party data can help you identify a new demographic that might have an interest in your products or services. This allows you to expand your reach, make more sales and grow your business. You can also study user data to identify common preferences and use that information to improve a new product you might be developing, to make it more appealing.

    2. Increase the accuracy of your targeting:

    The proper analysis of third-party data can help to increase the precision with which you target specific sections of your audience.

    3. Complement your first-party data:

    While first-party data provides you with high quality and quality information on your existing customers, it might be lacking in volume. This is especially true for small to medium scale businesses.

    Third-party data helps to provide you with the scale first-party data usually lacks. Using third party data gives you an ability to reach a wider volume of users who might be interested in your products and target them with personalized advertisements.

  • Five Ways to Make it Easier for Customers to Purchase from your Small Business

    Five Ways to Make it Easier for Customers to Purchase from your Small Business

    Five Ways to Make it Easier for Customers to Purchase from your Small Business

    If you’re struggling to make your small business becoming a large, booming business, you have to start at the basics. It can be easy to get caught up in the minute details without seeing the forest for the trees. Yes, all those details matter, but what matters most is turning potential customers into paying ones. Let’s go over five of the top ways to make sure that your business is set up to be a successful one with these next tips. 

    ​Five ways to make it easier for customers to purchase from your small business

    1. ​Have an online payment option that is obvious

    Even if your business is predominantly a physical store-front, there’s no reason to not make purchasing easy. Make your payment option simple and easy. One option is to have an online option; with options like Payanywhere, there’s no reason to not accept virtual payments. This way, your customers can browse at their leisure, and you can accept credit card payments right from your computer. If a customer calls you up after they’ve left your store intent on buying something they saw earlier, the last thing you want to say is, can you come back in to pay for it? By that point, you’ve lost the customer, so make payments simple.

    2. Maintain your website

    If you offer a physical product or service, ensure that your website is up-to-date with contact information. Have an online presence that covers the basics of your storefront or service, including commonly asked questions so that customers spend less time trying to figure out exactly what you do. At the very least have a phone number, hours of business, and, if you offer a more seasonal service, the average lead time. 

    3. Remind the customer of your expertise

    If you operate solely with an online presence, make sure that your website is detailed and thorough. The last thing you want is a potential customer wavering between purchasing your service and not; by giving them all the information up-front, you’re reassuring them that you are an expert in your field. 

    4. Provide good customer service

    This may seem obvious but check your voicemails. This seems silly, but many businesses get so caught up with everything they need to do each morning that they forget one of the obvious things – to follow up with customers reaching out to you. Whether that’s via an online portal, email, or voicemail, make sure you give those customers a bit of time each day so that you’re turning potential clients into payments.

    5. Offer subscription services

    A customer who needs something repeatedly is unlikely to stray and try another store or website if they can rest assured that what they’re needing is going to show up at their door front each month. If you run a software-as-a-service, you likely know the importance of repeat customers, and the easiest way to turn one-time customers into recurring ones is by offering a subscription. This is true for physical goods as well; if you run a business that has customers returning to your website or storefront every couple of months, offer them the option of having something delivered each month to them. 

    There you have it: Five simple ways to make customer purchases easier for your small business.  Put these five tips to use and notice as your conversions increase over the next several months.