Conquista

It’s time to give thanks, and we are most thankful for our amazing community! We’re grateful for your support as we’ve worked to provide you with the insights and tools you need to succeed. From our Conquista family to yours, we’re grateful for you and your continued trust this year. Wishing you a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving! #WeAreConquista?#Thanksgiving?#Thanks?#Community?#Business?#Insights?#Support?#Consultancy?#Grateful?#Trust

President-elect Donald Trump recently announced plans to impose significant tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China. His proposal includes a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada, citing issues like fentanyl drug trafficking and immigration crisis, as well as an additional 10% tariff on Chinese products, blaming China for the fentanyl crisis. These measures, if enacted, could dramatically reshape trade relationships across North America and Asia. Such tariffs could directly conflict with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), threatening trade stability in the region. Violating the agreement might disrupt supply chains and increase costs for businesses and consumers in all three countries. Additionally, thousands of professionals from Canada and Mexico work in the U.S. under TN visas, a provision established by the treaty, adding further stakes to preserving its integrity. Canada and Mexico now face a 60-day window to negotiate amendments to prevent these measures from taking effect—a potential flashpoint for international diplomacy. Historically, President Trump’s tariff threats have often prompted action. During his first term, similar announcements resulted in renegotiations, including the replacement of NAFTA with the USMCA and the full deployment of Mexican troops to guard its southern border with Guatemala. These references underscore the need to take these statements seriously, which has led to tangible outcomes. At Conquista, we understand how critical these developments are for businesses in the region. We are closely monitoring this evolving situation and are here to provide insights and strategies to navigate potential trade challenges. As always, we remain committed to helping businesses in the region adapt and thrive. #WeAreConquista?#USMCA?#UnitedStates?#Canada?#Mexico?#Business?#Trade?#Region?#NorthAmerica?#China?#Tariffs?#Trump?#Drug?#Immigration?#Crisis?#Politics?#International?#TNVisa

In a year of landmark elections throughout the continent and the world, Uruguay's presidential election concluded with Yamandú Orsi emerging victorious in the second round held on November 24. Representing the Broad Front, Orsi's win marks a continuation of the coalition's legacy in the country, as he defeated Luis Lacalle Pou of the National Party in a tightly contested runoff. With voter turnout once again exceeding 85%, the result underscores Uruguay's commitment to its robust democratic process and the public's engagement with shaping the nation's future. Orsi's presidency is expected to influence domestic policies and Uruguay's role in regional and global trade. A vocal advocate for strengthening Mercosur, Orsi aims to modernize the bloc's agreements while maintaining Uruguay's focus on equitable growth. This leadership transition comes at a crucial time for the Americas as nations grapple with balancing economic partnerships, sustainable development, and social reforms. The election reflects broader trends in Latin America, where voters increasingly demand leaders who can address inequality, strengthen public services, and foster economic resilience. Orsi's platform aligns with these priorities, but his presidency will face the challenge of navigating Uruguay's evolving role in a complex geopolitical landscape. His leadership's regional implications will influence trade dynamics, political alliances, and economic strategies across Latin America. At Conquista, we recognize the profound impact such political shifts can have on businesses and economies in the region. Yamandú Orsi's election victory highlights the importance of regional shifts and changes and the potential political, economic, and social challenges these could bring to Latin America. #WeAreConquista?#PresidentialElection?#Uruguay?#Orsi?#FrenteAmplio?#Business?#Trade?#Politics?#LatinAmerica?#Region?#Americas

The holiday shopping season is here, and retailers are closely watching to see if consumers will sustain the spending patterns that have driven economic resilience in recent years. While the Federal Reserve's recent interest rate cuts aim to stimulate economic activity, persistent inflation continues to squeeze household budgets. Consumer spending accounts for approximately 70% of GDP, and robust holiday sales could bolster economic growth as the nation navigates slowing job creation and tighter credit conditions. The NRF projects that holiday retail sales will grow by 4% to 6%, reaching $967 billion to $997 billion. This is a notable increase but a slower growth rate than the double-digit surges seen during the pandemic recovery years. This tempered forecast indicates that while consumers are still willing to spend, they are approaching the season with greater financial prudence amid ongoing economic uncertainty. PwC's 2024 Holiday Outlook Survey says that 73% of consumers plan to spend the same amount or more on holiday shopping this year compared to last year. However, the survey highlights a shift in consumer behavior: shoppers are increasingly price-sensitive. Two-thirds of respondents reported prioritizing discounts and promotions, and 38% said they would switch brands or retailers if they found better prices. E-commerce is also expected to play a significant role this season, with online sales projected to grow by 10% to 12%, accounting for up to $286 billion, according to the NRF. Additionally, the rise of buy now, pay later (BNPL) options enables more consumers to manage their budgets by spreading out payments for holiday purchases. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on consumer behavior, which will likely shape broader economic trends into the new year. Retailers are adapting strategies like extended holiday sales, personalized promotions, and enhanced customer experiences to capture consumers' dollars in a competitive environment. #WeAreConquista?#HolidaySeason?#Shopping?#Economy?#Retail?#NRF?#PwC?#Boost?#Inflation?#Interest?#Business?#ConsumerConfidence?#BlackFriday?#CyberMonday

Are you an entrepreneur who owns a start-up business? Have you ever felt like you're soaring to incredible heights one moment, only to plunge into uncertainty the next? You're not alone. The entrepreneur rollercoaster is very real, and while it can feel exhilarating, it's not for the faint of heart. The emotional highs and lows are intense, testing your resilience, patience, and determination daily. As Darren Hardy highlights in The Entrepreneur Roller Coaster, navigating this journey requires understanding "The Emotional Ride"—accepting that the dips are just as integral as the peaks. To survive and thrive, entrepreneurs need four critical skills: the ability to sell their vision, recruit the right talent, lead with clarity and passion, and maintain laser-sharp productivity. Most importantly, a strong sense of purpose acts as your compass, helping you weather the storms and stay focused on your goals. Without that "why," it's easy to get lost. Paving the road for an entrepreneur involves more than just focusing on monthly goals; it requires planning ahead with a solid and effective sales cycle built on a foundation of seasonality. As the journey often begins alone, entrepreneurs must recognize that cash flow is their most valuable resource, requiring careful planning and execution. One of the entrepreneurs' most challenging decisions is scaling the business at the right time. Scaling prematurely or improperly can lead to increased expenses without corresponding revenue growth, potentially jeopardizing the business. We know the ride at Conquista because we've been on it ourselves. As a start-up committed to empowering entrepreneurs, we've helped countless others harness these lessons and embrace the twists and turns of business ownership. Let us help you turn this rollercoaster into a journey worth celebrating. #WeAreConquista?#Entrepreneur?#RollerCoaster?#StartUp?#Business?#Leadership?#Strategy?#Motivation?#Focus?#Ride?#Lessons?#TheEntrepreneurRollerCoaster

Spirit Airlines, the largest ultra-low-cost carrier in the U.S., filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on November 18. While the airline will continue to operate and honor tickets, credits, and loyalty points, this restructuring marks a critical moment in the carrier's 30-year history. The bankruptcy aims to stabilize Spirit's finances through creditor negotiations and $300 million in interim financing, allowing flights to proceed without interruption. This decision comes from Spirit's failed merger attempts with JetBlue, blocked by regulatory challenges, and Frontier, which fell through weeks before the filing. Mounting debt—estimated at $3.3 billion—alongside revenue declines and operational cost increases left Spirit with few alternatives. The company had struggled to refinance $1.1 billion in bonds and faced operational hurdles, including issues with its Airbus fleet and pilot workforce downsizing. The low-cost carrier model itself faces challenges as ticket prices climb and competition from traditional airlines intensifies. Spirit's business model revolutionized affordable air travel for years, attracting budget-conscious flyers. However, recent cost pressures and changing consumer expectations have cast doubt on whether ultra-low-cost carriers can sustain their promise of cheap fares. A collapse of this model could ripple through the aviation industry, pushing prices higher and reducing options for travelers. Spirit's bankruptcy highlights key lessons for the airline sector: the importance of financial resilience, the risks of relying too heavily on price competition, and the need to adapt to evolving market conditions. As Spirit navigates this restructuring, the future of ultra-low-cost travel—and its role in the broader aviation ecosystem—remains uncertain. Do you believe the low-cost travel model is sustainable in today's market? Let us know your thoughts. #WeAreConquista?#Aviation?#Airlines?#Business?#Bankruptcy?#SpiritAirlines?#Merger?#LowCost?#UltraLowCost

The Federal Reserve recently reduced its benchmark interest rate by 0.25 percentage points, bringing the rate to a range of 4.50-4.75%. This decision aims to stimulate the economy by lowering borrowing costs, which could significantly benefit people and businesses across the U.S. Companies with outstanding loans or those seeking new financing for expansion, operational costs, or investments will likely see a decrease in interest payments. This reduction, happening just a few days after the presidential election, can free up cash flow, creating opportunities for reinvestment and potentially supporting greater financial flexibility in the coming quarters. With lower borrowing costs, businesses may be encouraged to take on new projects, invest in capital improvements, or expand their operations, which could drive job creation and broader economic growth. By reducing the barriers to financing, these rate cuts make it easier for companies to invest in equipment, technology, or other resources critical to staying competitive. This can be an ideal time to consider strategic expansions or upgrades for capital-intensive sectors or relying on substantial upfront investment, potentially enhancing profitability and market position. Lower rates also positively impact consumer spending. When interest rates on mortgages, car loans, and credit cards decrease, consumers often find they have more disposable income, boosting spending across industries. This increase in consumer spending usually leads to greater demand for products and services, creating a favorable business environment for many sectors. What does this cut-rate mean for your business? Evaluate your current debt structure to see if refinancing could save on interest payments. Additionally, if expansion or capital investment has been on the horizon, now may be an ideal time to explore financing options while rates are lowering. Still, you need to consider inflation risks and monitor the market closely, as the economic benefits of rate cuts can take time to materialize. #WeAreConquista?#InterestRates?#Economy?#Finance?#FED?#Growth?#Credit?#Strategy?#Business?#Consumer?#Spending

Recent updates on the social network X, formerly known as Twitter, are creating fresh challenges for businesses. With X asserting a "worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free license" to use user-generated content for AI training and other purposes, any shared content—including images, names, videos, and posts—could now be repurposed or commercialized. This raises significant legal concerns around confidentiality, intellectual property, and potential conflicts with existing client contracts. These changes come at a critical moment. Even before these updates, companies and users were migrating away from X, with platforms like BlueSky and Threads gaining traction. Media outlets such as The Guardian and NPR have already left, citing concerns over misinformation, toxicity, and the platform's influence on political discourse. Advertisers, too, are reconsidering their presence, adding to the growing uncertainty surrounding X's future. Are you a business using X? For companies that continue to use this platform, it's essential to reassess the risks. Are you comfortable monetizing your content in ways you may not directly control? In other words, do you agree with your content with X and its third parties to training AI tools? Reviewing content strategies, updating internal policies, and seeking legal guidance are crucial steps to ensure alignment with data protection standards and contractual obligations. This issue is rapidly evolving, and we remain committed to helping clients navigate these challenges while safeguarding their content and intellectual property. At Conquista, we can help. #WeAreConquista?#Business?#IntellectualProperty?#Digital?#Legal?#Policy?#X?#Twitter?#Support?#Strategy

The entrepreneurial journey is fraught with challenges. While innovation and disruption are the lifeblood of startups, many fail to reach their full potential. According to a study by CB Insights, about 70% of startups fail within 20 months of their last financing round. From our experience, the most common pitfalls that can derail even the most promising ventures include: ? Financial Indiscipline: Treating the company’s coffers like a personal piggy bank is a surefire way to financial ruin. Studies show that a third of startups fail because they run out of cash, often because of poor financial oversight. Rigorous financial management, disciplined budgeting, and a clear understanding of cash flow are essential for long-term sustainability. ? Market Misalignment: A common misstep is assuming that a great product or service will automatically find its market. In reality, 42% of startups fail because they lack market need, underscoring the importance of thorough market research, customer validation, and a deep understanding of customer needs to achieve product-market fit. ? Lack of Purpose-Driven Vision: A startup without a clear sense of purpose is like a ship without a rudder. A robust and inspiring vision guides decision-making, motivates teams, and attracts investors. Purpose-driven companies are 54% more likely to grow as vision aligns and energizes teams, fostering resilience and commitment. ? Failure to Deliver Tangible Value: Simply having a product or service isn’t enough. Startups must demonstrate how their offering solves a real problem or significantly improves customers’ lives. This requires a relentless focus on value creation and a deep understanding of customer pain points. Companies that prioritize customer experience and value are 60% more profitable than those that don’t. If your startup is grappling with these challenges, we can help. Our Conquista team of business experts provides the strategic guidance and practical support you need to establish a strong foundation, refine your vision, implement financial discipline, and create tangible value. Let’s work together to turn your startup goals into reality. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward sustainable growth and success. #WeAreConquista #StartUps #Business #Support #Pitfalls #KeyLearnings #Experts #Strategy #Consultancy #Failure

A recent study by the Pew Research Center shows that "Latinx," a term often used to describe people of Latin American descent in a gender-neutral way, has limited traction among U.S. Latinos. Nearly half of those surveyed have never heard of the term, and only 4% use it to describe themselves. While "Latinx" has gained visibility in academic and media circles, Pew's findings reveal a disconnect between the term's popularity in public discourse and its acceptance within the Latino community. The study highlights a deeper conversation about identity and language. For many Latinos, traditional terms like "Hispanic" or "Latino" feel more representative of their cultural heritage. Pew's research shows that Latinos overwhelmingly prefer these established terms, viewing them as a closer reflection of their roots and personal experiences. This preference underscores a diversity of perspectives within the community and raises questions about how cultural and gender inclusivity should evolve in language. As conversations about identity grow, it is clear that language must resonate with the people it seeks to represent. While "Latinx" was intended to be inclusive, its low adoption suggests that meaningful representation needs to come from within the community. Exploring these nuanced perspectives can pave the way for language that is both inclusive and authentic to the people it describes. #WeAreConquista?#WeAreLatinos #Latinos?#Hispanics?#Latinx?#Community?#Connection?#Roots?#Inclusiveness?#Language?#WordsMatter