QuickCents @ Money Smart Life

The US dollar is getting weaker and the world is getting smaller. Perhaps now would be a good time to startup a small business exporting goods abroad.

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, American companies exported $772 billion in merchandise to more than 150 foreign countries and big companies only made up about 4 percent of all exporters. This means lots of opportunity for the little guy!

A guide to starting an export business on Entrepreneur.com lists Canada and Mexico as the biggest trading partners of the US. With the Canadian dollar hitting a 31-year high against the dollar recently, the buying power just across the border might spell opportunity!

Ben :: Sep.28.2007 :: Economy, Entrepreneur :: No Comments »

American Express has extended it’s deadline on the promotion for the Business Gold Rewards Card to October 8th. Signing up for the card before then will earn you 25,000 Membership rewards points that can be exchanged for $150 cashback, $250 of gift cards, or a free plane ticket. I took advantage of the credit card promotion myself and opted for the $150. If you’re interested, sign up before 10/8 to claim the rewards.

Ben :: Sep.27.2007 :: Credit Cards, Promotions :: 1 Comment »

Are you kidding me? Guys selling Avon? Not really my thing but when I read that Bobby McKinney made $800,000 in sales last year along with his wife it made me think.

In an effort to broaden its customer base, Avon is starting to create products for men. They just put out their first men’s catalog, which features a PROExtreme skin care line, boxer shorts, and power tools.

According to the article this a market with some growth potential:

“U.S. sales of men’s skincare products totaled $68.9 million in 2006, up from $45.8 million in 2000…… Industry experts say the men’s market is ripe, though still in it’s early stages.”

I don’t know a thing about skincare products but it sounds like there is some potential there for guys that know a thing or two about it.

Ben :: Sep.26.2007 :: Entrepreneur, Make Money :: No Comments »

Michael Gill spent the first 53 years of his life putting his job first. After getting divorced, being diagnosed with a brain tumor, and being laid off he realized his priorities were screwed up. Now he’s spending with his family again and even getting a major movie deal out of his experiences.  Still, think of all years of family time he lost and unfortunately the brain tumor still lurks.  Enjoy life while you can. Don’t be that guy.

Ben :: Sep.25.2007 :: Career, Life :: No Comments »