Archive for the ‘Economy’ Category

April 19th, 2011

How do the taxes work?

One question we are frequently asked by winners is in regard to taxes….they would love to accept a prize, but are unsure of the tax obligations. So here is the skinny on how it all works. If you win a prize that has a retail value of $600 or more, you will be issued a 1099-MISC Tax Form in the following calendar year that will reflect the retail value of the prize. The 1099-MISC Tax Form is a form used to report to the IRS income as the result of a prize won. It is also used to report rent, royalties and a variety of other types of income. The amount of taxes each individual winner will be required to pay to the IRS really depends on their household income, deductions, etc. So it is always best to consult your tax advisor when determing if a prize is financially reasonable for any winner to accept.

October 13th, 2010

Reassess the Value of the Online Experience

With the use of social networking sites quadrupling in the 18+ age demographic over the past few years, advertisers are tapping into a new generation of consumers who are using social media as a way to connect with their local and global communities. With the current economy, consumers and advertisers alike have reassessed their priorities and are looking to make a difference in their communities and in the world at large. Online social networking campaigns, which are taking the place of multi-million dollar advertising campaigns, cost considerably less to bring to market. Marketers get more “bang” for their “buck” with social media campaigns than with traditional marketing vehicles as they are designed to engage and interact with customers, allowing consumers to share their “message” online with friends. In essence, the consumer is the media that carries the message.
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July 12th, 2010

A Look Ahead at Mobile

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Marketing to consumers’ cell phones has long been known to be valuable but frequently seemed beyond reach. Check out these mobile marketing trends you can latch on to today.
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December 3rd, 2009

2009 Holiday Sales - Up or Down?

As the holiday season is approaching, marketers are wondering, “How will holiday sales be this year?”  Obviously people still have concerns about the economy and are being cautious with their spending.

“Households continue to focus on “essential gift giving” such as staple consumables, candy, beverage/alcohol and entertaining at home, and 86 percent said Continue on…