Kyle C. Garrison, Author at Studio yria

Estonia: tech CSR improving cybersecurity education and equitable digital access

29

Jan

Estonia: tech CSR improving cybersecurity education and equitable digital access

Estonia is widely regarded as a digitally driven nation shaped by extensive cooperation between public institutions and private actors, and after the 2007 cyber attacks that hit governmental and commercial systems, the country rapidly advanced its national cybersecurity strategy while deepening joint initiatives with industry; today, tech companies in Estonia assume a prominent corporate social responsibility role by funding cybersecurity training, broadening digital inclusion, and fostering fair access for people of different ages, regions, and socioeconomic conditions, and this article explores how Estonian tech CSR operates on the ground, presents concrete cases with measurable results, and outlines practical insights that…

Why water is increasingly seen as a geopolitical risk

29

Jan

By Kyle C. Garrison

International

The Increasing Geopolitical Importance of Water

Freshwater is essential for life, food production, energy generation, industry, and ecosystem services. Yet the global distribution of accessible freshwater is limited and uneven. Only about 2.5% of the planet’s water is freshwater, and a very small fraction of that—roughly 0.3% of total global water—is readily accessible on the surface for human use. At the same time, population growth, urbanization, changing diets, and economic development are driving rising demand. Climate change, shrinking glaciers, groundwater depletion, pollution, and deteriorating infrastructure are reducing supply reliability. These forces combine to elevate water from a local resource management issue to a source of transboundary…

What is the break-even point and how do I calculate it?

23

Jan

By Kyle C. Garrison

Investments and Business

How to Calculate Your Break-Even Point

The concept of break-even point (BEP) plays a key role in financial evaluations and routine business planning, marking when a company’s total income matches its overall expenses, leaving neither gain nor deficit. Once organizations move past this point, they start generating profits, while falling short indicates they are incurring losses. Identifying the break-even point remains essential for entrepreneurs, investors, and managers, as it informs pricing, operational choices, and risk analysis.Key Elements That Contribute to a Break-Even AnalysisTo thoroughly understand the break-even point, one must distinguish between fixed costs and variable costs:Fixed Costs: These remain constant regardless of production output. Examples…

Trump threatens new 100% tariffs on Canada over possible trade deal with China

23

Jan

By Kyle C. Garrison

Economy

Trump Considers 100% Tariffs on Canada for China Deal

Tensions between the United States and Canada escalated this week as President Donald Trump warned of imposing steep tariffs on Canadian imports if the country pursues closer trade ties with China. His comments mark the latest flare-up in a series of trade disputes between the two neighbors.President Trump’s latest remarks have stirred doubts about the stability of trade relations across North America. Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed that Canada could face serious economic fallout if it permits Chinese products to enter the U.S. through Canadian channels. He cautioned that any trade pact between Canada and China might…

Italians furious over deployment of ICE agents to bolster US security at Winter Olympics

23

Jan

By Kyle C. Garrison

International

Italian Fury: ICE Deployment for US Olympics Security

The deployment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Italy for the upcoming Winter Olympics has sparked growing concern among lawmakers and the public. Questions about jurisdiction, security practices, and past incidents in the U.S. have fueled the debate.The Italian government faces mounting attention after reports surfaced that ICE officers are set to assist with security at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, a development that has revived debates over the presence of foreign law enforcement in Italy, especially in light of recent violent episodes tied to ICE activities in the United States.The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed…

23

Jan

By Kyle C. Garrison

Culture and Entertainment

TikTok’s Role in Modern Fashion

The rise of TikTok has brought about a transformative shift in the fashion industry, influencing trends, democratizing fashion expression, and reshaping how brands connect with audiences. As a platform known for its short, engaging videos, TikTok has become a powerful space for fashion enthusiasts and creators to share style inspirations, launch viral trends, and redefine industry standards.The Influence of Rapidly Spreading TrendsFashion on TikTok thrives on its distinct ability to spark viral moments at remarkable speed, enabling trends to emerge overnight, circulate worldwide, and shape consumers’ buying habits. The "cottagecore" aesthetic, highlighting idyllic, romantic looks inspired by a calm rural…

Germany: How Mittelstand-style management builds long-term competitiveness

23

Jan

By Kyle C. Garrison

Economy

How German Mittelstand Fuels Long-Term Business Success

Germany’s economic strength and industrial prominence stem not so much from major multinational giants as from a broad network of medium-sized firms that favor durability over immediate returns. This article outlines the structural and managerial approaches sustaining that long-range competitiveness, provides specific examples supported by data, and highlights key insights for both managers and policymakers.Defining characteristics of the mid-sized enterprise modelOwnership orientation: High incidence of family ownership or founder-led firms with multi-decade horizons rather than a focus on quarterly earnings.Specialization and niche dominance: Firms concentrate on very specific product or process segments, often becoming global leaders in narrow markets.Highly skilled…