The COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lankan business leaders on Friday demanded an end to political chaos amid demands from the public for the president’s resignation in the wake of allegations of poor economic management in the wake of warnings that failure to do so could cause financial ruin.
The leaders of 23 business associations representing import, export, and logistics firms spoke to reporters in Colombo, the capital city, Colombo, that they would like legislators to “act responsibly and resolutely to implement remedial solutions to halt and then reverse the rapidly deteriorating situation.”
The organizations warned that their sectors, which earn around $16.7 billion annually from exports of services and merchandise, are likely to stop If the current conditions continue.
The Indian Ocean island nation has faced its most severe economic crisis in the last few decades.
For the past few months, people in Sri Lanka have been waiting in line for hours to purchase fuel and cooking gas, food items, and medicines, which a majority of them originate from overseas and are paid in hard currency. The fuel shortage has resulted in continuous power interruptions lasting many hours per day.
The severity of the crisis was evident as Sri Lanka couldn’t pay for imports of essential goods due to its enormous debts and shrinking reserves of foreign currency. Sri Lanka has around $7 billion of international debt obligations due this year. Sri Lanka has to pay its foreign debts that exceed $25 billion in the next five years.
To end the situation in Sri Lanka, the new Central Bank Governor Nandalal Weerasinghe, declared that the Central Bank was speeding up the process of restructuring debt and also planned to request financial assistance through the International Monetary Fund.
He added that the move would “give a strong message to international investors, our creditors and market that we are going to come out from the crisis as soon as possible.”
His remarks came following his comments just after the Central Bank decided to increase the interest rates by 7 percent.
The bank stated that significant policy intervention is required to stop the growth of inflation driven by demand. It is also necessary to help maintain the rate of exchange.
Rohan Masakorala, director-general for the Sri Lanka Association of Manufacturers and Exporters of Rubber, stated that business owners are anxious since “something dangerous is heading towards us.”
“We need a stable political system,” said the president, noting that confidence needs to be restored “before we completely fall off the precipice.”
As secretary-general of the Joint Apparel Association Forum, which represents the country’s apparel industry, Yohan Lawrence has urged all participants to find a “viable and long-term solution.”
“We face a total economic collapse if nothing is done quickly,” he warned.
The garments industry is Sri Lanka’s top-earning foreign exchange, earning more than 5 billion dollars in income per year.
The nationwide protests over the country’s economic problems have grown to include criticism of president Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his politically influential family.
Many thousands of people from all kinds of backgrounds are protesting this week, calling for a solution to the crisis and demanding Rajapaksa resign.
Police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse around 1,500 students from the university who marched to the Parliamentary building on Friday.
Lahiru Mudalige, a student leader, has said that the only way to solve the problem is for the president to resign.
“As a student movement we took to the streets to chase out Gotabaya Rajapaksa,” He declared.
Rajapaksa has refused to quit even after members of his coalition joined him earlier this week. The governing lawmakers from the party called for the establishment of an interim cabinet to prevent violence.
Rajapaksa had previously proposed forming a united government; however, most of the opposition opposed the idea. Cabinet members resigned on Sunday. On Tuesday, more than 40 members of the coalition that are governing declared that they would not be voting according to the coalition’s guidelines, significantly weakening the power of the government.
This has transformed the crisis of the economy into a political one with no functioning Cabinet. Parliament has not been able to reach an agreement regarding how to tackle the current situation.
President Obama and his younger brother, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, continue to be in power, despite the family members being the subject of the public’s anger. Five family members are legislators such as the Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa, Irrigation Minister Chamal Rajapaksa, and nephew, the sports minister Namal Rajapaksa.
The government estimates that the covid-19 virus has caused the economy of Sri Lanka’s tourism-dependent 14 billion dollars in the past two years.
In the last month, Rajapaksa stated that his government was engaged in negotiations with the International Monetary Fund and had looked toward China and India to obtain loans. Moreover, his appeal to citizens to reduce their electricity and fuel use.
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Shipping products to Amazon FBA warehouses is a major expense for third-party sellers. Whether you’re shipping a single box via SPD (Small Parcel Delivery) or pallet loads through LTL/FTL (Less Than Truckload/Full Truckload), shipping costs can eat up 15% to 40% of your total margin if not carefully optimized.
In 2025, with higher fuel surcharges, regional delivery bottlenecks, and Amazon’s stricter FBA receiving policies, cutting shipping costs is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for profitability.
Checklist for Cutting Amazon FBA Shipping Costs
Action
Benefit
Use Partnered Carriers
Save 30–70% on SPD/LTL rates
Consolidate into LTL when possible
Reduce per-unit cost and handling fees
Ship from prep centers near FCs
Shorten the last-mile distance
Use standard box/pallet dimensions
Avoid oversized penalties
Automate with FBA software tools
Reduce labor cost, avoid prep errors
1. Choose the Right Shipping Method: SPD vs. LTL/FTL
Many sellers default to SPD because it’s familiar and easier to set up. But as your shipment volume grows, this method quickly becomes inefficient. If you’re sending multiple boxes regularly, switching to LTL or FTL can significantly lower your per-unit cost.
LTL is ideal for 1–4 pallets, while FTL becomes more economical once you’re shipping 20+ pallets. The larger and more frequent your shipments, the more you save through freight consolidation and pallet optimization.
Shipping Method
Best For
Typical Volume
Cost Efficiency
SPD (Small Parcel)
Low-volume shipments (<150 lbs per box)
Under 10 boxes
Low to Moderate
LTL (Less Than Truckload)
Medium-volume shipments
1–4 pallets
High for consolidated loads
FTL (Full Truckload)
Large shipments to one FC
20+ pallets
Very high if volume allows
Always run a side-by-side cost analysis between Amazon’s partnered LTL and SPD options for the same shipment. Even at lower volumes, LTL can beat SPD in cost-per-unit when handled correctly.
2. Optimize Box and Pallet Dimensions
Smartly stacked boxes and pallets in Amazon warehouses highlight how optimizing dimensions helps maximize space utilization
Dimensional weight pricing has become the standard for carriers, meaning your shipping bill depends as much on volume as on actual weight. Oversized packaging, under-filled boxes, or poorly stacked pallets all translate into wasted money.
Even minor changes to your box dimensions can cut down on shipping charges significantly. It’s especially important to standardize carton sizes across SKUs and ensure you’re getting the most efficient stackability when using LTL or FTL.
A Freightos shipping case study found that by trimming box height by just 2 inches across 300 monthly units, one seller saved $420 in dimensional weight charges over 30 days.
3. Consolidate Shipments Strategically
Frequent small shipments often result in higher per-unit shipping costs, more carrier pickups, and a higher likelihood of fulfillment center delays. Consolidating multiple small shipments into a single, well-organized load saves on handling and often qualifies for better freight rates.
More importantly, Amazon prefers well-labeled, bulk deliveries over fragmented ones, which can
delay check-ins during peak seasons.
Scenario
Estimated Monthly Shipping Cost
With Consolidation
4 SPD shipments × 10 boxes
$900
$540
1 LTL pallet shipment (same qty)
—
$480
If you’re using a prep center or 3PL, schedule shipments biweekly or monthly instead of weekly. Many centers will hold goods for a few extra days to help you consolidate at no added cost.
4. Use a Prep Center Near Amazon FCs
A prep center near Amazon warehouses ensures faster and more accurate processing of shipments ready for dispatch
Shipping across the country adds avoidable costs, especially if your inventory is already located closer to Amazon’s main fulfillment hubs, according to Dollan Prep Center. Working with a prep center within a short distance of Amazon’s major FCs helps you reduce last-mile freight charges, shorten delivery windows, and reduce potential delays during appointment scheduling.
This also increases the chances of faster check-ins and fewer rescheduling penalties.
Top FC Regions
Benefits of Nearby Prep Centers
Dallas/Fort Worth, TX
Central location, multiple nearby Amazon FCs
Hebron, KY
Common FBA inbound point for East Coast sellers
Moreno Valley, CA
Ideal for West Coast imports from Asia
Allentown, PA
High Amazon FC density, fast East Coast distribution
Relocating your prep and storage from the West Coast to Kentucky or Ohio can reduce per-pallet shipping costs by 20–30%, especially for sellers distributing nationwide.
5. Leverage Amazon’s Partnered Carrier Program
Amazon offers discounted rates through its partnered carrier program, which includes both UPS for SPD shipments and several freight providers for LTL and FTL loads. These discounts are only available if you create shipments directly through Seller Central and use Amazon’s pre-approved carriers.
In most cases, Amazon’s partnered rates beat outside quotes, even those from negotiated commercial accounts.
Service
Estimated Discount
Partnered SPD (UPS)
30%–50%
Partnered LTL (XPO, CEVA, etc.)
40%–70%
While you must comply with Amazon’s strict packaging and labeling requirements to access these rates, the savings are substantial, l—especially for high-volume sellers or those regularly shipping to distant FCs.
6. Reduce Rejected Shipments with Better Labeling and Packing
Neatly stacked boxes in Amazon warehouses demonstrate strategies to reduce rejected shipments and improve delivery efficiency
FBA rejections are costly and often entirely avoidable. If your shipment arrives with incorrect labels, mixed SKUs, damaged boxes, or non-standard pallets, Amazon may either reject the shipment or charge you additional fees for correction.
These mistakes lead to delays, inventory miscounts, and wasted freight costs. Proper prep practices—including double-checking barcode placements and securely packing all cartons—go a long way in avoiding financial hits.
Mistake
Possible Charge
Wrong label placement
$0.20–$0.30 per unit
Unscannable barcode
$0.15–$0.40 per unit
Rejected pallet
Full reshipment cost
Based on Amazon seller reports, approximately 1 in 5 shipments that result in receiving delays are traced back to labeling or prep errors, ot transport problems.
7. Compare 3PL and Freight Forwarder Rates
Freight pricing varies widely depending on your route, volume, and carrier network. Many sellers overlook potential savings by sticking with default options like Amazon Partnered LTL when they could secure lower rates via third-party logistics (3PL) providers or freight brokers.
For international shipments, especially from Asia, consider FBA-friendly freight forwarders who understand Amazon labeling and delivery protocols.
Shipping Scenario
Amazon Partnered Rate
3PL Broker Rate
Savings Potential
3 pallets to California FC
$620
$520
~$100 (16%)
Full container from China
$2,400
$1,800
~$600 (25%)
Always confirm that your 3PL or freight broker can handle Amazon’s strict delivery appointments and ASN documentation. Mishandled deliveries can delay check-in by days or even weeks.
8. Use Software to Automate and Optimize Shipping
Managing logistics manually might work at a small scale, but as your operation grows, automation is critical. FBA-compatible software can help you generate labels, track freight costs, schedule restocks, and reduce prep errors.
Most tools also offer data dashboards that allow you to compare historical shipping costs and identify which products are the most expensive to move.
Profit analysis, including logistics cost modeling
Automating shipment creation and integrating freight cost visibility into your inventory management can help reduce administrative time by 20–30% and prevent avoidable prep center errors.
9. Negotiate Better Terms with Your Prep or Freight Providers
Shipping costs are not always fixed. If you’re consistently sending volume to FBA, you have leverage. Many prep centers, LTL brokers, and freight forwarders offer volume discounts, flat fees per pallet, or reduced storage costs if you ask.
Review your past 3–6 months of shipping data, calculate your average pallet count, and initiate a negotiation with your vendors.
Tip: Sellers averaging 10+ pallets per month can often secure flat monthly pallet rates, discounted receiving, or free shrink-wrapping—terms that reduce your cost per unit long term.
10. Eliminate Dead Weight: Audit Unprofitable Shipments
A focus on eliminating dead weight in Amazon warehouses leads to lighter, more cost-effective shipments
Not every product is worth shipping. It’s easy to fall into the trap of sending every piece of inventory to FBA, regardless of sales velocity or margin. Always review your SKU profitability before creating a shipment.
If a product yields less than $5 net profit after shipping and FBA fees, it may not be worth warehousing, especially if it ties up cash flow or increases long-term storage fees.
Sellers who regularly audit their shipping loads and purge underperforming inventory can reduce overall FBA shipping costs by 15–25%, according to Helium 10 seller data from Q4 2024.
Conclusion
Shipping costs are one of the easiest areas to improve once you understand the variables that impact pricing, from carton sizes to shipping method selection, from software automation to vendor negotiation.
In 2025, sellers who optimize these components can see thousands in annual savings and increase their margins without selling a single extra unit. Whether you’re operating at 500 units per month or 50,000, controlling your logistics pipeline will separate your business from competitors who let costs run unchecked.
In today’s fiercely competitive marketplace, securing a sale is just the beginning of the customer journey, not the end. Post-purchase customer experience has emerged as a pivotal aspect of not only retaining clients but also building unwavering loyalty.
Once the transaction is completed, a new chapter unfolds—one that can either transform a one-time buyer into a lifelong advocate or reduce them to just another statistic in the sea of disengaged consumers. Every interaction a customer has after the purchase, from personalized follow-ups to seamless customer support, plays a crucial role in shaping their perception of your brand.
As the dust settles on their initial decision to buy, it’s the ongoing experiences that will ultimately determine whether they return for more or drift away into the clutches of competitors. Understanding and optimizing this journey is not merely an option anymore; it’s a necessity for businesses striving to cultivate lasting relationships in a world where choices abound.
The Path to Loyalty: How Post-Purchase Experience Shapes Customer Relationships
Source: reverselogix.com
The journey to fostering customer loyalty begins long after the initial purchase is made; it is intricately woven into the fabric of the post-purchase experience. Picture this: a customer who eagerly anticipates their delivery, receiving a thoughtful follow-up email that not only confirms shipment but also includes tips for maximizing the product’s use—this simple gesture cultivates a sense of connection.
Afterward, a timely survey asking for feedback demonstrates that their voice matters, transforming a transactional relationship into a dialogue. Each element, from personalized recommendations based on their purchase history to dedicated customer support, deepens trust and enhances the emotional bond.
In this ever-competitive landscape, understanding that retention hinges not on the initial sale, but on the entire journey afterwards, can unlock the secret to creating lifelong advocates for your brand.
Beyond the Sale: The Critical Role of Aftercare in Customer Retention
Source: globalresponse.com
In the whirlwind of commerce, where transactions often take center stage, one critical aspect frequently slips through the cracks: aftercare. This pivotal phase begins the moment a customer clicks “confirm” on their order, extending well beyond the point of sale.
It’s not merely a follow-up; it’s a commitment to nurturing the relationship, a chance to reinforce the connection established during their buying journey. Think of aftercare as the secret sauce of customer loyalty—personalized messages, helpful tips, and timely support can transform an ordinary experience into an extraordinary one.
Customers who feel valued and supported are more likely to return, not just for the products they cherish but for the community and service that accompany them. In a landscape flooded with choices, businesses that prioritize aftercare don’t just sell products; they cultivate loyalty, turning one-time buyers into lifelong advocates.
Conclusion
Source: youngurbanproject.com
In conclusion, the post-purchase customer experience is a critical pillar in fostering retention and loyalty among consumers. By understanding and enhancing this stage of the customer journey, businesses can build lasting relationships that go beyond a single transaction.
Effective post-purchase marketing not only reinforces the value of the initial purchase but also encourages repeat business through personalized communication and ongoing engagement. As companies strive to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape, prioritizing the post-purchase experience will prove essential in transforming customers into brand advocates, ultimately driving sustainable growth and long-term success.
Transitioning from a trader to a business owner is a thrilling journey, a leap from the exhilarating chaos of the markets into the strategic realm of entrepreneurship. Many traders, fueled by their passion for the financial world, dream of establishing their trading firm—a bold move that promises both independence and potential prosperity.
Yet, this path is strewn with challenges, requiring not just deep market knowledge but also formidable skills in management, finance, and strategic planning. How do you go from analyzing charts and executing trades to overseeing a team of traders and making critical business decisions? In this article, we’ll explore the multifaceted process of building your trading firm, offering insights on everything from legal considerations to cultivating a strong company culture.
Prepare to navigate the nuances of this transition—where the fierce nature of trading meets the intricate art of business ownership. Your journey begins now.
Identifying Your Niche in the Trading Market
Source: udemy.com
Identifying your niche in the trading market is an essential first step on your journey from trader to business owner. Start by reflecting on what truly captivates you—whether it’s forex, stocks, options, or commodities—and the unique strategies you’ve developed through experience.
Tools like depth of market software can play a pivotal role during this process, offering detailed insights into market trends and liquidity levels, which can help you pinpoint areas of opportunity. Dive deep into market trends, analyzing which segments show potential for growth and profitability, while also considering the competition.
Don’t shy away from experimenting; this phase often involves trial and error, as you test different trading styles against varying market conditions. Additionally, leverage your existing knowledge to carve out a specialized area, perhaps focusing on a demographic or asset class that isn’t saturated.
Ultimately, the key lies in blending your passion with market demands, creating a distinctive offering that speaks to both your interests and the needs of prospective clients.
Creating a Business Plan for Your Trading Firm
Source: www.getwork.co.uk
Creating a business plan for your trading firm is not merely a formality; it’s the foundation upon which your entrepreneurial dreams will stand. Begin by defining your vision—what kind of trading strategies will you employ? Will you focus on equity markets, forex, or perhaps cryptocurrencies? This clarity will inform every aspect of your plan, from your target market to your operational framework. Next, conduct a thorough market analysis to identify your competitors and potential clients, ensuring your unique selling proposition shines brightly amidst the noise.
Financial projections are crucial; outline your startup costs, expected revenues, and break-even analysis to illustrate the viability of your venture. Don’t forget to address risk management—how will you safeguard your capital against market volatility? Each section of your plan should weave together, showcasing not only your ambitions but also a pragmatic approach to navigating the complexities of the trading landscape.
This document is your blueprint for success; invest the time to make it comprehensive and compelling.
Legal Considerations for Starting a Trading Firm
Source: luxalgo.com
Establishing a trading firm entails navigating a labyrinth of legal considerations, intricately woven into the fabric of financial regulations. Aspiring business owners must first determine the appropriate business structure—whether a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation—each carrying its legal ramifications and tax obligations.
Securing the necessary licenses and permits is paramount; depending on your trading strategies and the markets you operate in, you may need to register with regulatory bodies like the SEC or FINRA. Additionally, compliance with anti-money laundering laws and data protection regulations will shape operational protocols, safeguarding both your firm and clientele. As you forge ahead, consulting with legal professionals proficient in financial regulations is not just wise—it’s essential, ensuring that your firm not only thrives but does so within the bounds of the law, avoiding the perilous pitfalls that could threaten your entrepreneurial dreams.
Conclusion
In conclusion, transitioning from a trader to a business owner by establishing your trading firm is an exciting yet challenging journey that requires careful planning, strategic decision-making, and an adept understanding of market dynamics. By leveraging essential resources, including cutting-edge tools like depth-of-market software, you can enhance your trading strategies and gain valuable insights into market trends.
Building a successful trading firm involves not only honing your trading skills but also developing a solid business framework, fostering a collaborative environment, and staying agile in a rapidly evolving marketplace. With the right approach and commitment to continuous learning, the path from trader to business owner can lead to remarkable growth and fulfillment in the world of finance.