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 Kozi Checks & Balances TaxTactics News 
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March 18.2025
3 Minutes Read

Gas Prices Decline: What This Means For Drivers Across America

Graph showing gas prices drop trend with urban backdrop.

Current Trends in Gas Prices: Understanding the Slight Decline

As consumers enjoy the onset of spring, they find a bit of easing at the pump. The latest data from AAA reveals that the national average price for a gallon of gas has declined to $3.07, which is an eight-cent drop compared to last month and a significant 31 cents lower than last year. Strikingly, this slight price relief comes even as gasoline demand has seen an uptick, jumping from 8.87 million barrels per day (b/d) to 9.18 million b/d this past week.

Demand vs Supply: The Balancing Act

Interestingly, the increase in demand contrasts with a reduction in total domestic gasoline supply, which has fallen from 246.8 million barrels to 241.1 million barrels, slightly dipping below seasonal averages. This scenario raises questions: what does this mean for the future of fuel prices? As we head toward summer, the production rates also saw a dip—averaging about 9.6 million b/d. Economists are keeping a close eye on these shifts as they could potentially lead to price volatility in the coming months.

The Regional Disparity in Prices: Where to Save

The gas price landscape varies dramatically across the United States. In states like California, drivers are still facing some of the highest prices, with costs soaring up to $4.66 per gallon. In contrast, the Southern and Midwestern regions boast lower prices, with Mississippi as a standout at just $2.64 per gallon. Such drastic differences serve as a reminder of how regional policies, including taxes and regulations, can impact local gas prices.

What's Next? Predictions and Emerging Risks

Forecasts indicate that while gas prices may continue to drop overall throughout 2025, we could still face spikes in demand, particularly in April when prices might briefly rise to an average of $3.53 per gallon. Factors such as geopolitical tensions, regulatory changes, and potential tariffs may also threaten the stability we are experiencing now. According to GasBuddy analysts, “While declining fuel prices will provide welcome relief, emerging risks could lead to increased volatility.”

Consumer Impacts: Spending Patterns Shift

The financial implications of fluctuating gas prices are significant for American consumers. It's estimated that Americans will spend about $410.8 billion on gas in 2025, marking an 8% decrease from 2024. This offers a bit of breathing room for households and small businesses alike, possibly allowing for greater mobility and economic activity even as inflation affects other areas of spending.

Electric Vehicle Charging Costs: A Steady Comparison

As gasoline prices remain a critical focus, it's worth noting that the average cost for public electric vehicle (EV) charging has held steady at 34 cents per kilowatt-hour. Although the cost factors into the broader energy landscape, the stability in EV charging rates offers an interesting contrast to the volatility seen in gas prices. States like Hawaii and West Virginia represent the higher end of the charging spectrum, but with decreasing gas prices, the allure of EV ownership becomes more pronounced, especially in states where gasoline prices remain traditionally high.

In light of these findings, it is essential for consumers and businesses to stay informed about gas and energy prices, enabling them to plan better and make informed decisions regarding travel and logistics. The coming months will be crucial, and being mindful of fluctuations could save money and contribute to smarter spending.

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07.18.2025

Unlocking Your Business Potential: Why You Should Hire a Virtual Assistant

Update Unleashing Potential: The Power of Hiring a Virtual Assistant In today's fast-paced business landscape, where time is often a luxury, hiring a virtual assistant (VA) can prove to be a game changer for entrepreneurs and small businesses alike. Imagine having the ability to delegate mundane tasks and focus on strategic decision-making—this is precisely what a VA can offer. The Productivity Perspective: Why Every Entrepreneur Needs a VA One of the most compelling advantages of hiring a virtual assistant is enhanced productivity. Small business owners are often swamped with daily operations, leaving little room for growth. By outsourcing repetitive tasks—like email management, appointment scheduling, and social media updates—to a virtual assistant, you free up valuable hours that can be redirected toward strategizing and expanding your business. Consider the following: a survey by Business News Daily highlights that business leaders who delegate effectively report up to a 30% increase in productivity. This shift not only optimizes workflow but directly impacts overall business performance, allowing teams to operate at peak efficiency. The Cost-Efficiency Factor: Saving While Growing Cost is always a concern for small businesses. Hiring a virtual assistant is an economically savvy move. Unlike full-time employees who come with added costs—benefits, office space, and equipment—virtual assistants work remotely, saving you considerable overhead expenses. For example, according to a report from Forbes, engaging a VA can save small businesses upwards of $20,000 annually in operational costs. This cost-preserving strategy doesn’t just lean on the traditional aspects of savings; it opens up access to talented professionals without the burdensome recruitment processes otherwise required for in-house employees. With VAs possessing diverse specialties—from administrative tasks to social media management—you can choose precisely the skills that fit your business needs. Picking the Right Virtual Assistant: Strategies for Success Finding the right virtual assistant isn’t as daunting as it may appear. Digital platforms like Upwork and Fiverr provide easy access to a pool of skilled candidates ready to assist in various capacities. Leveraging referrals from colleagues can also streamline your search, ensuring you identify individuals with proven track records. Once you're close to selecting a VA, instituting a structured hiring process becomes essential. Comprehensive interviews and setting clear job expectations will help align your new assistant with your business goals. A well-defined onboarding approach empowers your virtual assistant to hit the ground running, maximizing their contributions from day one. Looking Ahead: The Future of Work in a Virtual Reality The demand for virtual assistants is only projected to grow. As remote work culture solidifies in various industries, businesses that adopt this model will likely experience significant competitive advantages. The combination of flexibility, access to diverse talent, and operational savings creates a compelling case for VAs as integral members of the workforce. Imagine a future where your business continually adapts and thrives, powered by the skills of virtual assistants who elevate every aspect of operations. By preparing now, you can position your business to take full advantage of what a virtual workforce has to offer. Conclusion: Take Action Today for Tomorrow’s Success If you're feeling overwhelmed with daily operational tasks, it might be time to explore hiring a virtual assistant. The insights provided paint a clear picture of how VAs can enhance your productivity and promote growth. Take that crucial step toward focusing on your business's strategic goals—embrace the benefits of bringing a virtual assistant into your professional landscape.

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Asha Tarry’s Guide to Thriving During the Great Resignation

Update Asha Tarry’s Vision for a Balanced Workforce The Great Resignation has led to a monumental shift in the job market, prompting countless individuals to reevaluate their careers and what truly matters to them. Asha Tarry emerges as a thought leader during this period, advocating for a balanced approach that encompasses both professional aspirations and personal values. Her insights suggest that aligning these two aspects leads to greater fulfillment and workplace satisfaction, a crucial message for both employees and employers in today’s climate. The Importance of Employee Engagement One of Tarry's key messages is the pivotal role that employee engagement plays in retaining staff and fostering a positive workplace culture. Businesses that prioritize open communication and support can create environments where employees feel valued and motivated. Engaged employees are not only more productive but also act as ambassadors for the company's brand, significantly impacting talent attraction efforts. Navigating Flexible Hiring Strategies Given today’s rapidly changing workforce dynamics, Tarry emphasizes the need for businesses to adopt flexible hiring strategies that can appeal to a diverse workforce. By implementing tailored recruitment solutions that resonate with the company’s mission and values, organizations can attract candidates who are not just qualified but also culturally aligned with the team. This strategic approach to hiring is essential for navigating the ongoing challenges of staffing amid the Great Resignation. Enhancing Onboarding Experiences for Greater Retention Tarry stresses the significance of a robust onboarding process, which can enhance employee satisfaction and retention rates. A thoughtful onboarding experience fosters a sense of belonging and equips new hires with vital tools for success. Furthermore, ongoing training and performance evaluations create continuous growth opportunities, thereby increasing job satisfaction and morale within the workforce. Addressing Mental Health and Employee Well-being As discussions around workplace health evolve, Tarry highlights the necessity of prioritizing mental health and well-being, especially for marginalized groups. Creating a supportive environment that acknowledges and addresses workplace stressors leads to healthier, happier employees who are more likely to stay and thrive within the organization. This approach not only contributes to employee wellness but also enhances overall productivity and job satisfaction. The Future of Work: A Call for Transformation In conclusion, Asha Tarry’s insights into the Great Resignation underline a transformative moment for both employees and employers. By embracing strategies that foster alignment of personal and professional goals, enhancing employee engagement, and prioritizing mental health, businesses can thrive in this new landscape. As we navigate these changes, it’s imperative to adopt a holistic view of workplace culture that champions both individual and organizational success.

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