Finance

Published

9 hours ago

May 1, 2025

Advertisements: A Teen’s Guide

Advertisements are everywhere – on TV, on social media, in magazines, and even on the sides of buses. As a teen, it’s important to understand the power of advertising and how it can influence your choices. Here are some key things to keep in mind when it comes to ads.

What is an Advertisement?

Advertisements are messages that are designed to promote a product or service. They are created by companies to persuade consumers to buy their products. Advertisements can take many forms, including commercials, print ads, billboards, and sponsored posts on social media.

The Power of Persuasion

One of the main goals of advertisements is to persuade consumers to buy a particular product. Advertisers use various techniques to make their products seem appealing, such as using attractive models, catchy slogans, and appealing visuals. It’s important to remember that not everything you see in an ad is necessarily true or accurate.

Understanding Target Audiences

Advertisers often target specific groups of people with their ads. For example, a makeup company may target teenage girls with their ads, while a car company may target middle-aged men. By understanding who the ad is targeting, you can better evaluate its message and whether or not it applies to you.

The Rise of Influencer Marketing

In recent years, influencer marketing has become increasingly popular. Influencers are individuals who have a large following on social media and are paid to promote products to their followers. It’s important to remember that just because an influencer is promoting a product, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the best choice for you.

Tips for Teens

As a teen, it’s essential to be critical of the advertisements you see. Here are some tips to help you navigate the world of advertising:

1. Be skeptical: Don’t believe everything you see in an ad. Remember that the goal of advertising is to sell products, not necessarily to provide accurate information.

2. Do your research: Before making a purchase based on an ad, take the time to research the product and read reviews from other consumers.

3. Consider your values: Think about whether or not a product aligns with your values and beliefs before buying it based on an ad.

4. Talk to adults: If you’re unsure about an ad or a product, don’t be afraid to talk to a trusted adult for advice.

By being aware of the power of advertising and learning to evaluate ads critically, you can make more informed decisions as a consumer. Remember that you have the power to decide what products you buy and how you are influenced by advertisements.

Finance

South Sudan’s crude oil arrives at Port Sudan

Published

22 hours ago

April 30, 2025

Peter James

South Sudan’s crude oil arrives at Port Sudan

South Sudan Crude Oil Reaches Port Sudan for Export

The Ministry of Petroleum has announced that South Sudan’s crude oil export has reached the marine terminal at Port Sudan for the first time and is ready for shipping to the international market. This milestone comes after months of repair work on a ruptured pipeline that had disrupted oil production in the country.

Resumption of Oil Production

In Upper Nile State, oil production has resumed after the pipeline transporting 60 percent of the country’s oil export was repaired. The repair work was necessary due to the damage caused by the ongoing war in Sudan. As a result of the pipeline rupture, Khartoum had declared force majeure in March 2024, leading to economic challenges for South Sudan.

Collaboration with International Companies

Operations at Blocks 3 & 7 have commenced with the help of China National Petroleum Company (CNPC), China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (SINOPEC), and South Sudan Tri Ocean (SSTO). This collaboration has been crucial in getting the crude oil ready for exportation to the international market.

Confirmation of Arrival at Port Sudan

Mohamed Lino, the Technical Adviser at the Ministry of Petroleum, confirmed the arrival of the crude oil at the terminal. He expressed his gratitude to all those involved in the process and highlighted the significance of this achievement for South Sudan’s oil industry.

Positive Outlook for the Industry

With the resumption of crude oil export, there is hope for the improvement of the industry and the country’s overall economic performance. The successful export of crude oil from South Sudan to Port Sudan marks a significant step forward in overcoming the challenges that have plagued the sector in recent times.

Finance

Barclays exceeds profit expectations in Q1.

Published

1 day ago

April 30, 2025

Peter James

Barclays exceeds profit expectations in Q1.

Barclays Bank Reports Strong Performance Boosted by Investment Bank

British bank Barclays reported a strong performance in the first quarter of the year, with pre-tax profit exceeding analyst expectations at £2.7 billion. Group revenues also surpassed projections, reaching £7.7 billion.

Investment Bank Unit Sees 16% Increase in Income

The income from Barclays’ investment bank unit increased by 16%, contributing to the overall profitability of the bank. The return on tangible equity reached 14% in the first quarter, a significant improvement from the previous quarter.

U.S. Exposure and Market Volatility

Barclays’ significant presence in the U.S. market, especially after acquiring Lehman Brothers, has raised concerns about navigating the market storm caused by global trade tariffs. CEO C.S. Venkatakrishnan acknowledged the potential for high market volatility going forward.

Challenges and Opportunities in the U.S. Consumer Bank Business

Barclays’ U.S. consumer bank business has shown growth, with a 9.1% return on tangible equity in 2024. Despite initial setbacks due to trade war concerns, Barclays shares have rebounded and remain up 10% year-to-date.

Impact of Brexit on Economic Relations

Britain’s impending exit from the European Union could present economic opportunities, especially in trade relations with the U.S. London is seeking to leverage its historical ties with the U.S. to secure favorable trade agreements.

Industry Shifts and Competitor Strategies

Barclays’ competitors, such as HSBC and Banco Santander, are undergoing strategic shifts in their investment operations. HSBC plans to wind down certain businesses, while Santander is restructuring its staff and branch network.

Future Outlook and Uncertainties

Barclays remains cautiously optimistic about the future, acknowledging the potential for economic uncertainties and market fluctuations. The bank is focused on managing risks and supporting clients through volatile times.

Finance

South Sudan Business Taxation Crisis: How Multiple Levies and Barriers Are Shutting Down Trade

Published

2 days ago

April 29, 2025

Peter James

South Sudan Business Taxation Crisis: How Multiple Levies and Barriers Are Shutting Down Trade

South Sudan Business Taxation Crisis: Multiple Taxes & Barriers Threaten Economy

By Peter James | South Sudan Online | Juba, South Sudan
Published: May 1, 2025

Introduction

South Sudan’s private-sector lifeline is under severe strain. Reports to the Ministry of Trade and Industry reveal that many enterprises are closing because of multiple taxation, non-tariff barriers, roadblocks, harassment and unauthorized levies. Unless sweeping reforms are enacted, the nation risks an economic shut-down.

Key Business Threats

At the First National Trade Forum 2025 in Juba, Trade Minister Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk identified four principal threats now jeopardising commerce:

Multiple Taxation – overlapping fees demanded by national, state and local authorities.
Non-Tariff Barriers – unregulated checkpoints, permits and paperwork that delay goods in transit.
Roadblocks & Harassment – informal levies collected by security personnel along major highways.
Unauthorized Levies – charges imposed without any lawful mandate.

“Businesses are closing because compliance costs are unbearable,” the minister warned. “If we fail to act, the ripple effect will cripple households, widen unemployment and erode public confidence.”

Chamber of Commerce Issues Red Alert

The National Chamber of Commerce echoes the ministry’s concerns, calling the tax regime “flawed and burdensome.” Deputy Chairperson John Lual condemned a “silent trade war” in which uncoordinated taxes from multiple institutions force traders—both domestic and foreign—to scale back or quit entirely.

Impact on Prices and Investment

Disorganised taxation directly fuels inflation. With every level of administration seeking its own levy, transaction costs can double or triple, eroding profit margins while pushing retail prices ever higher. Cash-strapped consumers, already reeling from currency volatility, shoulder the burden.

Meanwhile, investors are retreating. The uncertainty of shifting fees, fines and unofficial tolls discourages long-term capital, further dimming prospects for job creation.

Empowering SMEs, Women and Youth

Minister Atong emphasised that any reform must prioritise small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), especially those led by women and youth—groups that account for a significant share of South Sudan’s informal workforce.
Proposed measures include:

Consolidating licensing and tax registration under one authority.
Digitising all official payments to reduce face-to-face harassment.
Establishing a one-stop investor service centre in Juba to streamline approvals.

Lessons from the Region

Neighbouring countries have shown that simplifying taxes and dismantling non-tariff barriers can reignite growth, boost government revenue through improved compliance and restore investor confidence. South Sudan can replicate those gains—if political will matches policy intent.

Conclusion: Reform for Survival

South Sudan stands at an economic crossroads. Eliminating multiple taxation, cutting non-tariff barriers and banning unauthorized levies are no longer optional. They are prerequisites for stabilising prices, protecting livelihoods and attracting the investment essential for long-term prosperity.
The choice is stark: decisive reform—or an avoidable slide into deeper economic distress.

South Sudan Online will continue monitoring all developments on trade, taxation and private-sector reform.