Resource Center

Stay in the know with the latest news and expert insights from StartSmart Counsel. Our dedicated team of advisors regularly shares valuable updates, industry trends, and business wisdom to help you navigate the entrepreneurial journey. Explore our curated collection of news articles and blog posts to gain valuable insights and stay ahead in your startup endeavors.

Choice of Entity: LLC, Corporation, Partnership
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

Choice of Entity: LLC, Corporation, Partnership

Choosing the right business entity is a crucial decision that depends on various factors including liability protection, taxation, management preferences, and future goals. Here’s why a business might choose each type…

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What the CFPB's New Nonbank Registration Rule Means for Emerging Fintechs and Their Service Providers
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

What the CFPB's New Nonbank Registration Rule Means for Emerging Fintechs and Their Service Providers

On June 3, 2024, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued the Registry of Nonbank Covered Persons Subject to Certain Agency and Court Orders Final Rule. This new regulation mandates certain nonbank entities to register information about their company and certain orders, as well as submit copies of those orders, to the CFPB. This rule, effective on September 16, 2024, represents a significant change in compliance requirements for many nonbank financial service providers. For emerging fintech companies and their affiliated service providers, understanding and adhering to this rule is crucial.

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Handling Disputes: A Guide for Startups and SMBs
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

Handling Disputes: A Guide for Startups and SMBs

In the dynamic world of startups and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), disputes are inevitable. Whether they arise from misunderstandings with clients, disagreements with partners, or issues with suppliers, how you handle these disputes can significantly impact your business’s success and reputation.

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Navigating the New CFPB Interpretive Rule: Implications for Startups and BNPL Partners
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

Navigating the New CFPB Interpretive Rule: Implications for Startups and BNPL Partners

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently issued an interpretive rule clarifying the applicability of subpart B of Regulation Z to lenders that issue digital user accounts used to access Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) loans. This move aims to ensure that these lenders meet the criteria for being "card issuers" under Regulation Z, which includes provisions governing periodic statements and billing disputes. As the BNPL market continues to expand, this interpretive rule holds significant implications for startups offering BNPL services and companies partnering with BNPL providers.

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Lessons from Shein: Scaling Responsibly and Ethically
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

Lessons from Shein: Scaling Responsibly and Ethically

As startups and small to medium businesses (SMBs) scale, it is crucial to maintain ethical practices and ensure that growth does not come at the expense of workers' rights and well-being. The ongoing labor issues faced by Shein, the Chinese fast-fashion giant, serve as a valuable lesson for any business looking to expand.

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The Benefits of A Partnership Model for Managing Compliance in Buy Now, Pay Later Services
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

The Benefits of A Partnership Model for Managing Compliance in Buy Now, Pay Later Services

The "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) model has been a game-changer in the retail and finance industries, offering consumers an attractive alternative to traditional credit by allowing them to defer payments on purchases. This innovation, while beneficial, operates within a labyrinth of regulatory frameworks that can significantly impact its operations. Particularly, while certain regulations may not directly apply to BNPL providers, their affiliations with financial institutions (FIs) often bring a suite of regulatory requirements that indirectly influence their operations.

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Understanding Compliance in Medical Spas: Navigating State and Federal Regulations
Jennifer Newton Jennifer Newton

Understanding Compliance in Medical Spas: Navigating State and Federal Regulations

In recent news, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported its first documented cases of HIV transmission through cosmetic needles. This alarming revelation underscores the critical importance of rigorous adherence to health and safety regulations in the aesthetic and wellness industry, particularly within medical spas.

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