March 18, 2024

Friday's Daily Pulse

What you need to know about Florida today

| 8/29/2014

Florida banks' loan growth doubles national pace

Florida is a good state to live in for those seeking a loan, as the state’s banks grew their loans in the second quarter at more than double the national rate. The 188 Florida-based banks also improved their profitability despite tight interest margins. [Source: South Florida Business Journal]


U.S. economy grew at brisk 4.2 percent rate

After a bleak start to the year, the U.S. economy grew at a brisk annual rate of 4.2 percent in the April-June quarter, the government said Thursday, slightly faster than it had first estimated. [Source: AP]


Small firms slow to embrace ACA business exchanges

Only 2 percent of all eligible businesses have checked out so-called SHOP (Small Business Health Options Program) exchanges in the 15 states where they have been available since last October under the Affordable Care Act. Even fewer purchased policies. [Source: Stateline]


Pending home sales up 3.3% in July

More Americans signed contracts to buy homes in July, a sign that buying has improved as mortgage rates have slipped, the number of listings has risen and the rate of price increases has slowed. [Source: AP]


Balancing Act: Ask questions before you volunteer

Many altruistic and frustrated volunteers are rethinking the well intentioned commitments that have zapped their enthusiasm and hijacked their free time. What may have started out as passion for a cause or a means to rub elbows has overwhelmed their schedules and led to burnout. [Source: Miami Herald]


ALSO AROUND FLORIDA:

› Florida Angel Nexus expands services for investors
A statewide network of angel investors is rolling out an online portal to connect entrepreneurs and investors. Florida Angel Nexus aims to solve challenges for early-stage investors, who only want to commit small amounts of money.

› Miami New Construction Show kicks off
As a growing number of construction cranes stretch skyward in Miami, the first-ever trade show for new condominium construction kicks off Friday at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

› HCA opens first local 'seniors ER' at St. Petersburg General
Emergency room patients come in all ages, but St. Petersburg General Hospital decided to focus a makeover on one group: seniors. The hospital, owned by national chain HCA, recently unveiled new senior-friendly details in its emergency department.

› Mobile home parks booming in Central Florida
Business is "moving in" big time in Central Florida, but not from mansions or conventional homes. Karen Rearden runs Four Star Homes. She said they're the leading resale operation for manufactured housing communities throughout Central Florida.


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