As we close out a year in which higher education has faced unprecedented challenges, ranging from cuts in federal research funding to visa and immigration policies that may impact international students, the wider business community is facing its own challenges. In this issue of FIU Business Now, we offer insight about how businesses can protect profits amid tariff threats, shifting China policies and supply chain questions.

FIU Business faculty and alumni experts also weigh in on another matter impacting society and business – retiring baby boomers. Our cover feature looks at the business challenges and opportunities arising from the graying of business owners from this generation. Our third feature explores an emerging trend in the luxury market — the demand for personal and emotional experiences.

In Knowledge Center, you'll read about a new marketing concept that can increase sales in a way that may surprise you. You will also learn how press freedom impacts financial markets and read about two patents, awarded to an FIU Business faculty member in early 2025, that aim to solve technology challenges in healthcare and digital commerce.

Later in this issue, we introduce you to an MBA alumnus helping clients resolve problems and challenges in an increasingly complex and tech-heavy world; a double FIU Business alumna who made history in 2025 by opening the first new bank in Miami in more than 16 years; and an omnichannel and e-commerce leader in the food industry.

We also share another story about the impact of giving. You will meet an FIU Business student who spent two weeks this year taking classes aboard a cruise ship, visiting Bermuda, Portugal, Spain and England – a transformative educational journey made possible by a study abroad scholarship.

I want to thank our alumni and other friends in the community whose support enables us to offer students such transformative experiences. Whether it's a gift of time, talent or treasure, or hiring our students, we count on you to help us succeed. I hope you enjoy this issue of FIU Business Now.

William Hardin,
Dean, FIU College of Business